Brevard's Zero Gravity indoor skateboard park
Mark Todd, Staff Writer 19.FEB.10
Brevard’s Zero Gravity indoor skateboard park changed ownership recently, when Tim Brenton and Barbara Kreager sold the park to Michael Hosey and his wife, Heather.
“Our goal has been to offer our skaters the benefits of healthy physical activity, in a wholesome Christian environment, with their safety ensured by professional adult supervision,” said Barbara, who opened the park with Tim eight years ago.
She said Hosey has been a valued friend and employee at the Old Hendersonville Highway park in the past. She and her husband are comfortable in letting their “baby” move into his hands while they have more time for themselves.
“Passing the torch to Michael ensures our goals and standards will continue to be met,” she said.
The skate park is Brenton’s third business since taking an early retirement from the phone company. An entrepreneur at heart, Brenton is now available for the next opportunity to present itself, he said.
“Traveling, golf, and relaxing are the top priorities for now,” Brenton said.
“We have met wonderful families and have enjoyed watching some of these kids grow up. We couldn’t be happier that Michael is able to take over.”
Hosey graduated from Brevard High in 1998. He then attended Appalachian State University and graduated with a degree in recreation. He helped open the skateboard park and managed it until 2006.
Hosey and Heather have a 2-year-old son, Finn, with another child on the way. Hosey said he looks forward to owning a business in the sport he loves.
He has taught skateboard lessons at a summer camp in Pennsylvania, and is a certified snowboard instructor, as well.
No immediate changes will take place with the new ownership. The park’s operating hours and admission rates will remain the same.
The park will still be available for private rentals.
The park has been popular with preschool children who use the ramps as gigantic slides.
The park will also continue to offer martial arts classes, “Toddler Time,” after school specials and “Skate Church” on Thursday nights.
“It’s business as usual,” said Hosey, with the exception of adding “Girls Night” on Tuesdays when admission for girls will be $2.
In addition to multiple ramps, the skate park hosts a complete concession area, pro shop and party room.
A safe place to skateboard was identified as a need in Brevard’s Focus 2020 study, a grassroots community planning effort.
After much urging by Tim and Barbara’s twin sons, Nick and Joe, Tim started developing the business plan for the park while Barbara researched existing facilities around the country.
The resulting project was a 12,000 square foot building, with a professionally designed and built skate floor.
The ramps are covered with top of the line “skatelite” while metal transitions to the concrete floor make for a smooth ride.
There are ramps, half pipes, drop ins, horseshoes, and all kinds of structures that create fun and challenging skating. Skateboarders, inline skaters, scooters and bikers use the facility, which is the largest of its type in western North Carolina.
Eighty percent of the skaters are under the age of 18, with an average age being around 14.
Their oldest skater is 69, and he also runs the Bible study on Thursdays.
Attendance since opening day has been more than 65,000, with many of those customers making Brevard their tourist destination.
Michael Hosey and his wife, Heather (seen here holding their son, Finn), are the new owners of Zero Gravity, the indoor skateboard park. (Times photo by Mark Todd)
newspost573-brevards-zero-gravity-indoor-skateboard-park-.aspxPosted on 2/25/2010 12:33:33 PM
