Westside Sign Spinning Competition
This year, the annual SoCal sign spinning competition, the West Coast Sign Spinning Classic, returned to NoHo park on July 11th. Much like any other professional league, AArrow Sign Spinners throughout the world host regional competitions to establish local rankings, and qualify for a position in the World Sign Spinning Championship. The event was hosted by the LA team, and sponsored by Las Hermanas Catering, Mela Water, Inspired by Legends Clothing, and Ascension Clothing.
The WCSSC included spinners from 3 SoCal Markets: Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego. Participants were treated to tacos by Las Hermanas Catering in between rounds, and a round of hydration courtesy of Mela Water. In addition to monetary prizes, the top 3 winners were awarded merchandise from local businesses founded by spinners, Inspired by Legends and Ascension clothing co.
The Rules
Competitors were judged across 3 categories: style, tech, and execution. This could be interpreted as how cool was the trick or routine, how difficult were the maneuvers, and how clean/sloppy was the execution. Each category is worth 10 points each, with a 30 point maximum from each judge. Four-time world champion Kadeem Johnson, LA native Oshay Henderson, and living legend Mark Montellano were this year’s judges.
From Left: Kadeem Johnson, Mark Montellano, Mike Kenny, Oshay Henderson, and Max Durovic.
Two rounds were scheduled, with two 30-second heats per round. If the competitor makes contact with or exits the perimeter, then the heat is disqualified.
Creativity Vs Experience
SoCal weather in mid July was the most forgiving across the country. Although the breeze was mild, its varying speed and direction posed a threat to the less-experienced. Despite the warm conditions and varied wind, high energy and high risk maneuvers came with higher reward.
Experience in the field and in the arena conquered talent in this competition like a cheat code. Those who “spin” most of their time in mild conditions or inside of AArrow facilities had difficulty adapting to the outdoor variables.
The Battle of NoHo
With 2 heats per round, spinners initially played it safe and kept their cool knowing they could take a riskier approach later. Through dance and signature tricks, spinners deployed their most dependable assets to carry them through the “heat” of round 1. However, playing it safe was not an option during the finals. The final round was extended by several heats from Katie Walsh, Lavell Tyson, and Kevin Williams.
While the battle for the podium raged on, the majority had a battle of their own for bragging rights. Even some of the most experienced veterans of the sport yielded to unfortunate drops or out-of-bounds disqualifications.
After the dust settled, Davis Davis placed first, Lavell Tyson took second, followed by Kevin Williams in third. Each finalist is now eligible to move on to the World Sign Spinning Championship in 2024!
More Sign Spinning Competition
For previous competitions, check out the Big East Sign Spinning Championship and Texas Sign Spinning Championship on our YouTube Channel!
