There's only an estimated 20 professional pogoers in the county. Two of those high jumping individuals, Ryan O'Malley and Nick Ryan, reside in the Bay area.
- Pogopalooza, the world championship for pogoing, will be July 8 & 9
- Two Bay area competitors plan on participating in the event
It can be a dangerous profession, but that doesn't seem to deter either of them. The strenuous-hobby-turned-career has been life changing for the two competitors, who plan on competing at Pogopalooza in Swissvale, Pennsylvania this summer.
"It's pretty dangerous," said O'Malley, 23. "I’ve broken a few bones, I’ve knocked out a tooth."
For those who are skilled enough to compete at Pogopalooza -- the world championship of pogoing -- the chance of bringing home the 'pogo gold' isn't the only reason to jump in. According to O'Malley, the multi-day event encourages competitors to hone their skills while partaking in a unique level of sportsmanship.
"I’m hoping to win," laughed O'Malley. "I probably won’t do that. I’m just hoping to have a good time, see all my friends like I said and, yeah, compete."
This year, Pogopalooza will be held on July 8 and 9.