up to somethin

Featuring: Franco Willy Sabares Lahoylahoy

Franco Willy Sabares Lahoylahoy is a sponsored fingerboarder from Ormoc City, known for his competitive spirit and dedication to the sport. He has competed in various locations, including Tacloban, Maasin, Baybay, Cebu, and more. Beyond his success in competitions, Franco has also played a key role in organizing fingerboarding events in his hometown of Ormoc City. His efforts have helped foster and grow the local fingerboarding scene, inspiring many young riders to get involved and pursue their passion for the sport. Franco’s contributions have been instrumental in keeping the Ormoc City fingerboarding community active, vibrant, and continuously striving for greatness.

Franco is responsible for the revival of Ormoc City's fingerboarding scene. In 2022, he took it upon himself to breathe new life into the local scene with the support of his close friends. At that time, Arfel Gerard, a respected figure in the community and a key organizer, was based in Cebu. So, Franco stepped up to organize events, with help from his homies, who contributed by making posters and assisting in various ways. Franco also took on the task of contacting sponsors to support the scene.

From the very beginning of Franco's journey into fingerboarding, Arfel Gerard had been his mentor, guiding him in both the craft and the art of organizing events. It was Arfel who taught Franco everything, setting the foundation for Franco’s current role in the scene.

Franco shares his personal journey and valuable insights into the world of fingerboarding. With years of experience, he reflects on how the sport has shaped his life, from his early days learning tricks to becoming a sponsored rider. Franco discusses the evolution of fingerboarding, the challenges he faced, and the sense of community that the sport has fostered.

When & how did you start fingerboarding?

"I started fingerboarding in 2013 when I was 13 years old. My journey into the sport began when I attended a fingerboarding competition in Ormoc City in 2015. I went to watch the event, and as I observed the competitors showcasing their skills, I became fascinated and inspired to try it myself. The passion I felt that day led me to pick up a fingerboard, and from that moment on, the rest became history. Since then, fingerboarding has been a significant part of my life, and I've continued to improve, compete, and share the sport with others. The experience of that first competition sparked a love for fingerboarding that has only grown over the years."

For you what is fingerboarding?

"Fingerboarding helps relieve my stress, especially when I'm facing a problem. Whenever I feel overwhelmed, I simply pick up my fingerboard and play, which allows me to unwind and clear my mind. It's a great feeling to have found something like fingerboarding, not only for the joy of the sport but also because the community is welcoming and supportive. Unlike many other competitive scenes, the fingerboarding community isn't toxic. Instead, it fosters a positive environment where everyone encourages each other to improve and enjoy the sport together. The sense of camaraderie and mutual respect within the community makes it even more rewarding to be a part of."

What are your contributions on the local

scene?

"One of the things I can contribute to the local fingerboarding scene is the opportunity to connect with people from all walks of life. I enjoy meeting new people and building relationships, regardless of their background or skill level. My goal is to create a friendly and inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. I’m also more than willing to share my knowledge and teach others how to fingerboard. For me, it’s all about playing for fun, not for fame. The real joy comes from learning together, sharing tricks, and enjoying the sport as a community. By fostering a positive, supportive atmosphere, I believe we can keep the local scene growing and thriving."