The epic sporting action isn’t limited to KwaDukuza’s surf for the 2023 Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill – visitors can expect top-level trials biking demonstrations and skateboarding action as part of the Festival events. Things get started with the Ballito Pro Skate Jam at the Ballito Bowl on Saturday, 1 July from 12pm, with Brent Le Riche returning to perform his world-class moves as part of the Monster Energy Programme from 7 to 9 July.
Organisers of The Ballito Pro Skate Jam, Old School Productions, are excited to announce an impressive line-up of pro skaters and top-level brand activations at the third instalment. While previous titles have been dominated by local competitors, an influx of South Africa’s top talent is set to elevate the contest significantly.
“We are stoked to be hosting an even bigger edition of the Ballito Pro Skate Jam which we know is going to create even more traction on the skate calendar,” commented Markus Müseler, Old School Productions event’s organiser. “The 2023 edition also sees Hot Wheels launching its new skate line. It’s incredible how brands are pushing investment into the skate scene!”
Among those signed up to compete for the R20 000 prize is world-class skater Damian Bramley, a Northern Cape product – now Cape Town resident – and a 2024 Olympian hopeful. He’ll be joined on the bowl by Thalente Biyela, a Durban Beach Park original who is now making a name for himself in the Mother City. His epic story from the streets to professional skateboarder was captured in the award-winning documentary, I am Thalente, featuring Tony Hawk and co-produced by Salema Masekela.
Audiences will also get to witness the talent of Khule ‘the coolest kid in Durban’ Ngubane, alongside 2021 winner Kalvyn Mac Millan, 2022 defending champion Jamie De Villiers, and defending U16 champion, Ezra Vosloo. The Ballito Pro Skate Jam will be a full-on festival, loaded with food trucks, music, product giveaways, and the popular Monster Energy Truck.
From 7 to 9 July, Ballito Pro Festival-goers can look out for The Monster Energy Truck bringing a great vibe and energy to the beachfront. Forming part of the Monster Energy Programme is South Africa’s legendary Brent Le Riche who will perform unmissable tricks on his demo rig set up near the retail area at Willard Beach. As one of South Africa’s most decorated trial riders, Le Riche has a wealth of experience in the saddle and knows how to entertain a crowd.
2023 Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill Festival
The globe’s longest-running surfing contest is accompanied by the epic 2023 Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill Festival! Bringing the best in entertainment, retail, and beachside fun, this year’s festival programme from 27 June to 9 July will be centred on sustainability, inclusivity, and growth, following the theme Konke KuLuhlaza – Everything is Blue. Alongside the surfing, skating, and biking action, visitors can look forward to:
- Retail offerings
- Free beach Yoga and Pilates from 7am to 8am (except Sundays)
- Daily beach sports, and recreational activities
- Jive with Jen daily dance lessons, expression sessions, face painting and fun games for children
- O’Neill Blue Capsule initiative and Women of the Wave activation
- Bra Golf Day fundraiser
- Para Surf Expression Session
- Environmental awareness programmes and events
- Coastal and Cultural Tourism Experience
- Indoor rowing demonstrations
Don’t miss any of the action at the 2023 Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill Festival and be part of the change. #konkekuluhlaza #everythingisblue
To find out more about The Ballito Pro presented by O’Neill festival programme, visit:
Website: www.theballitopro.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theballitopro/
Twitter: www.twitter.com/TheBallitoPro
Instagram: www.instagram.com/TheBallitoPro
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Snapchat: Username – TheBallitoPro