Unleashed #66 summer edition by UNLEASH COMMUNICATION AGENCY

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SCOTTY BROOME

All Pics: Brett Hemmings

24/7/14 11:39:40 AM

Unleashed Wakeboard Magazine World Headquarter France 2 rue Dorbesson 31100 TOULOUSE

who’s who

Issue 66 –May June 2015 FOUNDER, CEO, EDITOR & DIRECTOR Philippe SIRECH PUBLISHER Philippe SIRECH +33(0)7 87 95 37 40 Europe +1(407)800-3567 USA/WORLD philippe@unleashedwakemag.com MARKETING Philippe SIRECH info@unleashedwakemag.com ADVERTISING MANAGER Jennifer REISER +1(407)607-8556 Jenna@unleashedwakemag.com P.R (PRESS RELEASE) Stephanie PROTET +33(0)6 11 11 25 32 sephanie@unleashedwakemag.com CSO , MARKETING & STATS Sophie Sirech-combettes +1(407)800-3567 sophie@unleashedwakemag.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER Elise Fougere +33 (0)6 99 10 62 98 elise@unleashedwakemag.com WORLD REPORTER AND PROOFREADING Vicky Hernandez dill +1(832)338-8116 vicky@unleashedwakemag.com MULTIMEDIA, PHOTO AND VIDEO Ian Curry Lindahl +32 484 16 81 95 ian@unleashedwakemag.com SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER MANAGER Hector Urzaiz Calpe +34 69 725 2381 Hector@unleashedwakemag.com CONTRIBUTERS PHOTOGRAPHERS Bradlee Rutlege, Hector Urzaiz Calpe, Fernando Guzi, Max Hunt, Tom Cross, Mat Roy, Noom Atichatpong, Deniz Klaber, Aneta Cermakova CONTRIBUTERS WRITERS Matt Montoro, Vicky Dill, Dom Granger, Marc Shuster, Joseph Matthew, Ralph Hala COUNTRIES UNLEASHED FRANCE Jérôme Macquart +33(7) 60 89 76 43 jerome@unleashedwakemag.com UNLEASHED JAPAN Nagahisa Matsukawa +81 9 016 752 900 Matsu@unleashedwakemag.com

UNLEASHED RUSSIA Katerina Yuerieva +79 25 26 304 36 katia@unleashedwakemag.com UNLEASHED CANADA Dominique Granger +1(514)267-1636 dom@unleashedwakemag.com UNLEASHED USA Philippe Sirech +1(407)800-3567 philippe@unleashedwakemag.com PRINT : EVOLUPRINT France DIGITAL : ISSUU.COM

Unleashed Wakeboard Magazine is published nine time- sannually by Unleash Communication located at 2 rue d’orbesson 31100 Toulouse, France. All right reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without permission is strictly prohibited. Unleashed Wakeboard Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited submissions including, but not limited tomanuscripts, photographs and illustrations. Disclamer: The activities described and photographed hereim are performed by trained athletes. Attempting anything contained within these pages could result in serious injury or death. Unleash Communication is not responsible for any injuries sustained by readers or the failure of any equipment shown herein. So wear an Hel- met and a life vest !!!!

Antoine Allaux © Ian Curry Lindhal

edito

In your hands you have the brand new UNLEASHED WAKE MAG “EVOLUTION”! So what does UNLEASHED EVOLUTION actually mean? It means that those of us at UNLEASHED recognize that the magazine must grow, change, and progress as rapidly as the sport evolves. Recently we sent a survey to a panel of our readers and customers. We listened to the feedback and the result is an aggressive renovation of the entire layout of the magazine. As you will see UNLEASHED wakeboard magazine is completely rebuilt, with a new format, new rubric and a new design. We kept the best aspects of the magazine, along with the spirit of UNLEASHED,and we have improved the rest to create a better reading experience for our millions of readers in 187 countries around the world. The 3W’s (Wakeboard, Wakeskate, and Wakesurf) have become increasingly more well known year after year. UNLEASHED is still here to bring you the quintessence of each discipline. The new format will be visually appealing, provide easy reading and display some of the most wonderful images in the world of wake. We hired the right people to be a part of the team. Hector Urzais Calpe from Spain is our new Senior Photo Manager. Vicki Hernandez Dill from Texas, USA is our Senior World Reporter and Magazine Proofreader. We have hired Elise Fougere Graphic Company, one of the most famous French graphic artists with at least 10 magazines, to lead our magazine with her company’s innovative graphic design and creativity. The new UNLEASHED crew will move the magazine in the right direction and we look forward to bringing you the content and design you expect. Enjoy this brand new edition - enjoy the EVOLUTION. Philippe

