Edenvale skateboarders flip into action

On April 20, the 011 Skatepark in Edenvale hosted an action-packed mini-ramp competition, attended by skaters from across Gauteng to showcase their talent and passion.

Sponsored by Wright Air and supported by the Johannesburg Skate Club, skaters were competing for the cash prize of R6000.

The competition catered for men and women.

011’s Dean Backos expressed his vision to turn 011 Skatepark into the premier destination for skaters in Gauteng.

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“My goal is to turn the park to the point where it is like the best thing in Gauteng.

“It is eventually getting to that point now.

“I think we have sparked so much interest in the younger age groups that now we have a bigger U18 age group which is very promising,” he stated.

He also highlighted the significant participation of women skaters.

“When we started doing the competitions we didn’t have one woman competing; I think it shows that we are creating a safe space for all and a creative ecosystem and that’s the goal.”

In addition, the event served as a platform to promote the global initiative Roll Around the World aimed at empowering female skaters.

Advocating for the initiative at the event were coordinators from Germany, Stefanie Walter and Max Gunzinam.

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“The programme is part of the SDG 5 aimed at achieving gender equality and empowering women and girls.

“We chose skating as both of us have done skateboarding for a long time.

“The sport is good for meeting new people and learning new cultures and the empowerment of self.

“Skateboarding provides self-esteem,” they shared

They added that through the programme women will have access to skateboarding.

“It took five years of paperwork to get the people here and we are super happy to have the second meeting with them in August when they visit Germany,” they added.