Home
Photos
Contact
Rates
Events
All About OWC
  - Guestbook
  - Links
  - Featured Riders - Videos
  - Lessons, Camps & Schools
  - Directions
  - Accomodations
  - Job Opportunities
  - Hours of Operation
  - Snack Bar
  - Sliders
  - Myspace
News
  - OWC News
  - Industry News
Before You Ride
  - Liability Release
  - Safety Instructions
  - Pro Shop
Adam Blog

Wakeboard King and Queen Share Throne For The First Time

By WSM Press Release
Published: September 21, 2008

Email

Orlando, Fla. - In the realm of professional wakeboarding, it may only be the fourth time in history the King of Wake series has crowned a winner for the world's most elite pro wakeboarding circuit, but for the first time the king is sharing the throne with a female counterpart, the Queen of Wake.

Since its inception in 2005, the King of Wake series has made waves on the water, establishing itself as the most prestigious pro wakeboarding circuit in the world, bringing together the sport's top events into one ultimate season-long points chase. The King of Wake has proven to be so influential within the sport that in just three years after its inauguration, the mirrored female version, the Queen of Wake series, was created.

During the 2008 season, the two nine-event series each hit the water for the Air Nautique Wake Games, the Tig� Pro-Am Wakeboard Championships, the Air Nautique WWA Wakeboard National Championships, presented by Rockstar Energy Drink, five stops on the MasterCraft Pro Wakeboard Tour and the Rockstar Energy Drink WWA Wakeboard World Championships, presented by Supra.

After six intense months of competition, the two series came to a close, dubbing the men's top points-earner, 19-year-old Phillip Soven of Longwood, Fla., the King of Wake, and crowned the women's top points-earner, 16-year-old Nicola Butler of Bournemouth, England, the Queen of Wake. As the winner of the King of Wake series, Soven claimed the $25,000 cash prize, while Butler took home the $10,000 bonus for winning the inaugural Queen of Wake series.

For Phillip Soven, the 2008 crown marked his second consecutive King of Wake title.

"It's an incredible feeling to win the King of Wake again; I never would have thought something like this was possible," said Soven. "For me, competing against some of the guys I grew up watching and admiring is an honor, but to be ranked the top rider among them is really a dream come true."

UK standout Nicola Butler will go down in history as the first rider ever to win the Queen the Wake series and proved to be a contender for future titles, as she won seven on the nine events in the inaugural series, including the first six contests of the Queen of Wake. Butler's six-contest winning-streak in the most any pro female or pro male rider has won in either series.

"All the girls stepped up their riding this year, which pushed me to be better," said Butler. "It's honor to be part of the Queen of Wake, it's the first time us girls have had something like this and I'm just stoked that I won it."

In 2009, many riders will look to dethrone the reigning King and Queen of Wake, but until next season, Soven and Butler plan on enjoying their time as royalty on the pro wakeboarding scene.

For more information regarding King of Wake, visit kingofwake.com.

To catch all the wakeboarding action from home, tune in to FUEL TV. For exact air dates, visit kingofwake.com.

FUEL TV is a 24/7 action-sports lifestyle network for wakeboarding, skateboarding, snowboarding, surfing, BMX and freestyle motocross. A unit of Fox Cable Networks, FUEL TV was launched July 1, 2003, and is seen in 25 million U.S. homes. To subscribe to FUEL TV, call 877-4-FUEL-TV. For program times and other information, visit www.fuel.tv.

This summer, FUEL TV brings you the most unbelievable action to come from lakes since Loch Ness. Starting in July, you can catch wakeboarding and wakeskating's mega-monsters attack the still waters worldwide. All the contests, series, and films you'd want to see will be in "Wake Steady", FUEL TV's wake block every Tuesday night at 8:00pm ET/PT.

WakeBoarding, published by Bonnier Corp., is the official magazine of the King of Wake series. WakeBoarding is the definitive source on all things wakeboarding, with expert coverage of professional instruction, gear, boats and the latest news.

Byerly Toe Jam #4 - Day 1 of 3

By Byerly Toe Jam Press Release
Published: September 21, 2008

Email

Bithlo, Fla., - Wakeskating's best hit the water today behind the Sea Doo Wake Edition for head-to-head action at The Projects in Bithlo, Florida on the first day of the Byerly Toe Jam presented by O'Neill. Perfect riding conditions and blue skies set the stage for the highest level of riding possible.

Some amazing showdowns gave the judges a hard time, but in the end it was Reed Hansen and Andrew Pastura in the head-to-head final. Just about every variation of flip trick and big spin went down, including a stomped, in-to-out 360 flip in Hansen's final run, and a backside flip in Pastura's semifinals run. Australian Chris Kallas also landed a perfect backside 540 big spin in the flats, the first ever in competition.

The results of the rail final will be announced on Saturday at OWC. Keeping with Scott Byerly's vision to showcase all aspects of the sport, riders will compete in four different disciplines: cable park (OWC), winch setup (OWC), rail park (today at The Projects) and boat (Air Nautique 210 also at The Projects tomorrow).

Byerly would like to thank the sponsors of the Byerly Toe Jam including presenting sponsor O'Neill, Rockstar Energy Drink, Hyperlite, Reef, Arnette, Correct Craft and Sea Doo. None of this would be possible without their support. Some Limited Byerly 210's are available. For more, go to nautiques.com. FUEL TV was on hand, filming for a program due out later this fall. FUEL TV is a 24/7 action-sports lifestyle network for wakeskating, skateboarding, snowboarding, surfing, BMX and freestyle motocross. A unit of Fox Cable Networks, FUEL TV was launched July 1, 2003, and is seen in 25 million U.S. homes. To subscribe to FUEL TV, call 877-4-FUEL-TV. For program times and other information, visit fuel.tv.

Since 2004, Scott Byerly has hosted The Toe Jam, which is recognized as the premier competition arena and lifestyle event for wakeskating enthusiasts. For more information go to byerlytoejam.com.

The 16 invited riders include:

Brian Grubb - Past Champion '04, '05, '07
Clint Tompkins - Past Champion '05
Aaron Reed - Past Champion '04
Brandon Thomas - Past Champion '06
Reed Hansen - Past Champion '07
Ben Horan - Past Champion '07
Nick Taylor - Qualified at Stop 1
Andrew Pastura - Qualified at Stop 1
Ross Gardner - Wildcard from Stop 1
Brett Little - Qualified at Stop 2
Stu Shinn - Qualified at Stop 2
Steve Campbell - Wildcard from Stop 2
Danny Hamson - Qualified at Stop 3
Jeff Engen - Qualified at Stop 3
Chris Kallas - Qualified at Stop 3
James Balzer - Wildcard from Stop 3

Daily Schedule of Events

FRIDAY, SEPTMEBER 19

Boat Finals at The Projects

9:00 am - 11:00 am 16 Riders - Head to Head - top 1 transfers
11:00 am - 12:00 pm 8 Riders - Head to Head - top 1 transfers
12:00 pm - 12:30 pm Semi Finals - Head to Head - top 1 transfers
1:00 pm - 1:30 pm Finals - Head to Head

Winch Finals at OWC

4:00 pm - 5:00 pm Heat 1 (Round of 4)
5:00 pm - 6:00 pm Heat 2 (Round of 4)
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm Heat 3 (Round of 4)
7:00 pm - 8:00 pm Heat 4 (Round of 4)
8:00 pm - 9:00 pm Finals - Head to Head

SATURDAY, SEPTMEBER 20

Cable Finals at OWC

10:00 am - 12:00 pm 16 Riders - Head to Head - top 1 transfers
12:30 pm - 1:30 pm 8 Riders - Head to Head - top 1 transfers
2:00 pm - 2:30 pm Semi Finals - Head to Head - top 1 transfers
3:00 pm - 3:15 pm Finals - Head to Head
4:00 pm - Awards Ceremony

This schedule is tentative and subject to change.

Day One Results

Round of 4

1. Reed Hansen
2. Bret Little

1. Andrew Pastura
2. Nick Taylor

Round of 8

1. Reed Hansen
2. Brandon Thomas

1. Bret Little
2. Aaron Reed

1. Andy Pastura
2. Brian Grubb

1. Nick Taylor
2. Chris Kallas

Nautique And Orlando Watersports Complex Make Plans To Continue Solid Alliance

By Correct Craft Press Release
Published: September 18, 2008

Email

Orlando, FLA - Nautique is pleased to announce that it has recently renewed its long-term strategic alliance with the Orlando Watersports Complex (OWC). As part of this agreement, Nautique will continue to supply its premium Air and Ski Nautique boats for riders and skiers of all levels to train behind along with the professional training they will receive from OWC's world-renowned wakeboard and water ski coaches.

OWC is a unique watersports park designed for wakeboarding, wakeskating and waterskiing. It is the only facility in the United States to contain two cableways - a beginner/intermediate cable park and a slider park for advanced athletes. From beginning riders just wanting to try the sport for recreation, to the professional wakeboarders and skiers from all over the world, OWC caters to all.

"OWC is excited about the opportunity to continue its valuable relationship with Nautique. We have exclusively provided Nautique boats for our customers to train behind for many years and are continually satisfied with the quality and performance that only Nautique can deliver," commented OWC's President Rene Hofmann. "Additionally, we are also excited to announce that Tara Benzel and Coby Mikacich will be joining forces with us to provide watersports camps for students," added Hofmann.

"OWC is largely recognized as a premier cable park in the entire watersports industry," stated Correct Craft's President/CEO Bill Yeargin. "The Nautique team is thrilled to continue our alliance with OWC in providing the very best in watersports training," added Yeargin.

Celebrating 83 years of excellence in the marine industry, the Nautique line of boats is manufactured by Correct Craft, Inc. Correct Craft is known for delivering superior quality product, cutting-edge technology and exceptional service experiences. To see the complete line of Nautique boats, visit nautiques.com.

4th Annual Expo After Party

By Step Up Productions Press Release
Published: September 10, 2008

Orlando, FL. - After Surf Expo and Wake Lab at Lake Eola in Downtown Orlando Saturday, September 13th, Step Up Productions will host an after party at Wall Street Plaza like no other.

The Party kicks off at 10pm with a teaser of pro wakeboarder Josh Sanders' T.V. Show Josh's Idea on Rush HD. The show Josh's Idea is a new TV series documenting wakeboarder Josh Sanders' pursuing his crazy ideas around the world. It's produced by Jalbert Productions and scheduled to air on Rush HD in '09 (the only 24/7 True High Definition Action Sports Channel).

