SEAN Gil ruled the 1st annual Marianas Skate Series hosted by the Marianas Surf Skate League at Garapan Skate Park on Saturday.
The 17-year-old Marianas High School student only has three years of skateboarding experience behind him and two weeks of preparation, but that did not stop Gil from putting on a show.
During the two 45-second run portions of the competitive event, Gil showcased his creativity, style and execution with chaining tricks such as grinding through the top of the rails and performing kickflips. During the trick portion in which competitors had five attempts to do any trick, Gil delivered a flip off with a huge gap and nailed the landing. He then ended his performance with a clean kickflip to earn a total of 787 points.
“I think it was great — all the people coming to see us skate,” he said. “I think it’s great for the Saipan community. It was pretty fun.”
Gil, who is also an avid soccer player, thanked the Marianas Surf Skate League for holding the event. “Thank you so much — I love you guys,” he added.
In second place was Kevin Codog with a total of 766 points.
Codog missed the first 45-second run due to cramps but managed to bounce back in his second attempt with a handful of tricks and grinds to secure a spot in the top three.
The trick portion was where the 27-year-old shined as he performed a kickflip and “rock & roll.” But it was his execution of the nose slide that bumped him up to second place.
“I didn’t think I would have made it to second place. I had cramps so I couldn’t believe it,” said Codog. “But we have been waiting for this event to keep skating alive in Saipan,” he added.
In third place was Miles Borja with a total of 527 points.
Marianas Surf Skate League Chair Ed Manibusan said, “It was great being our first competition. We really just wanted to bring awareness to the skating community of the CNMI. We are happy with the turnout and sponsorship.”
“The competitors,” he added, “are tough. I’ve seen them practice for months and I’m so amazed with their skill levels, I’m pretty sure we’re good enough to compete in Guam.”
Aside from the competition, the Marianas Skate Series also featured a youth clinic for children 12 years old and under. Participants learned basic maneuvers from head instructor Mico Cruz.
In addition, there was a “jam session” for beginners in which Nomulong “NJ” Pino was declared the champion.
Marianas Skate Series would like to thank the following sponsors: Marpac, Pokka, Boarderline, All Star Sporting Goods, DLNR-Parks and Recreations, MVA, Saipan Mayor’s Office, DFEMS, Saipan Surf Company, Salty Skin Pacific, Local Bones and Caravan Restaurant.
Kevin Codog, Sean Gil and Miles Borja pose with their trophies and brand new boards as the top three skateboarders of the 1st annual Marianas Skate Series at Garapan Skate Park on Saturday.
Kevin Codog grinds through the edge of the ramp during the 1st annual Marianas Skate Series at Garapan Skate Park on Saturday.
Sean Gil attempts a kickflip during the 1st annual Marianas Skate Series at Garapan Skate Park on Saturday.
