Exploring the Benefits of Soft Top Skimboards
Intro
Skimboarding has transformed from a casual beach pastime into a recognized sport embraced by surfers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The soft top skimboard, in particular, has carved its niche. Unlike hard-top options typically favored by experienced riders, soft tops offer a blend of buoyancy, stability, and accessibility that opens the door for newcomers and seasoned riders wanting more versatility in their rides. Understanding this trend begins with recognizing the construction and features unique to soft tops, along with appreciating their role in cultural surfing phenomena.
The construction of soft top skimboards prioritizes user-friendliness with materials that provide a forgiving surface. Riders are often drawn to these boards because they enable easy rides, especially in choppy waters or when learning new techniques.
Within the skimboarding community, the soft top phenomenon isn't simply about the equipment. It's woven into the very fabric of beach culture, reflecting a lifestyle that celebrates connection with the ocean and fellow riders. Choices made around gear can profoundly impact performance; it's essential to explore not just the boards themselves, but also the accompanying gear that enhances the overall experience.
Gear and Equipment
Latest Skimboard Technologies
When diving into the options available for soft top skimboards, it's vital to understand the latest technologies that distinguish high-quality boards from the rest. A few notable trends include:
- Materials: Most soft tops utilize expanded foam or rubber, creating a lightweight but sturdy board. These materials are designed to absorb shocks, minimizing injury during falls.
- Shape and Design: Many brands are crafting boards with wider noses and increased tail flexibility, allowing for maneuvers that were previously challenging on traditional models.
- Customization Options: Some manufacturers offer personalized designs or allow for tailored constructions. This is an excellent way for seasoned riders to find a board that feels just right beneath their feet.
Essential Accessories for Every Skimboarder
Accompanying your soft top skimboard, there's a whole array of accessories that can enhance your performance and safety. Consider the following essentials:
- Leashes: Prevent your board from drifting away with a strong, flexible leash. This simplifies recovery after a wipeout.
- Wax: While soft tops provide some grip, a touch of wax can improve traction, especially when dancing on waves.
- Footwear: Specialized skimboarding shoes, which provide traction and protection, are invaluable when navigating rocky shores or slippery dunes.
- Board Bag: A padded bag ensures your board stays safe during transport, protecting it from scratches and dings.
All these accessories work together to enhance the skimboarding experience, ensuring you can focus on mastering the waves rather than worrying about gear malfunctions.
"Investing in proper gear and understanding its technology can significantly impact performance, especially for novices seeking stability while learning the thrills of skimboarding."
The relationship between equipment, skill level, and cultural significance is intricate. Each element adds depth to the skimboarding culture, inviting more individuals to partake in this dynamic sport. As such, a closer look at the techniques and skills specific to soft top skimboarding is imperative for anyone looking to dive into this exhilarating endeavor.
Prolusion to Soft Top Skimboards
As the sun rises, painting the horizon with hues of orange and pink, skimboarders gather at the water's edge, eager to dance on the glistening surface. Among the gear they carry, one type stands out for its user-friendly nature: the soft top skimboard. But what exactly is a soft top skimboard? This section sets the stage for understanding their crucial role in the skimboarding world.
Soft top skimboards are designed with two main goals in mind: accessibility and safety. They are not just mere toys; they provide an ideal platform for novice skimboarders while still offering seasoned riders ample performance. The construction—typically featuring a foam top layer—ensures that first-time users can practice with reduced risk of injury, while still enjoying the thrilling sensation of gliding across water.
Definition and Overview
A soft top skimboard is a flat board used for skimboarding, characterized by its soft, cushioned surface, which enhances grip and stability. This unique feature makes it a perfect choice not just for beginners, but also for those looking to refine their skills. Unlike traditional skimboards that come with a hard top and require a bit of finesse to handle, soft tops make it easier to step right onto the board and ride, even if it’s your very first try.
When you look closely, you will see that soft tops often come in varying sizes and shapes, intended to cater to a wide range of skill levels and riding styles. They typically have a curved outline and can feature multiple tail designs, which can influence how they glide during fast turnovers or sharp turns.
History and Evolution
The roots of skimboarding can be traced back to the sandy beaches of the California coast in the early 20th century. Originally, skimboards were made from wood, and riders would use them on flat, shallow water, much like modern-day soft tops. However, as the sport grew in popularity, so did the demand for enhanced performance and user comfort.
