“This prestigious event has not only solidified its position as a world-class skateboarding championship but also demonstrated its value as a catalyst for economic growth, community upliftment, and global recognition of our province,” said economic development and tourism MEC, Venus Blennies-Magage.

The initiative included a tour through the Northern Cape and will continue with Friday movie nights at the Skate Park for residents to join in.

The initiative included a tour through the Northern Cape. Photo: Casey-Lee Anthony

The official start of the Kimberley Diamond Cup Grand Slam will be on Saturday, 18 January, in Gqeberha and will continue to Johannesburg the following Saturday.

HOD Thami Mabija mentioned that this championship was off the grid for a while due to the absence of a suitable partner and sponsorship. The department has, however, finally found the best fit after a year and a half of tendering. 

“When we got to the fourth tender, we were able to identify a partner that we could work with and make sure we can take skating forward,” said Mabija.

HOD Thami Mabija. Photo: Casey-Lee Anthony

Building up towards this event the department held activations at each skate park in the province, and appointed coaches to keep the youth involved and interested in the sport.

The KDC is the only such programme in the country. It encourages the youth to participate and allows them to travel and explore.

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