World Wake Association – Wakeboarding Mag https://www.wakeboardingmag.com Wakeboarding Magazine covers the latest in wakeboarding gear, videos, tips, photos, boats, news, and so much more. Mon, 11 Sep 2023 15:06:42 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.2 https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/uploads/2021/09/wkb-favicon.png World Wake Association – Wakeboarding Mag https://www.wakeboardingmag.com 32 32 Teunissen, Kell, and Flegel Crowned World Champs in Portugal https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/news/teunissen-kell-and-flegal-crowned-world-champs-in-portugal/ Mon, 11 Sep 2023 14:18:28 +0000 https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/?p=58065 2023 Nautique WWA Wakeboard World Championships presented by GM Marine take place in Ferreira do Zezere.

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The Nautique WWA Wakeboard World Championships presented by GM Marine jumped across the pond to the scenic destination of Ferreira do Zezere, Portugal with one of the most coveted titles of the competitive season on the line. Taking the global event to a location outside the US gives the event the international flair that comes with any World Championship event, but getting the majority of the riders that typically spend their time in the US or Australia can be challenging.

Winners at 2023 Worlds
Zahra Kell (AUS) won the World title, Wakeboard World Series overall title and Nautique Wake Series overall title. Kell is flanked by Meagan Ethell (USA) and Mary Morgan Howell (USA), who garnered second and third places respectively. Courtesy World Wake Association

The last major boat event of the year for all divisions typically wraps up with the Worlds, boasting 23 separate divisions across 3 different disciplines. Wakeboarding, wakeskating and the latest craze of foiling pulled competitors from all over the world to compete in amateur and pro divisions. 

Nautique athlete and perennial favorite to win any event when he is healthy, Cory Teunissen pinned down another huge win in a career full of competitive accomplishments, however this one was a little different. Teunissen battled a shoulder injury for what seemed like an eternity, then upon recovery suffered an ankle injury that put a massive hiccup in an otherwise successful yet difficult return-to-form. 

Winners of the foil division
Noah Flegel won first in both the Strapped and Strapless foil divisions. Sharing the podium are Brian Grubb (left) and Alex Hayes (right). Courtesy Noah Flegel

Reflecting on the win Teunissen shared, “My family and a bunch of good friends were there so I had a huge amount of support. And to come out with the win everything kinda just hit at once. This one sits a little closer to my heart, that’s for sure.”

Zahra Kell continued her triumphant return to wakeboarding competition by securing her third event win of the season as well as the overall Nautique Wake Series and the WWA World Series. Taking time away from a sport that is constantly progressing has proven to be difficult for top athletes but Kell’s 3 year hiatus seems to have only strengthened her ability to reach the top spot on the podium. Her ability to lay down technical handle-pass inverts when it counts has been her M.O. this year and finishing off her winning run with a perfectly landed tantrum to blind was very apropos.

Read Next: GM Marine Set to Support the 63rd Nautique Masters Water Ski & Wakeboard Tournament

Cory Teunissen after winning the title
Cory Teunissen, who earned the World Title, and the 2023 Nautique Wake Series overall title. Courtesy World Wake Association

Mr. Everything Noah Flegel took another two World Champion titles by winning both the Strapped and Strapless foil divisions. There is not another multi-discipline who can compete at the highest levels in the world like he can. Wakeboard, wakesurfer, or foil, it all looks completely natural and fluid while also pushing the limits of what can be done. Whatever the next sideways-standing trend is, one can count on Flegel picking it up at inhuman speed.

It seems fitting that the two new Pro division World Champions are from Australia where Nautique and the WWA announced next year’s World Championships will be held. Many of the Australian legendary athletes have lobbied to have the event return to their home country. For the first time in 20 years, their efforts will pay off in the Gold Coast, a well known hotbed of wakeboarding and water sports activity.

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WWA Wakeboard National Championships and Wakesurf National Championships 2023 https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/news/wwa-wakeboard-national-championships-wakesurf-national-championships-2023/ Wed, 09 Aug 2023 18:14:19 +0000 https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/?p=58015 Over 61 National Champions crowned: Rapa, Kell, Hansen and Flegal win pro divisions.

