Skateboard duo granted global recognition
Calistus Kolantsho | Monday July 28, 2025 09:42
Speaking to MmegiSport, Chalashika who is also BSF president said the programme is designed to support the growth of skateboarding globally by providing opportunity for athletes and coaches to enhance their skills and knowledge. “This programme is a significant initiative by World Skate, the international governing body for skateboarding, to foster development in emerging skateboarding nations like Botswana. The programme includes coaching and athlete skateboarding courses, providing participants from underrepresented nations with the necessary training and resources to excel in their respective roles,” he said. Chalashika said the ultimate goal is to help athletes and coaches progress through the World Skate Olympic qualifier series and potentially earn a spot at the upcoming Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
He said that is not a direct ticket but it provides athletes and coaches with the training tools and international exposure required to earn their spot throughout the programme. “I will be participating in the coaching course, whilst Setsetse will be attending the athlete course. The first cycle of the programme is scheduled to take place in Pennsylvania, USA in September,” Chalashika said. The World Championships Olympic qualifiers which were due to take place in Washington, USA from September 19 to 28 have been cancelled. “The programme is structured towards development, with the coaching course aiming to equip me with skills to train future athletes, and the athlete course would provide Setsetse with advanced training to improve his competitive performance. The timing of the programme immediately preceding the Olympic qualifiers, indicates strategic effort to prepare participants for international competition,” Chalashika.
He said the combination of coaching and athlete development is a holistic approach, ensuring the long-term growth of skateboarding in the country. Meanwhile, Chalashika said BSF is not affiliated to Botswana National Sport Commission (BNSC) because of the stiff requirements. “We are not able to meet those requirements at this stage, because we are still a developing sport in the country. One such requirement is that we should have a certain number of clubs across the country in order for us to be recognised. But we are affiliated to the World Skate Federation (WSF),” he said. Chalashika said they train at the Main Mall parking area in Gaborone, and the plan is to collaborate with Gaborone City Council to build a professional concrete skateboarding facility.