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Brianna Beristain to compete in Girls Riders Organization competition July 16 in L.A.

HAMMOND | When Brianna Beristain was 11-years old, she showed an interest in skateboarding when her older cousin vehemently declared, “girls don’t skate.”

Luckily, for Morton High School Sophomore Beristain, she’s not a good listener. Just four years later, she finds herself ready to compete on July 16 in a national Girls Ride Organization GRO competition in Los Angeles amongst the best female skateboarders in the nation.

“Skating is my life,” said Beristain. “I have a real passion for it and want to take it as far as I can. I can’t wait to compete against the greatest female skaters in the country.”

Wise beyond her 15-years of age, Beristain understands the commitment of perfecting her craft, often spending 3-5 hours of practice daily at local skate parks, Lake Bluff’s Asylum Skate Park and Tinley’s infamous Krush Indoor Skate Park.

Beristain remains level headed and very humble as she prides herself on being a good student and a well-balanced young lady. She realizes as a female that she has to work harder than the average skater to gain respect.

“Most skaters are men and some are very encouraging and others take awhile to warm up to the idea they are skating with a girl,” said Beristain. “There is no greater feeling to see them watch in amazement.”

Brianna can be seen, on any given day, performing “tricks” such as riding the rails, ollies, kickflips, stairs, aerials, etc.

“Forget being a good skater for a girl,” said Triston Harris, friend and skater. “She is just an awesome skater in general. She can compete with anyone.”

Brianna’s parents are very supportive and because of her influence, her father Carlos now even skates. Although Brianna says he doesn’t do tricks, she commends him for trying and spending time with her and her passion.

“We are very proud of Brianna,” said Lisa Beristain, mother. “She is a good kid and shows dedication and commitment. She knows what’s expected of her and she does it.”

Brianna’s competitions and skating equipment can get very expensive and the Beristain’s are currently seeking sponsors to help defray some of the costs.

“We want to do everything we can to encourage her at all times,” said Lisa Beristain. “We will do whatever it takes to show her our support.”

Brianna humbly offers words of advice for novice skaters and those interested in attempting to jump on a board for the first time.

“Just try your best no matter what you want to do in life,” said Brianna. “Don’t get discouraged, just get out there and don’t listen to others and never ever give up.”

As with many aspiring skateboarders, Brianna’s ultimate dream is to one day become sponsored by a top company in the business. But for now, the Beristain family hopes that friends and her community may be able to chip in to encourage a young lady and her dream.

For more information about Brianna Beristain’s competition or to inquire about sponsorship, contact Lisa Beristain at 219-487-3470.

See original story here.

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There are 5 comments on this post. Join the discussion!

briannaberistain says:

thank you for posting this.i really appreciate it.

Friday, July 1, 2011 at 9:25pm EDT

jschon says:

Hey Brianna - Keep up the good work. We'll try to come out and watch you skate in LA later this month.

Saturday, July 2, 2011 at 1:43am EDT

briannaberistain says:

that would be awesome.you can add me on facebook.

Saturday, July 2, 2011 at 2:30pm EDT

emur says:

you are awesome and an inspiration! good work sista !

Sunday, July 3, 2011 at 8:55am EDT

briannaberistain says:

thanks Emur.

Sunday, July 3, 2011 at 11:21am EDT

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