Lior Sofer

WORLD CHAMPION #INCONTROL

LIGHTHOUSE

AL SO AVAI L ABL E I N - DYNAMIC BLUE

BOARDSHORT

summary 18 / NEWS PORDUCTS 24 / ARTY / Katar ina Janeckova 26 / NEWS CONTEST / WBWS Wake Open 40 /

28 / NEWS VIDEO / Water nauts what matters

Lior Sof e r We meet this legend dur ing the Monster obstacle Jam 2015 , and grab the oppor tunity to do an Inter view, what matter s !

30 / INDUSTRY INTERVIEW / Br ita Shipner

What makes a wakepark cool? You know every wakepark has is own thing like diffrent rails or kickers or even hight of the cable.. (Sometimes its even the same obsticals) but in the end of the day its the vibe and the people that makes the charm of the park... What makes a trick look cool? Defently grab and twick What makes a board cool? Now days all the board are pretty much the same flex size etc.. So for my opinion the color of the board. What makes bindings cool? I would say color as well but in the end what is matter is how comfy they are. What makes a video edit cool? I like high def quality and some diffrent ways of the shots. I think its a great mix

32 / MUSIC / Dj Sunnee

What makes a photo cool? Its depends what in the pic ;) What’s the most important thing in order to get sponsorship? Sometimes you have to leave your comfort zone and ask for what you want! What’s the most important thing in order to progress? Belive in yourself and make it possible..

54 /

34 / TECNIK / The republic ins ta wake 36 / INTERVIEW / Pedro Caldas 40 / CONTEST / Fise 2015 48 / FORM / Strech your boundar ies 54 / WHAT MATTERS / Lior Soffer

60 /

56 / HOW TO / Halfcab wallflip 58 / AND NOW / Dominick Guhr s 60 / NEW SPOT / La Source 62 / GALLERY / Tr icky 72 / CREDIT OR DEBIT / The Making of 76 / CONTEST / Mons ter Energy Obs tacle Jam 78 / CONTEST / Rip Cur l Summer fesival 80 / ROAD TO ROPES

72 / 16

news products //// FOX \\\\ BOB SOVEN SIGNATURE “SLING SHOT” BOARDSHORT 86% Polyster /14% Spande. BioStretch Q4. 150G. Sublimated graphic. Flat fly Closure. Boot lace drawcord. Scallop hem with side binding. Right side Velcro flap pocket. FOX Damask labael on left hip. FOX label on back waist. Outsteam 19” Available in 2 colours www.foxeurope.com

//// BROSTOCK \\\\ www.liquidforce.com

//// WAXTHAT \\\\ THE WORLD’S FIRST WAKEBOARD WAX FOR MAXIMUM PARK PERFORMANCE! We’re putting an end to sticky moments on park features. Waxthat is a simple rub-on base coating formulated to provide a consistent and predictable slide on all wakepark features. Our original formula brings balance to the forces of friction and glide, giving you dependable board feel on virtually any feature surface. Each one of our non-toxic, biodegradable components is blended in small, precise batches ensuring a consistent, predictable result from opener to the ender – Every.Damn.Day. Waxthat is mixed and hand-poured with much love in The Netherlands by humans just like you. In stores soon! www.wax-that.com Facebook / Instagram : waxthatwakeboard

