Brad Balie and Boipelo Awuah set to represent South Africa as the only African skaters at Russia’s Grand Skate Tour.
Kimberly, South Africa (20 August 2025) – Two young skaters from Kimberley are about to roll onto one of the biggest skateboard stages and make history as the only Africans invited to compete at the Grand Skate Tour in Russia. For Brad Balie and Boipelo Awuah, it is more than just an international event but a chance to stand shoulder to shoulder with some of the best skaters in the world.
Both will take part in the Street Skateboarding category, a fast, technical style known for its bold tricks and flair. It’s a discipline that demands fearlessness, precision, and plenty of creative qualities, both Brad and Boipelo have been refining on South Africa’s skateboarding scene for years.
Their journey to this stage has been shaped by countless hours of practice, local competitions, and the support of the Kimberley Diamond Cup programme, which has been instrumental in growing skateboarding talent in the region. The programme has become a launchpad for aspiring athletes, and Brad and Boipelo are living proof of how far dedication can take young South African skaters.
For Brad, this international call-up represents the first step towards his ultimate dream of turning professional. Meanwhile, Boipelo has consistently impressed with her skill and composure, proving she can match her peers on the global stage. Together, they form a dynamic duo carrying not just their own ambitions, but also the hopes of their community. The opportunity came at short notice, but she has been training hard, sharpening her skills at the Shedzilla competition in Cape Town, focusing on strength and mental preparation for the challenge ahead.
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As the only African representatives, their presence in Russia sends a powerful message about the growing footprint of skateboarding across the continent. It also highlights how young talent from smaller cities like Kimberley can rise to international prominence with the right mix of passion, discipline, and opportunity.
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