With parks now open, many of Ballito’s youths are turning to the upgraded Hilary Drive skate park to get some outdoor exercise.

The skate park which spent much of 2020 being revamped and upgraded has now become the premier skating location in Ballito and perhaps in the country, said designer and ex-pro-skater Dallas Oberholzer.

RE/MAX Dolphin Realtors championed the upgrade, raising the majority of the funds needed to turn the skatepark back into a popular hangout.

“We are very excited to see it all come to fruition and to give the kids in Ballito another top-quality amenity to use as they need,” said Simon Peacock of RE/MAX Dolphin Realtors.

With finishing touches to the gardens surrounding the bowl now being completed, the park may become a new home for South Africa’s skating elite.

“We were so glad to hear the announcement that parks were back open. We really do enjoy having the opportunity to come here and just enjoy ourselves in the open air,” said skater Ky Dick.

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Although the bowl might be modeled for professionals, there is no elitism on show and skaters of all ages and skill levels are able to enjoy themselves.

“We all have different things that we are good at and these young guys are showing us a thing or two as well – it goes both ways,” said skater Joshua Falconer.

There was a steady stream of visitors in the 20 minutes that The Courier spent at the park with people using scooters and bicycles in the bowl as well as skateboards.

“The way it has been designed means its a fast ride which is cool and means that you can enjoy it on as many wheels as you like,” said Dick.

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The skate park can be found on the corner of Hilary Drive and Dolphin Crescent, be sure to go along and enjoy it first hand.