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There is nothing like competing for a National title whether you are a pro looking to cement your career in the record books or an amateur wanting to stack up against those in your category. The ability to put those skills to the test on the waters of Robin Lake at Callaway Gardens, the same venue as the prestigious Master Waterski and Wakeboard tournament, is the cherry on top. The WWA Wakeboard National Championships as well as the Nautique USA National Wakesurf Championship each presented by GM Marine produced the largest athlete participant pool in recent history with over 61 divisions crowning a National Champion over the weekend.

Nic Rapa on the podium
Nic Rapa (center) defended his title from 2023. Rapa is flanked by Cory Teunnissen (left) who took second and Sam Brown (right) who earned the number three spot. Courtesy Nic Rapa

“There was a definite buzz this year. New faces and full fields in traditionally underrepresented fields,” observed Corrie Wilson, Executive Director at the WWA (World Wake Association). “This was the first year we separated Surf and Skim divisions for wakesurfing and the inaugural National Championship for foiling.” 

Nic Rapa returned to form to take the win for the Pro Men Wakeboard division. When he is healthy and landing his runs that are consistent and filled with double flips, heavy springs and mobe 5s spinning each direction, he is difficult to beat. Cory Teunessin‘s first event back after injury served him well to land a podium spot but the trick of the weekend goes to Sam Brown with the first ever mute double mobe off the double in a traditional boat contest. He has landed it for double-up specific events, but never as a part of a scored run. 

Zahra Kell on the podium
Zahra Kell (center) took top honors, Meagan Ethell (left) earned Second Place and Eugenia De Armas (right) from Argentina locked in Third Place. Courtesy Zahra Kell

Zahra Kell returned to competitive wakeboarding after taking a hiatus, only to stomp technical tricks like a (first for her in a contest) heelside backside 540 and a Dum-Dum. Meagan Ethell is always a favorite but with an early fall, she had to show her experience and keep it together to finish strong for a 2nd place spot.

Noah Flegel added 3 more eagles (the traditional Nationals trophy) to his collection with a win in the Pro Surf discipline as well as both the Strapped and Strap-less divisions of Pro Foil. A true entertainer on any water toy, Flegel landed airs, spins and flips (Strapped Foil) while making it all look like it is supposed to. 

Reed Hansen took home his 11th National title in Pro Wakeskate, holding off Brian Grubb. This is Hansen’s first Nationals win as a new dad and he mentioned that he now has a “flock of eagles in my guestroom”. He now has one eagle to protect each one of his World Championship trophies. 

The partnership with Wake-for-Warriors is one that the WWA and Nautique Boats are proud of as they all help to get wounded veterans to Pine Mountain, GA to compete in the adaptive divisions. Nate Hamilton, Tyler Densford, Connor Gatlin, and Matt Hanon took the wins in the various surf and wake divisions, inspiring onlookers and fellow competitors. 

The WWA World Series final stop will be the Nautique WWA World Championships presented by GM Marine in Portugal at the end of the month. 

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2022 WWA Wake Park World Championships Presented by Nautique Boats https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/news/2022-wwa-wake-park-world-championships-nautique/ Thu, 13 Jan 2022 18:14:53 +0000 https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/?p=57127 Championship headed to Liquid Leisure Windsor.

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Wake Park World Championships
The 2022 Wake Park World Championships heads to London. Courtesy WWA

The World Wake Association (WWA) and Liquid Leisure are excited to announce 2022 WWA Wake Park World Championships presented by Nautique Boats is heading to one of the most iconic and progressive wake parks in the World, Liquid Leisure Windsor in the U.K. With Liquid Leisure and it’s Plastic Playgrounds event being widely respected by the athletes, this Wake Park World Championship event is no doubt set to be one of the most anticipated wake park events of the season.

“The WWA is looking forward to this partnership with Liquid Leisure,”  says WWA president Shannon Starling, “We are combining the coveted WWA Wake Park World Championships with the premier, sport-changing Plastic Playgrounds. We pride ourselves working with athletes and creative organizers that support a constantly evolving sport. This is what Liquid Leisure and Plastic Playgrounds brings to the table. This is a game changer.”
 
The 2022 WWA Wake Park World Championships presented by Nautique Boats will no doubt showcase the most progressive and impressive riding of the season as riders from around the globe make the journey to Liquid Leisure in hopes of bringing home a WWA World title and a piece of the $40,000 prize purse.

Stuart Marston, founder of Plastic Playground and Managing Director of Liquid Leisure stated, “This is a fantastic opportunity to work with the World Wake Association to put together the biggest event in cable wakeboarding since COVID-19. We have missed seeing all of the elite athletes together over the last two years and look forward to welcoming both them and the rest of the world back to London, England in July 2022”.

