The Nautique NZ Boards ‘n BBQs Groms Wakeboard Comp was once again held in the Wakeboarding Mecca of Mangakino on Saturday 2nd March 2013.
Thirty riders and their families rocked up at 7.30 on an overcast morning for the riders briefing, a good number of those being Rookies who were about to launch into their competitive wakeboard careers for the very first time.
A new boat sponsor this year saw the young shredders carving it up behind the bright orange Nautique Sport 200 that showed the versatility of a family friendly boat that could be kind to the youngest of novices as well as creating a very nice wake for the Open riders to show their stuff.
Riding started a little after schedule but that didn’t stem the enthusiasm of the first up Rookie girls, one as young as 6 years old, to wipe the sleep out of their eyes and try out the skills they had been working on over the long summer we have been enjoying.
There were some stand out performances on display right through the divisions and it showed that the future of wakeboarding in New Zealand is looking good.
The sun decided to show itself later on in the morning and with the finals run for all divisions in the afternoon, the breeze decided to come to the party as well. Zoe Wilson took out the Rookie Girls with some very tidy riding and superb board control in the tougher conditions. Out of the large group of Rookie boys, Anthony East showed the other competitors the way. Experienced competitor, Tessa Broadbent won the much deserved first place in the Intermediate Girls division, while young up and coming Ethan Kelland was giving his older brother Zak a lesson by taking out first place in Intermediate Boys.
In the Advanced division, riders who were capable of one invert or 360 spin saw Francesco Hazelwood crank out both his back roll and 360 spin to take first place over Morgan Haakma who showed that toe side spins and switch riding can certainly rake up the points from the judges. First time competitor Lachlan Glass in close third showed off his massive Tantrum, this is one kid to watch out for in the future.
The fun and flavour of the event was obvious from all riders in the Open Division, each starting their run with the infamous ‘Fashion Air’ as their first trick bringing cheers and applause from the crowd. This was followed by some sublime riding by Dan Tingey throwing his now trademark Crow mobe only to be out done by the ever improving Regan Carlyon showing all the tricks and steeze to take the honours. Stand out riding by Taylor Rooney took third place ahead of Sophie Schollum and Brad Haakma.
The event was certainly a long enjoyable day. Families just kicked back and enjoyed the warm weather while the commentary of Jesse James Cassrels entertained as well as informed the crowd – including getting everyone, including the Motor home retirees to join in on attempting the Harlem Shake. (soon to be out on Vimeo…)
The organisers would like to thank all riders and their families, sponsors and volunteers for once again supporting the event. Proceeds from the event will be donated to the development squad of young talent in New Zealand Wakeboarding.
By Warren Haakma
Results of the 2013 NautiquesNZ Boards n’ BBQ’s Groms Wakeboard Comp.
Rookie Girls
1st place Zoe Wilson
2nd place Emma Jerkovic
3rd place Gracie McFarlane
Rookie Boys
1st place Anthony East
2nd place Kayde Barber
3rd place Cruz Morland
Intermediate Girls
1st place Tessa Broadbent
2nd place Sophie Gallon
3rd place Georgia Collard
Intermediate Boys
1st place Ethan Kelland
2nd place Trent Tingey
3rd place Zak Kelland
Advanced Division
1st place Francesco Hazelwood
2nd place Morgan Haakma
3rd place Lachlan Glass
Open Division
1st place Regan Carlyon
2nd place Dan Tingey
3rd place Taylor Rooney
Best Crash Dylan Walker
Ronix Most Promising Rider Kayde Barber