Despite increased warnings for heavy rain and storm no one canceled the Volcom Rat Bowl Contest at North Brigade. We are well used to rainy moments here in the Rheinland. Et Kuett wie et kuett (kölsch slang for “What will be, will be”) und et haett no immer jut jegange (“it’s still gone well, or so good so far..). We were granted some heavy skating by a bunch of crazy dudes. Yeah, one always gets more wild than the others, but as a natural law, no one gets crazy if not pushed. And they pushed each other quite well after a rain break right until the rain started again with Jaime Mateu landing his deep end to steep bank backside 360 transfer. Well deserved first place after skating non stop all day for the small island (Mallorca) boy Mr. Mateu, even if it was a close call with the british boy Alex Hallford. Thanks to the North, the guys drying the bowl and Volcom for making it happening.
Words + photos by Jo Hempel
For more of Jo’s skateboarding photos check out johempel.com