The WWA’s mission is to progress wake sports at both an individual and global level. We encourage parks from around the globe to bring their teams to Liquid Leisure for a chance to earn their parks’ 2022 World Title.  

The 2022 WWA Wake Park World Championships presented by Nautique Boats will also serve as a stop on the 2022 WWA Wake Park World Series (WPWS).

What:   
2022 WWA Wake Park World Championships Presented by Nautique Boats

When:    
July 14-17, 2022

Where:    
Liquid Leisure Windsor
Windsor, England

Registration:    
Registration coming soon!

All riders must have current WWA membership to be eligible to compete.

About Nautique Boat Company: Nautique is celebrating its 96th anniversary of delivering excellence in the marine industry. A subsidiary of Correct Craft, Nautique has been on the waters of the world with a passion for innovation since 1925. Delivering the very best waterski, wakeboard and wakesurf boats on the market, Nautique continues to drive progression with their award-winning technology and dedication to building the highest-quality boats imaginable. New technology, performance innovations and attention to detail are the cornerstones of what makes the Nautique brand the industry leader. Through the Nautique Cares initiative, employees and athletes dedicate themselves to not only making a difference on the water, but to extend their support to people in need around the world. The world’s best ski boat, world’s best wake boat, and a company that cares. To learn more visit Nautique.com

About The WWA: Developed for riders by riders, the World Wake Association stands as a global network of passionate representatives dedicated to the growth of wakesports. Since 1989 our mission and values remain true to the core of our community. Our position as the authority on competitive standards has been earned through consistent development; sanctioning and producing more than 15,000 worldwide events and counting. We are the only organization solely focused on the best interests of the sport, spearheading a collective movement on the journey to discover where wake takes you. The WWA owns and operates the WWA Wakeboard World Series, WWA Wake Park World Series, WWA Wakeboard National Championships, WWA Wake Park National Championships, WWA Wakeboard World Championships, WWA Wake Park World Championships, WWA Wake Park Triple Crown, WWA Pro Card and WWA Rider Experience. For more information on the World Wake Association, check out www.thewwa.com.

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2018 Nautique Wake Series Schedule https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/2018-nautique-wake-series-schedule/ Wed, 20 Dec 2017 07:06:15 +0000 https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/?p=55765 (December 18, 2017) – The World Wake Association (WWA) and Nautique Boat Company are excited to announce the 2018 Nautique Wake Series, set to include five of the world’s most prestigious WWA Wakeboard World Series (WBWS) events. Towed exclusively behind the 4X Wakesurf and 5X Wakeboard Boat of the Year, the Super Air Nautique G23, […]

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2018 Nautique Wake Series Nautique

(December 18, 2017) – The World Wake Association (WWA) and Nautique Boat Company are excited to announce the 2018 Nautique Wake Series, set to include five of the world’s most prestigious WWA Wakeboard World Series (WBWS) events. Towed exclusively behind the 4X Wakesurf and 5X Wakeboard Boat of the Year, the Super Air Nautique G23, each season the Nautique Wake Series delivers the absolute pinnacle of wake competition. The world’s top professional athletes continue to return to this series as a career-defining platform to showcase progression and define themselves as the sport’s elite. A dedication to rider development and a family-friendly environment has made the Nautique Wake Series home to athletes competing in all WWA professional and amateur divisions, continuing a tradition that puts riders first.

“Every year the Nautique Wake Series includes the world’s most amazing events behind the world’s best boat. It brings everyone in wakeboarding together from pro riders to amateurs making each stop a world-class event and family reunion combined. After a delayed start last season, I’m striving for the overall title and I’m excited for another year of seeing everyone push the sport,” said Nautique Athlete and defending Nautique WWA Wakeboard World Champion Meagan Ethell.

The 2018 season will include the most epic lineup of all-time with the inclusion of watersport’s most legendary events. The Nautique Wake Series and WWA WBWS will once again kick off the season at the world’s most spectated watersports event, the Nautique Moomba Masters in Melbourne, Australia. Stop two lands in the beautiful tropical paradise of Cancun, Mexico for the Nautique Wake Open presented by Rockstar Energy. Stop three will see the Nautique Wake Series and WWA WBWS include the Nautique Masters Waterski & Wakeboard Tournament held each year at Callaway Gardens in Pine Mountain, GA for the first time ever, combining the world’s most prestigious event with the world’s elite wake series. Riders will have the opportunity to battle it out for a Masters invitation at the Nautique Masters Wakeboard LCQ held in Orlando, Florida. Stop four will arrive on the west coast in Monroe, WA for the Nautique WWA Wakeboard National Championships presented by Rockstar Energy. The fifth and final stop will take us to Miyoshi City, Japan for the Nautique WWA Wakeboard World Championships.

