Area 51 Skatepark , located in Eindhoven, the Netherlands, is one of the most renowned and versatile skateparks in Europe. The indoor facility attracts BMX, skateboarding, and other freestyle enthusiasts from around the world, offering excellent conditions for training and competition. Its success is based not only on its modern infrastructure but also on a rich history dating back to the city's first skatepark.
The predecessor to Area 51 – 040 BMX Park
Before Area 51 opened, Eindhoven had a skatepark known as 040 BMX Park. It was a smaller, more intimate facility that quickly gained popularity among local riders. 040 BMX Park was known for its creative atmosphere and was where many riders began their BMX and skateboarding journeys.
Main features of the 040 BMX Park:
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The skatepark's space was limited, which gave it a unique character and required creativity in performing tricks.
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Modest infrastructure, but with well-designed obstacles such as mini ramps and grindboxes.
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The skatepark operated thanks to the involvement of the local community of riders, which created strong bonds between users.
However, over time, 040 BMX Park no longer met the growing needs of Eindhoven's extreme sports community. A need for a larger, more modern facility arose, leading to the creation of Area 51.
Area 51 Skatepark to be built
In 2006, Area 51 Skatepark opened in Eindhoven, immediately becoming one of the largest skateparks in Europe. Located in Strijp-S, a former Philips industrial site, the park offers modern infrastructure that caters to the needs of both beginners and advanced riders.
Area 51 main attractions:
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Huge space : The covered facility has an area of over 2,000 m², which allows for simultaneous use by many users.
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Street section : Equipped with stairs, rails, walls and other obstacles inspired by urban infrastructure.
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Bowls and Ramps : Advanced ramps and bowls with varying levels of difficulty, perfect for performing advanced tricks.
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Park section : The professional section where the Dutch BMX Freestyle Championships take place.
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Beginners' section : A space designed for people taking their first steps in extreme sports.
Importance to the community:
Area 51 not only provides excellent riding conditions, but also supports the development of the extreme sports community in the Netherlands. Regular events include:
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BMX and skateboard competitions at national and international levels.
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Workshops and training conducted by professional riders.
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Cultural events combining extreme sports with music and art.
Who trains at Area 51?
Area 51 Skatepark is the training ground for many great skaters:
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Daniel Wedemeijer : Coach of the Dutch national BMX Freestyle team, a former world-renowned rider himself, who runs training sessions at Area 51.
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Olek Jaworski : 16-year-old, talented rider from Poland, training regularly at Area 51 under the supervision of Daniel Wedemeijer.
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Dominik Pietrasz : An 11-year-old Polish rider with huge potential, also a RideHub.pl team rider, developing his skills in this skatepark under the supervision of Daniel.
Contemporary role
Area 51 Skatepark has become a major fixture in the European BMX and skateboarding scene. World-class riders regularly train here, and the facility serves as a training ground for international competitions, including World Cups and the Olympic Games.
Summary
Area 51 Skatepark, along with its predecessor 040 BMX Park, played a key role in the development of extreme sports in Eindhoven and throughout the Netherlands. Thanks to its advanced infrastructure, rich history, and support from the local community, Area 51 remains one of the best BMX and skateboarding destinations in Europe.
