Author: AdminBallitoPro

Despite weather forcing a last-minute venue change, the 2026 O’Neill Ballito Pro Skate Jam delivered all the energy and spectacular tricks fans have come to expect, with Durban’s Tylor Houston claiming the Open title after an exciting afternoon of competition on Saturday, 11 July.

Originally scheduled for the Ballito Bowl as part of the Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill (4 to 18 July), the competition was relocated to The Lot Skate Park at Ballito Junction Regional Mall to ensure ideal skating conditions. R30 000 in prize money was up for grabs across the Groms and Open divisions as some of South Africa’s top skateboarders, alongside promising young talent, showcased their skills in an event that continues to strengthen Ballito’s reputation as a hub for action sports.

Commenting on his win, Houston said: “I didn’t even have words yesterday, trying to hold back the tears. It just means so much to me because, as a skateboarder, these are the moments you dream of – hearing your name called in first place, having fun and skating with your friends in a contest where everyone is dropping hammer after hammer. I just couldn’t ask for more. A massive thank you to all the sponsors and people involved that make this all possible!”

Riaan van Biljon of OSP Events Co. said the day captured everything that makes the Ballito Pro Skate Jam so special: “It was awesome to see so many new and old faces there skating together. There is so much new potential coming through with the under-16 boys and girls. It was fantastic seeing parents supporting all the new talent here in Ballito. In the Open division we saw the likes of Brandon Valjalo skating for Red Bull alongside several other heavy hitters. Overall, it was a great day of skateboarding and an awesome event.”

Speaking after the event, O’Neill Brand Director Paul Canning said: “O’Neill is so stoked to partner in the Ballito Pro Skate Jam again this year. Although it was not in The Ballito Bowl, it’s awesome to have an amazing back up venue like The Lot which offered nice change up in competition. The Skate Jam is a real highlight for the Ballito community and one of the key events in the Ballito Pro festival.”

South African Olympian Brandon Valjalo once again thrilled spectators with his technical ability, walking away with the Open Best Trick award for his big spin back tail on the big hubba.

Ballito Pro Skate Jam Open Results

1st place: Tylor Houston (25) from Durban

2nd place: Kalvyn MacMillan (37) from Durban

3rd place: Josh Beukes (28) from Pretoria

Ballito Pro Skate Jam U16 Groms Results

1st place: Jake Turnbull (11) from Australia

2nd place: Ashley Gindre (11) from Durban

3rd place: Jackson Myers (12) from Durban

Special Awards

Grom Best Trick: Jake Turnbull

Best Up-and-Coming Skater: Jordan Gardner

Best Trick: Brandon Valjalo

Packed Programme for this Year’s Ballito Pro

While the Skate Jam may be over, the Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill continues until 18 July, with visitors still able to enjoy:

• Mandela Day 67 Minutes for the Ocean beach clean-up (18 July)
• 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.

FAQs: O’Neill Ballito Pro Skate Jam

1.       What is the O’Neill Ballito Pro Skate Jam?
The O’Neill Ballito Pro Skate Jam is one of the flagship action sports events within the Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill, bringing together South Africa’s leading skateboarders and emerging young talent to compete in a high-energy competition.

2.       What is the Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill?

The Ballito Pro Presented by O’Neill is the world’s longest-running professional surfing event and one of South Africa’s premier international sporting and lifestyle festivals. Hosted annually at Willard Beach in KwaDukuza on the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast, the event combines world-class World Surf League competition with live music, extreme sports, family entertainment, environmental conservation initiatives, beach activities and tourism experiences, attracting thousands of visitors from around the world each year.

3.       What other events can visitors still enjoy at the Ballito Pro?
The festival continues until 18 July, with the WSL Challenger Series, Surf & Turf Challenge, free music concerts, Sunset Sessions, family entertainment, retail experiences, conservation initiatives and beach activities all still to come.

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     

BALLITO, KwaDukuza, South Africa (Saturday, July 11, 2026) – Today, Winter Vincent (AUS) and Kirra Pinkerton (USA) won the Ballito Open presented by O’Neill, Stop No. 2 on the World Surf League (WSL) Africa Qualifying Series (QS), in solid four-to-six-foot surf and overcoming a deep, international field of Championship Tour (CT) stars and Challenger Series (CS) contenders. It’s been three days of incredible competition with pumping waves, the perfect preparation for the first stop of the 2026 Challenger Series, the Ballito Pro presented by O’Neill starting on Sunday, July 12.

