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Wakeboarders go big
Just over 50 boats observe competition
Ryan Buckley of Redmond jumps the wake during the intermediate wakeboarding competition held July 17 during the 13th Annual Sundance Water Sports wakeboarding contest held on the Crooked River Arm of Lake Billy Chinook.
Wakeboarders soared through the air July 17 and spectators let them hear about it on Lake Billy Chinook during the 13th Annual Sundance Water Sports wakeboarding and water ski contest held on the Crooked River Arm.
Just over 50 boats filled with spectators cheered as novice to advanced wakeboarders screamed past them competing for bragging rights and enjoying ideal lake conditions.
"We had great water, great weather and I'm not sure we could have asked for better conditions," said event coordinator Russ Brewer. "We could have used a few more contestants, but overall it was a fantastic event once again."
From 10-year-olds like Ryan Buckley to older riders, the wakeboarding competition featured a wide range of contestants that proved one thing, the bigger the air, the louder the cheers.
Scott Carnes of Vancouver, Wash., competes during the novice wakeboarding competition July 17 held on Lake Billy Chinook. The annual competition takes place the third weekend every July on the Crooked River Arm.
"We were very pleased with the spectator turnout and we have plans to enhance that portion of our event," Brewer said. "People know our contest is the third weekend every July and they plan vacations to come to our event. It's pretty cool."
Culver's own Nick Hagman won the expert class for the second consecutive year. He grew up practicing his tricks on Lake Billy Chinook and it showed.
"Nick can really fly and he is a fantastic wakeboarder," Brewer said.
Scott Carnes was first in novice, Ethan Buchan was the top intermediate wakeboarder and Stephen Schautam was first in the advanced class.
On July 18, water skiers zipped through the slalom course and Brewer took top honors in the men's open class. Joe Johnston won the super novice and C division, while Brad Dahlan won the expert class.
"We draw a wide range of competitors and we invite anyone who can get up on water skis or a wakeboard to compete each year," Brewer said. "We're all about having fun and enjoying the sport."