A 16-year-old from Tsideldel First Nation, Blayz Brigham, made history by skateboarding the Tsilhqot’in Annual Horse and Bike Ride to the Williams Lake Stampede, a route traditionally traveled by horses and bikes. Having taken up skateboarding about a year ago, Blayz chose this mode of travel after breaking his arm skateboarding the previous year, which prevented him from riding a horse. Despite challenges like rain and a fall on a bridge, he completed between 60 and 80 kilometers, even racing alongside bikes and wearing a helmet for safety.

The annual ride, now in its 22nd year, starts from Tl’etinqox First Nation and includes stops at various First Nation communities that host youth events. Blayz enjoyed connecting with other communities during the journey and expressed a desire to see a skate park built in his home community of Tsideldel, which currently lacks such facilities. When not skateboarding, he enjoys horse riding and attends Williams Lake Secondary School, hoping to find a summer job while recovering from his injury.