In the late 1990s, innovators in the industry began to experiment with materials that offered a better riding experience. With progress in technology, the soft top skimboard emerged as a game changer, giving enthusiasts a safer alternative to traditional equipment. This evolution filled a gap in the market, appealing particularly to younger riders and those who might have otherwise been intimidated by the sport’s reputation.
In time, recognizable brands began producing a variety of soft top models, each with different specifications. As these boards gained traction, communities blossomed around them, fostering a culture of shared knowledge and experience that welcomed newcomers into the fold.
"The soft top skimboard is not just a board; it’s a gateway to exploration, expression, and fun on the water."
By understanding their definition, history, and continuous evolution, we can better appreciate the role that soft top skimboards play within the broader skimboarding narrative.
Construction of Soft Top Skimboards
The construction of soft top skimboards plays a crucial role in understanding their charm and functionality. Skimboarding, at its core, is about the interaction between board and water, and the design aspects significantly influence a rider's experience. These skimboards cater primarily to both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts, and that’s where their construction features really shine. The importance of the materials and design cannot be overstated as they directly affect performance, safety, and even durability.
Materials Used
Soft top skimboards typically incorporate a blend of materials that set them apart from conventional boards. Often, you'll find a core constructed of lightweight foam, providing buoyancy and ease of handling. This foam is generally wrapped with a soft, textured surface that offers grip without compromising comfort.
- EVA Foam: Ethylene-vinyl acetate is a commonly used material for the deck. This foam is not only soft to the touch but also resistant to wear and tear, making it ideal for those family beach days.
- Polyethylene: The bottom usually features a durable polyethylene layer that ensures the board glides smoothly across the water's surface. This material helps decrease friction, enhancing speed and maneuverability.
- Wood or Other Relief Core: In some models, manufacturers may incorporate a wooden core or other lightweight materials that contribute to the board’s rigidity without adding unnecessary weight. This element can be key for experienced riders looking for more responsiveness.
Such thoughtful use of materials ensures that the skimboards are not only user-friendly but also capable of enduring various environments. When a beginner gets on a soft top board, they’re often welcomed with a sense of stability and safety. Plus, dedicated families can enjoy themselves, knowing the board resists dings and scratches pretty well.
Design Features
When discussing soft top skimboards, the design elements ensure not just aesthetics but functional excellence. Various aspects come into play here.
- Shape and Dimensions: These boards often have wider outlines and rounded noses, which enhances flotation and makes it easier to catch waves. The design aims for a perfect blend of stability and playfulness. For instance, a broader tail can assist in helping beginners feel more secure.
- Soft Top Surface: The soft top not only aids in grip but also in safety. It is less likely to cause injuries when falls occur, which is a huge advantage for those still mastering their skills. The cushion effect of this design element acts like a buffer.
- Bottom Contours: The contours or rails of the skimboard can vary, significantly influencing turning and speed. Some boards might have slight concave segments, which allow for a quicker response during maneuvers.
The importance of these design features cannot be overlooked. It’s what makes them appealing to a wide array of users, from kids taking their first run to seasoned skimboarders looking to master complex tricks.
"The right combination of materials and design features can make all the difference in the water, ensuring every ride is as thrilling as it is safe."
Choosing a soft top skimboard involves understanding how these construction elements affect overall performance, ensuring that each ride feels just right—whether skimming flat water or taking on the waves. The balance of lightweight yet durable construction fosters a sense of security and enhances the joy of skimboarding, making it a rewarding experience for all involved.
Advantages of Soft Top Skimboards
The landscape of skimboarding has evolved significantly, and soft top skimboards have emerged as a favorite among riders of all levels. These boards come packed with distinctive features—making them a practical choice for beginners and seasoned pros alike. This section explores the compelling advantages of these boards, shedding light on why they are gaining traction in the surfing community.
User-Friendly Attributes
One of the standout characteristics of soft top skimboards is their accessibility. These boards are designed with user-friendliness in mind, which translates to an easier learning curve for novices.
- Soft Surface: The soft top provides better grip, allowing new riders to find their footing more comfortably. It alleviates some of the intimidation often tied to harder, slick surfaces found on standard skimboards. You won’t find yourself slipping off nearly as much.
