ESPN Action Sports

A humble skater from talent-rich Brazil, 19-year-old Rony is accomplished at both lip tricks (heel and kickflips) and spins, including McTwists and 720s. The Sao Paulo native turned pro in 2010 and already has 3 boards with Drop Dead. Rony spends as much time as he can in California, mainly skating at fellow Brazilian Bob Burnquist's compound, where he says the ramps are better than in Brazil. He made his first major vert podium in January (Oi Vert Jam, 3rd place). He also skates big air.