Where fear meets flight, and age is just a number
IN the fast-paced world of extreme sports, a new generation of young athletes is rising to the top, defying age norms and redefining the boundaries of what’s possible.
Across disciplines like rollerblading, skateboarding, and BMX biking, pre-teens and teenagers are making their mark, driven by a deep-seated passion for their chosen sports.
“It’s amazing to see these kids out there, keeping up with and even surpassing the adults,” said Nik Suhaily, a long-time rollerblading national athlete and organiser of the upcoming CANROLL 2025 festival.
“There’s a real culture and passion behind extreme sports that’s driving them to push the limits.”
Malaysian X Games Champion rollerblader, 12-year-old Azrul Hail, exemplifies this trend.
“It’s not just a hobby for me – it’s a way of life. I live and breathe this sport, and I’ll do whatever it takes to be the best,” he said, during an interview session with the organisers.
This dedication and natural talent have paid off, as Azrul bagged the champion title in both 2024, and 2025, competing against athletes twice his age and size.
The cultural aspect of extreme sports is a key driver for many young athletes, who see it as a way to express themselves, connect with like-minded individuals, and forge a unique identity.
“It’s not just about the competition,” said pro rollerblader and CANROLL 2025 judge Soichiro Kanashima.
“It’s about the camaraderie, the shared experiences, the sense of belonging to a community that celebrates the joy of movement, the thrill of defying gravity, and the pursuit of personal excellence.”
“It has always been that energy, driving us all, to do what we do.”
These young prodigies are not only excelling in their sports but also maintaining high academic standards, showcasing remarkable time management and dedication.
“We’re talking about kids who are competing at a national level, but they’re also maintaining straight-A averages, a level of dedication and time management that is truly remarkable,” Soichiro further added.
The CANROLL 2025 festival, taking place this weekend at the Kuching Waterfront, promises to be a true celebration of the passion, skill, and athleticism that defines the world of extreme sports.
“This is where you’ll see what it truly means to be an extreme sports warrior,” said Nik Suhaily.
“These athletes have pushed themselves to the limit, faced their fears, and dedicated countless hours to perfecting their craft.”
Alongside the main event showcasing BMX, skateboarding, and rollerblading, CANROLL 2025 will also feature captivating demonstrations of jet ski and water board manoeuvres, putting the full spectrum of extreme sports on display.
“This isn’t just about watching the pros in action, said 28-year-old skateboard champion from Selangor, Syafiq Norzazlan, about immersing yourself in the culture, the spirit, and the shared love of pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.”
The festival will also offer a series of talks and seminars, exploring the entrepreneurial and career-building opportunities that exist within the thriving extreme sports industry.
“CANROLL 2025 is about more than just the competitions and the demos,” said Mohammad Affendey Kadri, a long-time extreme sports enthusiast and jet ski champion.
“It’s about shining a light on the pathways to success, the innovative mindsets, and the endless possibilities that exist for those who are willing to embrace the shift and become true champions.”
As the sun sets on each day of the festival, the excitement will continue to build, with global musical acts taking the stage to infuse the event with a pulsing, champion-worthy energy.
“CANROLL 2025 is the ultimate celebration of extreme sports, in all its raw, unapologetic glory,” said Nik.
“Don’t miss your chance to be a part of it. This is where the future of these sports is being forged; right before our eyes … it’s happening here at Kuching waterfront, this Friday.”