At Midnight, Team Hyperlite Riders J.D. Webb, Kyle Alberts and Scott Mackey will jump a Greyhound bus converted into Double Down Entertainment's brand new Party Bus - a never before attempted pool-to-pool gap.

Pro Wakeboard Tour voice "Dano the Mano" will host the event while Grammy Award winner "RockWilder" performs. Special guests Mike Mantas and Whuteva will be on hand to keep the party going - a must attend for any wakeboarding enthusiast.

The 4th Annual Expo After Party Rail Jam is put on by Step Up Productions, Wall St Plaza, Hyperlite, WakeWorld.com, Boat Tree, Three Olives Vodka, Fuel Records, Double Down Entertainment and BoardBeats.

Wall St. Plaza is 21 and up. Admission is only $6 after 10pm. For more venue information, go to WallStPlaza.net.

WWA Wakeboard Worlds - Day 4 of 4

By WSM Press Release
Published: September 8, 2008

Email

Oklahoma City, Okla. � Fans packed the shorelines of the Oklahoma River in Oklahoma City today to witness the final rounds of the 2008 Rockstar Energy Drink WWA Wakeboard World Championships, presented by Supra.

As expected, the defending world champ, Phillip Soven, 19, of Longwood, Fla., reached the Pro Men division finals today and as the top-seeded rider. But the pressure of retaining his title got the best of Soven as the Florida native posted a score of 82.00, landing him in third-place.

Taking the top spot in the six-man final and claiming the 2008 world title was Rusty Malinoski, 24, of Humboldt, Sask., who became the first Canadian rider to win the world title since Jeremy Kovak claimed it in 1997. Fellow Canadian rider, Aaron Rathy of Nanaimo, B.C., finished the contest in second place.

Although JD Webb did not make it to the finals today, the 2004 Rookie of the Year did manage to ride away with some extra cash thanks to Rockstar Energy Drink. Webb was named the winner of the Rockstar Energy Drink Best Trick Award, a $1,000 cash bonus for landing the most impressive trick of the contest, a switch frontside 270 to backlip nosepress on the Billabong Rooftop.

With the defending women's world champ, Amber Wing, 25, of Sydney, Australia, out of the contest with a knee injury, all eyes were on three-time world champ Dallas Friday, 22, of Orlando, Fla. as she seemed the likely winner. But British standout, Nicola Butler, 16, of Bournemouth, England, threw down an impressive run to take the top spot in the finals to claim her first-ever world title. Butler stands as the only UK native to win a wakeboard world title. Friday finished in second place and California's Melissa Marquardt took third.

The top four shredders in the world battled it out on the water today in the Pro Wakeskate division finals. Former world champ Brian Grubb, current U.S. national champ Stuart Shinn and two-time Canadian national champ James Balzer all looked to leave the defending world titlist, Reed Hansen, in their wake and claim the '08 world title for themselves. But Hansen was unbeatable on the water today as the defending champ retained his title, beating his next closest competitor, Grubb, by nearly 20 points. With today's win, Hansen becomes the first pro wakeskater ever to win consecutive world titles.

2008 Has proven to be Jimmy LaRiche's year as the Boca Raton, Fla. native won the '08 Wake Games title, '08 Pro Tour Junior Men title, the '08 U.S. National title, and now the '08 World title after taking the top spot in today's Jr. Men's division finals. LaRiche faced off in a six-man final for the world title beating out Canada's Raphael Derome and Aussie Harley Clifford, who finished second and third-place respectively.

Anna Hejak took the top spot in the Jr. Women's division four-woman final. Holland Finely finished in second place and Megan Blaschka placed third in the finals.

In the Boys division, six young rippers, ages 10-13, faced off in the finals for the division's world title. Michael Dowdy threw down an impressive run to claim the division's world title with Jess Polley and Cooper Swink rounding out the podium respectively.

The youngest riders out on the water today, ages nine and under, faced off in a three-man final in the Jr. Boys division. Ben Watts took the top spot in the finals to claim the world title. Joe Martella and Ian Rabon finished in second and third, respectively.

To catch all the wakeboarding action from home, tune in to FUEL TV. For exact air dates, visit kingofwake.com.

Supra is the official tow boat of the WWA Wakeboard World Championships. Celebrating nearly 30 years of excellence in the marine industry, Supra pioneered rider-friendly boats that feature innovative hull designs, adjustable wakes and versatile seating with sleek and sexy styling. Supra kicks up the fattest wakes with a line of 10 tournament-quality Launch Series boats, each with the attitude and ability to help you find more altitude than ever before.

Rockstar is the world's most powerful energy drink. Developed to improve the recovery time of those who lead active and exhausting lifestyles, Rockstar Energy Drink is available in 10 flavors -- Original, Sugar Free, Juiced, Zero Carb, Guava, Pomegranate, Punched, Roasted Mocha, Roasted Vanilla Light and Roasted Latte -- at convenience stores and retail grocery outlets across the United States, Canada, Mexico, Australia and the United Kingdom.

WakeBoarding, published by Bonnier Corp., is the official magazine of the World Championships. WakeBoarding is the definitive source on all things wakeboarding, with expert coverage of professional instruction, gear, boats and the latest news.

The WWA Wakeboard World Championships is organized by World Sports & Marketing of Orlando, Fla. The Championships has the support of the following: Rockstar Energy Drink, Supra boats, Indmar, the U.S. Air Force, Reef, Mona Vie, Hyperlite, CWB, Ronix, Gator Boards, Oakley, World Wakeboard Association, Cire, Oklahoma City, the Oklahoma City Convention & Visitors Bureau, WakeWorld.com, wakeboarder.com and theliquidcircus.com.

Day 4 Results

Pro Men Finals
1. Rusty Malinoski (CAN) - 94.00
2. Aaron Rathy (CAN) - 85.50
3. Phillip Soven (USA) - 82.00
4. Olivier Derome (CAN) - 70.25
5. Shawn Watson (USA) - 68.25

Pro Women Finals
1. Nicola Butler (UK) - 95.25
2. Dallas Friday (USA) - 85.00
3. Melissa Marquardt (USA) - 72.25
4. Laura Lohrmann (USA) - 68.75
5. Shelby Kantar (USA) - 68.50
6. Hayley Smith (AUS) - 60.25

Pro Wakeskate Finals
1. Reed Hansen (USA) - 80.00
2. Brian Grubb (USA) - 61.67
3. Stuart Shinn (USA) - 50.00
4. James Balzer (CAN) - 36.67

Jr. Men (14-18) Finals
1. Jimmy LaRiche (USA) - 96.25
2. Raphael Derome (CAN) - 91.00
3. Harley Clifford (AUS) - 74.00
4. Robert Soven (USA) - 69.00
5. Jarrod Askew (AUS) - 61.75
6. Pierce Homsey (USA) - 58.00

Jr. Women (14-18) Finals
1. Anna Hajek (USA) - 55.00
2. Holland Finley (USA) - 44.22
3. Megan Blaschka (USA) - 37.00
4. Danni Petraitis (USA) - 22.00

Boys (10-13) Finals
1. Michael Dowdy (USA) - 75.00
2. Jess Polley (CAN) - 61.67
3. Cooper Swink (USA) - 57.11
4. Bradley Teunissen (AUS) - 49.56
5. Kyle Evans (USA) - 40.67
6. Tony Iacconi (AUS) - 31.33

Jr. Boys (9 and under) Finals
1. Ben Watts (USA) - 56.11
2. Joe Martella (USA) - 48.33
3. Ian Rabon (USA) - 36.67

Pro Men Semifinals (top rider in each heat advances)

Heat #1
1. Shawn Watson (USA) - 92.75
===
2. Andrew Adkison (USA) - 92.00
3. Dean Smith (AUS) - 80.25
4. Shane Bonifay (USA) - 76.50

Heat #2
1. Aaron Rathy (CAN) - 97.25
===
2. Erik Ruck (USA) - 86.75
3. Trevor Hansen (USA) - 80.25
4. Brad Smeele (NZL) - 75.75

Heat #3
1. Rusty Malinoski (CAN) - 92.50
===
2. Bryan Hutton (USA) - 89.75
3. Kyle Alberts (USA) - 80.25
4. Daniel Watkins (AUS) - 77.50

Heat #4
1. Olivier Derome (CAN) - 94.75
===
2. Shaun Murray (USA) - 90.50
3. JD Webb (USA) - 84.75
4. Kyle Rattray (CAN) - 70.00

Heat #5
1. Phillip Soven (USA) - 100.00
===
2. Nick Weinacker (USA) - 82.50
3. Adam Errington (SCT) - 79.00
4. Josh Palma (USA) - 78.50

WWA Wakeboard Worlds - Day 3 of 4

By WSM Press Release
Published: September 8, 2008

Email

Oklahoma City, Okla. � Fans lined the shores of the Oklahoma River in Oklahoma City today to catch the opening-rounds of the pro divisions at 2008 Rockstar Energy Drink WWA Wakeboard World Championships, presented by Supra.

After aggravating a knee injury prior to start of the contest, current women's world champ Amber Wing shocked everyone by deciding to withdraw from the competition, leaving her title up for grabs to the top 12 pro female rippers in the world.

With the defending world champ out of the contest, the Pro Women's division hit the water today for the semifinals, battling for one of six spots in tomorrow's finals. All 12 rippers threw down some impressive runs, but in the end only the top-three riders from each heat advanced onto the finals, including former world champ Dallas Friday and Queen of Wake frontrunner Nicola Butler.

In the Pro Men's division, 42 of the world's top riders took to the water for the quarterfinals, competing in 10 heats. Only the top-two riders from each heat advanced onto tomorrow's semifinals, sending more than half the competition home packing. Among the 20 rides to advance past the quarterfinals was the defending champ Phillip Soven, who will look to retain his title in tomorrow's contest.

The top shredders in the world battled it out on the water today in the Pro Wakeskate division semifinals. Defending world champ Reed Hansen wanted to let his competition know that he is out to retain his title by throwing down an impressive run that not only earned him a spot in tomorrow's finals, but also the highest score of the day with a 81.67.

Hansen will face off against former world champ Brian Grubb, current U.S. national champ Stuart Shinn and two-time Canadian national champ James Balzer in the finals for the world title.

