Rider Spotlight: Julia Barboza

USA DSA: First off, huge congrats on qualifying for the World Skateboarding Championships! How does it feel to be part of the team representing the USA at the World Skate Games?

JB: It feels completely unreal! I am super grateful for all the moments that have led up to this. I never imagined doing anything like this with skateboarding.

USA DSA: Let’s kick it back to the beginning. What sparked your passion for downhill skateboarding, and how did you get started in the sport?

JB: Back in 6th grade, I lived in Massachusetts by the beach and had the opportunity to go to sailing camp. Some of the instructors there had sector 9 pintails, and had never long boarded but always loved skateboarding. The beach had some hills that we would bomb even though i had no idea what i was doing. Ever since then, I begged my parents for a longboard and did a crazy amount of research trying to find the most affordable option that wasn’t just a cheap Walmart board. I didn’t really know downhill specifically was a thing, so I mainly learned how to dance and cruised around everywhere. In college I met a friend who showed me videos with his friends doing downhill in Ohio. He ended up taking me out to try, gave me a board and a helmet. Ever since then i’ve never stopped.

USA DSA: Every skateboarder has a unique journey. What’s been the key to your success and progression in downhill skateboarding?

JB: I’ve always focused on enjoying it more than pressuring myself super hard to be the best at it. Skateboarding was always my favorite thing in the world but it was hard for me to progress at it not having anyone when I was younger. Living in Ohio, the people in downhill are so incredibly friendly and supportive, they’ve really made such an impact in my life.

USA DSA: Your setup is crucial in downhill racing. Can you walk us through your current board setup and why it’s your go-to choice?

JB: I am currently on the Pantheon Lisa Peters pro model board with gold Rogue trucks. I chose this board for the narrowness where my feet are placed for slide, and the rail feeling that is slight but just enough to feel locked in on my board. Rogue trucks have always felt super smooth, stable, but fun and divey. They were my first set of slalom trucks and my first expensive truck purchase because of how confidence inspiring they were at speed.

USA DSA: Heading into the world championships, what’s going through your mind? Any specific strategies or mindsets you’re focusing on?

JB: My main strategy is to enjoy my time and take it in as an amazing experience and opportunity that has been given to me. I don’t like to pressure myself too hard because it brings my nerves up. This mindset always ends up getting me to skate my best! A big thing i’ve recently practiced is telling myself nerves are actually just excitement and it changes my mood instantly.

USA DSA: Every skater has that one trick or aspect of the sport that took the longest to master. What was that for you, and how did you overcome it?

JB: Learning stand up slides were always intimidating to me. Being around friends who were learning really inspired me to try and see that it wasn’t as scary as my mind made it out to be.

USA DSA: How has being a part of the downhill skateboarding community impacted you both as an athlete and an individual?

JB: The downhill community has given me such confidence in myself as an individual and a positive outlook on meeting new people. It’s such an amazing thing to know i could go anywhere in the world and there are people who would invite me in and show me around.

USA DSA: What advice would you give to young skaters who aspire to reach the levels you’ve achieved?

JB: Focus on enjoying yourself and less comparison with skaters you see online. Skating with your friends are some of the best moments you’ll ever have. Learning is way more fun than being a master.

USA DSA: Any shoutouts or thanks you want to give to those who’ve supported you along the way?

JB: All of my friends in the Ohio downhill community, as well as my friends in Nashville – Music City Downhill. Shoutout to Patrick from Pats Risers who has always supported me incredibly.