- Wider Designs: Many soft top boards are wider than their counterparts. This added stability helps to prevent wipeouts, making it easier for new surfers to catch a wave without feeling like they are balancing on a tightrope. For instance, a wider base offers better flotation, which is crucial for those still mastering the basics.
Whether someone is on a peaceful lake or in choppy ocean conditions, these boards cater well to various landscapes. Plus, many soft top skimboards are disguised as fun and playful, appealing to a younger audience or those who lean towards leisure over competition. It’s about comfort and enjoyment.
Safety vs. Standard Skimboards
When it comes to splashing around in the water, safety is paramount. Soft top skimboards have distinct advantages over traditional models that are worth considering.
"The advantages of a soft top not only lie in performance but also in the assurance of safety on the water."
- Less Injury Risk: Traditional skimboards can potentially cause serious scrapes or bruises upon falling, a common concern for beginners. On the other hand, the soft top material helps reduce injury. It's like riding on a giant marshmallow, which offers a gentle landing during falls.
- Nontoxic Materials: Soft top skimboards are often made from materials that pose fewer risks to health—both for the user and the environment. While traditional boards may use harmful chemicals in their production, many soft tops focus on safety-first materials.
- Family-Friendly: Given their design, soft tops are conducive to family fun. This is ideal for parents wanting to introduce their kids to the surf without the risks associated with harder boards. You can feel more at ease watching your little ones glide along the shore without the constant worry of serious injury.
The bottom line? Soft top skimboards prioritize a smooth ride and enjoyable experience. From novice riders just getting started to seasoned pros looking for a relaxed day at the beach, the advantages of these boards are broad and compelling. As the sport continues to evolve, understanding these benefits only enhances the rider’s journey.
Stay tuned for the next section to delve into how these boards perform across diverse water conditions.
Performance in Various Conditions
Understanding how soft top skimboards perform under different conditions is crucial for both seasoned riders and newcomers. The versatility of these boards allows them to adapt well to a range of scenarios, from tranquil flat waters to the dynamic challenges posed by ocean waves. Knowing how to navigate the nuances of each environment helps riders fully utilize their equipment, leading to a more enjoyable experience. Moreover, recognizing the performance aspects can inform decisions on board selection based on where and how often one intends to ride.
Flat Water
Flat water conditions are often where beginners find their footing, literally and figuratively. Riding on a calm surface allows for smoother gliding, making it easier to learn balance and basic tricks. Here, soft top skimboards shine because of their inherent buoyancy and stability.
Some key benefits of riding on flat water include the following:
- Safety: The risk of wipeouts is lessened, making it a great learning environment.
- Easier Maneuverability: Riders can practice turning and stopping without the added complexity of waves.
- Speed Control: Novice riders can gain confidence as they learn how to manage their speed without the unpredictable nature of swells.
In flat water spots, skimmers often take advantage of smooth surfaces to practice jump techniques and land spins without worrying about whether a wave might interfere. The gentle environment fosters creativity, allowing riders to experiment with different tricks, pushing their limits while maintaining safety. In short, flat water serves as a foundational training ground, often leading to an eventual transition into more complex conditions.
Waves and Ocean Swells
Shift gears to the powerful allure of ocean waves, and you enter an entirely different realm. Here, the true essence of skimboarding comes alive. Riding waves requires not just skill but also an understanding of ocean dynamics. The performance of soft top skimboards excels in these conditions due to their stability and impact resistance.
When skimming waves, several factors come into play:
- Wave Height and Steepness: Riders need to gauge their approach considering these elements to make successful rides. Too steep a wave can lead to wipeouts.
- Timing: The right moment to launch off the shore and catch a wave demands quick reflexes and intuition, which develop with practice.
- Terrain Knowledge: Familiarity with the beach layout and current helps in choosing where to skim, as different sections of the beach might have varying wave actions.
The exhilaration felt when riding a wave is unparalleled. When a soft top skimboard slices across the water, the rider experiences a sense of freedom that is hard to find elsewhere. The responsiveness of the board in waves can be thrilling; it reacts to shifts in the rider's weight and the wave's rhythm, allowing for sharp turns and dynamic tricks.
"Each wave is unique, much like every ride. Understanding the ocean’s voice makes all the difference."