In the Boys division, 10 young rippers, ages 10-13, faced off in the semifinals in two heats of five with only the top-three riders in each heat moving onto tomorrow's finals. The six-man final features a Canadian rider, two Aussies and two U.S. riders, who will all look to capture their division's world title.

The youngest riders out on the water today, ages nine and under, hit the water for the semifinals in the Jr. Boys division. Only the top-three riders in the five-man heat advanced to tomorrow's finals, where one rider will be named the division's world champion.

Wakeboarding action concludes tomorrow, Sunday, Sept. 7 with the first heat hopping off the dock at 9:00 a.m.

The Rockstar Energy Drink WWA Wakeboard World Championships, presented by Supra is a four-day-long carnival of water-sports action. But not all of the action takes place on the water. On land, fans will experience tons of great music and food, athlete autograph signings, chances to win free giveaways, and shopping at the most cutting-edge stores offering water-sports equipment including boats, wakeboards, wakeskates, sunglasses and the latest in wakeboarding and surfing fashions. The event will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on all four days.

Tickets can be purchased on site Sept. 4-7 for $10 (general admission), $5 (ages 6-12) or free (ages 5 and under). To purchase tickets in advance, visit kingofwake.com. General-admission tickets are buy one get one free online only until Sept. 5, 12 p.m. noon EST.

To catch all the wakeboarding action from home, tune in to FUEL TV. For exact air dates, visit kingofwake.com.

If you cannot make it to the 2008 Worlds, bring the Worlds to you. Catch the exciting action LIVE with FUEL TV's webcast at fuel.tv beginning Friday, Sept. 5 and wrapping up on Sunday, Sept. 7.

Day 3 Results

Pro Men Quarterfinals (top two riders in each heat advance)

Heat #1
1. Josh Palma (USA) - 91.50
2. Nick Weinacker (USA) - 89.75
===
3. Chad Sharpe (CDN) - 88.75
4. Adam Fields (USA) - NS

Heat #2
1. Bryan Hutton (USA) - 96.50
2. Olivier Derome (CDN) - 90.50
===
3. Alex Brown (USA) - 78.50
4. James Hindes (USA) - 74.50

Heat #3
1. Trevor Hansen (USA) - 98.5
2. Daniel Watkins (AUS) - 88.50
===
3. Ben Greenwood (USA) - 78.75
4. Jimmy Trask (USA) - 74.25

Heat #4
1. Shawn Watson (USA) - 90.75
2. Erik Ruck (USA) - 89.5
===
3. Marcelo Giardi (BRZ) - 84.25
4. Mikey Ennen (USA) - 75.75

Heat #5
1. Kyle Rattray (CDN) - 94.50
2. Adam Errington (SCT) - 85.50
===
3. Danny Thollander (USA) - 80.00
4. Adam Wensink (USA) - 66.50

Heat #6
1. Andrew Adkison (USA) - 98.50
2. Shane Bonifay (USA) - 89.25
===
3. Zane Schwenk (USA) - 82.25
4. AJ Racinelli (USA) - NS

Heat #7
1. Aaron Rathy (CDN) - 100.00
2. Dean Smith (AUS) - 88.5
===
3. Tony Carroll (USA) - 79.25
4. Jeff Weatherall (NZL) - 72.25

Heat #8
1. Rusty Malinoski (CDN) - 100.00
2. Brad Smeele (NZL) - 85.25
===
3. Danny Harf (USA) - 83.25
4. Luciano Rondi (BRZ) - 71.50

Heat #9
1. JD Webb (USA) - 95.75
2. Kyle Alberts (USA) - 89.25
===
3. Brandon Ellis (NZL) - 68.75
4. Dustin O'Ferrall (CDN) - 58.50
5. Kevin Henshaw (CDN) - 42.00

Heat #10
1. Phillip Soven (USA) - 94.75
2. Shaun Murray (USA) - 86.00
===
3. Corey Bradley (USA) - 82.50
4. Padiwat Jaemjam (THAI) - 68.75
5. Joseph Lemburg (USA) - 68.00

Pro Women Semifinals (top three riders in each heat advance)

Heat #1
1. Melissa Marquardt (USA) - 91.75
2. Dallas Friday (USA) - 86.00
3. Hayley Smith (AUS) - 80.00
===
4. Ashley Leugner (CDN) - 74.25
5. Raimi Merritt (USA) - 60.00
6. Emily Copeland Durham (USA) - 58.00

Heat #2
1. Nicola Butler (UK) - 89.50
2. Shelby Kantar (USA) - 86.25
3. Laura Lohrmann (USA) - 82.75
===
4. Miku Asai (JPN) - 77.50
5. Shawna Hoffman (USA) - 61.25
6. Barrett Perlman (USA) - 52.75

Pro Wakeskate Semifinals (top two riders in each heat advance)

Heat #1
1. Brian Grubb (USA) - 71.67
2. James Balzer (CDN) - 67.67
===
3. Joe Phillips (USA) - 55.67
4. Darrin Wahl (USA) - 33.33

Heat #2
1. Reed Hansen (USA) - 81.67
2. Stuart Shinn (USA) - 66.67
===
3. Brandon Thomas (USA) - 50.00
4. Lance Duffet (USA) - 28.33

Boys (10-13) Semifinals (top three riders in each heat advance)

Heat #1
1. Cooper Swink (USA) - 61.67
2. Tony Iacconi (AUS) - 50.33
3. Kyle Evans (USA) - 32.78
===
4. Paulie Koch (USA) - 30.00
5. Cody Prizer (USA) - 16.11

Heat #2
1. Michael Dowdy (USA) - 80.00
2. Jess Polley (CDN) - 64.44
3. Bradley Teunissen (AUS) - 56.67
===
4. Freddie Wayne (USA) - 37.22
5. Noah Flegal (USA) - 28.89

Jr. Boys (9 and under) Semifinals (top three riders advance)
1. Ben Watts (USA) - 53.33
2. Joe Martella (USA) - 47.22
3. Ian Rabon (USA) - 41.67
===
4. Nicholas Brown (USA) - 34.44
5. Andrew Starling (USA) - 20.00

WWA Wakeboard Worlds - Day 2 of 4

By WSM Press Release
Published: September 8, 2008

Email

Oklahoma City, Okla. � Nine amateur divisions hit the waters of the Oklahoma River in Oklahoma City today for the final rounds of the 2008 Rockstar Energy Drink WWA Wakeboard World Championships, presented by Supra.

All eyes were on Edmond, Okla. native Rachel Orgill, as the 12-year-old female ripper looked to win a world title on hometown waters in today's Girls division finals, but top-seeded rider Megan Ethell threw down some impressive maneuvers to take the top spot and win the world title. Orgill finished in third-place behind Ethell and Taylor McCullough.

Erica Dumeyer of Louisville, Ky. took the top spot in the Amateur Women finals today, claiming her division's world title, while fellow Louisville native Nick Link captured the world title in the Men's II division.

Aussie Sam Thomson took the top spot in the Men's I division finals today, crowning him the new world champion of his division and was the only international rider of the day to win a world title.

The Masters Women division featured a three-woman final with Allison Blaha taking the top spot followed by Annie Haroldson and Kat Laird, respectively.

In the Pro Women's Wakeskate division, Jennifer GilanFarr won the world title, while Matt Hayden captured the world title in the Amateur Wakeskate division.

Matt Vermillion took the top spot in the four-man Veterans division finals, while Chris Full managed to defend his world title in the Masters division. Full was the only rider to successfully defend his title.

The Jr. Men's division battled it out on the water today in three heats of six during the semifinals. Only the top-two riders from the three heats advanced onto the finals, sending most of the competition home. The six finalists will vie for the world title on Sunday.

The Jr. Women's division hit the water today in a seven-woman semifinal. Only the top-four riders advanced onto Sunday's finals with Anna Hajek as the top-seeded rider.

21 of the youngest male riders out on the water today, ages 10-13, faced off in the Boys division quarterfinals, where more than half of the competition was sent home packing, as only the top-two riders from each of the five heats advanced onto tomorrow's semifinals.

Eight of the world's top pro wakeskaters hit the water for their quarterfinals, where they would vie for seeding in tomorrow's semifinals. Leading heat one was former world champion Brian Grubb, while current world champ Reed Hansen paced the second heat.

Wakeboarding action continues tomorrow, Saturday, Sept. 6 beginning at 8:00 a.m.

To catch all the wakeboarding action from home, tune in to FUEL TV. For exact air dates, visit kingofwake.com.

If you cannot make it to the 2008 Worlds, bring the Worlds to you. Catch the exciting action LIVE with FUEL TV's webcast at fuel.tv beginning Friday, Sept. 5 and wrapping up on Sunday, Sept. 7.

Day 2 Results

Amateur Wakeskate Finals
1. Matt Hayden (USA) - 46.67
2. Mark McMorris (CDN) - 43.33
3. Craig McMorris (CDN) - 23.23
4. Justin Wells (USA) - NS

Pro Women Wakeskate Finals
1. Jennifer GilanFarr (USA) - 46.67
2. Lacey Menkin (USA) - 36.67
3. Elizabeth Talansky (USA) - 26.67

Amateur Women (19-29) Finals
1. Erica Dumeyer (USA) - 61.11

Masters Women (30 and up) Finals
1. Allison Blaha (USA) - 43.33
2. Annie Haroldson (USA) - 28.89
3. Kat Laird (USA) - 25.56

Girls (13 and under) Finals
1. Megan Ethell (USA) - 59.44
2. Taylor McCullough (USA) - 50.00
3. Rachel Orgill (USA) - 29.44
4. Delanie Parker (USA) - 20.00
5. Madyson Chance (USA) - NS

Masters (30-39) Finals
1. Christopher Full (USA) - 75.00
2. Billy Garcia (USA) - 63.33
3. Kurt Robertson (NZL) - 48.33
4. Mike Vanpatten (USA) - 24.33

Veterans (40 and up) Finals
1. Matt Vermillion (USA) - 76.67
2. Faron Kelsh (USA) - 63.89
3. Stuart Cameron (CDN) - 46.67
4. Rob Lacconi (AUS) - 28.89

Men's II (25-29) Finals
1. Nick Link (USA) - 61.67
2. Brodie Chaboya (USA) - 50.00
3. Wataru Mitomi (JPN) - 40.67

