Big tricks, clean landings and fearless skating earned Durban’s Tylor Houston top honours at the 2026 O’Neill Ballito Pro Skate Jam on Saturday.

Originally scheduled to take place at the Ballito Bowl, the event was moved to The Lot Skate Park at Ballito Junction Regional Mall due to rain.

The event saw some of South Africa’s best skateboarders, alongside rising young talent, compete for a share of R30 000 in prize money across the Open and u16 Grom divisions.

The 25-year-old Houston secured first place in the open division ahead of fellow Durban skater Kalvyn MacMillan, with Pretoria’s Josh Beukes finishing third.

An emotional Houston said the victory was one of the biggest moments of his skateboarding career.
“I didn’t even have words yesterday, trying to hold back the tears. It means so much because, as a skateboarder, these are the moments you dream of – hearing your name called in first place, having fun and skating with your friends in a contest where everyone is dropping hammer after hammer,” he said.

South African Olympian Brandon Valjalo entertained spectators throughout the afternoon and walked away with the best trick award for landing a big spin back tail on the event’s big hubba feature.

The u16 grom division showcased the next generation of skateboarding talent, with 11-year-old Australian Jake Turnbull taking first place. Durban’s Ashley Gindre finished second, while Jackson Myers, also from Durban, claimed third.

Turnbull also received the grom best trick award, while Jordan Gardner was recognised as the best up-and-coming skater.

The Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill continues until July 18, with Challenger Series surfing, the Surf & Turf Celebrity Challenge, music concerts, beach activities, environmental initiatives and Mandela Day celebrations still forming part of the festival programme.