June 23, 2012, Bonifacio Global City: From a subculture to one of the world’s top action sports, skateboarding has indeed gone a long way since the 1950s, when it was just considered as a fun way to surf the streets by California surfers.
It is because of the rapid growth of the skateboard community and its evolution into becoming an action sport well-loved by millions all over the world that caused skateboarding to have its own holiday. Thus, in 2004, Go Skateboarding Day was officially established by the International Association of Skateboard Companies (IASC). In the interest of keeping the spirit of skateboarding alive, the celebration of this holiday goes in line with how the action sport started—through a series of decentralized events organized by skateboarders, organizations, and brands all over the world.
The message of Go Skateboarding Day is where the inspiration behind the theme of this year’s Push Don’t Pollute: Ride with Pride came from. Held at Bonifacio Global City and spearheaded by Sector 9, the event also celebrates the growth of the local skateboard community over the years.
All set for the biggest skateboard marathon in the Philippines!
Over a hundred skateboard athletes gathered at the Bonifacio Global City for the celebration of Go Skateboarding Day brought to you by Sector 9. Photo by Pammela Eijansantos
Racers ready, start and go!! Photo by Pammela Eijansantos
“This growth has been brought about by the numerous grassroots initiatives of skaters, groups, and brands over the years, spanning from competitions advertised via word of mouth to impromptu skate sessions at local spots,” explained Freddy Gonzalez, President of Freesurf, Inc., the company that exclusively distributes core action sports brands such as Sector 9, RVCA, Billabong, and the like through concept stores like Aloha Boardsports and Five-0 Skate Shop. “Ride with Pride pays homage to this joint effort, because we understand the fact that the current state of the skateboard community and culture wouldn’t have been what is now without the dedication of these people.”
Featuring several categories such as 10 km push race for men, which was dominated by the Push Master himself, Tito Sumicad followed by the crowd favorite Dandoy “Double-D” Tongco both from Cebu, the women’s division won by Kara Marbe, also from Cebu. The juniors division was reigned by Charlo Querubin, as well as the freestyle competition which Dandoy Tongco unanimously won.
1st Place winner for the 10 Km push race, Tito “The Push Master” Sumicad and 2nd place winner Dandoy Tongco both riding for Dirftwood Local Ent.
“The motivation and eagerness to win the race brought success to the undisputed push racer in the country, Push Master Tito Sumicad. Dandoy Tongco was behind Tito Sumicad few meters away when they reached the finish line. Both riders aim to compete in an international long distance push race competition. This event is their stepping stone towards reaching that goal.”
Shay Pua from Catarman, Northern Samar (Left) and District Tree rider Kara Marbe from Talisay, Cebu (right) who won the women’s division.
The best trick freestyle competition.
Dandoy Tongco won the Freestyle Competition. Photo by Michael Eijansantos
The 3rd Sector 9, “Push Don’t Pollute: Ride with Pride” is one of the most highly-anticipated events in the industry which has been a huge success in promoting the skateboarding as a sport. Not only will the participants get to showcase their skills, they also get the chance to win a cash prize of P10, 000 plus awesome Sector 9 goodies in the push race and Sector 9 products in the best trick competition.
Cebu’s pride! Driftwood Local Ent. riders Kara Marbe, Charlo Querubin, Dandoy Tongco and Tito Sumicad dominated The Ride with Pride, Sector 9 Push Don’t Pollute event.
“The 3rd Sector 9 Push Don’t Pollute: Ride with Pride is also an invitation for everyone to see another facet of skateboarding,” Gonzalez added. “In addition to being an action sport, it has also become a form of creative expression because of its diverse community. In fact, you’ll be able to see its creative influences in music, art, and fashion.”
Grom riders enjoying the good vibes at the Ride with Pride. Photo by Michael Eijansantos
It is the understanding of skateboarding’s grassroots origin and its dynamic and passionate community that has provided Sector 9 with a unique insight into the skate culture and mindset. Enabling it to become one of the go to brands for skateboard enthusiasts.
The Freestyle competition. Photo by Michael Eijansantos
My Life on Board’s trick of the day, “The Handstand”. Photo by Michael Eijansantos.
“We’re very happy with the response we’ve gotten for this year’s Sector 9 Push Don’t Pollute Push Race,” Gonzalez commented. “The fact that more and more people are trying out skateboarding encourages us to come up with more activities like this. After all, at the end of the day, our focus has always been on providing our market with the best skate experience no matter where they are.”
The 3rd Sector 9 Push Don’t Pollute Race: Ride with Pride is presented by Aloha Boardsports, Billabong, and Five-0 Skate Shop, and co-presented by Fox International Channels, Magoo’s Pizza, and VitaminBoost.
More updates coming your way. For highlights of the event, visit My Life on Board’s Facebook page. Click here.
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