Men's I (18-24) Finals
1. Sam Thomson (AUS) - 56.67
2. Clayton Underwood (USA) - 50.00
3. Rusty Scott (USA) - 41.78
4. Marcos Torres (MEX) - 41.67
5. Tyler Heinz (USA) - 34.56
6. Nick Whitt (USA) - 26.67

Jr. Women (14-18) Semifinals (top four advance)
1. Anna Hajek (USA) - 59.44
2. Holland Finley (USA) - 55.56
3. Danni Petraitis (USA) - 43.89
4. Megan Blaschka (USA) - 43.33
===
5. Corrie Dyer (USA) - 41.11
6. Brittany Arruda (USA) - 26.67
7. Rebecca Gange (AUS) - 8.33

Jr. Men (14-18) Semifinals (top two in each heat advance)

Heat #1
1. Harley Clifford (AUS) - 100.00
2. Pierce Homsey (USA) - 85.00
===
3. Steven Cahail (MEX) - 79.00
4. Eddie Valdez (USA) - 68.50
5. Craig McMorris (USA) - 60.75
6. JB O'Neil (USA) - 56.75

Heat #2
1. Jarrod Askew (AUS) - 90.00
2. Robert Soven (USA) - 81.25
===
3. Steel Lafferty (USA) - 81.00
4. Phillip Aslinger (USA) - 79.50
5. Taylor Kress (USA) - 66.25
6. Johnny Tobaben (USA) - 52.00

Heat #3
1 Jimmy LaRiche (USA) - 90.75
2. Raphael Derome (CDN) - 90.00
===
3. Ryan Anderson (USA) - 84.75
4. Jacob Valdez (USA) - 70.75
5. Mark McMorris (CDN) - 58.75
6. Will Green (USA) - 55.00

Pro Wakeskate Quarterfinals (all riders advance)

Heat #1
1. Brian Grubb (USA) - 77.33
2. James Balzer (CDN) - 63.33
3. Joe Phillips (USA) - 48.00
4. Darrin Wahl (USA) - 30.00

Heat #2
1. Reed Hansen (USA) - 81.67
2. Brandon Thomas (USA) - 66.67
3. Stuart Shinn (USA) - 45.67
4. Lance Duffet (USA) - 40.00

Boys (10-13) Quarterfinals (top two in each heat advance)

Heat #1
1. Noah Flegal (USA) - 50.56
2. Paulie Koch (USA) - 46.67
===
3. Colin Wirth (USA) - 35.56
4. Gus Shuler (USA) - 24.44

Heat #2
1. Kyle Evans (USA) - 71.11
2. Cody Prizer (USA) - 57.78
===
3. Brandon Canney (USA) - 44.44
4. Zach Brown (USA) - 37.22

Heat #3
1. Jess Polley (CDN) - 46.11
2. Bradley Teunissen (AUS) - 45.56
===
3. Chad Payton (USA) - 44.44
4. Morgan Pederson (USA) - 32.78

Heat #4
1. Cooper Swink (USA) - 60.00
2. Tony Iacconi (AUS) - 50.00
===
3. Blake Payton (USA) - 44.44
4. Jarrod Harrison (USA) - 20.00

Heat #5
1. Michael Dowdy (USA) - 71.11
2. Freddie Wayne (USA) - 58.33
===
3. Jason Soven (USA) - 50.56
4. Parker Siegele (AUS) - 40.56
5. Tyson Taylor (CDN) - 21.67

WWA Wakeboard Worlds - Day 1 of 4

By WSM Press Release
Published: September 8, 2008

Email

Oklahoma City, Okla. � One of the largest and most exciting action-sport events in the world, the Rockstar Energy Drink WWA Wakeboard World Championships, presented by Supra, stirred up the waters of the Oklahoma River today, as 10 of the 16 divisions kicked off the first of four days of high-flying, rail-sliding, water-sports action in Oklahoma City.

Riders from around the world geared-up to hit the water today for the opening-rounds of the contest, each looking to advance in their respective division, bringing themselves one step closer to winning a world title.

Boasting the largest field of competitors today with 27 riders, the Jr. Men's division battled it out on the water in their quarterfinal round. The quarterfinals featured six heats with only the top-three riders in each heat advancing onto tomorrow's semifinals. Jimmy LaRiche, Robert Soven, Harley Clifford and Jarrod Askew each led their heats today with perfect scores of 100 points. The four flawless riders will be joined by 14 other riders in tomorrow's semifinals, including Edmond Okla. native Taylor Kress.

In the Men's I division, 14 riders, including Norman, Okla. native Colt Leonard hit the water today for their semifinal round. More than half of the competition was sent home packing, as only the top-two riders from each of the three heats advanced onto tomorrow's finals. The six-man final won't feature the local rider, as Leonard placed fourth in his heat, but does feature four riders representing the United States, one from Australia and one from Mexico.

The youngest division out on the water today, the Girls division, featured five talented female wakeboarders, ages 13 and under, in their semifinal round with only the top three riders advancing onto tomorrow's finals. Meagan Ethell paced her heat today and will be joined by Taylor McCullough and Edmond, Okla. native Rachel Orgill in the finals.

The Amateur Women's division hit the water today with Erica Dumeyer of Louisville, Ky. taking the top spot in the semifinals. Dumeyer, the current U.S. national champion, will look to claim the world title tomorrow in her division's finals.

The Masters Women division featured five female rippers, ages 30 and over, with the top-three riders moving on to tomorrow's finals. Kat Laird led her division today and will face off against Allison Blaha and Annie Haroldson in tomorrow's finals.

Rounding out the women's riding, the Pro Women Wakeskate division hit the water for their semifinals with three shredders moving onto tomorrow's finals. Jennifer GilanFarr led her division today and will be joined by Elizabeth Talanksy and Lacey Menkin in the finals.

In the Masters division, nine riders, ages 30 to 39, took to the water for their semifinals with only the top-two riders from both heats advancing on to tomorrow's finals. The four-man final will feature three of last year's finalists, including the current world champion, Chris Full.

The Amateur Wakeskate division held their semifinals today, creating a Canadian/ U.S. matchup in the finals. Craig and Mark McMorris of Regina, Sask. will take on U.S. riders Matt Hayden and Justin Wells in tomorrow's finals for the world title.

Matt Vermillion and Faron Kelsh will represent the U.S. and face off Canadian rider Stuart Cameron and Aussie Rob Locconi in the Veterans division finals tomorrow, after advancing past today's semifinals.

The Men's II division featured five riders in today's semifinals with only the top-three riders advancing onto tomorrow's finals. The U.S.'s Nick Link and Brodie Chaboya will face off against Japan's Wataru Mitomi in the finals.

Wakeboarding action continues tomorrow, Friday, Sept. 5 beginning at 8:00 a.m.

To catch all the wakeboarding action from home, tune in to FUEL TV. For exact air dates, visit kingofwake.com.

If you cannot make it to the 2008 Worlds, bring the Worlds to you. Catch the exciting action LIVE with FUEL TV's webcast at fuel.tv beginning Friday, Sept. 5 and wrapping up on Sunday, Sept. 7.

Day 1 Results

Amateur Wakeskate Semifinals (all riders advance)
1. Matt Hayden (USA) - 58.33
2. Mark McMorris (CAN) - 53.33
3. Justin Wells (USA) - 50.67
4. Craig McMorris (CAN) - 34.67

Pro Women Wakeskate Semifinals (all riders advance)
1. Jennifer GilanFarr (USA) - 56.67
2. Elizabeth Talansky (USA) - 40.67
3. Lacey Menkin (USA) - 40.00

Girls (13 and under) Semifinals (top three riders advance)
1. Megan Ethell (USA) - 81.67
2. Taylor McCullough (USA) - 80.00
3. Rachel Orgill (USA) - 45.56
===
4. Delanie Parker (USA) - 35.00
5. Madyson Chance (USA) - 13.33

Amateur Women (19-29) Semifinals (all riders advance)
1. Erica Dumeyer (USA) - 46.67

Masters Women (30 and up)bSemifinals (top three riders advance)

1. Kat Laird (USA) - 52.67
2. Allison Blaha (USA) - 48.89
3. Annie Haroldson (USA) - 46.56
===
4. Jennifer Busser (USA) - 26.11
5. Takako Tsuru (JPN) - 17.33

Masters (30-39) Semifinals (top two in each heat advance)

Heat #1
1. Billy Garcia (USA) - 71.78
2. Mike Vanpatten (USA) - 61.11
===
3. Chris Freehill (USA) - 47.22
4. Brent Anderson (USA) - 17.78

Heat #2
1. Christopher Full (USA) - 67.22
2. Kurt Robertson (NZL) - 50.56
===
3. Rodrigo Teixeira (BRZ) - 46.11
4. German Brito (MEX) - 23.89
5. Kenneth Smith (USA) - DQ

Veterans (40 and up) Semifinals (all riders advance)
1. Matt Vermillion (USA) - 73.33
2. Faron Kelsh (USA) - 47.22
3. Stuart Cameron (CAN) - 31.11
4. Rob Lacconi AUS 13.33

Men's II (25-29) Semifinals (top three riders advance)
1. Nick Link (USA) - 65.56
2. Brodie Chaboya (USA) - 58.33
3. Wataru Mitomi (JPN) - 45.56
===
4. Jon Klein (USA) - 32.89
5. Takanori Oishi (JPN) - 16.67

Men's I (18-24) Semifinals (top two in each heat advance)

Heat #1
1. Nick Whitt (USA) - 58.33
2. Sam Thomson (AUS) - 48.33
===
3. Paul Hernaez (FRA) - 43.33
4. AJ Haynes (USA) - NS

Heat #2
1. Rusty Scott (USA) - 56.11
2. Tyler Heinz (USA) - 56.11
===
3. Travis Cook (USA) - 49.44
4. Colt Leonard (USA) - 42.22
5. Lachlan Burgess (AUS) - 26.67

Heat #3
1. Clayton Underwood (USA) - 63.33
2. Marcos Torres (MEX) - 53.33
===
3. Addison Reed (USA) - 51.11
4. Chris Dunn (USA) - 33.33
5. Luke Romero (USA) - DQ

Jr. Men (14-17) Quarterfinals (top three in each heat advance)

Heat #1
1. Robert Soven (USA) - 100.00
2. Steel Lafferty (USA) - 83.00
3. Phillip Aslinger (USA) - 80.00
===
4. Julian Cohen (USA) - 77.00

