BMX bikes and boardies take flight at Battery Park
A rider goes full send at SWATCH ULT.X, throwing down a massive upside-down trick at Battery Park, at the weekend.
Image: Eric Palmer
Cape Town delivered a stellar weekend of action at SWATCH ULT.X, flighted by Redbat, as the world’s best descended on the Mother City. Now in its 19th year, the event was rich with style, skill and standout performances, with Kane Mitchell and Moses Adams claiming the top spots in their respective disciplines.
“It’s my first time at the event I really didn’t expect to win. I thought my run was a little sketchy, but the judges must have liked it,” said Mitchell. “I’m really happy to take the win.”
In the BMX event, Mitchell (GBR) fought off heavy competition to secure the victory, edging out Tom van den Bougaard (NED) and 14-year-old Connor Stitt (USA), who impressed the crowd on his debut at the event with maturity and style well beyond his years.
Crowd favourite Kevin Peraza (MEX) had spectators in the palm of his hand as he took home the Best Trick title with a flair fakie to fakie frontie.
A BMX rider floats above the ramps at SWATCH ULT.X, holding perfect form as Cape Town’s skyline and Signal Hill frame the moment
Image: Eric Palmer
In the skate event, defending champion Moses Adams, from Mamre in Cape Town, showcased composure and creativity throughout the contest, ultimately finishing ahead of Marci Rodrigues and Brandon Valjalo.
“The weather definitely played a part, but the park was really cool and I enjoyed my line. I had a bit of nerves going into the final but pulled it together and really focused on doing whatever it took to secure the win,” remarked Adams after prizegiving.
“Seeing top international talent come back each year, and how much they love this event, is everything. It’s what makes this event so special,” said organiser Markus Müseler of OSP Events Co.
With another successful edition complete, SWATCH ULT.X continues to push the boundaries of action sports in Africa, bringing together emerging talent and world-class athletes alike.
England's Kane Mitchell, fourth from left, to performed in the BMX section, at the weekend's SWATCH ULT.X event, at Battery Park.Tom van den Bougaard, third from left, from the Netherlands finished in second place. America's Connor Stitt finished in third place. Mexico's Kevin Peraza, second from left, claiming the Best Trick title, with a flair fakie to fakie frontie.
Image: Eric Palmer