The official sod-turning of the new skatepark in Kimberley, took place on Friday, 12 August 2011. This event formed part of the 50 day countdown to the Maloof Money Cup. The event was broadcast live on Morning Live with studio guests such as the Premier of the Northern Cape, Ms Hazel Jenkins, MEC for Treasury, Economic Development and Tourism, Mr John Block and founder of the Maloof Money Cup skateboarding championships, Mr Joe Maloof, sharing their thoughts on this prestigious event that will soon take place on the borders of South Africa right here in Kimberley.
Ms Jenkins in some of her comments alluded to the fact that the Northern Cape Provincial Government has identified tourism as a crucial and vibrant sector that must contribute to improving the long-term socio-economic well-being of the people of the province. The legacy of the 2010 FIFA World Cup has illustrated just how important sports tourism can be for a destination in establishing and positioning itself on the global tourism stage. By hosting a prestigious event such as the Maloof Money Cup, we can showcase the province’s immense appeal as an adventure and extreme sport destination by presenting the world’s greatest skateboarding competition in our capital Kimberley. 
She also indicated that the skate park and vert ramp currently under construction will be donated to our community and is viewed as a significant contribution that will encourage the development of our youth, by providing them with a healthy, affordable recreational activity. The sport offers a minimum barrier to entry – even cheaper than, say, cycling, given that one needs only a skateboard to participate. This is ideal for previously disadvantaged communities where parents would love their children to partake in a fun activity that keeps kids in the great outdoors and interacting with like-minded children. Having a world class street course and vert ramp in Kimberley will also put South Africa on the map as a premier destination for skateboarders from around the world.
Excitement filled the atmosphere as youngsters from as far as Durban tested their skills on the ramp, showcasing that falling and getting back on forms part of the skateboarding trade, this indeed also a good life lesson that they can take with them.
As the plague was unveiled it all became reality that Kimberley is ready and there is no stopping Maloof Money Cup, South Africa 2011.