Battle of the Boroughs 2023: Breakdancing Competition (Photos)

In a groundbreaking event on Dec. 16 at Montessori School #27, Yonkers witnessed a spectacular breakdancing competition hosted by the iconic NYC Breakers. The occasion marked not only a celebration of the art and sport of “Breaking” but also the launch of the first public school Breaking league in the United States, right here in Yonkers.

London Reyes spearheaded the event, drawing on his history as a member of the trailblazing NYC Breakers in the 1980’s. It was their performance at the White House to President Ronald Reagan that was heralded as the turning point that brought breakdancing to the nation. The crew, further known for its innovation and foresight, was the first to predict that Breaking should be an Olympic sport. Now, that prediction has materialized, and Breaking is set to make its Olympic debut at the 2024 Games in France.

I’m proud to say that our group has been making history for 40 years, and I’m even prouder to say that I’m a part of continuing that.
London Reyes

The Breaking competition featured five NYC Breakers: B-Boy London, Kid Nice, Action, Icey Ice, and Powerful Pex. These experts not only showcased their incredible skills but also advocated for the inclusion of Breaking in public schools. And the public competition was fierce, with Kanato & @bgirlnikkiv_ emerging victorious in the kids’ 2v2 category, and @j.i.ha.d, @cypherst8, and @modd.squad20 securing the top spots in the adults’ competition. Both winning teams walked away with a well-deserved $1,000 prize.

This event highlighted the power of Breaking as a sport that brings communities together. Congressman Jamaal Bowman, Mayor Mike Spano, Senator Shelly B. Mayer, and Legislator José Alvarado all attended to show their support and affirm this. So, as Yonkers takes the lead in establishing the first public school league in the nation, London Reyes and the entire Breaking community deserve praise for their ambition and commitment to this growing sport.