KIMBERLEY – American professional skateboarder Jeff DeChesare, renowned for his technical prowess and extensive repertoire of flip tricks, has claimed victory in the male open category of the 2025 Kimberley Diamond Cup (KDC).
Jeff joined elite skateboarders from around the world at Kimberley Skate Plaza on 5 and 6 December for the championship finale.
Thailand’s Orapong Tongkong – described as one of her country’s “most fearless and stylish skateboarders” – secured the female open title. Both champions take home R50 000 in prize money.
Durban-born Khule Ngubane finished second in the male open category, whilst Alex Decunha from the UK claimed third place. In the female division, Kimberley-born Boipelo Awuah came second, with Portugal’s Madalena Galante taking third. Second and third-place finishers received R30 000 and R15 000 respectively.
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The U16 male category saw South African dominance, with Mohau Mathisi claiming first place (R20 000), followed by Garth Philander (R10 000) and Luyanda Vukasi (R7 000). Karina Naldrett won the U16 female category (R20 000), ahead of Kaylon Booysen, known as “Nacho” (R10 000), and Alba Lingeveldt (R7 000).
Best trick awards across the various categories went to Nacho, Garth, Orapong, and Jeff.
Series attracted elite skaters
The finale concluded this year’s championship series, which boasted a total prize purse of R200 000 and attracted elite skaters from the United States, England, Thailand, Austria, Portugal, and several African nations including Lesotho, Mozambique, Madagascar, and Eswatini.
The championship represented the culmination of a qualification series spanning six South African cities throughout the year: Bloemfontein, Durban, Kimberley, Port Elizabeth, Cape Town, and Johannesburg. Only competitors finishing in the top three positions at each Grand Slam qualifier earned their championship berth.
Alongside the skateboarding displays, spectators were treated to spectacular aerial stunts from motocross riders.
The Northern Cape Provincial Government has extended its gratitude to all partners, sponsors, and stakeholders who contributed to the success of the 2025 KDC series.
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