//// SOCKET \\\\ STYLE AND SIMPLE BROUGHT TOGETHER The Socket CT boot is designed for those who want to tweak flex and spend a long time in their boots. All new construction for 2015 including the ultra-lightweight outer shell, an all-new PU upper designed for more lateral movement without sacrificing support. A true freeride binding. Other features include Neoprene flex zones for flexibility, redesigned toe box to reduce cramping and improve fit and Double Ups Stage 1 Chassis to give you a true feel with maximum impact absorbsion. This boot is for those who are all about style, on and off the water. www.dupwake.com

news products //// ION \\\\ ONYX AMP www.ion-products.com

3 AXIS HANDHELD GIMBAL

The new Generation of FY-G4 3 axis handheld gimbal is suitable for Gopro4/Gopro3+/ Gopro3 and other similar size sports camera Using internal limit to hide all wires enjoying extreme wireless control. Special length design for more easy to hold and use with the second generation process system of Feiyu handheld gimbal process system to make more perfect filming tool Simple operation with only one button for mode selection, a one hand operations is feasible. Pictures and videos can be captured clearly and steadily with the FY G4 in hand. Benefiting from the power of technology, follow your heart to experience more joy and extreme sports with FY G4. More easy to record splendid memories than ever before. www. adproductions.be

//// ION \\\\ ZEISS×ION COLLABORATION This project has brought forth a new level of excellence in watersports eyewear. The ION Inter_Pol lens had been developed by Zeiss, specifically for wind watersports. Spot the wind on the water surface with ease, thanks to the special lens colour that blends perfectly with the multilayered coating. www.ion-products.com

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news products

//// JOBE \\\\ PROJECT EVO The time has finally come… The release of the EVOlution in wakeboarding: Project EVO. After months of waiting Jobe finally revealed what the mysterious project EVO is all about. Most of you probably already know it had something to do with a binding because of EVO teasers Jobe put on their social media and website. WHAT IS EVO?! The Jobe EVO is a modular wakeboard binding, consisting of three parts which are detachable from each other and customizable: 1. Sneaker 2. Binding 3. Skin The material the Jobe EVO is made of is extremely stiff and feather light. A combination of the binding and skin ensures zero heel lift. Due to the use of special materials and the way that Jobe EVO is designed, technically the control that the rider has over his/her board will be many times greater than other bindings. The binding is only compatible to a Jobe board with the hexagon inserts. These inserts together with the centered disk on the bindings will improve your board’s flex. www.jobewakepark.com/evo

arty

kata

rina janeckova

Ka tar ina Janeckova‘s paintings are over tly sexual and energetic. They include pictures of a woman and a bear in var ious positions in both public and pr ivate spaces . The pair are pictured in an ar t galler y, at the kitchen sink, in a bathroom, as well as in plain air. Each image is a potent mix of sex, domination, romance and mys ter y all wra pped up in a mythological landsca pe. A wish fulfillment dressed up as an X-rated folk s tor y. BY MORAY MAIR

Currently the USA-based artist blends the personal and the mythological with her highly symbolic works. Her use of pastel colors and bright breezy brush strokes gives her pictures a sublime energy. The images make the viewers feel as if they are in the room and they have stumbled across a bestial, exhibitionist couple who love nothing more than getting it on in front of an audience. The paintings are unsettling in their psychological content but nonetheless emanate a sweetness and innocence. The bear is harmless, yet strong and dominant. It is a metaphor for the complications and emotional tensions that come with sexual awakening, with need and desire, and with yearning and horror. Perhaps her pictures are simply a play on the

truth of life in a sexualized world. Whatever the reason these compelling paintings are amusing, delightful and weird. The imagery is a riff on stereotypical contemporary spaces – a desert in New Mexico, a bathroom full of bling, a cozy kitchen, and a modern art gallery. Yet completely rooted in reality, the sexual act is visceral, sweaty and confident and depicts her relationship with the bear as one of total trust. The paintings are portraits of a psychological battle between the body and the mind. Each creation is a footnote in the diary of an artist determined to explore her own desires and her relationship to the world around her.

