On the 13th of January, adrenaline and excitement filled the air as Uganda played host to the Dope Games Skateboarding Championship. The event, organized by Uganda Skateboard Society in partnership Dope Games, took place at Mukono skatepark, with the thrill of skateboarding enthusiasts pushing the limits despite the challenging weather conditions that saw heavy rainfall from morning to afternoon. The indomitable spirit of the skateboarders prevailed, turning the event into a memorable spectacle.
The championship kicked off at 12 pm, with skaters showcasing their skills in a competition that featured various heats. A total of four heats took place, each hosting four talented skaters who dared to challenge the elements. Additionally, the event included a special category for 15 kids under the age of 10, adding a heartwarming touch to the competition.
Besides the intense skateboarding action, the Dope Games Uganda Skateboarding Championship had a lot more to offer. Attendees were treated to a variety of side activities, making it an engaging and vibrant community event. The festivities included soda chugging competitions, dance group performances, and rap battles that brought a dynamic rhythm to the atmosphere. The crowd was captivated by the stellar performances of some of Uganda’s finest rappers, including St Nelly Sade and Flex D’Paper, adding a musical flair to the day’s festivities.
The competition reached its pinnacle with the announcement of the winners. Brian Bukenya emerged as the champion, claiming the coveted title and a substantial cash prize of 1 Million Ugandan shillings.
Travor Kanyike secured the position of the first runner-up, earning a commendable cash prize of UGX.500,000/=
Calvin Muwonge showcased remarkable skills, earning him the title of the second runner-up with a cash prize of UGX.250,000/=
In the under-10 category, young talent Elijah Tenywa stole the spotlight, securing victory and receiving a coveted Mountain Dew complete skateboard as a prize. Ashley Nsubuga claimed the second position, while Kalungi secured the third spot, rounding out the impressive performance of the young skateboarders.
The judging panel, consisting of representatives from the Skateboarding Society of Kenya—George Zuko and Elijah Kitaka—and the charismatic Skitty, ensured a fair and competitive evaluation of the participants. Dope Games played a pivotal role in facilitating the judges too, ensuring that the event ran smoothly and showcased the best of Uganda’s skateboarding talent.
Despite the initial challenges posed by the heavy rainfall, the Dope Games Uganda Skateboarding Championship stood as a testament to the resilience and passion of the skateboarding community in Uganda. The event not only celebrated the skill and creativity of the participants but also highlighted the vibrant culture surrounding skateboarding in the region.
