Last week, I interviewed Liz, co-founder of Group Y, about the organization she started (check out the article) and I thought the group’s mission was really cool… so I decided to check out an event for myself!  Last night, Group Y hosted a networking event in Hermosa Beach at Spit Studio (very cool art studio, BTW; if I had half as much artistic talent as these guys I’d be set).  Unlike other events the group hosts, this event was a super casual, laid back, meet-and-greet session; coming off the heels of the Action Sports Conference, Liz really wanted to take a step back and just let members have a night of fun and networking.  And that’s exactly what it was – there were some very neat people at the event doing some really great things in the action sports industry, everyone from big brands like FUEL TV to small, start up companies.  With the central “hub” of action sports brands being located in LA and OC, groups and events like these are a great way to meet other people in the industry.

One thing I love about the Action Sports industry is that its such a tight knit, close, but inviting community of people, but at the same time very protective of its reputation and non-commercialization of the industry, to ensure the end goal stays true to its roots.  Meeting others who are actively involved in action sports always makes me feel like my time spent writing is worthwhile

The night in photos…

On a totally unrelated note, if you haven’t entered Westbound Boarder’s giveaway yet this week, make sure you do so here!