Wedge Classic draws to an explosive close
Source: www.sabaonline.co.za
posted by Gareth White on 13th July 2007
The 4A rated Wedge Classic Bodyboarding Contest has drawn to a spectacular close on day four of the event, 13 July.
Organizers chose to complete the running of the event today in good swell conditions, as smaller waves have been predicted for the weekend.
Waves on the day averaged between 2 to 4 foot in size and for the best part offered riders good surfing conditions. The start of the event saw the best of the clean surf, with offshore winds, sizeable sets and hollow barrels on offer.
To start the day on a high, organizers chose to run the Expression Session heats, in which a select group of South Africa's top bodyboarders are chosen to compete against each other for the coveted Expression Session Title for 2007. In this particular heat only the most radical manoeuvers can ensure victory and competitors put on a show for the crowd.
The Pro Division Quarter Finals followed and weren't without some big upsets as many top riders failed to make it through to the semi’s. They included the likes of Vaughn Harris (WP), Johnathan Maritz (WP), Johnathan Oliff (CN), Ian Kruger (WP) and Daniel Worsley (WP). The Semi-Finals also had their upsets, but such is the competitive nature of this Division. Riders who made the Finals were Wesley Fischer (CN), Alistair Taylor (CN), Mark Watts (CN) and Justin Lindsay (EP).
The Masters were next to take to the water and showcase their abilities. Making it through to the Finals were Michael van Huyssteen, (CN) Wesley McQuillan, (SC) Allan Fourie and Steve Polinski (WP).
The Mens Division riders then took centre-stage for their Semi-Final heats. Conditions had already started to deteriorate when the wind switched to an onshore breeze and the waves began to crumble slightly, making it tougher for riders. Making it through to the Mens Finals were Ryan Jucker (EP), Jamie Higgins (WP), JP Nortier (WP) and Warren Samuels (SC).
Next up, it was the turn of the Juniors Division riders impressing onlookers with their flair and agility. Making the most of fading surf the riders performed some amazing maneuvers and really set the standard for the future of South African bodyboarding. Making it through to the Juniors Division Finals were Jaryd Enslin (SN), Michael Ostler (CN), James Jones (EP), and Jared Houston (WP).
Other Finals held on the day were that of the Ladies Division, which featured the likes of local hope Lyndall Pells (SC), Pamela Bowren (WP), Jocelyen Norton (SN) and Geline Derbyshire (SC). The Boys Division, Development and Drop-Knee Division Finals were all a spectacle to behold and World class bodyboarding was seen throughout.
A full list of results will be given after the prize-giving due to be held tomorrow evening.
For more information regarding this event please contact Steve Polinski on 082 573 3173
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