Heat #2
1. Harley Clifford (AUS) - 100.00
2. Ryan Anderson (USA) - 88.00
3. Johnny Tobaben (USA) - 74.25
===
4. Daniel Powers (USA) - 67.25

Heat #3
1. Jacob Valdez (USA) - 95.75
2. Steven Cahail (MEX) - 91.50
3. Craig McMorris (USA) - 82.75
===
4. Danny Burnstein (USA) - NS

Heat #4
1. Eddie Valdez (USA) - 85.75
2. Mark McMorris (CAN) - 80.25
3. Raphael Derome (CAN) - 77.50
===
4. Nick Galotifiore (USA) - 77.25
5. Gunnar Shuler (USA) - 50.00

Heat #5
1. Jarrod Askew (AUS) - 100.00
2. Taylor Kress (USA) - 81.50
3. Will Green (USA) - 71.25
===
4. Brian Waskevich (USA) - 67.00
5. Andrew SheaRer (USA) - 66.75

Heat #6
1. Jimmy LaRiche (USA) - 100.00
2. Pierce Homsey (USA) - 88.50
3. JB O'Neil (USA) - 79.25
===
4. Bryan Kryzda (MEX) - 72.25
5. Jordan Gensler (USA) - 46.50

Email Announcers During Fuel TV's Live Worlds Webcast

By WSM Press Release
Published: September 8, 2008

Email

Orlando, Fla. - Action-sports fans can watch all the high-flying, rail-sliding water-sports action of the Rockstar Energy Drink WWA Wakeboard World Championships, presented by Supra through Fuel TV's live webcast, straight from the 2008 Worlds in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

Fans can be part of the action, as webcast viewers are encouraged to email in real time direct to color commentators Nick Weinacker and "the Noise of the North" Dano Amir in the announcers' tower. Share your comments, opinions or just give a shout-out to your favorite riders, friends and family at the event by emailing Nick & Dano at announcers@wakeboardworlds.com.

Also by emailing Nick and Dano during the live webcast, fans will automatically be entered to win a 2008 Gator Boards "Legend" wakeboard. The winner will be announced on Sunday, Sept. 7, 2008. So don't be shy, send the announcers an email.

Watch the exciting live footage of all 16 divisions at fuel.tv beginning Friday, Sept. 5 and wrapping up on Sunday, Sept. 7.

"Fuel TV's webcast of the Worlds is the next best thing to being there, since cameras are everywhere and it's all being filmed live," said Weinacker. "From the sickest tricks to the gnarliest crashes, Dano and I want to know what you're thinking, as it all goes down live beginning Sept. 5."

Fuel TV is a 24/7 action-sports lifestyle network for wakeboarding, skateboarding, snowboarding, surfing, BMX and freestyle motocross. A unit of Fox Cable Networks, Fuel TV was launched July 1, 2003, and is seen in 25 million U.S. homes. To subscribe to Fuel TV, call 877-4-Fuel-TV. For program times and other information, visit fuel.tv.

The Rockstar Energy Drink WWA Wakeboard World Championships, presented by Supra is organized by World Sports & Marketing of Orlando, Fla. The Worlds has the support of the following: Rockstar Energy Drink, Supra boats, Indmar, the U.S. Air Force, Reef, Mova Vie, Hyperlite, CWB, Ronix, Gator Boards, Oakley, World Wakeboard Association, Cire, Oklahoma City, the Oklahoma City Convention & Visitors Bureau, WakeWorld.com, wakeboarder.com and theliquidcircus.com.

Eleven Athletes Win National Titles At 2008 USA Wakeboard Nationals

By USA Wakeboard Press Release
Published: September 2, 2008

Email

ELIZABETHTOWN, Ky. � Eleven wakeboard riders won national titles at the ninth annual USA Wakeboard Nationals, Aug. 16-17, at Freeman Lake. Sanctioned by USA Wakeboard. The USA Wakeboard Nationals was part of USA Water Ski�s National Championships Series of Events.

�We�re pleased with the outcome of the 2008 USA Wakeboard Nationals,� said Steve Locke, USA Water Ski�s executive director. �Elizabethtown proved to be an impressive venue for the event as well.�

Athletes earning national titles were: Taylor McCullough (Centralia, Ill.) in Junior Girls; Nicholas Brown (Mc Daniels, Ky.) in Junior Boys; Freddie Wayne (Orlando, Fla.) in Boys; Meagan Ethell (Channahon, Ill.) in Girls; Corrie Dyer (Crossville, Tenn.) in Junior Women; Gunnar Shuler (Janesville, Wis.) in Junior Men; Austin Hair (Orlando, Fla.) in Open Men and Wakeskate; Jason Neagle (Elizabethtown, Ky.) in Master Men; Mike Ryder (Sunbury, OH) in Veteran; and Erica Dumeyer (Louisville, Ky.) in Amateur Women.

For the second consecutive year, the USA Wakeboard Nationals was held in conjunction with the NWL National Championships, an ability-based event for novice wakeboard riders. For complete results of the USA Wakeboard Nationals and NWL National Championships, visit www.usawaterski.org and click on the �Wakeboarding� link.

USA Wakeboard is one of nine sport disciplines of USA Water Ski, which was formed in 1939 as a non-profit organization promoting water skiing in the United States. USA Water Ski is affiliated with the International Water Ski Federation (world governing body) and is recognized by the United States Olympic Committee and Pan-American Sports Organization as the national governing body of organized water skiing in the United States. With more than 30,000 members, USA Water Ski is the largest water ski federation in the world.

Merritt Proves She's A Rising Contender In Pro Women's Wakeboarding

By Paper Moon Creative Press Release
Published: September 2, 2008

Email

LANTANA, FL - Queen of Wake's Rookie of the Year frontrunner Raimi Merritt proved she's a rising contender this weekend at the 2008 WWA Wakeboard National Championships, which ran August 6-10 in Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin.

Battling high winds, choppy water and tough competition, Merritt, 15, upset five-time national champion Dallas Friday in the semifinals Saturday to claim the top spot in her heat and become the top-seeded rider going into Sunday's finals.

"It was the first time this year that I led my heat, so I was pretty stoked about it," said Merritt. She was also excited to take the lead for the first time over Friday, who Merritt had always looked up to as a younger wakeboarder.

But, unfortunately, the cold, windy conditions got the best of Merritt in the finals and she fell three times. She finished fourth behind Amber Wing, Shelby Kantar and Friday. Merritt was disappointed with her performance in the finals, but said, "It was still fun."

Later this week, Merritt will compete at the IWSF World Cup in Egypt, which runs August 13-15. She is also scheduled to compete at the WWA World Championships in September, the IWSF World Cup Singapore in October and the IWSF World Cup in Qatar in November.

Merritt is sponsored by Liquid Force Wakeboards, MonaVie Nutrition Beverage, R3 Global and Fly High Wakeboard Gear. For more information about Merritt, visit raimimerritt.com.

Errington Takes Relentless Wakestock Abersoch

By Relentless Wakestock Press Release
Published: August 13, 2008

Email

The third and final night of Relentless Wakestock was truly one to remember. Huge excitement had surrounded the return of Duffy to the area and she didn�t disappoint her home fans by pulling off an amazing set that made the crowd go wild. She was joined by The Streets who got the crowd jumping. Zane Lowe tent was going off as the fans celebrated an amazing weekend of extreme sports and a huge party.

The winner of the Pro Men's competition and the title of Relentless Wakestock Abersoch Champion 2008 was announced in front of a huge crowd gathered around the main outdoor stage. It was decided that the 2008 title should go to Adam Errington. He just pipped Aaron Rathy to the top spot and Danny Tholander came away with third as well as winning the Big Air contest that took place on Friday night. The women's title was a close affair with Jules Haley just sneaking in front of Kath Moore and third place went to Jess Hilbery.

The Pool Gap up on the festival site is quite a spectacle and it provided the perfect showcase for the Vans Rococo Rail Tour, which brought all of the excitement of wakeboarding to the festival site in the form of battle for the best trick across the rails to see who would go away with the top spot. It was taken in the end by Aaron Rathy, who made sure that the title was his after a fierce battle in front of the crowds with Lee Debuse who came in second. So as the tents come down, the stage is dismantled and the festival goers make their way home, Relentless Wakestock Abersoch draws to a close for another year. We hope that you have enjoyed it�roll on 2009!

Results

Pro Men Final
1.Adam Errington (USA)
2.Aaron Rathy (CAN)
3.Danny Thollander (USA)
4.Brad Smeele (NZ)
5.Jonty Green (UK)
6.Ben Hitch (UK)
7.James Young (UK)
8.Nick Burton Moore (RSA)
9.Matt Crowhurst (UK)
10.Steve Dyer (UK)
11.Johnny Carne (UK)
12.Sam Carne (UK)
13.Kent James (UK)
14.Lee Debuse (UK)
15.Dan Jordan (UK)
16.Johnny Farley (UK)
17.Eban Escott (AUS)
18.David Coates (IRL)
19.Tim Woodhead (UK)
20.George Newell (UK)

Pro Women Final
1.Jules Haley (UK)
2.Kath Moore (AUS)
3.Jess Hilberry (UK)
4.Sam Filsel (UK)
5.Becky Hall (UK)
6. Sarah Kingdom (UK)

Big Air
Danny Thollander (USA)

Correct Craft Announces Dates For 50th Masters Tournament

By Correct Craft Press Release
Published: August 12, 2008

Email

Orlando, FLA - Correct Craft announced the dates of the 50th Masters Water Ski & Wakeboard Tournament. This prestigious tournament will be held over Memorial Day weekend, May 22-24, 2009, at beautiful Callaway Gardens in Pine Mountain, Georgia.

This year's 49th Masters Water Ski & Wakeboard Tournament was a huge success. The world's top watersports athletes from 14 countries gathered together over Memorial Day weekend for three action-packed days of competition.

While the 49th Masters is over, the 50th Anniversary is right around the corner and the teams at Correct Craft and Callaway Gardens have already begun making big plans to ensure that this exciting milestone is truly spectacular.

"We are excited to once again produce the most prestigious watersports tournament in the world," stated Correct Craft's President/CEO Bill Yeargin. "The Masters Tournament has had a rich heritage for nearly five decades and we intend to make the 50th anniversary celebration bigger and better than ever," added Yeargin.

