Scooter riders qualify for World Championships

The results of the 2025 World Skate Oceania Scootering Championships are in, with Central Coast talent among the standouts.

Seventeen-year-old Gosford High School student Toby Chew placed second in Street-Junior and fifth in Park-Junior at the combined national championships and international qualifiers, held at Morayfield Skatepark, Queensland, from August 9–13.

The event is co-hosted by World Skate Oceania and Skate Australia.

Skate Australia CEO Alex Anasson explained the two disciplines.

“Park is done in a bowl, similar to a kidney-shaped swimming pool with obstacles inside,” she said.

“Tricks primarily involve jumps, spins and flips.

“Street is on a flat course with rails, stairs and ledges for grinding, flips and jumps.”

Toby’s result secures him a place at the Scootering World Championships in Japan, to be held from November 21-26 this year.

The top four from each country, in each division, qualify, meaning he represents Australia in both international competitions.

“I’ve just been practising, getting better and not getting injured,” Toby said.

Last year, he missed competing at the Oceania event in New Zealand after sustaining a concussion the day before.

Feeling good about the comeback, he hopes to place podium in both disciplines.

“It’s my last year in junior, and it’s a different league in pro,” he said.

“Plus, there are cash prizes.”

Toby’s mother, Tali Randall, noted the wonderful people involved.

“They work like a team, sharing tips, even mid-event,” she said.

Also from the Central Coast, 15-year-old Liam Masters of Gosford finished seventh in Park-Junior.

Thanks to his 2024 Oceania results, he is pre-seeded for Junior Street and is set for Japan.

“Training, working hard and being consistent will be key,” he said.

His mum, Yvette Masters, said everyone was excited about the comps.

“The athletes have formed incredible friendships through this niche sport,” she said.

Kariong rider Kyle, 16, placed sixth in Junior Park.

“I’m happy with the results and how much I pushed myself,” he said.

His family praised the scooter community’s supportive environment.

Kyle now looks ahead to the next Sydney Scooter Club competition at Slam Factory Indoor Skatepark on September 13.

Slam Factory, run by Mary and Mark Pooley, sponsors the athletes.

“We’re only the third custodians of this iconic park – the longest-running indoor skatepark in Australia and the last one left within 200 kilometres,” Mary said.

“Seeing our three Slam Factory Team Riders shine in competition makes us proud to back them and excited to watch their hard work inspire the next generation.”

Ivona Rose