Winter Vincent Third Time Lucky in Ballito

Since his 2024 debut in Ballito, Winter Vincent (AUS) has been taking down big names and earning big results. Vincent was a standout in the thumping conditions this week, and has been using the QS as preparation for the upcoming Challenger Series. Vincent had a good battle with Africa QS rankings leader Adin Masencamp (RSA) and CTer Luke Thompson (RSA) in the Final, but came away with the win with a 14.33 (out of a possible 20) total. The 21-year-old attacked the sections with speed, power and style, letting his fins free while somehow maintaining control to ride it out.

“That felt good, it felt really good to get the win,” said Vincent. “All the boys caught waves before me and I was out there for a long time just getting like ten-foot sets on the head. I’m really happy to be here and just getting in more practice for the Challenger Series, I’m excited for next week.”

Masencamp surfed fast and loose to book his second consecutive QS final. He is leading the Africa QS rankings after a win in Vic Bay, and this runner-up finish, loading up on confidence for the Challenger Series.

“I had second priority when that wave came through and Luke (Thompson) had to give it to me, that’s when I got the 8.17,” said Masencamp. “It felt great to swing on some waves. Things are clicking, the rhythm is there, and I’m feeling great for the Challenger Series.”

Kirra Pinkerton Finds Form Ahead of Challenger Series

San Clemente’s Kirra Pinkerton (USA) has been putting in the work to get herself ready for this year’s Challenger Series, and today she reaped the rewards with a confidence-building win. Pinkerton, who made the Semifinals in the Ballito Open in 2025, stepped up her game on Finals Day to earn the victory over Championship Tour (CT) surfer Bella Kenworthy (USA). The 2018 World Junior Champion has been getting in some warm-up reps on the CT with a wildcard appearance at the El Salvador Pro, and she’s looking ready for more.

“I’m very grateful for this win,” said Pinkerton. “I’ve put in a lot of time in this break, and I got a comp in El Salvador which was really cool, getting some momentum with the CT surfers. Coming here I had a really strong mindset and to start it with a win at the Ballito Open, I’m just building even more confidence for the Challenger Series.”

The judges were rewarding committed surfing today, with one-turn maneuvers in the big, meaty sections getting the bigger scores. Pinkerton started the heat with a huge turn, free-falling and sticking the landing for a 7.00. She waited a long time for a decent back-up, finding a solid wave in the last few minutes to secure the win with a 13.17 total.

Kenworthy was back on the podium after a cool, calm and composed final, making sure she’s getting in all the practice before the Challenger Series starts on Sunday. Former CTer Sophie McCulloch (AUS) is back in Ballito searching for requalification on the CS and will be one to watch next week.

Sarah Baum (RSA) was the lone South African in the women’s Final, dropping some of the highest scores of the event on her way to her second consecutive QS final. Baum is leading the Africa rankings after her win in Vic Bay, and has solidified her spot at the top with this result.

Ballito Open Presented by O’Neill Men’s Final Results:
1- Winter Vincent (AUS) 14.33
2- Adin Masencamp (RSA) 14.00
3- Luke Thompson (RSA) 8.33
4- Finn McGill (HAW) 1.00

Ballito Open Presented by O’Neill Women’s Final Results:
1- Kirra Pinkerton (USA) 13.17
2- Bella Kenworthy (USA) 7.20
3- Sophie McCulloch (AUS) 6.30
4- Sarah Baum (RSA) 4.70

BALLITO, KwaDukuza, South Africa (Wednesday, July 8, 2026) – Today, Ryan Kainalo (BRA) and Charli Hately (AUS) won the World Surf League (WSL) O’Neill SMTH Shapes Ballito Pro Junior, Stop No. 3 of the Africa Junior Qualifying Series (JQS). It was a beautiful day on the Dolphin Coast, with glassy conditions and fun two-to-three-foot waves offering left and right-hand peaks. Brazil’s Kainalo and Australia’s Hately overcame a strong field of South African contenders to take the top spot on the podium.

Ryan Kainalo Earns Third Ballito Pro Junior Title

It was an airshow in the men’s Final with two of the event standouts, Dane Henry (AUS) and Ryan Kainalo (BRA), pushing each other to go bigger on every opportunity. Henry, making his debut in Ballito, has been very impressive, but it was always going to be a tough battle against the tall Brazilian who won this event back in 2022 and 2023. Relying on his air game, but also hammering out some big turns, Kainalo secured the win with a solid heat total of 14.87 (out of a possible 20).

“I’m really happy, I think the final was the best heat of the whole event,” said Kainalo. “I tried to keep calm and just look for the good ones, try some airs and big turns, so I’m happy it worked out. I really love this place. I just try to enjoy every moment, because that way I think you have good energy and good vibes, so the waves come to you!’

