In a world where skateboarding transcends mere sport and becomes a lifestyle, Brandon Valjalo emerges as a beacon of dedication and determination. Hailing from Johannesburg, South Africa, Valjalo is not just a professional skateboarder but a testament to the power of relentless pursuit of passion and the unyielding drive for progress.
In a recent interview with ESA (Extreme Sports Action), Valjalo delves into his journey, motivations, and the evolving landscape of skateboarding, especially with its inclusion in the Olympics. He speaks with the casual confidence of someone who has spent years mastering his craft on the streets and in his own sanctuary – his private skate park.
For Valjalo, skateboarding wasn’t just a pastime; it was a calling that beckoned him from childhood. Growing up with a skateboard always within reach, he transitioned from rolling down his driveway to envisioning himself competing on the grand stage of Street League Skateboarding (SLS) and X Games competitions. The allure of pushing his limits, of challenging himself to reach new heights, was irresistible.
Fuelled by a deep-seated passion and the desire to leave his mark on the international skateboarding scene, Valjalo embarked on a journey of self-progression. He sought out competitions, honed his skills, and embraced the technological era’s opportunities to showcase his talent through videos. But his motivation ran deeper than just recognition; it was about personal growth and pushing the boundaries of what was possible.
The lack of adequate skate parks near his home became a catalyst for Valjalo’s ambitious project – building his own training facility. What began as a quest for quality obstacles evolved into something far more significant – a sanctuary where he could hone his skills, experiment with new tricks, and push the limits of his abilities without distractions. Little did he know that this sanctuary would become his Olympic training ground, a testament to his foresight and dedication.
With skateboarding included in the Olympics, Valjalo sees a newfound opportunity for growth, not just for himself but for the entire skateboarding community, especially in developing countries like South Africa. He recognizes the role of corporate investors and government support in nurturing young talent and providing them with opportunities to pursue skateboarding as a professional career.
In Valjalo’s eyes, skateboarding is more than just a sport; it’s a form of self-expression, a creative outlet where individuality reigns supreme. Each skater brings their own unique style and perspective to the table, making it a subjective and ever-evolving art form. And while corporate support is essential for the sport’s growth, the heart of skateboarding lies in its community – in the camaraderie and mutual support that fuel progression.
As Valjalo prepares for the next phase of Olympic qualifying events, he remains undeterred by the challenges that lie ahead. From commercial shoots in Cape Town to skating events in Egypt and Dubai, his schedule may be packed, but his focus remains unwavering. With Shanghai on the horizon and Paris beckoning in the distance, Valjalo is poised to make his mark on the world stage, representing not just himself but an entire community of passionate skateboarders.
In the end, as Valjalo proudly declares, it’s all about progression, passion, and the unwavering commitment to one’s craft. And as long as there are skaters like him pushing the boundaries and inspiring others, the future of skateboarding looks brighter than ever.
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