In contrast with flat water, waves challenge riders to adapt and refine their technique continually. This aspect adds an engaging dimension to their skimboarding experience. Falling into waves may lead to minor scrapes, but the benefits far outweigh the risks, with riders often emerging with a sense of accomplishment and eagerness to tackle the next wave.
In summary, whether it be the calm of flat waters or the adrenaline rush of ocean swells, the performance capabilities of soft top skimboards provide a framework for riders to explore and enjoy this exhilarating sport. Like honing a finely tuned instrument, each condition offers a different lesson and scope for growth.
Choosing the Right Soft Top Skimboard
Selecting the appropriate soft top skimboard is crucial for anyone wanting to make the most of their skimboarding experience. Whether you're a beginner trying your hand at the basics or an experienced rider seeking to refine your skills, understanding what each board offers can significantly impact performance and enjoyment. This section will guide you through essential considerations and offer insights on skill level and the significance of size and shape in your choice.
Skill Level Considerations
When it comes to deciding on a soft top skimboard, your skill level plays a pivotal role. For those just starting out, it’s beneficial to choose a board that prioritizes stability and ease of use. The wider and longer designs often found in beginner models provide better balance and help novice riders focus on mastering their techniques without getting tossed around by the waves. Here are a few markers to consider based on skill level:
- Beginner: Look for boards with a larger surface area. A model like the BZ Soft Top Skimboard can offer the necessary buoyancy.
- Intermediate: As your skills progress, you might want something slightly more versatile, yet still forgiving. A mid-range board, such as the Wave Bandit Skimboards, offers a balance of performance and ease.
- Advanced: Experienced riders might prefer a board that caters to their high-octane moves. A narrower and lighter model, like the Landshark Skimboard, could enhance agility and pop off waves more efficiently.
By matching your skill level to the right board, you set the stage for a more enjoyable and successful skimboarding journey.
Size and Shape Factors
The size and shape of a soft top skimboard are not merely about personal preference; they directly influence how the board performs in different conditions. In essence, understanding these dimensions can help fine-tune your skimming experience. Here are some specifics to keep in mind:
- Length: Generally, longer boards offer better stability, which is ideal for beginners practicing on flat water or during smaller surf conditions. Conversely, shorter boards are more suited for sharp turns and tricks, appealing to advanced riders.
- Width: A wider board usually aids in balance, making it easier for beginners to stay upright. However, advanced riders may favor narrower designs, enabling quicker maneuverability.
- Thickness: Thicker boards can provide additional buoyancy and stability. This translates into an easier ride for newcomers working on their gliding techniques, while thinner boards might better suit seasoned skimmers looking for speed and performance.
To further illustrate:
- Rounded shapes help beginners maintain balance.
- Squarer tails might cater to tricks and sharper cuts during rides, a feature sought after by experienced skimmers.
Finally, consider where you'll be skimboarding most often. If you frequent areas with small waves versus a calm lake, your needs might differ significantly. Always think about how size and shape will fit into your favorite conditions.
"Choosing the right skimboard isn't just about what looks good; it’s about what enhances the ride for your level and style!"
Maintenance Tips for Soft Top Skimboards
Maintaining a soft top skimboard is essential for prolonging its lifespan and ensuring optimal performance. Just like with any other piece of sporting equipment, regular upkeep is something that should not be overlooked. Effective maintenance helps in avoiding costly repairs down the line and ensures a safer, more enjoyable experience on the water. Soft top skimboards are designed for various users, from amateurs learning the ropes to experienced riders carving waves. Hence, understanding how to care for these boards can enhance your overall skimboarding experience.
Cleaning and Care
Keeping your skimboard clean is crucial for maintaining its aesthetic appeal and functional integrity. After every session, it’s wise to rinse off the sand, saltwater, and any debris that might have stuck to the surface of the board. This is often a quick process that can make a big difference. Salt can be corrosive, and leftover sand may scratch the surface or get trapped in crevices.
Here are a few steps to effectively clean your soft top skimboard:
- Rinse with freshwater: Use a hose or a bucket of water to wash off the salty residue after each use. This helps prevent damage caused by the salt.
- Use a soft brush: To tackle stubborn dirt or sand, a gentle brush can be useful. Avoid anything too abrasive as it could mar the smooth surface of the board.
- Dry properly: Once cleaned, let the board air dry completely before storing it. This simple act can deter mold and mildew, both of which can shorten the life of your board.
