Sunday brought day 2 and the finals of DC King of Dublin—what a finals it was. We’re not going to say it’s the best am skate contest that’s ever happened—that would be silly. We can say however that it was the best am skate contest Dublin’s ever seen. Here’s why:
First, the spot. Day one of DC King of Dublin was at a good spot, a casual ledge spot suitable for street skaters and park guys alike. Today, day two, was decidedly heavier. Wood Quay is a long 12 stair with a new handrail added to the middle of it to mix it up. Men and boys were separated, with some of the skaters from yesterday’s ledge spot not even showing up to skate this thing. It didn’t look that big, but once guys started jumping down, it was a different deal. And unless the ams were on their street game, they were out… exhibit A: backpack guy who hucked himself and got a broken tailbone for it.
Outside of the spot, the scene was sick. The natural outdoor auditorium set up made a rad setting to watch Ireland’s best battle for the DC King of Dublin crown.
Second, the skating. That was good too. With the DC team jumping in to keep the energy high, a lot of stuff went down by those actually competing. We’ll bare you the list of tricks… watch them for yourself through the video recap here at dcshoes.com/skate going live in Sunday night.
Third, the people. There were loads. We set up the contest next to a huge street art festival with graffiti and stuff, so there were a bunch of Dubliners already in the area. The crowd of locals who know skateboarding and DC King of Dublin was large enough to draw even more—street art quickly took a backseat to the stair set. And even though there was rain, most everyone stuck it out for the skating, music, fun, and a hugely hilarious Matt Price on announcing duties. Good job, Matt, you’ve got a future.
Fourth, the reward. The finals boiled down and rising to the top were Keith Walsh, Joe Hill, and Cian Eades. The boys were ripping. For their efforts, they spit $5000 Euros. That’s a lot of loot for anyone, but keep in mind there’s never really been a large skate contest here in Dublin, let alone one that gives away that kind of cash to local kids. It was an unprecedented opportunity to shred some otherwise-illegal street spots, get some exposure, and earn some Euros. They earned it, they deserve it, they’re hurting today. Congrats guys!
Will DC be back to Dublin? Without a doubt, yes. Special thanks to all the locals and skate shops (especially G1) that made DC King of Dublin a legendary success… as with every DC King contest, they’re the ones that make things amazing.
