EXCITING 2013 SA WAKEBOARDING CHAMPIONSHIPS TAKE PLACE IN CAPE TOWN
05 Apr 2013
Reaching thrilling new heights and world-class standards, South Africa’s top wake boarders wowed spectators at the recent South African Pro Wakeboard and Wakeskate Tour and SA Championships 2013 - held at Milnerton Aquatic Club in Cape Town (March 23rd & 24th).
This was the culmination of a three-part series of competitions held at different venues around the country. The first round took place at the Emerald Resort and Casino in Vanderbijlpark in February followed by the 2nd leg in Port Elizabeth early in March (2nd & 3rd).
Fierce rivalry between 58 riders - from novices through Masters to skilful Pro riders - produced breathtaking manoeuvres and made for spectacular viewing. Riders battled it out to accumulate points in each round which were brought forward into this exciting final.
At stake the ultimate title – SA Champion and a chance to qualify for selection in the South African team which is to compete in the prestigious World Championships in Korea later this year. 32 countries will take part.
Friday’s practise day saw competitors making adjustments and perfecting their skills which were to be tested the next day. While they had to contend with wind on Saturday riders each had two rounds and four passes in which to achieve their maximum scores.
The popular Pro Riders attracted loads of attention as tensions exploded in spectacular style - into superb world-class performances featuring awesome S-Bends, Whirlybirds, Off-Axis 540’s, Tootsi Rolls, Raileys and front flips.
Winds reaching up to 45kms an hour on Sunday sadly put an end to this exciting competition and the final points were tallied. A delighted Shaun Faccio (Vaal) was crowned SA’s Pro Champion 2013 with Dylan Mitchell in second place and Ryan Duhram third.
Club Marine-sponsored Justin Selby excelled in the Masters Division coming 2nd ahead of Darryn Ridgway. Jono Joseph took top honours in this class.