An invitation to compete in the Masters is universally considered an acknowledgement of achievement for reaching the pinnacle in a given watersports discipline - only the world's most elite athletes compete at the Masters. This tournament is IWSF/USA Water Ski and WWA sanctioned. The prize purse, trophies, rings and special event awards are the largest in the watersports industry and total nearly $150,000. To learn more about the esteemed Masters tournament, visit masterswaterski.com.

Celebrating 83 years of excellence in the marine industry, Correct Craft, Inc. is the producer of the Nautique line of boats. Correct Craft is known for delivering superior quality product, cutting-edge technology and exceptional service experiences. To see the complete line of Nautique boats, visit nautiques.com.

U.S. Nationals - Day 5 of 5

By WSM Press Release
Published: August 12, 2008

Email

Kenosha, Wis. - Today marked the fifth and final day of the 2008 Air Nautique WWA Wakeboard National Championships, presented by Rockstar Energy Drink, where seven national titles were claimed.

In the Pro Men division, five riders battled it out for the national title. Last year's winner, Rusty Malinoski, looked to have a repeat performance in the finals, but Phillip Soven threw down a near perfect run, posting 98 points to take the top spot in the finals and ride away with his first-ever national title. Malinoski finished in second-place followed by Andrew Adkison in third.

"I have won a lot of contests and awards throughout my career, but never a national title, said Soven. "This trophy means a lot. It's a dream come true to finally win it."

Trevor Hansen may not have made it to the finals, but the Florida native did manage to ride away with some extra cash thanks to Rockstar Energy Drink. Hansen was named the winner of the Rockstar Energy Drink Best Trick Award, a $1,000 cash bonus for landing the most impressive trick of the contest, a backside 7 off the Air Force Kicker.

The Pro Women division took to the water in a six-woman final for the national title. Last year's winner, Amber Wing, was looking to have repeat performance in the finals, but proved to be shaky in the previous two rounds, making the top-seeded rider and Queen of Wake Rookie of the Year frontrunner Raimi Merritt the top contender.

But Wing didn't let the seeding or the five other finalists, including Merritt and five-time national champ Dallas Friday, stand in her way, as Wing threw down an impressive run, taking the top spot in the finals, and claimed her second consecutive win at the Nationals.

In the Pro Wakeskate division, four of the biggest names in the sport hit the water for their finals where current national champ Reed Hansen of Groveland, Fla. looked to defend his title against two-time national champion Brian Grubb, 2008 Pro-Am wakeskate winner Stuart Shinn and 2005 Pro Wakeskate Tour titlist Brandon Thomas.

All four shredders threw down some stellar runs despite rugged riding conditions, but, in the end, underdog and Bradenton, Fla. native Stuart Shinn pulled off the upset to take home the 2008 national title, his first of his career. Today's win also marks Shinn's second consecutive win at a King of Wake contest.

The Jr. Men division battled it out on the water in a six-man final for the national title. All eyes were on reigning national champ Jimmy LaRiche of Boca Raton, Fla. as the defending titlist posted perfect scores in the previous two rounds and looked to remain flawless throughout the contest with a watertight run in today's finals.

But windy weather and choppy water conditions caused the Florida native to go down early, costing him points toward his perfect run, but not the title, as his score of 89.50 was high enough to take the top spot in the finals, earning LaRiche his second consecutive national title.

LaRiche's success did not end with today's big win, as the now two-time national champ was named the winner of the PCM Amateur Best Trick Award, a $500 bonus for landing the most impressive trick of the contest by an amateur rider, a Cab 9 off of the double-up.

Danni Petraitis of Redding, Calif. captured the national title in the Jr. Women's Division after claiming the top spot in today's finals. Petraitis and the top-11 riders in the division will now head to the World Championships.

The youngest group of riders out on the water today, the Jr. Boys Division, vied for the national title in a four-man final with Joe Martella of Seguin, Tex. taking the top spot in the finals. Martella, along with the top-eight riders in the division will represent the U.S. at the Worlds.

In the Boys Division, six riders, ages 10-13, battled it out on the water for the top spot in the finals with Kyle Evans of Orlando, Fla. claiming the division's national title. Evans and the top-10 riders in the division will now head to the World Championships.

To catch all the wakeboarding action from home, tune in to FUEL TV. For exact air dates, visit kingofwake.com.

The Air Nautique by Correct Craft is the exclusive tow boat of the WWA Nationals. Celebrating more than 80 years of excellence in the marine industry, Correct Craft is a family-owned manufacturer of internationally acclaimed, competition-caliber water-ski and wakeboard boats, as well as boats for recreational enjoyment. Correct Craft Inc. is known for superior-quality products, cutting-edge technology and innovative hull designs.

WakeBoarding, published by Bonnier Corp., is the official magazine of the Air Nautique WWA Wakeboard National Championships, presented by Rockstar Energy Drink. WakeBoarding is the definitive source on all things wakeboarding, with expert coverage of professional instruction, gear, boats and the latest news.

The Air Nautique WWA Wakeboard National Championships, presented by Rockstar Energy Drink is organized by World Sports & Marketing of Orlando, Fla. The WWA Nationals have the support of the following sponsors: Correct Craft, Rockstar Energy Drink, PCM, Fox, Mona Vie, the U.S. Air Force, Hyperlite, CWB, Gator Boards, Ronix, Oakley, Reef, Cire, WakeWorld.com, wakeboarder.com and theliquidcircus.com.

Sunday, August 10 - Day 5 Results

Pro Men Finals
1. Phillip Soven - 98.00
2. Rusty Malinoski - 82.25
3. Andrew Adkison - 76.50
4. JD Webb - 75.25
5. Adam Errington - 68.00

Pro Women Finals
1. Amber Wing - 90.50
2. Shelby Kantar - 83.00
3. Dallas Friday - 77.75
4. Raimi Merritt - 72.75
5. Melissa Marquardt - 71.00
6. Barrett Perlman - 55.00

Pro Wakeskate Finals
1. Stuart Shinn - 70.00
2. Brian Grubb - 66.67
3. Reed Hansen - 55.00
4. Brandon Thomas - 36.67

Jr. Men (14-18) Finals
1. Jimmy LaRiche - 89.75
2. Robert Soven - 81.50
3. Julian Cohen - 78.50
4. Ryan Anderson - 73.50
5. Steven Cahail - 66.25
6. Steel Lafferty - 60.50

Jr. Women (14-18) Finals
1. Danni Petraitis - 63.33
2. Megan Blaschka - 47.22
3. Holland Finley - 35.56
4. Corrie Dyer - 24.44

Jr. Boys (9 and under) Finals
1. Joe Martella - 60.56
2. Ian Rabon - 50.56
3. Ben Watts - 41.22
4. Quinn Rundall - 31.67

Boys (10-13) Finals
1. Kyle Evans - 72.22
2. Cooper Swink - 65.22
3. Cody Prizer - 62.22
4. Michael Dowdy - 55.00
5. Chad Payton - 52.33
6. Freddie Wayne - 29.44

Pro Men Semifinals (top rider in each heat advances)

Heat #1
1. Adam Errington - 98.50
===
2. Daniel Watkins - 87.00
3. Shawn Watson - 80.00
4. Shaun Murray - 74.50

Heat #2
1. Andrew Adkison - 92.75
===
2. Aaron Rathy - 89.00
3. Corey Bradley - 83.25
4. Danny Thollander - 75.00

Heat #3
1. Rusty Malinoski - 94.00
===
2. Trevor Hansen - 91.50
3. Chris O'Shea - 78.25
4. Erik Ruck - 76.25

Heat #4
1. JD Webb - 95.50
===
2. Olivier Derome - 85.25
3. Bryan Hutton - 82.25
4. Kyle Rattray - 77.00

Heat #5
1. Phillip Soven - 95.50
===
2. Danny Harf - 88.00
3. Adam Fields - 84.50
4. Mikey Ennen - 72.00

U.S. Nationals - Day 4 of 5

By WSM Press Release
Published: August 12, 2008

Email

Kenosha, Wis. - With seven national titles still up for grabs at the 2008 Air Nautique WWA Wakeboard National Championships, presented by Rockstar Energy Drink, the top riders in the United States hit the waters of Lake Andrea at Prairie Springs Park in Pleasant Prairie, Wis. today to vie for a spot in tomorrow's finals.

In the Pro Men's Division, 60 riders battled it out on the water in the quarterfinals, competing in 10 heats of six with only the top-two riders in each heat advancing onto tomorrow's semifinals. Rusty Malinoski, JD Webb and Bryan Hutton all posted perfect scores of 100 points, despite strong winds and choppy water conditions, to lead their heats and move onto to the next round. The three flawless riders will be joined by the 17 other semifinalists tomorrow for the final day of the contest.

"It was just crazy riding conditions today, the wind kept picking-up and the water was just rugged," said Webb. "I just laid down run and stuck my landings and the rest is history."

The Pro Women's Division took to the water today for their semifinals, where last year's National titlist Amber Wing threw down a near perfect run, leading her heat with a score of 97.75, the highest score of the day in her division. Barrett Perlman of Stuart, Fla. and 2007 Pro Tour champ Shelby Kantar of Sacramento, Calif. rounded out the top-three riders, respectively in Wing's heat, claiming three of the six spots in tomorrow's finals.

In the other Pro Women's Division heat, Queen of Wake Rookie of the Year frontrunner Raimi Merritt of Lantana, Fla. upset top-ranked rider and five-time national champ Dallas Friday of Orlando, Fla. for the top spot in her heat. Merritt, Friday and Air Nautique's own Melissa Marquardt of Canyon Lake, Calif. finished in the top-three, respectively in their heat, earning the final three spots in tomorrow's six-woman final.

"Today was the first time this year that I led my heat, so I'm pretty stoked about it," said Merritt. "Taking the lead over Dallas was pretty sweet because now I can sit back for the first couple of runs in the finals and see what tricks the other girls are throwing before I ride."

Current national wakeskate champion Reed Hansen of Groveland, Fla. looked to make a splash out on the water today in the Pro Wakeskate Division semifinals, but windy weather conditions prevented the 2007 world champ from producing a winning run. Hansen finished second in his heat, behind fellow Floridian Brandon Thomas of Orlando.

"Obviously, things could have gone better out there today, but there's not much you can do when the wind kicks up like that," said Hansen. "Brandon threw down today and you can't discredit that either, but hopefully things will go my way in the finals."