Pro Men, Pro Women, Jr. Pro Men and Pro Wakeskate athletes compete throughout the season with over $30,000 (USD) in additional overall prize money on the line for the overall Nautique Wake Series title. The Nautique WWA Wakeboard World Championships will crown WWA World Champions, Nautique Wake Series Overall Champions and WWA Wakeboard World Series Overall Champions.

2018 NAUTIQUE WAKE SERIES SCHEDULE:

Stop #1: Nautique Moomba Masters
March 7th-12th in Melbourne, Australia (WWA-WBWS)

Stop #2: Nautique Wake Open
April 19th-21st in Cancun, Mexico (WWA-WBWS)

– Nautique Masters Wakeboard LCQ –
April 28th in Orlando, Florida (WWA-WBWS)

Stop #3: Nautique Masters Water Ski & Wakeboard Tournament
May 25th-27th in Pine Mountain, Georgia (WWA-WBWS)

Stop #4: Nautique WWA U.S. Wakeboard National Championships
July 25th-28th in Monroe, Washington (WWA-WBWS)

Stop #5: Nautique WWA Wakeboard World Championships
August 30th-September 2nd in Miyoshi City, Japan (WWA-WBWS)

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Guenther Oka, Julia Rick, and Anna Nikstad Reign Supreme at the 2017 WWA Wake Park World Championships Presented by Nautique Boats https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/guenther-oka-julia-rick-and-anna-nikstad-reign-supreme-at-2017-wwa-wake-park-world-championships/ Tue, 03 Oct 2017 21:55:21 +0000 https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/?p=48352 Camarines Sur, Philippines (October 1, 2017) – The Camsur Watersports Complex (CWC) provided the perfect destination for the 2017 WWA Wake Park World Championships presented by Nautique Boats. The final day of action showcased every feature to its full potential, leaving no question that CWC remains home to the most amazing riding in the world […]

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2017 WWA Wake Park World Championships WWA

Camarines Sur, Philippines (October 1, 2017) – The Camsur Watersports Complex (CWC) provided the perfect destination for the 2017 WWA Wake Park World Championships presented by Nautique Boats. The final day of action showcased every feature to its full potential, leaving no question that CWC remains home to the most amazing riding in the world right here in paradise. Perfect weather kept the action moving all day long as the world’s best threw down in the most progressive finals in ever.

Guenther Oka (USA) remains the champ-champ, once again taking World Titles in both Pro Men’s Traditional and Features Only divisions. In Traditional, Oka proved that he is masterful in his tricks, style and strategy, utilizing his diverse skill set to drop hammers in every part of the course. Off the kickers, Oka threw his signature indy Pete Rose right off the dock and backed it up with a stale T/S B/S 720 that seemed as if he was never going to let go of the grab. His rail hits are nothing short of flawless with big, locked on 270 transfers for days. In the corners, he hit a 313, tail front-to-blind, mobe 540, and a KGB. In Features Only, perfect strategy saw him add a big H/S B/S 900 off the kickers and a massive 270 transfer to lock onto the top of the creeper box coming out the hard way for the win.

“I’m stoked to be back at CWC for year number two and to be standing on top of the podium next to these legends. A big thanks goes to the WWA and CWC for putting on this amazing event along with my sponsors and everyone out here pushing the sport and keeping it real. I’ll see you guys next year!” said DOUBLE 2017 Wake Park World Champion Guenther Oka.

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2017 WWA Wake Park World Championships WWA

Defending Champ Julia Rick (GER) couldn’t be shaken in the Pro Women’s Traditional final, coming back after a first trick fall as the only female rider to hit a 90210 all week. She went on to land a solid switch 270-F/S 270 out on the firecracker rail and a B/S 720 off the kicker. With consistent, dominating performances and the constant pursuit to push herself beyond what has ever been done, Julia has solidified herself to be considered currently the best female wakeboarder in the world.