"Keeping your skimboard clean is like keeping your car shiny; a little care goes a long way!"
In addition to routine cleaning, check the board for any signs of damage. Whether it's small dings or scratches, addressing these issues early can save significant headaches later. Use a repair kit made for soft top skimboards to handle minor repairs yourself. Familiarizing yourself with minor repairs not only helps extend the life of your board but can also prepare you for more significant repairs that might arise.
Storage Recommendations
Proper storage is perhaps one of the most overlooked aspects of maintaining a soft top skimboard. When improperly stored, boards can warp or become damaged. Here are some recommendations to consider for storing your skimboard:
- Avoid prolonged sunlight: When not in use, keep your board out of direct sunlight. The heat can warp the board or fade the colors. A shaded area or indoor storage is best.
- Store horizontally: If possible, store your soft top skimboard flat or horizontally. If you must stand it up, make sure it’s supported evenly to prevent bending.
- Use a protective cover: Consider using a board bag which provides additional protection against nicks and scratches. It also helps in easy transport.
Additionally, where you store your board matters. Avoid damp or humid spaces. A garage with ventilation or an attic that's not prone to moisture is generally suitable.
The way you clean and store your soft top skimboard significantly impacts its performance and longevity. By putting in a little extra effort, you’re not just protecting your investment; you’re improving your experience on the water. For more detailed guidance, feel free to explore other resources on Wikipedia or Reddit.
Cultural Impact of Skimboarding
Skimboarding, particularly with the rise of soft top models, has not just become a sport; it's morphed into a cultural phenomenon. The roots of skimboarding run deep, extending beyond mere recreation into realms of community, creativity, and identity, especially among younger generations. This section explores the societal layers of skimboarding, emphasizing how this activity fosters connection across diverse groups and influences lifestyle choices.
Skimboarding Communities
There’s a story behind every skimboarder. From seasoned pros carving their path on the shoreline to beginners wobbling on their first ride, every person involved forms part of a larger tapestry. Skimboarding communities often sprout around coastlines, Instagram hashtags, and vibrant local shops, each amplifying the culture through shared experiences. Online platforms, including Facebook and Reddit, have played a pivotal role in this regard. Casual meetups evolve into annual gatherings, where small groups morph into full-fledged communities sharing stories, skills, and stoke.
In many coastal areas, skimboarding becomes an accessible way to socialize, providing an entry point for newcomers to connect. The warmth of community support cannot be overstated. For instance, local NGOs often organize weekend events aimed at promoting the sport among youth, encouraging them to put down their screens and engage with nature. The camaraderie felt during these gatherings often leads to lifelong friendships, uniting people from different walks of life.
"It's like family—everyone helps each other improve, and the good vibes are contagious."
Often, these communities also advocate for beach clean-ups and protection of coastal ecosystems, infusing a deeper sense of responsibility and awareness among participants. Skimboarding therefore doesn’t just celebrate individual achievement but highlights the collective effort toward promoting environmental stewardship.
Events and Competitions
Events and competitions are at the heart of the skimboarding culture, showcasing talent, innovation, and passion. Gatherings like the World Championships of Skimboarding draw attendees from various corners of the globe, promoting not just competition but also a shared love for the sport. Local contests happen regularly, often implemented by beach towns aiming to boost tourism while encouraging participation.
These competitions not only spotlight the skills of athletes but also build excitement among spectators. Each event generally features categories that cater to various skill levels, ensuring that no one feels left behind, further solidifying the inclusive ethos of the skimboarding community. Notable competitions often lead to performances that blend artistry and athleticism, making them captivating spectacles for participants and onlookers alike.
Moreover, events such as the Skimboarding World Tour allow emerging athletes to make a name for themselves while linking them to more established riders, laying the foundation for mentorship and collaboration. It is through these competitions that trends and innovations emerge, as riders seek to outdo one another, pushing the boundaries of what is possible on a skimboard.
As the sport evolves, so too does its cultural impact. The spirited nature of such gatherings reminds everyone that skimboarding is about more than just personal success—it's about legacy, connection, and celebrating a love for the surf and sand. With the increasing popularity of social media, competition footage often circulates online, sparking interest and drawing new participants in.
