If you weren’t at the Speedo Wakeboard UK National Championships this weekend then you missed some of the best Wakeboarding the UK has ever seen.
But don’t panic Media 14 were on hand to film all the action, and you can catch the programme on Channel 4 on Saturday October 2nd. Watch this space for more information on timings. Also check out the next edition of Wakeboard & Waterski Magazine the Nationals official media partner.
Event Report:
The weather threatened to spoil the day, but the gods must have enjoyed the action as the rain never came and over 3000 descended on to the banks of Thorpe Lakes Arena (JB Waterski) throughout the weekend to check out the Worlds fastest growing board sport and they were not disappointed.
Riders from Australia, New Zealand, Argentina and South Africa took on the British contingent for the $10,000 cash purse but the Brits came out on top on their home turf. Louise Moore claimed her 5th consecutive Nationals Pro title, ahead of rivals Will Christien and Argentinean Robbie Rendo. The Men’s Pro competition was a two horse race between Dan Nott and Ben Hitch. They both excelled themselves with the best rides of their competitive lives landing 900’s off the Double Up. Dan Nott came out on top to take back the National title and prize money. They both head to the World Championships in Seville (October 15th-17th) and if they ride like they did at the weekend, will undoubtedly make the finals. South African Pro Rider Matt Lammers took the 3rd podium spot.
The junior competitions also produced some awesome riding and gave an insight into the future of British Wakeboarding. James Young confirmed his place on top of the boys division and will also head to the World Championships in October. Matt Price came out on top in the Junior Men’s competition and Nicola Butler, just 11 years of age, shone on the top of the podium as the new Junior Girls Champion. Layla Eyre took her first step into the Women’s Pro competition and although not making the podium, at just 14 years of age, she is a rising star of British Wakeboarding.
This year the Nationals added Wakeskating to its line up. The latest board spin-off which takes it’s inspiration from skateboarding and surfing. Terry Hannon was crowned the first Wakeskate National Champion with Matt Crowhurst 2nd.
Many thanks to our title sponsor Speedo, associate sponsor’s Wakeboard UK, Mastercraft Boats, Vans, Red Bull, and media partners Wakeboard & Waterski Magazine and Channel 4, for making the event such a success.
For information about the 2005 National Wakeboard Championships or Dan Nott and Louise Moore, please contact Anna Cooper @ Form Talent on 0207 307 3180. www.formtalent.com