As the top-two riders in their heat, both Hansen and Thomas will advance onto tomorrow's finals, where they will face off against two-time national champ Brian Grubb of Nashua, NH and 2008 Pro-Am wakeskate winner Stuart Shinn of Bradenton, Fla. in a four-man final for the 2008 national title.

The youngest group of riders out on the water today, the Jr. Boys Division, held their semifinals, where eight rippers, ages nine and under, competed in two heats of four with only the top-two riders in each heat advancing onto tomorrow's finals. Ben Watts, 9, of Wetumpka, Ala. posted the highest score of the day in his division with a 61.67. Watts and the three other finalists will vie for the division's national title in tomorrow's finals.

In the Boys Division, 10 rippers, ages 10 to 13, battled it out on the water in two heats of five with only the top-three riders from each heat moving onto tomorrow's finals. Kyle Evans, 13, of Orlando, Fla. posted the highest score of the day in his division with 80 points. Evans and the five other riders moving onto the next round will vie for the division's national title in tomorrow's finals.

The nationals will conclude tomorrow, Sunday Aug. 10 beginning at 10 a.m.

The Air Nautique WWA Wakeboard National Championships, presented by Rockstar Energy Drink is a five-day carnival of water-sports action. But not all the action takes place on the water. On land, fans will experience tons of great music and food; athlete autograph signings; chances to win free giveaways; and shopping at the most cutting-edge stores for water-sports equipment including boats, wakeboards, wakeskates, sunglasses and the latest in wakeboarding and surfing fashions. Admission is free and the event will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day.

To catch all the wakeboarding action from home, tune in to FUEL TV. For exact air dates, visit kingofwake.com.

Saturday, August 9 - Day 4 Results

Pro Men Quarterfinals (top two in each heat advance)

Heat #1
1. Bryan Hutton - 100.00
2. Kyle Rattray - 76.75
===
3. Tino Santori - 75.50
4. Josh Palma - 73.75
5. Rob Jacques - 68.00
6. John Rodriguez - 56.00

Heat #2
1. Danny Harf - 96.25
2. Chris O'Shea - 80.25
===
3. Chad Sharpe - 76.75
4. Kevin Henshaw - 75.00
5. Chris Laske - 62.50
6. Austin Hair - 59.25

Heat #3
1. Trevor Hansen - 86.00
2. Adam Fields - 85.50
===
3. Nick Weinacker - 82.75
4. James Hindes - 78.75
5. Andrew Dyrhood - 65.00
6. Brandon Lee - 52.00

Heat #4
1. Andrew Adkison - 94.25
2. Olivier Derome - 93.00
===
3. Marcelo Giardi - 82.75
4. James Feid - 65.25
5. Alex Brown - 64.75
6. Rhett Whatley - NS

Heat #5
1. Adam Errington - 97.25
2. Erik Ruck - 91.25
===
3. Derek Grasman - 77.00
4. Jimmy Trask - 72.25
5. Jeff House - 62.25
6. Witt Finley - NS

Heat #6
1. Shawn Watson - 95.75
2. Corey Bradley - 87.50
===
3. Ben Greenwood - 83.25
4. Joseph Lemburg - 73.50
5. Randall Harris - NS
6. Ryan King - NS

Heat #7
1. Aaron Rathy - 97.25
2. Danny Thollander - 86.50
===
3. Zane Schwenk - 84.25
4. Brett Lee - 69.25
5. Alex Hamrick - 62.75
6. Kelly Volgstadt - NS

Heat #8
1. Rusty Malinoski - 100.00
2. Shaun Murray - 78.25
===
3. AJ Racinelli - 76.75
4. Shane Bonifay - 74.25
5. Kirby Liesmann - 70.75
6. Nick Jones - NS

Heat #9
1. JD Webb - 100.00
2. Mikey Ennen - 77.50
===
3. Jeff Weatherall - 75.75
4. Dean Smith - 74.50
5. Tony Carroll - 62.00
6. Jeff Langley - 60.25

Heat #10
1. Phillip Soven - 98.00
2. Daniel Watkins - 86.75
===
3. Adam Wensink - 79.50
4. Kyle Alberts - 73.50
5. Adam Greer - 62.25
6. Chase Andrews - NS

Pro Women Semifinals (top three in each heat advance)

Heat #1
1. Raimi Merritt - 93.00
2. Dallas Friday - 89.75
3. Melissa Marquardt - 84.75
===
4. Laura Lohrmann - 81.25
5. Shawna Hoffman - 62.00

Heat #2
1. Amber Wing - 97.75
2. Barrett Perlman - 84.00
3. Shelby Kantar - 77.75
===
4. Emily Copeland Durham - 72.00
5. Hayley Smith - 68.50

Pro Wakeskate Semifinals (top two in each heat advance)

Heat #1
1. Brian Grubb - 86.67
2. Stuart Shinn - 70.00
===
3. Joe Phillips - 56.67
4. Jordan Mears - 40.00

Heat #2
1. Brandon Thomas - 66.67
2. Reed Hansen - 58.89
===
3. Darin Wahl - 51.67
4. Lance Duffet - 40.00
5. Gib Gibbons - 30.00

Jr. Boys (9 and under) Semifinals (top two in each heat advance)

Heat #1
1. Ben Watts - 61.67
2. Quinn Rundall - 50.00
===
3. Andrew Starling - 38.33
4. Ryan Benson - 25.00

Heat #2
1. Joe Martella - 60.67
2. Ian Rabon - 46.67
===
3. Guenther Oka - 34.00
4. Nicholas Brown - 23.33

Boys (10-13) Semifinals (top three in each heat advance)

Heat #1
1. Michael Dowdy - 70.00
2. Cody Prizer - 61.78
3. Chad Payton - 54.00
===
4. Robby Holihan - 45.00
5. Blake Payton - 35.67

Heat #2
1. Kyle Evans - 80.00
2. Cooper Swink - 66.67
3. Freddie Wayne - 55.11
===
4. Jarrod Harrison - 43.89
5. Daniel Pate - 36.67

U.S. Nationals - Day 3 of 5

By WSM Press Release
Published: August 12, 2008

Email

Kenosha, Wis. - Fans lined the shores of Lake Andrea at Prairie Springs Park in Pleasant Prairie, Wis. today for the third day of the 2008 Air Nautique WWA Wakeboard National Championships, presented by Rockstar Energy Drink, as most of the pro divisions took to the water for the first at this year's contest.

Highlighting today's festivities was the Pro Women's Division quarterfinals, where the top pro female rippers in the U.S. battled it out on the water in two heats of five. Former national champs Emily Copeland Durham of Denver, Colo. and Dallas Friday of Orlando, Fla. led their respective heats today will now enter tomorrow's semifinals as the top-seeded rider of their heat. Both Copeland Durham and Friday will look to leave current national champ Amber Wing in their wake during the semis, as the Wing also advanced to the next round.

In the Pro Wakeskate Division, the U.S.'s top pro shredders hit the water today for their quarterfinals, where reigning national champ Reed Hansen of Groveland, Fla. appeared to be on track to repeat at the Nationals. Hansen threw down a stellar run, landing him the highest score of the day in his division with a 91.67 and will now enter tomorrow's semifinals as the top-seeded rider.

The Jr. Men's Division battled it out on the water today in the semifinals, where 12 riders competed in three heats of four with only the top-two riders in each heat advancing onto Sunday's finals. Current national champion Jimmy LaRiche of Boca Raton, Fla. continued his dominance at the Nationals today, after posting his second consecutive perfect score of 100 points. LaRiche will enter the six-man final as the top-seeded rider, where we look to claim his second consecutive national title.

11 Of the top amateur female riders, ages 14-18, hit the water today for the Jr. Women Division semifinals. More than half of the competition was sent home packing, as only the top-two riders from the two heats advanced past the semifinal round. Danni Petraitis, Holland Finley, Corrie Dyer and Megan Blaschka will vie for the division's national title in tomorrow's finals.

The youngest riders out on the water today, the Boys Division, kicked off their quarterfinals, competing in five heats with only the top-two riders from each heat advancing onto the next round. Cooper Swink of Canyon Lake, Calif. posted the highest score of the day in the division with 70 points. Swink and the nine other riders moving onto the next round will hit the water in tomorrow's semifinals.

The Men's II Division wrapped-up their finals today with Nick Link of Louisville, Ky. taking home the 2008 national title. Link and the top-five riders in the Men's II Division will now head onto the World Championship next month.

The nationals will continue tomorrow, Saturday Aug. 9 beginning at 9 a.m.

To catch all the wakeboarding action from home, tune in to FUEL TV. For exact air dates, visit kingofwake.com.

Friday, August 8 - Day 3 Results

Mens II (25-29) Finals
1. Nick Link - 58.33
2. Zack Luckett - 47.22
3. Brodie Chaboya - 46.11

Pro Women Quarterfinals (all riders advance)

Heat #1
1. Emily Copeland Durham - 93.25
2. Shelby Kantar - 85.50
3. Melissa Marquardt - 84.75
4. Hayley Smith - 71.00
5. Barrett Perlman - 65.50

Heat #2
1. Dallas Friday - 90.50
2. Raimi Merritt - 90.25
3. Amber Wing - 86.50
4. Laura Lohrmann - 68.50
5. Shawna Hoffman - 64.25

Pro Wakeskate Quarterfinals (all riders advance)

Heat #1
1. Brian Grubb - 89.67
2. Stuart Shinn - 76.67
3. Joe Phillips - 60.00
4. Jordan Mears - 43.44

Heat #2
1. Reed Hansen - 91.67
2. Brandon Thomas - 80.00
3. Gib Gibbons - 66.67
4. Darin Wahl - 56.67
5. Lance Duffet - 46.67

Jr. Men (14-18) Semifinals (top two riders in each heat advance)

Heat #1
1. Julian Cohen - 94.25
2. Robert Soven - 93.00
===
3. Andrew Shearer - 81.25
4. Johnny Tobaben - 71.50

Heat #2
1. Ryan Anderson - 91.00
2. Steel Lafferty - 89.50
===
3. Daniel Powers - 83.50
4. Danny Burnstein - 76.00

Heat #3
1. Jimmy LaRiche - 100.00
2. Steven Cahail - 82.75
===
3. Taylor Kress - 80.75
4. Phillip Aslinger - 76.50

Jr. Women (14-18) Semifinals (top two riders in each heat advance)

Heat #4
1. Danni Petraitis - 76.67
2. Holland Finley - 65.00
===
3. Anna Hajek - 62.00
4. Emylee Wright - 48.33
5. Brittany Arruda - 33.33
6. Jackie Lammert - 30.00

