Durban skateboarder Tylor Houston was crowned the 2026 O’Neill Ballito Pro Skate Jam Open Champion after an incredible day of skateboarding on Saturday, 11 July, overcoming a strong field of South Africa‘s top riders.
Although weather conditions forced organisers to relocate the event from the iconic Ballito Bowl to The Lot Skate Park at Ballito Junction Regional Mall, the atmosphere remained electric as spectators witnessed spectacular tricks, fierce competition and the next generation of skateboarding talent.
With R30,000 in prize money on offer across the Open and U16 Groms divisions, the competition once again highlighted why the Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill remains one of South Africa‘s premier action sports festivals.
Emotional Victory for Houston
Houston described the victory as one of the biggest moments of his skateboarding career.
Fighting back emotion after being announced as the Open winner, he said hearing his name called in first place was something every skateboarder dreams about. He also thanked the sponsors, organisers and fellow competitors for making the event possible and creating an unforgettable atmosphere.
Brandon Valjalo Delivers Another Standout Performance
South African Olympic skateboarder Brandon Valjalo once again entertained fans with his world-class technical ability.
Although he narrowly missed out on the overall title, Valjalo secured the Open Best Trick Award thanks to an impressive big spin back tail on the big hubba, reminding spectators why he remains one of Africa’s most accomplished skateboarders.
Young Talent Continues to Shine
Organisers praised the depth of young talent on display throughout the day.
Riaan van Biljon of OSP Events Co. said it was encouraging to see so many new faces alongside experienced competitors, with parents supporting the next generation of skateboarders in both the boys’ and girls’ categories.
The event reinforced the Ballito Pro Skate Jam‘s reputation as a platform for developing South African skateboarding while bringing the community together.
Open Division Results
- 1st: Tylor Houston (Durban)
- 2nd: Kalvyn MacMillan (Durban)
- 3rd: Josh Beukes (Pretoria)
U16 Groms Results
- 1st: Jake Turnbull (Australia)
- 2nd: Ashley Gindre (Durban)
- 3rd: Jackson Myers (Durban)
Special Awards
- Open Best Trick: Brandon Valjalo
- Grom Best Trick: Jake Turnbull
- Best Up-and-Coming Skater: Jordan Gardner
Ballito Pro Festival Continues
While the Skate Jam has wrapped up, the Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill continues until 18 July, offering visitors plenty more entertainment and sporting action.
Festival highlights still to come include the World Surf League Challenger Series, Surf & Turf Celebrity Challenge, Mandela Day 67 Minutes for the Ocean beach clean-up, Red Bull MX activations, Corona Sunset Sessions, live music concerts, family activities, environmental initiatives and coastal tourism experiences.
The successful Skate Jam once again demonstrated the growing strength of South African skateboarding, with elite athletes and rising stars delivering an unforgettable showcase that continues to make Ballito one of the country’s leading destinations for action sports.