“I’m just beyond stoked to become the World Champion for the fifth time in a row and I want to thank the WWA and CWC for organizing this event along with all my sponsors, my family, and everyone that supports me. Thank you very much!” said 2017 Pro Women’s Traditional WWA Wake Park World Champion Julia Rick.

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2017 WWA Wake Park World Championships WWA

Anna Nikstad (USA) shocked the world, becoming the first ever female rider to land a Pete Rose 540 in competition during the Pro Women’s Features final to take the title. Stylish rail hits that included a front board-rail2rail- B/S 270-B/S 450 out highlighted an incredible run that kept the crowd on their feet. Her intimate knowledge of every feature and legit style came into play and makes her a fan favorite every time she hits the water.

“It’s been a good season! I’d like to thank everyone who supported me this year and all the ladies who killed it this weekend. Thank you to CWC and Governor Migz, the WWA and everyone who made this possible,” said 2017 Pro Women’s Features WWA Wake Park World Champion Anna Niksatd.

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2017 WWA Wake Park World Championships WWA

Andrew Pastura (USA) killed it for the win in Pro Wakeskate, starting off with a bigshuv off the kicker into a F/S shuv onto the long john wall, and a boardslide-F/S bigspin out on the creeper coping. He hit a switch front bigspin and a frontside flip in the flats and a bigspinfront board on the flat bar. Keeping his video part worthy run going, he hit a B/S flip to switch F/S flip in the corner and stomped a 360 shuv stalefish for the win. All three podium finishers had amazing, stand-up runs that could have taken down any contest on any given day and we were privileged to have the opportunity to witness it.”I love coming out here, meeting new people and new wakeskaters. It’s always sick to get to hang around a few extra days. It’s an awesome place to come and I want to thank everyone who put this event together; Gov. Migz, the WWA and everyone who supports this,” said 2017 Pro Wakeskate WWA Wake Park World Champion Andrew Pastura.

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2017 WWA Wake Park World Championships WWA

The 2017 WWA Wake Park World Championships was the fourth stop of the WWA Wake Park World Series (WPWS), held in paradise at the amazing Camsur Watersports Complex. To book your trip to CWC and see everything of the Camurines Sur, Philippines has to offer, visit www.cwcwake.com.

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Malibu Lake Biwa Pro Concludes 2017 Season https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/malibu-lake-biwa-pro-concludes-2017-season/ Tue, 19 Sep 2017 12:00:00 +0000 https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/?p=55048 Shiga, Japan (September 18, 2017) – A dramatic day of action concluded the 2017 WWA Wakeboard World Series (WBWS) and Malibu Evolution Pro Series at day three of the Malibu Lake Biwa Pro presented by Rockstar Energy. The residual winds of Typhoon Talim, which passed by parts of Japan’s coast late last week resulted in […]

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MALIBU LAKE BIWA PRO CONCLUDES 2017 WWA WAKEBOARD WORLD SERIES AND MALIBU EVOLUTION PRO SERIES IN SHIGA, JAPAN Rodrigo Donoso

Shiga, Japan (September 18, 2017) – A dramatic day of action concluded the 2017 WWA Wakeboard World Series (WBWS) and Malibu Evolution Pro Series at day three of the Malibu Lake Biwa Pro presented by Rockstar Energy. The residual winds of Typhoon Talim, which passed by parts of Japan’s coast late last week resulted in challenging conditions throughout the day. With the highest stakes of the 2017 season on the line, riders were forced to treat each run as if it were the very moment that could decide their season’s fate.

A priority of rider safety due to the distant storm’s effect on the course brought the entire series down to semifinal performances. After exhausting all options and available waiting periods; as fate would have it the already storybook nature of the semi’s would indeed become the final round of the 2017 season. Heats were stacked in a way that created the most dynamic of scenarios with WBWS points leader Harley Clifford (AUS) and Mike Dowdy (USA) together with heavy hitter Raph Derome (CDN) in heat four. Professionalism and the spirit of a true warrior of wake shined as Clifford secured his 2017 title with intelligent riding and amazing determination. Raph Derome (CDN) proved to be the dark horse, coming through once again, to place just ahead of Dowdy through the chop. Mike Dowdy (USA) displayed tactical composure from the dock to the water taking third in the heat and the overall 2017 WWA WBWS. Nic Rapa (USA) took the win in heat three, earning him second overall for the WWA WBWS season.