Heat #5
1. Corrie Dyer - 63.33
2. Megan Blaschka - 51.67
===
3. Morgan Cresent - 41.67
4. Victoria Kulp - 30.00
5. Ashley Hughes - 21.67

Boys (10-13) Quarterfinals (top two riders in each heat advance)

Heat #1
1. Freddie Wayne - 55.11
2. Robby Holihan - 47.22
===
3. Morgan Pederson - 31.67
4. Paulie Koch - 26.67

Heat #2
1. Kyle Evans - 60.00
2. Jarrod Harrison - 50.00
===
3. Gus Shuler - 43.89
4. Brandon Canne - 31.67

Heat #3
1. Chad Payton - 55.56
2. Cody Prizer - 51.67
===
3. Jason Soven - 45.00
4. Colin Wirth - 30.56

Heat #4
1. Michael Dowdy - 66.67
2. Daniel Pate - 50.00
===
3. Cody Coffey - 39.44
4. Landon Kasey - NS

Heat #5
1. Cooper Swink - 70.00
2. Blake Payton - 56.33
===
3. Noah Flegel - 54.33
4. Zach Brown - 36.00
5. Ben Prizer - 26.67

U.S. Nationals - Day 2 of 5

By WSM Press Release
Published: August 12, 2008

Kenosha, Wis. - The top wakeboarders and wakeskaters in the United States gathered at Prairie Springs Park in Pleasant Prairie, Wis. today for the second day of the 2008 Air Nautique WWA Wakeboard National Championships, presented by Rockstar Energy Drink, where eight of the 16 national titles were claimed, leaving eight more up for grabs.

Nicholas Rex of Random Lake, Wis. captured a win on hometown waters today, as the local shredder took first-place in the Amateur Wakeskate Division, earning the division's 2008 national title. Rex will now advance onto the World Championships, representing the U.S., along with the top-eight riders in his division.

In the Masters Division, Algonquin, Ill. native Mike Vanpatten upset top-seeded rider Jeff Barton in today's finals to take home the 2008 national title. With today's win, Vanpatten punches his ticket to the Worlds, where he will be joined by the top-10 riders in the Masters Division.

Matt Vermillion of Dublin, OH took the top spot in the Veterans Division today to claim the '08 national title. Vermillion and runner-up Faron Kelsh will both head to the World Championships.

In a six-man final, Nick Whitt of Orlando, Fla. claimed the 2008 national title in the Men's I Division. Whitt and the top-15 riders in the division will head to the Worlds.

The top-four female shredders in the nation hit the water today for the Pro Women Wakeskate Division finals. After everything was said and done, Belle Isle, Fla. native Jennifer GilanFarr was named the 2008 national champ. The 2008 title marks GilanFarr's second consecutive national championship victory, after claiming the Amateur Women's Division title in 2007. GilanFarr will now go onto the Worlds with the top-seven shredders in the division.

The four youngest riders out on the water today, battled it out for the national title in the Girls Divisions. 10-year-old Taylor McCullough of Centralia, Ill. took the top spot in the finals, earning the 2008 national title. McCullough punches her ticket to the Worlds, along with the top-seven riders in the division.

In the Masters Women Division, Allison Blaha of Oceanside, Calif. took the top spot in the finals, while Louisville, Ky. native Erica Dumeyer captured the national title in the Amateur Women's Division. Both riders will advance onto the Worlds.

The Men's II Division hit the water today for their semifinals. Nick Link of Louisville, Ky. paced the division on the day. Link along with Brodie Chaboya and Zack Luckett will vie for the national title in tomorrow's finals.

The Jr. Men's Division hit the water on day two, where 30 riders faced off in six heats of five with only the top-two riders in each heat advancing past the quarterfinal round. Jimmy LaRiche from Boca Raton, Fla. and Phillip Aslinger of Hixson, Tenn. both posted perfect scores of 100 points in their respective heats. Aslinger and LaRiche will both advanced onto tomorrow's semifinals, where they will be joined by 10 other riders.

The nationals will continue tomorrow, Friday Aug. 8 beginning at 10 a.m.

To catch all the wakeboarding action from home, tune in to FUEL TV. For exact air dates, visit kingofwake.com.

Thursday, August 7 - Day 2 Results

Amateur Women (19-29) Finals
1. Erica Dumeyer - 50.00

Girls (13 and under) Finals
1. Taylor McCullough - 68.33
2. Meagan Ethell - 60.00
3. Tori Koch - 50.00
4. Delanie Parker - 31.67

Masters Women (30 and over) Finals
1. Allison Blaha - 65.00
2. Annie Haroldson - 50.00
3. Elizabeth Freeman - 38.33
4. Kat Laird - 28.33

Amateur Wakeskate Finals
1. Nicholas Rex - 70.00
2. Justin Wells - 53.33
3. Matt Hayden - 43.33
4. Clark Becker - 33.33

Pro Women Wakeskate Finals
1. Jennifer GilanFarr - 63.33
2. Lacey Menkin - 43.33
3. Stephanie Wamsley - 30.00
4. Elizabeth Talansky - 11.67

Masters (30 and 39) Finals
1. Mike Vanpatten - 57.22
2. Christopher Full - 51.67
3. Jeff Barton - 48.89
4. Billy Garcia - 20.00

Veterans (40 and over) Finals
1. Matt Vermillion - 50.00
2. Faron Kelsh - 33.33

Men I (18-24) Finals
1. Nick Whitt - 59.44
2. Colt Leonard - 50.00
3. Clayton Underwood - 43.89
4. Fabian Ashley - 42.22
5. Nick Cankar - 30.56
6. Addison Reed - 20.00

Men II (25-29) Semifinals (top three advance)
1. Nick Link - 60.56
2. Brodie Chaboya - 55.56
3. Zack Luckett - 51.11
===
4. Jesse Dunbar - 45.56
5. Jon Klein - 30.56

Jr. Men (14-18) Quarterfinals (top two riders in each heat advance)

Heat #1
1. Steel Lafferty - 96.50
2. Steven Cahail - 93.50
===
3. Nick Galiforte - 74.75
4. Nicholas Mertes - 72.50
5. Jordan Gensler - 62.75

Heat #2
1. Phillip Aslinger - 100.00
2. Danny Burnstein - 85.00
===
3. Eddie Valdez - 78.00
4. JB Oneill - 77.00
5. Will Green - 60.00

Heat #3
1. Robert Soven - 98.00
2. Daniel Powers - 85.50
===
3. Brian Waskevich - 82.00
4. Christopher Perrone - 73.00
5. Sam Baker - 61.50

Heat #4
1. Julian Cohen - 88.50
2. Andrew Shearer - 88.00
===
3. Jacob Valdez - 85.75
4. Gunnar Shuler - 76.00
5. Nathan Borie - 62.25

Heat #5
1. Ryan Anderson - 94.25
2. Johnny Tobaben - 82.00
===
3. Ben Albright - 78.00
4. Pierce Homsey - 76.75
5. Kyle Barmoy - 69.00

Heat #6
1. Jimmy LaRiche - 100.00
2. Taylor Kress - 86.25
===
3. John Zdeblick - 76.00
4. John Jefferies - 70.75
5. David Krause - 67.00

U.S. Nationals - Day 1 of 5

By WSM Press Release
Published: August 12, 2008

Email

Kenosha, Wis. - The top wakeboarders and wakeskaters in the country took to the waters of Lake Andrea at Prairie Springs Park in Pleasant Prairie, Wis. today for the first of five days at the Air Nautique WWA Wakeboard National Championships, presented by Rockstar Energy Drink.

Eight of the 16 divisions battled it out on the water today in the opening-rounds of the contest to begin their journey toward winning a national title and earning a spot on the U.S. roster for the Wakeboard World Championships later this year.

The Amateur Women's Division kicked off the festivities today with Erica Dumeyer of Louisville, Ky. taking the top spot in the semifinals. Dumeyer will look to claim the national title tomorrow in her division's finals.

In the youngest division out on the water today, the Girls Division, seven talented female wakeboarders, ages 13 and under, hit the water for their semifinals with only the top-four riders advancing onto tomorrow's finals. Meagan Ethell of Channahon, Ill. paced the heat today and will be joined by Taylor McCullough, Tori Koch and Delanie Parker in the finals.

The Masters Women division featured seven female rippers, ages 30 and over, with the top-four riders moving on to tomorrow's finals. Kat Laird from Yalaha, Fla. led the division and will face off against Allison Blaha, Annie Haroldson and Elizabeth Freeman in tomorrow's finals.

Rounding out the women's riding, the Pro Women Wakeskate division hit the water for their semifinals with four shredders moving onto tomorrow's finals. Stephanie Wamsley out of Orlando, Fla. led her heat with Jennifer GilanFarr, Elizabeth Talanksy and Lacey Menkin following respectively. All four wakeskaters will go after the national title in the finals.

In the Masters division, 10 riders, ages 30 to 39, took to the water in two heats of five in the semifinals with only the top-two riders from each heat advancing on to tomorrow's finals. Jeff Barton of Moorestown, N.J. and Mike Vanpatten from Algonquin, Ill. both led their heats and will be joined by Chris Full and Billy Garcia in tomorrow's finals.

Nine shredders from throughout the U.S. battled it out in the Amateur Wakeskate division semifinals. More than half of the competition was sent home packing as only four riders advanced on to tomorrow's finals. Clark Becker, Justin Wells, Matt Haydon and local rider Nicholas Rex of Random Lake, Wis. will face off for the national title in tomorrow's finals.

Matt Vermillion and Faron Kelsh will face off in the Veterans division finals tomorrow after both advanced past the semifinals.

In the largest division featured today, the Men I division, 20 took to the water in two heats of seven and one heat of six in the semifinals with only the top two riders from each advancing. Colt Leonard, Fabian Ashley, Clayton Ashley, Nick Whitt, Addison Reed and Nick Cankar will vie for the national title tomorrow in a six-man final.

The Nationals will continue tomorrow, Thursday, August 7, beginning at 10 a.m.

To catch all the wakeboarding action from home, tune in to FUEL TV. For exact air dates, visit kingofwake.com.

Wednesday, August 6 - Day 1 Results

Amateur Women (19-29) Semifinals (all riders advance)
1. Erica Dumeyer - 37.22

Gir