June 13, 2005
By Lucky Sindane
HUNDREDS of extreme sports lovers, bundled up against the cold, braved the icy morning to support more than 50 skateboarders and BMX riders pitting their gut-wrenching skills against one another.
The youngsters - from Alexandra and Soweto - were taking part in the Bass Breaks and Beats event at the Alec Goshel Park in Berea on Saturday, 11 June.
The extreme event included skateboarding, BMX riding and inline skating. Getting the adrenaline pumping was a local DJ, who had the crowd dancing to his latest hip-hop mixes. One spectator, dressed in a soccer kit, got the crowd's attention with his staggering dance moves.
The extreme skateboarders and cyclists are no longer on the margins of sport, performing their tricks on empty streets, in car parks or along city pavements.
"Many communities around South Africa are taking the initiative to provide skateboarders, inline skaters and BMX riders with a place to participate in their sports rather than fighting a losing battle trying to control their behaviour by restricting them from public areas and parking lots," said Junior Ramovha, Region 8's manager for sports and recreation.
Vusi Shabalala takes it to the max
"Joburg can count itself among these communities and it is time for a proactive approach to deal with the situation."
The weekend event was supported by Johannesburg's Region 8, which covers the inner city. "This is a great opportunity for [the region], creating an exposure to different lifestyle cultures within Johannesburg."
Organiser Sakhile Mzizi said it was the first time the event had been hosted in Berea. Bass Breaks and Beats travels to townships around the province, giving children the opportunity to experience extreme sports.
"All these athletes belong to the Bass Beaks and Beats [aka The Triple B] squad and they are really talented."
First up was a group of BMX riders, who had the spectators applauding their daring feats. The friendly crowd didn't only cheer those who were good, but also those who fell.
"It takes a lot of practice for one to be able to do these kinds of tricks," said 14-year-old Bathusi Maqina from Hardcore Riders in Rockville, Soweto. "I started riding in 2000 and last year I lost in the final. I just hope that I win one day."
One BMX rider carried two plates of chips. He tried to eat and ride, but fell, messing up the course. The crowd didn't mind, however.
Next up were the skateboarders and inline skaters. Their performances were spectacular - and dangerous. One competitor ended up with a dislocated shoulder.
"This is a very dangerous sport," said skateboarder Sandile Mthembu from Dlamini, Soweto. "It really takes guts to do [it]. I've fallen many times and hurt myself in the process but I'll never stop loving the sport."
Trophies and medals were given to the best performers.
In the inline skating category Pontsho Sikiti from Alexandra came out tops, with Thomas Ndlovu and Pulu Ramabu coming in second and third. On skateboards Sabelo Dlamini came first, Vuyo Mpanja second and Lintswi Motswei third. Out of the BMX riders, Mpho Mthini came first, Vusi Shabalala second and Vusi Malaza third.
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