Wedge Classic - Inconsistant surf provides more upsets
Source: www.sabaonline.co.za
posted by Gareth White on 12th July 2007
The third day of competition in the 4A rated Wedge Classic Bodyboarding Contest took place yesterday, 12 July, in Plettenburg Bay. The South African Bodyboarding Association (SABA,) event has showcased some of South Africa's finest bodyboarding skills over the past two days and day three did not disappoint.
The event started off with the running of the Development Division heats, for those new to the sport of bodyboarding. Competition was then postponed until conditions improved before running the Pro Division heats. Overnight forecasts had predicted big swell in the vicinity of 7.4 meters. The swell unfortunately didn't arrive, this left contestants battling it out in inconsistent 2 to 3 foot surf.
Although conditions were tough, riders dug deep and caught some solid waves. Patience seemed to be the key, as there were long waiting periods in between sets, wave selection was critical and riders that waited for the best waves were richly rewarded. As always The Wedge offered competitors ample opportunity to showcase their talent and put on a breathtaking display for the crowd.
Local riders, Chris Bosman and Lyndall Pells both had standout performances in the Drop-Knee and Ladies divisions respectively. Other riders who excelled on the day were Vaughn Harris (WP) and Johnny Maritz (WP) in the Pro division. The Juniors division saw Michael Ostler (CKZN) and Jared Houston (WP) going head to head in what turned out to be one of the most exciting heats of the day. Standout performances in the Drop-Knee division came from Sacha Specker (WP) and Chris Bosman (EP).
One of the biggest upsets for the local supporters was to see Samuel Kamffer eliminated from the Pro division. Other upsets came in the Drop-Knee division, which saw crowd favourite, Derek Footit (SKZN) also being eliminated.
The fourth and possibly final day of the 4A rated Wedge Classic is due to take place today, 13 July and it promises to be a show-stopper, with our countries top bodyboarders all competing for a share of the total prize money in excess of R17 000 as well as valuable SABA points.
The 2007 Wedge Classic is the 11th annual running of the contest, and is proudly presented by FNB, Wave Crest Distribution, Debis Fleet Management, Robberg FineFoods, Red Bull and The Surf Shop in Plettenberg bay.
For more information regarding this event please contact Steve Polinski on 082 573 3173.
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Comments
 | Marc Whitelaw
15th July 2007 21:36 |
| Johnny Maritz owned his heat! |
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