“I honestly can’t believe I’m standing up here. Watching from the sidelines last year due to injury I knew that I had to come back better than I left and I’m just so happy it all went my way. Thank you to all the boys who pushed me all season long, the WWA for putting on these awesome events and to all my sponsors!” said 2017 WWA Wakeboard World Series Champion Harley Clifford.

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2017 WWA Wakeboard World Series Champion Harley Clifford Rodrigo Donoso

On the Malibu Evolution Pro Series standings, Nic Rapa’s consistency all season long led him to the overall win followed by Noah Flegal (USA) in second and Harley Clifford in third. The 2017 Malibu Evolution Pro Series was comprised of three WWA WBWS stops in 2017 with the Malibu Factory Smoky Mountain Pro, the Malibu Vienna Pro and the Malibu Lake Biwa Pro. Towed exclusively behind the world-class Malibu M235, the Malibu Evolution Pro Series takes wake to new, beautiful locations each year with a growing international fan base.

“It’s really been an unreal year and I can’t thank everyone enough. Thank you to my sponsors, the WWA and all of the fans that come out to support us and the sport of wakeboarding. This has been the most insane year with the level of riding higher than it’s ever been and I’m so stoked to be a part of it and take home the Evolution Pro Series win,” said 2017 Malibu Evolution Pro Series Champion Nic Rapa.

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2017 Malibu Evolution Pro Series Champion Nic Rapa Rodrigo Donoso

The Pro Women’s 2017 WWA Wakeboard World Series season was absolutely on fire. As the bar was continuously raised in every round, we saw these world-class athletes dig deep in an incredibly close race for the overall title. In the end, consistency reaped the rewards as we brought the most progressive season in history to a close.

Taylor McCullough (USA) won her first WWA Wakeboard World Series title, making it through to every final round of the 2017 season. Leading the WBWS standings all season long, Jamie Lopina (USA) finished second overall followed by Meagan Ethell (USA) in third who charged back from injury with insane riding and big finishes.

“It’s an honor to be standing up here with these girls who killed it all year long and it’s a dream come true to win my first ever Wakeboard World Series title. Thank you to my sponsors, the WWA and everyone who had a part in putting on these amazing events!” said 2017 WWA Wakeboard World Series Overall Champion Taylor McCullough.

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2017 WWA Wakeboard World Series Overall Champion Taylor McCullough Rodrigo Donoso

Nicola Butler (USA) continued her undefeated reign on the Malibu Evolution Pro Series this season, taking home her second consecutive overall win. Butler has not lost an Evolution Pro event in the last two seasons with a go for broke approach that found her on top of the podium with amazing riding that just keeps getting better and better. Meagan Ethell (USA) took the overall podium in second followed my Malibu team rider Tarah Mikacich (USA) in third.

“I’m so honored to be here taking my second Evolution Pro Series win and to have the chance to compete with these awesome ladies all season long. Something about me and these Malibu Evolution Pro Series events just works and I can’t wait for next year!” said 2017 Malibu Evolution Pro Series Champion Nicola Butler.

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2017 Malibu Evolution Pro Series Champion Nicola Butler Rodrigo Donoso

The 2017 WWA Wakeboard World Series hosted the most intense competition in our sport’s history with eight worldwide stops that set a new standard in wake once thought to be impossible. A close title race all season long brought each event down to intense final rounds, giving fans a front row seat to the most rapid progression in watersports. Double flips, wake-to-wake 1080’s and mobe 720’s once considered impossible have now become a necessity for any athlete hoping to make it on a Pro WWA Wakeboard World Series podium.

“The WWA is honored to have the most talented athletes in the world representing our sport and to work with our amazing partners in continuing to grow wake around the globe. Each year we take the next step in delivering the highest level of competition and 2017 has been beyond anything we had ever dreamed,” said WWA President Shannon Starling. “There has never been a more exciting time in wake and our passionate team is looking forward to 2018 as we continue to inspire new people to begin the journey to discover where wake can take us.”

