Francesca is the ideal example of how quickly a rider can progress. Every time wheels hit the pavement there is a clear sense of determination and confidence that has led Francesca to being one of the fastest learners I have seen. It seems every time I skate with her, she continues to impress, in a matter of sessions. She is one of the safest, dialed riders around with a perfect balance of pushing her limits, all while recognizing the implications and risk we take while bombing. Whether it be racing, freeriding or high speed runs, Francesca is on her way up, you’ll continue to see more and more of her on the IDF circuit and your local jams.
– Dubes Dubendorf
What you have been up to this past year?
Well last year was my first race season. I hit a handful of the IDF races and it was a great experience for me but tough because I started backwards you could say. Instead of taking it step by step, from easy to hard, I just jumped in and got heavy into DH with big races. Last year I was able to hit Angie’s Curves, Monterreal Longboard Festival, and the Catalina Classic.
What are your plans for this year?
I plan on hitting a few heavy events, but I want to focus a bit more on freestyle again. That’s where it really all started for me and where my roots lie. I love blending the two elements of freestyle and downhill. As for racing I’m planning on hitting Maryhill, Whistler, Pikes Peak, and Angie’s Curves. Other than that, I’m working closely with Palisades developing boards within their line, as well as managing the skate shop I’m a co-owner of, Grind Skateshop. I feel so blessed, to not only be able to skate, but also work in the industry. I feel quite balanced in it all.
Tell us a bit about your work with Palisades.
Well, the work shop is just around the corner from the Grind, and I love getting my hands dirty in the shop. I have been working on shapes for a new board which I physically cut myself on the band saw in development. We just released the board, it’s called the Ravage, and it’s a freeride deck. I also should mention I’m working with Holesome pucks as assistant team management, as well as some R&D with Acid Chemical Co with their bushings.
So from what I gather, you’re not just looking to be in the industry as a rider but are also looking to have your hands equally in the business of the skateboard world.
Absolutely, and I think the two really go hand in hand. It’s important for people making product and making decisions in the industry to still be out there riding, so I feel I have something to bring to the table by connecting my riding and industry understanding. As well,skateboarding has done so much for me, I feel that this is my way to give back to the system; to help other people find skateboarding.
Other than helping build product and consulting with brands, what are some of your plans on giving back to the skateboard community?
Well, last year I went for a skate trip to my home country, the Philippines, and it really changed a lot for me. We went down there to give away some product and get kids hyped and I was blown away by how strong the skateboard community was. However, I did notice the limitations in the region, and I would like to do what I can to give more opportunity for people. So, within the next few years, I would like to get in touch with some distributors in an effort to get more products over there so riders can have more choice. Most of all I would like to help host events; I find that’s the most immediate way to help create a strong scene and potential industry.
Any final comments? Anyone you’d like to thank?
Yeah would like to say thanks to Concrete Wave for taking the time and giving me this opportunity, and to all the young girls out there to keep shredding and keep the stoke alive. A huge thank you to all my sponsors and people that help make it possible to live this dream, Palisades longboards, Divine wheels, Paris trucks, Bates leathers, Holesome pucks, Acid bushings, Ava sunglasses, Pj Von Zip, and the Grind Skate Shop.