Hell on Wheels

7/16-7/18 Ask skateboarders about the nature of their four-wheeled activity, and, sarcastic answers aside, they're sure to explain that skateboarding has but one simple goal: fun. There are no winners, no losers, no ranking system, no coaches and, though older generations may assert otherwise, no uniforms for these youthful anarchists. But fret not -- this weekend, the KC Indoor Skatepark (9105 Flint in Overland Park) brings order to the disorderly by injecting some competitive spirit into the often misunderstood and much-maligned pastime of board-flipping curb waxers. The first KC AMcontest will see local amateur skateboarders dividing into three divisions to compete for cash and prizes. Competing for attention will be a swarm of local bands, ranging from metal (Pittcore) to gangsta rap (the Popper), playing a stage in the adjoining warehouse.

With a skate competition and a stage for music, it's no surprise that this contest is spread out over three days. There is a surprise, though, in the form of admission prices -- a one-day pass costs $15. With three-day spectator passes running $35, skaters might as well pay the entry fee of $40, try their luck in the contest and at least get a complimentary T-shirt. Register online at www.kcskatepark.com or in person on Friday before the contest starts at 2 p.m. For details, call 913-599-5510.-- Michael Vennard

Common Goals
Soccer gets kinky with four-on-four action.

SAT 7/17
Soccer fans have a chance to get on the field and kick some shins as Futbolito, the four-on-four soccer tournament hosted by Major League Soccer, stops in Kansas City on its 12-city summer tour. The tournament is open to toddling goalies, teenage jocks and inept soccer moms alike. Registration costs $120 a team for the adult and youth competitions, but an extra $30 puts your team in the premier adult tournament, for which first prize is two thousand bones. Not-so-premier participants receive a ticket to a Wizards game, a T-shirt and a shot at smaller prizes. Games begin at 9 a.m. Saturday in Swope Park (Meyer Boulevard and Swope Parkway). To register -- and we mean right now to meet Friday's advance deadline -- call 866-965-7484.-- Sarah Smarsh