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The Malibu M235 at Lake Biwa Pro Rodrigo Donoso

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Mike Dowdy and Nicola Butler Win the 2017 Malibu Vienna Pro Presented by Rockstar Energy https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/mike-dowdy-and-nicola-butler-win-2017-malibu-vienna-pro-presented-by-rockstar-energy/ Sun, 03 Sep 2017 12:00:00 +0000 https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/?p=52338 Vienna, Austria (September 3, 2017) – Competitive strategy and true grit defined the final day of the Malibu Vienna Pro presented by Rockstar Energy. The world’s best wakeboarders and wakesurfers proved that the rising waters and current of the Danube river were no match for the experience and exceptional talent of riders on a mission […]

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Mike Dowdy on top of the podium The WWA

Vienna, Austria (September 3, 2017) – Competitive strategy and true grit defined the final day of the Malibu Vienna Pro presented by Rockstar Energy. The world’s best wakeboarders and wakesurfers proved that the rising waters and current of the Danube river were no match for the experience and exceptional talent of riders on a mission for victory. The Malibu M235 was tested and proven today with world-class performance that kept the action cranking. With only one stop remaining on the WWA Wakeboard World Series and Malibu Evolution Pro Series, the intensity continued as overall titles come down to every trick.

In the Pro Women’s Wakesurf final, Stacia Bank (USA) brought everything she had with massive airs and powerful turns before getting technical with some 360’s for the win. In second, Tara Kriz (AUT) kept the judges on their toes with some solid combinations followed by Korina Smyrek (SUI) in third who showed some sick style to round out the podium.

“Thank you to Malibu Boats and the WWA for a great event in Vienna. Things got exciting as the Danube water level rose over 7ft in 2 days with the fastest current I’ve ever surfed, but the M235 plowed through creating a mighty wave. I was fortunate to land on top. Fun to see Wakesurf friends like Korina Smyrnek and meet many new ones,” said 2017 Malibu Vienna Pro Champion Stacia Bank.

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Noah Flegel The WWA

The multi-talented Noah Flegel (USA) crushed the Pro Men’s Wakesurf final for the win, hitting a massive B/S bigspin that dropped jaws. Dom Lagace (CDN) placed second, keeping an incredible pace with a mixture of shove-its and spins followed by local hero Markus Lahmer (AUT) in third who threw down big airs in his run.

“After all that happened pre-event, I’m stoked to be able to finally make it to Vienna and do well. I’m stoked to win Wakesurf but my main goal was to get the double win; Wakesurf and Wakeboard. Either way, I’m super pumped to walk away with a double podium and to be in a country I’ve never visited. It’s been a blast!” said Malibu Vienna Pro Men’s Wakesurf Champion Noah Flegel.

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Nicola Butler The WWA

It’s been said that there is something about the Malibu Evolution Pro events that work for Nicola Butler (USA) and today it once again proved to be true. After sweeping the series in 2016 and winning the Malibu Factory Pro this season, Nicola has added a 5th consecutive Evolution Pro event win here at the Malibu Vienna Pro. Battling some harsh water conditions, Nicola scored 88.00 points with a roll-to-blind and a big H/S 540. Meagan Ethell (USA) placed second with a tootsie roll and an indy tantrum for a score of 78.33. Chiara Virag (ITA) placed third with a roll-to-blind and scarecrows both ways for 71.00.

“Vienna has been awesome and I’m super stoked on taking the win! Everyone had to bring it today in some tough conditions and I’m just happy it all came together. I’ll see everyone in Japan!” said 2017 Malibu Vienna Pro Champion Nicola Butler.

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Mike Dowdy The WWA

The Pro Men’s final was truly unbelievable with the river and crowd reaching their peak, putting the pressure on the world’s best to perform. Mike Dowdy (USA) took his first Wakeboard World Series event win of the season in style. With various strategies at play, Dowdy threw down his first pass as if it were a sheet of glass on the Danube, landing a Moby Dick, 900, and a double backroll all in his first pass. Pass two saw 720’s and a KGB, earning him a score of 91.67. Harley Clifford (AUS) came in second with 86.00 after landing a T/S 900, tail KGB and a double tantrum. Noah Flegel (USA) is a machine, taking his second podium of the day with a third place Pro Wakeboard finish landing a Moby Dick 540, crow 540, and 900 to score 83.67.

“Stoked to take the win at the Vienna Pro. The conditions were less than favorable but everyone charged it and the crowd was awesome all weekend. Thanks to everyone who put the event on. I look forward to coming back!” said 2017 Malibu Vienna Pro Champion Mike Dowdy.

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Nautique WWA Wakeboard Nationals – Winning Run https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/nautique-wwa-wakeboard-nationals-winning-run/ Tue, 08 Aug 2017 00:45:42 +0000 https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/?p=50886 Harley Clifford put down a winning run at the Nautique WWA U.S. Wakeboard National Championships presented by Rockstar Energy that proved it’s not over till it’s over. Pushing past a first trick fumble, the Phenom came back firing to take the title.

