Part Burning Man festival, part old school BMX jam, Swampfest has become the go-to US BMX event in recent years. Skateboarding became part of the mix two years ago, bringing a chaotic harmony to the action sports arena. Haro was on board as a sponsor for the 2024 event, February 16 and 17th in Waldo, Florida. The Haro Chevron shaped "hitching post" obstacle was constructed right in the middle of the course, a relatively tame piece in contrast to the full-sized pirate ship (with a steep and deep ramp inside the hull), rollercoaster rail, a concrete bowl built just for the event and built high above a mud pit, the swamp rail. Haro team rider Michael Mogollon flew in to help paint the ramp before taking charge during Friday's events, with standout moves and some of the highest airs in the high air contest. With rain in the forecast, Swampfest mastermind Trey Jones and crew went the extra mile to construct coverings for sections of the course, staying up most of Friday night to make it happen. Saturday saw a steady rain, lots of mud and total mayhem, but the event raged on. Constant fireworks kept everyone on their toes and the riding happened despite the chaos. As has become tradition, Swampfest ends with the burning of the ramps. The ship in flames was a surreal sight--a fitting end for a surreal event.
