King Of The Groms was a kids contest in bowl, mini ramp and street that started in 2003 at 3rd Lair skatepark in Minnesota. Over the years, the contest has evolved into a tour across the United States and Canada. Thousands of young riders have participated and many have gone on to make significant contributions to skateboarding. After a few years of absence, it made its comeback last March. And guess what? In addition to the Miami open winners, the talented KOTG winners will also be part of the Montreal competition, JACKALOPE, and will give you a great show this summer.
To prepare yourself, here are some fun facts to know about the 2 athletes:
MENGISTU HANSEN FOLEY
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1.Who are you and where do you come from?
I am 11 years old and I live in Minneapolis, MN
2.How and when did you start skating? Who introduced you to it?
I started when I was 5 years old. I got my first board when I donated to Go Fund Me campaign in order to build a skatepark in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (I was born in Ethiopia). My dad helped me set it up and got me into skating at first.
3.Do you already know what you would like to do in the future?
Yes. I want to be a professional skateboarder.
4.Had you ever competed in skateboarding competitions before KOTG?
Yes. I competed in 3rd Lair’s “Summer Series” contests last summer (and did quite well!), plus 3rd’s “Backyard Battle,” and Midwest Melee a couple of years ago and the GBASO (Green Bay, WI) “Gromtoberfest” this past fall.
5.Which skaters inspire you the most?
My friends inspire me the most. Favorite pro skater is Zach Saraceno. I also really like Maurio McCoy too.
6.And in Canada?
I love watching Andy Anderson skate! We saw him in Des Moines, IA last summer at the Olympic qualifiers.
7.How many times a week do you go skateboarding?
5-6 times a week.
8.How do you feel about coming to Montreal to compete?
Excited and a little nervous. My parents are really excited too: they’ve been wanting to come to Montreal for a long time.
9.Your skateboarding superpower?
Favorite trick right now is a front feeble
10.Anything else we should know about you?
I also play drums and guitar… and I have a hamster named Kevin!
With 6 years of experience at only 11 years old, 3 contests in his pocket and a motivation like that, we are really excited to see him compete in Montreal.
