Seriously bad news.
Castle Combe racetrack have pulled the rug out from Go-Skate 2026 with just 48 hours to go - one of the most anticipated longboard events of the year.
Those of you with a ticket should already have been notified - Keith has been busy all day and will no doubt be busy for a few more. I'm sure you're already being very kind to him in your replies.
The official communication from the track late yesterday evening did not leave much room for haggling:
I’m getting in touch as [...] is currently away.
I’m really sorry but due to some major issues with bookings here, we have no option but to cancel your event which was due to take place this Sunday, 16th August.
I appreciate that this is a major failing on our part, and I’m extremely sorry for the inconvenience and disappointment this will cause. Unfortunately, there is no viable way for us to proceed with the event this Sunday.
[...]
I am now away until Monday, but I will ask our Finance team to begin arranging your refund when I return.
Apologies again,
Castle Combe Circuit Team
The Good News:
You'll of course be getting your ticket cost refunded.
There are already other options being discussed for those who've booked travel already - join this WhatsApp group [link removed now event is finished] to get in on the conversation.
So far there is a 24 mile loop on the cards:
As well as people booking in to skate Odd Down Cycle Track - a car-free option.
The Bath to Bristol cycle path isn't far away either, if you fancy a warm up for the Bristol Board Meeting in 4 weeks time - 12th September.
Talking of which - the JustGiving page is now online, BBQ is booked in and sponsors are pouring in for the legendary raffle:
We are stoked to add Fast Eddie's Skate Supply to the list this year - locally produced skate gear by Lester who is already at superstar levels of raising sponsorship money for the Board Meeting!
Plus incredible support from the usual suspects:
- Lush Longboards
- Loaded Longboards
- Carver Skateboards
- Orangatang Wheels
- Arbor Skateboards
- Santa Cruz
- Cult Wheels
- Sabre Trucks
If anyone is currently chatting with Jeff at Pantheon give him a nudge to check his emails from us too - he's missing out!
Sorry to bear bad news this week - hopefully some of the other options appeal to you and you can have a weekend of many smiles per hour regardless of where you end up.
We'll ship out anything that was hoping to be picked up at the event - you should have it Monday.
Don't forget the suncream and hydration,
Matt @ Vandem
"Less organised" events are fun too - this was the legendary Plymouth to Polperro of 2009. More than forty skaters, open roads, massive hills and levels of carnage that I have been thankful not to see since.
A fantastic day out for most of those involved.