Jake Boultwood-Smith
How long have you been playing?
I started playing on 1st Jan 2020. I saw my friend Indy playing, so I started having a mess around on his but he kept taking it off me to use himself. So I ended up having to get my own as I was instantly addicted!
What's your best kendama memory?
Most of my playing happens at skateparks. But one time at the M3 DIY skate spot in Bristol, this young kid must have been about 14 started shouting 'kendama' while we were playing. This was only a few months into us playing so we’re all learning basics tricks. Then this lad asked for a go and started pulling out tricks I didn’t know were possible right in front of me! Then I realised another lad there called Tom was amazing on a kendama too. Tom played a game of KEN with the other kid and made us go crazy with all the technical tricks they where throwing! This moment led me to realise what was actually possible and pushed me chase what they were doing!
What's your local scene like?
I'm from Shrewsbury. The kendama scene for me personally is pretty good! We all ride together nearly everyday, which means we also play kendama together everyday! So at some point everyday a game of ken is going down or just a session between us all.
What is kendama to you?
It's a second hobby to scootering for me. But anytime I’m not riding, I’ll be on the dama. It’s also a good warm up on the old knees before I start riding. I have a lot of fun playing and a lot of fun learning new tricks. I broke my wrist a few months back and I would have gone insane without it - I'm so grateful for kendama!
Who are your biggest influences in kendama?
I’d say my only influence is my friend @con.dama. He’s a good friend and we’re both on similar levels. It’s healthy competition and keeps it fresh!
Favourite bite?
Spag-bol covered in mayo.
Fun Fact?
I was born without a sense of smell!
Insta.
