Brandon Valjalo made history for South Africa at the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo and now he is once again preparing for the global stage and Paris!
South Africa (17 April 2024) – Brandon Valjalo is a South African skateboarder who made history competing in the first-ever Olympic skateboarding competition in Tokyo in 2020. Now, he’s using those epic lessons to launch himself towards glory as he prepares to represent his country at the Global Stage. He’s known for his innovative and technical tricks, his dedication to the sport, and his ability to inspire young shredders around the world.
Valjalo reminisces about his time in Tokyo, saying,
“Some of the most memorable moments include representing South Africa at the debut event for Skateboarding at the global stage.” He shares another interesting memory, saying, “I broke my wrist in two places during a practice session just two days before the competition. Nonetheless, I was in such a mentally strong place at the time that breaking my wrist couldn’t have stopped me from competing for the African skateboarding community.”
Since Tokyo, Valjalo’s been grinding on his competition strategy, dialling in his consistency, and mastering his killer tricks. But he knows it’s not all about nose grinds and switch flips. Finding that sweet balance between pushing his limits and delighting in pure skate joy is key.
“I grew up being very competitive in traditional sports and had a passion for competing,” says Valjalo. “Therefore, going into the next big moment, I’m looking at it as if I’m going into any other competition I’ve skated. The main focus for me is going out there and having fun because that’s when I skate my best.”
The South African skate scene has been Valjalo’s constant source of fuel.
“The support from my fellow South Africans is what makes the Journey that much more worth it,” he says. “Inspiring the next generation is something that keeps me really motivated because they are the future stars that are going to be holding it down for the South African flag.”
Paris will be a different beast than Tokyo as no spectators were allowed during the 2020 global games due to COVID. This time, a live audience will be there to crank the energy, but Valjalo’s got his composure dialed in from his previous experience, and he’s ready to leverage that mental edge to conquer Paris.
“I have a couple of new tricks up my sleeve. You guys are just going to have to wait and see,” Valjalo teases with a wink.
The road to the Global Stage won’t be as effortless as a drop-in though. Skateboarding pushes your body and mind to the limit. Valjalo’s got a plan to conquer those challenges with cross-training, PT sessions, and a mental performance coach on his side.
“The key is to have fun out there,” says Valjalo. “Once the competition is over, the enjoyment and pride of representing your country comes from all the support that everybody shows.”
Valjalo’s dedication to his sport and his passion for inspiring others are pure world champion spirit. As he embarks on his journey to Paris, his message to his fans is clear: “Fulfill the dream, trust the process and enjoy every moment.”
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