Spectators should head to the Ballito Bowl this Saturday (11 July 2026) to catch some of South Africa’s best skateboarders competing in the adrenaline-fuelled O’Neill Ballito Pro Skate Jam. This is a standout attraction of the Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill (from 4 to 18 July at Willard Beach), and headlining this year’s competition is South African Olympian Brandon Valjalo, who returns after claiming the coveted Best Trick title last year.
With R30 000 in prize money up for grabs across the Groms and Open divisions, organisers are expecting another packed crowd as the country’s best riders battle it out on one of South Africa’s most challenging skate bowls.
“There’s something special about the Ballito Pro Skate Jam,” says organiser Markus Müseler of OSP Events Co. “Every year the bowl fills up with skaters from all over the country, and it feels more like a reunion than a contest. Everyone pushes each other – it’s all about good times, while the level of skating just keeps progressing, and that’s what skateboarding is all about.
He says the team is looking forward to hanging out with the locals and old friends, ‘while seeing some heavy tricks go down again this year!’
What to Expect from this Year’s Competition
Returning to the bowl is Brandon Valjalo, South Africa’s Olympic skateboarding pioneer and one of the country’s most accomplished athletes. Although internationally recognised for his street skating, Valjalo’s effortless style and technical precision are likely to raise the level of competition at this year’s event.
Skaters will compete for honours in the Groms and Open divisions, alongside the always-popular Best Trick award. Dedicated Best Girl prizes and cash incentives will once again encourage female skaters to tackle the course. Beyond the competition itself, the Skate Jam has become one of the Ballito Pro’s signature crossover events, bringing surfers, skaters, families and spectators together in a celebration of youth culture – just metres from the beach.
O’Neill Brand Director Paul Canning said the Skate Jam perfectly captures the spirit of the Ballito Pro: “Walking up from Willard Beach after watching a couple of surfing heats, with the Challenger Series about to get underway, there’s always this incredible buzz around the bowl.”
He says the Skate Jam reflects everything the Ballito Pro stands for – community, youth culture, action sports and an unbeatable atmosphere: “It’s become one of the highlights of the festival, and with Brandon Valjalo returning alongside South Africa’s best skaters, spectators can expect an unforgettable afternoon.”
The Ballito Bowl is renowned for its fast, steep transitions that reward commitment and creativity, making it one of the country’s most respected competition venues. Ahead of this year’s competition, the Ballito Bowl has also undergone a welcome facelift through the Spark Up the Park – Skate Bowl Rehabilitation Initiative, supported by RE/MAX Dolphin Coast, SJC Projects, Linc College, Elogen, KwaDukuza Municipality, Maraschino, Skull Candy, Checkers, Rise Up Foundation and other local businesses. The restoration has ensured the iconic facility is once again ready to host one of the country’s premier skateboarding events.
Packed Programme for this Year’s Ballito Pro
- The Skate Jam forms part of an exciting programme of sporting and lifestyle events taking place throughout the Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill.
- O’Neill SMTH Shapes Rookie Rippers showcasing South Africa’s rising surfing stars.
- Surf & Turf Celebrity Challenge combining surfing with soccer and rugby personalities.
- Red Bull MX activations and extreme sports showcases.
- FIFA-themed community activations and youth soccer initiatives.
- Ballito Pro Music Concerts Presented by Corona.
- Corona Sunset Sessions at Willard Beach, Battle of the DJs competition and After Dark entertainment.
- Beach sports, family activities, fashion showcases and retail experiences.
- Environmental initiatives including Litter4Tokens and WESSA ocean conservation campaigns.
- Coastal tourism experiences showcasing the KwaDukuza and iLembe region.
The O’Neill Ballito Pro Skate Jam Details
Date: Saturday, 11 July 2026
Venue: Ballito Bowl
Registration: 12pm
Competition: 2pm to 6pm
Prize Money: R30 000
Divisions: Groms and Open
FAQs: O’Neill Ballito Pro Skate Jam
1. What is the Ballito Pro Skate Jam?
The O’Neill Ballito Pro Skate Jam is one of the signature action sports events within the Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill festival. It brings together South Africa’s leading skateboarders to compete in the iconic Ballito Bowl across the Groms and Open divisions.
2. Do I need to buy tickets to watch the Skate Jam?
No. The O’Neill Ballito Pro Skate Jam is free to attend. Spectators are encouraged to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, with registration from 12pm and the competition running from 2pm to 6pm on Saturday, 11 July at the Ballito Bowl.
3. What is there to do at the Ballito Pro?
The Skate Jam is just one highlight of the Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill, which runs from 4 to 18 July at Willard Beach, KwaDukuza. Visitors can also enjoy world-class surfing, live music concerts, Corona Sunset Sessions, BMX displays, beach sports, family entertainment, environmental activations, retail experiences, and a host of food and lifestyle attractions throughout the festival.
Keep Updated on All the Action
Don’t miss any of the action at the 2026 Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill Festival! #waveofunity #igagazi lobumbano/Lobunye
Watch LIVE The Challenger Series will be broadcast LIVE on WorldSurfLeague.com, the free WSL app, and the WSL’s YouTube channel. Also, check out more ways to watch from the WSL’s broadcast partners.
To find out more about The Ballito Pro presented by O’Neill festival programme, visit:
Website: www.theballitopro.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theballitopro/
Twitter: www.twitter.com/TheBallitoPro
Instagram: www.instagram.com/TheBallitoPro
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/theballitopro
Snapchat: Username – TheBallitoPro
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Author: Agnes Matladi from Olivia Jones Communications on behalf of Ballito Pro 2026.
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