Kainalo will reset and get ready for his next challenge tomorrow at the Ballito Open presented by O’Neill Qualifying Series (QS) 2,000, as well as the upcoming Ballito Pro presented by O’Neill Challenger Series (CS) which starts on Sunday.

Runner-up and 2025 WSL World Junior Champion Dane Henry (AUS) earned the highest heat total of the entire event today in the men’s Semifinals when he executed one of the biggest and most technical airs for a near-perfect 9.83 (out of a possible 10), and backed it up with a powerful two-turn combination for an 8.00 and a combined total of 17.83.

“It was sick to get some fun waves,” said Henry. “It was great to see Ryan smash it in the final, I knew it was going to be tough going up against him. I’m really looking forward to the next week.”

Charli Hately Opens Ballito Campaign with Pro Junior Win

After getting a taste of Ballito in the Challenger Series last year, 17-year-old Charli Hately (AUS) returned with the aim of using the O’Neill SMTH Shapes Ballito Pro Junior as a warm-up competition. Her wave selection was the point of difference, finding beautiful running walls to open up her backhand and hit the steep sections with power and flow. Hately put together some of the best heats throughout the event.

In the final, she opened with a solid 6.00, but she left it late to get a backup score, requiring a decent wave to take the lead from Louise Lepront (RSA). Using her priority, Hately hammered one turn into an oncoming section, and it was enough to secure her the win after the buzzer.

“I left it a bit late, but I got it done, so I’m really stoked,” said Hately. “It was great to be out there just with three other girls and getting some good practice in before the next comp. I’m happy to be back, I love it here, the sunrises here are just so perfect.”

South Africa’s top junior Louise Lepront (RSA) delivered a convincing win in the Semifinals to book her first-ever Ballito Pro Junior Finals berth. Lepront earned a well-deserved runner-up finish and will use this momentum going into tomorrow’s QS. She jumps to the top of the WSL Africa Junior rankings, while Simon Winter (RSA) also moved up to claim the No. 1 spot on the rankings.

The O’Neill SMTH Shapes Ballito Pro Junior is proudly supported by KwaDukuza Municipality, O’Neill, SMTH Shapes, Red Bull, SMG – YAMAHA and North Coast Courier.

O’Neill SMTH Shapes Ballito Pro Junior Men’s Final Results:
1- Ryan Kainalo (BRA) 14.87
2- Dane Henry (AUS) 13.54
3- Kieran Murphy (RSA) 6.20
4- Rafael Barbosa (BRA) 5.93

O’Neill SMTH Shapes Ballito Pro Junior Women’s Final Results:
1- Charli Hately (AUS) 10.90
2- Louise Lepront (RSA) 9.83
3- Emily Jenkinson (RSA) 6.83
4- Laura Raupp (BRA) 6.36

O’Neill SMTH Shapes Ballito Pro Junior Men’s Semifinal Results:
HEAT 1: Dane Henry (AUS) 17.83 DEF. Rafael Barbosa (BRA) 9.37, Loghann Tilsley (RSA) 6.83, Clay Turrell (RSA) 5.17
HEAT 2: Ryan Kainalo (BRA) 10.50 DEF. Kieran Murphy (RSA) 8.73, Ben Esterhuyse (RSA) 8.46, Cooper Smith (RSA) 7.80

O’Neill SMTH Shapes Ballito Pro Junior Women’s Semifinal Results:
HEAT 1: Louise Lepront (RSA) 9.20 DEF. Laura Raupp (BRA) 6.80, Max Kauffman (RSA) 5.56, Gabriella Herbst (RSA) 4.86
HEAT 2: Charli Hately (AUS) 12.17 DEF. Emily Jenkinson (RSA) 7.07, Lila Aszalos (RSA) 4.17, Anastasia Venter (RSA) 3.54

O’Neill SMTH Shapes Ballito Pro Junior Men’s Quarterfinal Results:
HEAT 1: Rafael Barbosa (BRA) 12.50 DEF. Dane Henry (AUS) 10.27, Simon Winter (RSA) 4.33, Josh Malherbe (RSA) 2.43
HEAT 2: Clay Turrell (RSA) 9.40 DEF. Loghann Tilsley (RSA) 7.60, Dylan Wilcoxen (INA) 7.37, David Emslie (RSA) 5.74
HEAT 3: Ben Esterhuyse (RSA) 8.67 DEF. Cooper Smith (RSA) 7.54, Ntokozo Maphumulo (RSA) 7.03, Matt Canning (RSA) 1.50
HEAT 4: Ryan Kainalo (BRA) 11.33 DEF. Kieran Murphy (RSA) 6.57, Levi Epenetos (RSA) 6.43, Asbjorn Gwenin (GBR) 5.87

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