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Harley Clifford put down a winning run at the Nautique WWA U.S. Wakeboard National Championships presented by Rockstar Energy that proved it’s not over till it’s over. Pushing past a first trick fumble, the Phenom came back firing to take the title.

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Malibu WWA Rider Experience – Winning Run https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/malibu-wwa-rider-experience-winning-run/ Mon, 17 Jul 2017 11:13:21 +0000 https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/?p=50521 Take a look at Tyler Higham’s winning run at the Malibu Boats Rider Experience North/Regional Championships! This win elevated Tyler to taking the overall 2017 Rider Experience series title!

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Take a look at Tyler Higham’s winning run at the Malibu Boats Rider Experience North/Regional Championships! This win elevated Tyler to taking the overall 2017 Rider Experience series title!

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Nic Rapa and Nicola Butler Win the Malibu Factory Smoky Mountain Pro https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/nic-rapa-and-nicola-butler-win-malibu-factory-smoky-mountain-pro/ Mon, 10 Jul 2017 22:15:24 +0000 https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/?p=51056 Loudon, TN (July 9, 2017) – The Tennesee River hosted a battle for the ages yesterday at the Malibu Factory Smoky Mountain Pro presented by Rockstar Energy. With Friday’s quarterfinal rounds on fire behind the Malibu M235, there was an intensity on the dock this afternoon that made certain we were about to see something […]

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wakeboarding contest
The Malibu Factory Smoky Mountain Pro The WWA

Loudon, TN (July 9, 2017) – The Tennesee River hosted a battle for the ages yesterday at the Malibu Factory Smoky Mountain Pro presented by Rockstar Energy. With Friday’s quarterfinal rounds on fire behind the Malibu M235, there was an intensity on the dock this afternoon that made certain we were about to see something special. Fans filled in on the water and lined the shores of Malibu’s Loudon, TN facility as the riders hit the water to deliver the pinnacle of wakeboard competition to a hometown crowd.

The first stop of the Malibu Evolution Pro Series and fourth stop of the WWA Wakeboard World Series, the pressure was on the world’s elite professional men and women. An afternoon storm put a halt on the action before opening up to calm water and a shift in the rankings that put things closer than ever.

In the Pro Women’s division, an unfortunate injury took WBWS leader Giorgia Gregorio (ITA) out of the competition leaving a podium spot wide open for the taking after her dominant performance yesterday. Hitting the podium in third, Meagan Ethell (USA) threw down a solid run that included a H/S 540 and a stylish melon off axis 360 to score 64.67 points. The second place spot went to Larisa Morales (MEX) who looked like she was having the time of her life behind the Malibu M235 with a clean T/S 540 and solid grabs earning her a score of 70.00. Taking home the win, Nicola Butler (USA) stomped two stand up passes that included a super clean roll to blind to score 71.67.

“I’m happy to take the win today! Everyone is riding strong right now and I guess there is something about these Evolution Pro Series events that work with me. I felt great today and I’m looking forward to seeing everyone at the next event!” said Nicola Butler.

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The Malibu Factory Smoky Mountain Pro The WWA

We saw another major shake-up in the Pro Men’s division. A strange series of events saw a crazy final round that ended up putting the rankings closer that ever with a 30 point spread amongst the top four riders on the Wakeboard World Series. When Malibu team athlete Raph Derome (CDN) shows up he does so in style. Raph took the third spot with his signature flare on every trick throwing some insane mobe 540’s and 900’s along with a grabbed spin clinic that scored him 83.00. Noah Flegal (USA) saw an opportunity ripe for the taking and came out charging, hitting a moby dick 720 and grabbed cab 900 to take second with a score of 88.33. Nic Rapa took his second consecutive WBWS win today and revealed a technical mastery that had been kept under wraps until today’s final. Rapa earned a 96.00 score with two stand up passes highlighted by two double flips and a mute mobe 540 for the win. Nic Rapa (AUS) is now your WWA Wakeboard World Series leader.

“I’m happy with how this weekend turned out! A few tough conditions and a storm didn’t set us back and I’m pumped to have had the best ride of my career and take the win!” said Nic Rapa.

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The Malibu Factory Smoky Mountain Pro The WWA

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