Photo Gallery: 2018 GrindWorks BMX Jams

Words by Andrew Vargason
Photography by Matt Vargason, Tom Beckman, Abdel Carlo, and Bryan Reynolds.

The GrindWorks BMX Jams, both the Pittsburgh Street Jam and the Binghamton Jam, are in their third year running as sister-jams. Both take place at the same time of year, typically only weeks apart, and share organizers, sponsors, and prizes. Being 300 miles apart, it’s also interesting that they share a lot of the same riders.

The Binghamton Jam was held at HCS Skatepark in Vestal, NY just outside of Binghamton. HCS is a private, DIY, indoor and outdoor, skatepark and venue with a long history in the area. It is well known for the out-of-the-box ramps and rails, rideable art, and maybe best for the owner himself, Derek Nelson (and his 50 lb bike from Road Fools 13). Whenever we host an event at HCS, we know that Derek and his fabrication business (Spooky Action Industrial Arts) are going to go all-in with us to create amazing trophies and outrageous obstacles. In addition to hosting the jam, small companies, crews, parks, shops, and creators of all kinds are invited to set up booths and promote their products, videos, and services while talking to and learning from others doing the same. It’s a great way to give back to the companies that support the GrindWorks Jams and for the riders to find their next favorite company!

The Pittsburgh Street Jam was held in the Northside of Pittsburgh and tours the plentiful, sometimes crusty, spots that have been staples in the scene for a long time while sampling some newer DIY features along the way. The Pittsburgh scene is often overlooked and has a ton of potential to blow up in the next few years. This year, as the jam transitioned downtown amid protestors and a large concert happening, the police descended on the latter part of the session. Before anything escalated, the jam migrated to a local skatepark, Sheraden, where everyone carried on riding and continued to have a good time.

Next year, expect to see these two jams happening once again, both in Binghamton and Pittsburgh. We are hoping to expand the vendors at the Binghamton Jam and invite anyone that is interested in tabling and/or sponsoring the jam (company, crew, park, shop, etc…) to reach out to me on Instagram. Here’s to bigger and better!