NEW BRAUNFELS, Texas (July 15) – The Texas Wakeboard Tour will kick off the 2005 series, Saturday, July 30, at the Texas Ski Ranch in New Braunfels, Texas. The event will feature the top wakeboarders and wakeskaters from across the state competing for cash and prizes in four separate divisions – Advance Riders, Expert Riders, Outlaw (Pro) Riders and Wakeskate.
In only its second year, the Texas Wakeboard Tour is well on its way to becoming the premiere series for competitors and fans throughout the state. Strong media partnerships with major alternative radio stations and print including national industry magazine, Alliance Wakeboard, is helping take this grass-roots series to the next level.
"Having the support of the wakeboard community along with great sponsors and media partners has helped make these events what they are," said organizer, Bill Geiger. "Its one thing to throw a party, but it’s another to be able to invite everybody and show them a good time. That’s what we’re doing here. In addition to giving all the riders a vehicle to compete and showcase their talent, we also want to bring out new fans and see how impressed they are by the talent these riders exhibit. It’s definitely an extreme sport and it’s awesome to watch in person."
Major sponsors include Nissan North America, returning as the official automotive sponsor, and Mastercraft Boats, which pull the competitors. They are joined by the U.S. Air Force and Chipotle Restaurants. The series is also supported by a long list of industry sponsors including Kicker Audio, Liquid Force, Da Hui Clothing, LoveSac, Krown Wakeboards, Reef, Spy Optic, KMC Wheels, Ten 80 Clothing, Blue Moon Cinema, Wake Specialties, Straightline, Indo Board, Fox Racing, O’Brien, Wake Culture, One West and Red Bull.
"There’s a lot of talent coming out of Texas right now, both wakeboarders and wakeskaters," Geiger said. "Several riders who competed in the Texas Tour last year are now competing nationally on the Pro Tour and there is a host of other riders in who probably could be."
In addition to the wakeboard competition, action on the water will include Sky Ski "Big Air" demonstrations; sponsored by the U.S. Air Force. Off the water there will be interactive sponsor displays, a vendor area, rider autograph signings, product giveaways, raffles and games for the whole family. Food and drink will also be available at the on-site restaurant/bar.
Gates open to the public at 8 a.m. with action getting underway at 9 a.m. The Texas Ski Ranch is located at 6700 I-35 North in New Braunfels, approximately half way between San Antonio and Austin. More information is available at www.texaswakeboardtour.com.
