In episode nine of My City we visit 27-year old Milton Martinez from Mar del Plata, Argentina. Mar del Plata, Argentina is a very warm, crowded place during the summers, and typically a lonely and cold place during the winters. Also known as the surf capital in Argentina, Mar del Plata is one of the most visited towns in Argentina during the summer for tourists. With this influx of tourism every year, there is new infrastructure in the city, and thus, new skate spots. You would find most of the spots near the coast, however, there are some spots farther inland that are worth the drive.
As we know surf and skate go hand-in-hand, and it’s because of that, skateboarding in Mar del Plata has a lot of heritage, and that’s why most of the best skaters of Argentina, such as Milton Martinez, come from this city. A few years ago, the government learned skateboarding is a growing sport in the city and built skate parks throughout the area to support the activity, and the growth has been exponential and well-received among the locals.
Milton Martinez and his family have true skateboarding roots, starting with his parents. His dad was a well-known skateboarder in his prime, and his mom owns a local skate shop in Mar del Plata called Social Skate Shop, which has been in the family for years. We could fairly say it’s impossible for you to walk around the city and not see a skateboarder rolling around on his board. Milton’s two younger brothers also skate, and rip, and definitely tear up the local skate scene in Mar del Plata Between the skate-friendly city and authorities, the lively beach scene, and amazing food, for some, it’s a dream place to live. Given the city’s proximity to the ocean, the port is a great place to find good seafood restaurants. But, without a doubt, if you’re visiting Argentina, you must have an "asado" which is an outdoor Argentinian grill with your friends, similar to barbecues in the United States.
Summer in Mar del Plata, Argentina is the best time if you want to let loose and party a bit. The day has more daylight and the new bars zone next to the beach is the best if you want to dance, drink and watch the sunset (or sunrise) on the beach. With all this action, the police are usually respectful and don’t get too aggressive unless something crazy happens. They understand the city and understand skateboarders, and skateboarders understand them. If skaters are caught trespassing by the police, the skaters are typically just told to leave with no serious tickets or repercussions.
Growing up as a skateboarder in Mar del Plata, Argentina is not so bad. Plenty of skateparks and city structures, and a welcoming society. With guys like Milton Martinez going pro and inspiring a new wave of up-and-coming skateboarders from the area, you can be sure this isn’t the last time you’ll hear of Mar del Plata.