This Is Guernsey

By Globe reporter Emily Burden

The best local extreme sportsters are due to perform for a crowd of thousands at Guernsey Live on ramps erected next to the main stage. (Picture by Paul Taylor, 0571520)

FOLLOWING the success of LibJam on Liberation Day last year, it will be putting its extreme stamp on Guernsey Live.

Jon Bisson of the X-treme Sports Association is promising it has pulled out all the stops this year.

‘The set is incredible – it is going to be something you have never seen before in Guernsey,’ he said.

‘We have a ramp that rises in the air 20 feet with lights that change colour, so at night that will look insane. And we have other ramps with huge peaks, blocks – you name it, we’ve got it.’

LibJam has really pushed the boat out to make Guernsey Live an extra-special event by calling in 10 pro riders, including last year’s champion, Phil Aller, and the Vans team. In addition to that, organisers have recruited the top three mountain boarders in the world – Tom Kirkman, who is five-time world champ, Tuai Lovejoy and Ollie ‘bomber’ Morrison.

‘Those guys will be giving people a run for their money,’ said Jon.

‘They’ll be throwing out some seriously impressive tricks.’

Local motorcycle trials rider Tom Scott will also be putting on a show on the 20ft ramp.

To top all that, LibJam is giving 20 local riders (BMX/mountain bikers) the chance to win free tickets and participate in a knockout tournament.

‘This will be happening while the festival is in full swing, so it is a great opportunity for local riders to show thousands of people their stuff,’ said Jon.

‘The semi-finals will be taking place between the headline act, so the main sound system from the main stage will be linked to the LibJam and we’ll be having an MC gearing up the riders as it happens.

The LibJam area is right next to the main stage, so people waiting for the main headliner will be most probably watching the semi-final – that’s a lot of people.’

Jon mentioned that Guernsey Live organiser Postiv had been very helpful and willing for LibJam to take place at the event.

‘I actually approached them and they were very enthusiastic and willing, which made a nice change as we felt a bit let down by the Liberation Day committee.

‘They’re giving a real commitment to Guernsey – they have employed so many Guernsey people, from contractors to shop owners, and they have put so much money into giving Guernsey a chance to have what might be a well established festival.

‘I don’t think people understand how big it is going to be,’ he added.

‘The stage is a monster – I mean it is huge – and the event is being reported on Radio 1.’

• Local riders can participate and use the facilities free from 8-11.30am, after which 20 will be chosen. Riders need to be of a reasonable standard and if participants are under 16, they must be accompanied by an adult.