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Thursday, March 28, 2024

Visayan skater wins DIY Solo Competition

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Ten skateboarders from all around the country duelled in October’s Red Bull DIY Solo Competition, with Johnpaul Horteza of Lapu Lapu City emerging champion.

Visayan skater wins DIY Solo Competition
Champion Johnpaul Horteza does his thing.

The 18-year-old Horteza, the very first winner of the competition, is an avid skater with seven years of amateur experience.

“Sa una pa lang, mahilig na ako sa skateboarding. Mahirap pero sulit din kasi natuto ako. Umulan o bumagyo – skate parin. Sa lahat ng sport, ito ang aking nagustuhan,” said Horteza. “Hindi ko naasahan magpa-event ang Red Bull, so na-excite ako. Nag pa-video ako kaagad at solid din kasi nanalo po ako!”

The Top 5 participants, namely Horteza, runner-up Trunks Manalo of Lapu Lapu City, third-placer Marvin Pescador of Cebu City, Visayas and (4th) Cesar Mancera and (5th) Kim Bonifacio, both of Kidapawan, Mindanao, were selected by professional local skateboarders, Jeff Gonzales and Demit Cuevas, with final placements determined by Asia and 2X SEA Gold Medalist and Olympic hopeful, Margielyn Didal. 

Last September, 17 skate crews across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao were given the budget and resources to further enhance their dream DIY skate spots. These skate spots were then used again for the Solo Competition that enabled skaters to showcase their skill and creativity.

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“Red Bull DIY goes hand-in-hand with skating,” said Cuevas. “From building something to skate on to doing tricks. For Red Bull DIY to shell out support not just to build one spot, but to spread the love for skateboarding around the nation is mind-blowing. There’s something for everyone who’s down to do it and it has brought so much exposure to different areas, while bringing people together. Everyone is hyped for the much needed support. It brought the sport closer to home.”

“Red Bull DIY gives a chance to local skaters to get creative and think outside the box,” said Gonzales. “A lot of skaters are content with skating a small box and a rail. This gives them an opportunity to go beyond that. I’m sure these guys are hyped Red Bull is able to help out the skate community. It brings more life to the skate scene.”

In addition, all five finalists were awarded with additional resources to fully develop their DIY skate setups.

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