Cagayan De Oro — Cagayan de Oro’s skateboarding scene is celebrating a massive win as local rider Garren Pol Garrido earned the prestigious "Skater of the Day" title at the 41st Kadayawan Festival Open Skateboarding Competition in Davao City. Despite facing significant challenges, including limited funding and a pre-existing knee injury, Garrido’s resilience and undeniable style captured the hearts of judges and fellow competitors alike. His journey serves as a powerful reminder of the talent thriving within the local community and the sportsmanship that defines Mindanao’s skateboarding culture.
A Victory of Grit and Passion
Garrido’s path to the competition was anything but easy. After struggling to secure funding for the trip to Davao, he arrived with very little time to practice on the park's course. Despite a lingering knee injury that flared up during his runs, he pushed through to finish among the event's top performers. His incredible perseverance caught the attention of Elite Division Champion Dave Gatchalian, who humbly stepped aside to ensure Garrido was awarded the "Skater of the Day" title—a recognition that celebrates a skater's energy, attitude, and friendliness above all else.
Rising Stars in Mindanao Skateboarding
The success of Cagayan de Oro’s athletes didn’t stop with Garrido. Fellow local skater Cheska Edulan also brought home the championship in the Women's Division, proving that the city is a powerhouse of riding talent. These achievements highlight the passion of Mindanaoan skaters who, despite the lack of specialized local training facilities, continue to innovate and excel. Their success at a major regional festival like Kadayawan shines a spotlight on the vibrant, growing community of riders dedicated to pushing the limits of their sport.
Championing Better Sports Support
Beyond the medals and awards, Garrido’s experience has sparked a positive conversation about the need for better support and infrastructure for local athletes. By sharing his story, he hopes to inspire more community and private backing for riders who often have to improvise their own training grounds. This triumph is not just a personal milestone for the skaters involved; it is a call to action for the city to continue investing in the future of its young, talented athletes, ensuring they have the resources they need to keep competing on the biggest stages.
