Bboy Discussion: R-16 As An Idea

I found myself lurking the Bboyworld forums [which is usually never a good sign that your day is going in the right direction] and I came across a fairly interesting discussion involving this Korean hosted event called R-16. Its an event that is fairly reminiscent of the Olympics and/or the World Cup.

The goal is to take 16 [or more] bboy/bgirl crews from their indigenous lands and have them square off on one of the bboy culture's largest stages in Korea. However, the issue that arises is unlike the NBA in the Olympics; where players who play in the States go back to their respective countries and represent their native land -- Bboys from, say North America may have moved and, in some cases, learned how to dance in a different country. 

The conundrum is centered on The U.S., Puerto Rico and The Phillipines.  The U.S. team not being represented at all this year, Puerto Rico and The Phillipines actually have a small but very talented bboy culture and scene, but a large majority of both crews consist of native-born and some only share ancestry to their respective countries.

If you have a Bboyworld account I'd urge you take a look at the thread and really think about what a cool idea R-16. Though this year seems to be a bit more controversy than usual -- and I think rightfully so, the idea of going to these smaller and more-often-then-naught less fortunate countries and flying out the best dancers is such a damn noble idea I want to give a high-five to the effing air right now.

There is a caveat [isn't there always?]. You see this trailer you see how much media attention this gets in Korea and truth be told...I wouldn't be the least bit surprised if R-16 started pushing for more "Super Star" level talent for their future events. People don't want to see a lesser known crew from India, that practices and battles ONLY in India no matter how good they may be. I'm happy that Dyzee and Jeromskee get to represent their native land [the Phillipines] and elated that Kid Glyde and El Nino get to represent Puerto Rico.

I have no qualms with the aforementioned dancers NOT representing the U.S...they've been doing that for years. My focus is on the discussion in favor of representing the dancers who dance and live in their respective countries not being represented by a bboy or bgirl who does neither. Having someone who stayed their for a period in time is much different from having someone who lives their on the day to day.

And that was my bboy rant. lol.