The effort to build the largest skatepark for skateboarders and BMX bikers in the country is underway right here in Rochester. Local and professional riders rallied to raise money for the dream they hope will become a reality by 2015.

Tony Hamlin rides BMX bikes. The 24-year-old puts in 4-5 hours a day.

"It's so funny because I don't like to call it work because it's what I do for fun," Hamlin said. "Coincidentally, I get paid to do it at the same time. It isn't really work but it is work."

Hamlin is a professional BMX rider. As you would imagine riding can wreak havoc on your body.

"Sprained knees, ankles, multiple separated shoulders and what not," said Hamlin. "But I feel fine, I feel good."

Hamlin, who is from Hamlin, has one wish.

"I've wished my whole life ever since I rode a BMX bike, that Rochester would build a world class skate park and it looks like it's going to happen," Hamlin said.

Organizers plan to build the Roc City Skatepark next to the Douglass-Anthony Memorial Bridge. The proposed park is 75,000 square feet alongside the Genesee River.

"Even though it is frowned upon in society, there is a large number and it's also a healthy activity," Alan Presutti of the Roc City Skatepark said. "A skateboard park will give kids a place to go where it's legal and it's safe and they don't have to worry about being harassed by security guards, police, or random people who don't like skateboarding."

Organizers say the City of Rochester included $2 million for the skatepark in its Capital Improvement Budget. Since 2008 the skatepark has raised $75,000 and it hoped to raise another $20,000 at Saturday's rally.

"We're trying to find somebody that is interested," said Jim Maddison of the Roc City Skatepark. "The right company, the right individual, the right foundation, that's interested in the naming rights. If we can get a naming rights donor at $600,000 we think it will expedite the project."

As for Hamlin, he says a skatepark is long overdue.

"There is a big skate, BMX, scooter and roller blade scene in Rochester, NY and no one really caters to it," Hamlin said.