Ella Ledingham, an 12-year-old skateboarding sensation from Lennox Head, is gearing up for an extraordinary feat as she has secured a wildcard spot in the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic skateboarding qualifiers.
Ella Joined the Pursu32+ program and the North Coast Academy of Sport in 2023 with the hopes of developing her talent to an elite level. Ella has had outstanding results across 2023 and was rewarded with a spot at the Olympic Qualifiers in Dubai. She joins 180 other athletes from across the world who hope to secure a prestigious spot at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Coach Pete Adams, who has been guiding Ella through her skateboarding journey, expressed his excitement, stating, “What Ella has accomplished at her age is truly remarkable. Her passion and determination has helped on her path”.
The Olympic qualifiers will pit Ella against more experienced competitors, including former Olympians; Coach Pete knows the challenges she will face, stating, “It will be a great experience for her to learn and grow from the best ”. Ella is excited to face this competition, remarking, “These are some of the people I look up to; it’s awesome to skate against them”.
The young skateboarding prodigy herself is excited for the challenge. “Competing in the Olympic qualifiers is exciting to perform at a big event” However, Ella did discuss the nerves she has in competing in such a major event and her first overseas. “Definitely Nervous to compete at the event and in a different country but I am just going to give it my best”.
Ella will be competing in the Street event, which will run from the 3rd – 10th of March. She has a great passion for this format of skating and is excited to use her best tricks. “I love using the rail and showing off my variety of skills”. Ella knows the challenges she faces and is grateful for the opportunity regardless of the outcome or result. Both Coach Pete and Ella are looking to the future post-event, saying, “Whether she qualifies or not, it will be good for her to get back and keep having fun”.
As Ella prepares for the Olympic qualifiers, the NCAS community is buzzing with excitement. The event promises to be a showcase of Ella’s talent and a demonstration of her passion and dedication to the world of skateboarding.
