Van Doren Invitational Skate - Pro Insights

There are so many incredibly talented transition skaters invited to the Van Doren Invitational each year in Huntington Beach that the truth is - it’s anybody’s contest for the taking. Last year, unknown Brazilian ripper Murillo Peres shocked everyone by taking third. This year Chris Russell has been on a tear, taking 2nd at the Vans Pool Party; perhaps this is his year to win VDI.

We decided to ask some people in the know, as well as past years’ VDI entrants, to see who they’re picking for the podium this year to give you some insider info on who to watch.

Josh Borden

It's hard to pick the top three for the VD Invitational. There's so many people that rip that thing. But the dudes I enjoy watching the most are guys like Chris Russell, Ronnie Sandoval, Greyson Fletcher, Pedro Barros and Marlon Silva, the homie and dark horse from Brazil. I'd say keep an eye on those guys. They'll definitely be in the mix!

Lizzie Armanto

I’d say Chris Russell, Ben Raybourn or Ronnie Sandoval. They're all #1 in my book.

Jeff Grosso

Pedro, Ronnie, Raven... Grant [Taylor] if he skates will rule! He probably won't enter. Raney [Beres] will rise! But not yet... Curren's really cute. I'd makeout with him. Pedro uber alles! The boys from Brazil! Raybourn looks good...

Aaron “Jaws” Homoki

My Top 3 are:

1st - Ben Raybourn
2nd - Ronnie Sandoval
3rd - Chris Gregson

Ben for first because he has won it before and he doesn't take it too seriously and always has fun. You’re automatically winning at life if you’re having fun anyways!

Tom Remillard

3rd will be Curren.
2nd will be Pedro.
1st will be Raven again because he has power, style and the best trick selection. He's the ultimate transition skateboarder.

Wildcard first placer will be Greyson Fletcher.

Curren Caples

1st - Raven Tershy because he skates the Van Doren Invitational really well.

2nd - Pedro Barros

3rd - Greyson Fletcher

Omar Hassan

#1 pick is Grant Taylor, even if he doesn't show up!!

#2 Raven Tershy because he's got it like that

#3 is Pedro Barros who could win as well but even on a bad day he could still end up 3rd!!

Everyone else I forgot about, sorry, but it's just a prediction!!

Christian Hosoi

My favorites for the Van Doren Invitational at the Vans Us Open are Pedro Barros, Greyson Fletcher and Raven Tershy for obvious reasons. Pedro has the power! Greyson has the spontaneity! Raven has the smooth style! Top three in my book for sure!!!