In sum, the cultural fabric woven by skimboarding communities and events solidifies its status not just as a sport but as a vibrant lifestyle, illustrating how activity transcends the waves, creating ripples in both personal and communal spheres.
Future Trends in Soft Top Skimboarding
The world of soft top skimboarding, like many outdoor sports, is always shifting. The trends evolving in this domain not only reflect technological improvements but also signify a growing awareness of sustainability and community engagement. Understanding these trends is crucial for both enthusiasts and newcomers alike. As we glance into the future, several noteworthy elements are emerging, which could have profound benefits for skimboarders and the broader environment.
Technological Advancements
With each passing season, the technology behind soft top skimboards inches forward. Manufacturers are keen on integrating innovative designs that enhance performance while prioritizing ease of use. Recent trends have leaned towards lighter materials, making boards easier to handle without compromising durability. Innovative features, such as built-in grip systems, are becoming increasingly common. These features not only ensure better traction but also contribute to a more enjoyable ride, whether skimming on gentle sands or tackling wild ocean swells.
- Smart Technology: There are exciting developments in smartboards equipped with sensors that provide feedback on a rider's performance. This can help users improve their skills swiftly.
- Enhanced Durability: Advancements in materials mean boards are becoming tougher yet remain lightweight. This is especially pertinent for riders looking for longevity in their gear.
"The future of skimboarding is as much about the relationship with technology as it is about the waves beneath your feet."
Sustainability in Materials
As we ride the wave of environmental awareness, sustainability in skimboarding is gaining traction. A marked trend is the movement towards using environmentally-friendly materials and processes in the manufacturing of soft top skimboards. This development not only speaks to the responsibility skimmers have towards nature, but it also appeals to a growing demographic that values sustainable practices.
Some key aspects to consider include:
- Recycled Materials: Boards made from recycled plastics and other materials are becoming more popular. Not only do they minimize waste, but they also contribute to a circular economy.
- Biodegradable Components: New initiatives are seeing companies create skimboards that can decompose under the right conditions, thus reducing the long-term impact on the environment.
- Local Sourcing: Many brands are turning to locally-sourced materials, reducing their carbon footprint significantly and supporting local economies.
In the end, riding the wave of sustainability is not just a trend, but a necessity. It binds the skimboarding community together while celebrating the shared love for the ocean and the environment.
The shifts in technology and sustainability mark an exciting time for soft top skimboarding, enabling riders to enjoy the sport with a conscious mind towards their surroundings.
Culmination
In this section, we pull together the threads of soft top skimboarding, recognizing not just its technical aspects but the overall experience it offers. The stand-out characteristics of soft top skimboards, such as their user-friendly design and enhanced safety features, make them ideal for a wide audience. Whether you're a newcomer to the sport or an experienced rider, these boards cater to a variety of skill levels, bringing joy to many.
Summarizing the Key Insights
Throughout this exploration, we've detailed several critical aspects:
- User-Friendliness: Soft tops provide enhanced grip and stability, which allows even novices to enjoy their time on the water without excess worry about injuries or falls.
- Construction Advantages: The materials used in soft top boards often lead to longer durability compared to standard models, shielding them from the wear and tear commonly experienced in water sports.
- Performance in Various Conditions: From calm lagoons to windy beach fronts, soft top skimboards have shown their versatility, making them a favorite among surfers and skimboarders alike.
- Cultural Significance: The rise of soft top skimboarding has influenced various communities, fostering a spirit of inclusion and sport among diverse groups of people.
This amalgamation of features contributes to a more approachable and rewarding skimboarding experience.
The Longevity of Soft Top Skimboarding
The future looks bright for soft top skimboarding. As technology evolves, we can expect continued enhancements in designs. Future innovations may incorporate sustainable materials, aligning with current trends towards environmental consciousness. By crafting boards that lessen their ecological footprint, the community can ensure skimboarding's appeal to generations to come.
Moreover, as more people discover the thrill of skimboarding, likely driven by cultural events and competitions spotlighting these boards, the soft top variant remains a staple in the surf community. It transforms simple beach outings into memorable ventures, allowing individuals to create lasting connections with nature and their peers.
In essence, the longevity of soft top skimboarding hinges not only on advancements in technology and materials but also on cultivating a deeper appreciation within the surf culture. This sport holds infinite possibilities waiting to unfold, all while inviting everyone to participate.
