Skateboard competition, clinic at mall

Great excitement is at the order of the day while organisers of the annual Mall of the North Skateboard Competition and Clinic are fine-tuning last minute aspects of the event to be held at the parking area of Mall of the North on Saturday and Sunday.
Professional skateboarder and organiser, Rynardt van der Merwe said this is the fourth year that they host the competition and as always there are big prizes to be won. “This year also comes with some added value as we will host a skateboarding clinic on Sunday. The clinic is for all ages and will consist of mini competitions and learning session. Skateboarders will be taught how to skate on back wheels, jump and various other tricks.”
Participants can compete in the amateur (open division), intermediate (14 and older) and 13 years and younger categories. Category winners can look forward to amazing prizes such as well known branded skateboards and a sound bar.
Entries open at 09:00 on Saturday and the event will start soon thereafter. Van der Merwe said this year could see a record number of entries as skating fever among the young continue to escalate. “This year’s competition is definitely going to be a hit with an exciting course that will not only test skateboarders’ skills, but also provide for ample fun. Though mostly young skateboarders enter the competition, older skaters are also most welcome. Skateboarding is one of the sports that lure all races and everyone enjoys what they do most in harmony with each other’s companionship,” Van der Merwe said. He added that skaters from as far as Johannesburg, Mbombela and Thohoyandou have already confirmed their attendance.
Van der Merwe is an old hand in the sport and has been practising for the past ten years. He is also providing training for novices and even has his own course at home where skaters can practise.
For more information contact Van der Merwe on 071 121 6056.

Story: RC Myburgh
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Featured photo: Tristan Richards, winner of last year’s u.13 category in action during the competition. (photo archive)