news contest

WBWS Wake Open BY BUCKMAN FERGUSSON / PHOTO : PHIL SIRECH

The second ever Nautique Wake Open took place Apr il 16-18 in Waco, TX at Barefoot Ski Ranch with over 100 amateur and pro competitor s . Friday started a little chaotic as there was heavy rain during the night, making the entire site extremely muddy. The starting dock was moved to the other end of the lake closer to the entrance, tents were moved, and no one could drive down to the main site without getting stuck in the mud, but the rest of the day went smoothly, without any further delays. The weather was cloudy, but the rain held off and so did the wind, so every rider got to ride in great conditions for the rest of the day. Saturday was just as muddy as the day before, so a tractor was arranged to give competitors and fans “hay rides” to the main site, so that no one would get stuck in the mud. It was a beautiful day with excellent conditions and everyone rode really well. In Junior Pro Men, Australian Nic Rapa came out on top followed by James Loisel and Jason Soven, the younger brother to Bob and Phil Soven. In Pro Men, the finals included both Bob and Phil Soven. The last time these two were in a finals together was Wakestock 2013 in which Phil took 1st and Bob took 2nd. This time, however, they have to go up against the “Phenom” Harley Clifford, Austin Hair, J.D. Webb and Shota “Showtime” Tezuka, who took 2nd place at the first Nautique Wake Series event in Australia. Bob and Phil threw down very different but equally impressive runs as Bob opted for a run filled with style and amplitude while Phil’s run was very technical. In the end, it was the “Phenom” Harley Clifford who came out on top followed by J.D. Webb and Bob Soven. Phil Soven came in 4th, and was displeased to say the least. In Pro Women the defending Queen of Wake Champion Meagan Ethell took her first win of the season followed by the blue-haired Raimi Merritt in 2nd and Dallas Friday in 3rd. The World Champion Trick-Skier Erika Lang came in 4th place, matching her 4th place finish at Moomba Masters last month and it’s really amazing to see that Erika has made finals in her first two pro wakeboard competitions ever. We can’t wait to see what she does in the future. For more information about these riders and to see full contest results, visit www.thewakeboardsite.com

news video

Waternauts The Journey Begins... Water nauts is a video project with Alex Aulbach, Marco Gradl, Nico Kauzner and Fabi Ölbaum suppor ted from CTRL Ger many and Waketoolz.com. The four r ider s are showing their skills mainly at the Wakelake.eu w here Waketoolz.com has it’s home base as well. BY : RALF HALA / PHOTO : DENIZ KLARER

With the support of CTRL Germany and Waketoolz. com, which is managed by Andreas Voss and Ralf Hala, the Waternauts crew is showing their performance on the various features at the Wakelake.eu and the unique System 2.0 with the Unit stair-set with pool. The riders have rented the cable, as well as the System with the stair-set, every second week for two hours all summer long. In this time they will be showing off their skills with Deniz Klarer and Phil Rhode filming. Every rider will be editing their part, either focusing on sounddesign, tricks or the lifestyle they’re living. Deniz and Phil will be assisting when needed. Our goal is to have every rider of the crew publish a clip from these sessions through out the summer. In preparation to these clips, the boys put their nose to the grindstone and filmed a teaser which has already provided a lot of enthusiasm by the first viewers. Aside from the actual wakeboarding scenery without further ado they rearranged a doctors office into a film set. They filmed a so called „Oneshot“ with the help of some background actors (Caddy Bohn, Linda Aulbach, Änn Will, Kathrin Ostermeier, Sophia Riedl). To give the teaser the right and catchy look they wanted to achieve they worked together with Amy Kempel for the postproduction, VFX and edit. The outcome is really worthy of notice. And if you are interested, you only have to wait a few more days… The Waternauts One-Shot Teaser will be presented here exclusively for the first time. OUR RIDERS:

ALEX AULBACH

(Sponsors: Rip Curl, Dragon, Waketoolz, CTRL)

MARCO GRADL (Sponsors: CTRL, Waketoolz, Gloryfy, Soöruz, Vitamin Water)

NICO KAUZNER (Sponsors: CTRL, Dragon, Soöruz, X-mini, Wild Wake&Ski)

FABI ÖLBAUM

(Sponors: Waketoolz, CTRL, ION), 28

industry interview

B R I TA

S C HI P NER Brita Schiper is an awesome woman. She owns 2 cable par ks - one in Flor ida, Ski Rixen, and another in Ger many, Wasserski Neubrandenburg. Throughout the year she travels between Europe and USA to manage these two spots. Discover a woman with an iron hand in a velvet glove….

BY PHIL S IR E C H

in life, believing in something and everybody thought I was crazy at the time. Making a living was a necessity so I started working at Ski Rixen as a junior instructor. I was cleaning, doing it all, working around the clock, and finally I worked my way up to owning the place.

UNLEASHED : Hi Brita - Can you introduce yourself in a few words? Brita : I came into the world on June 7,1966 and was raised in Eastern Germany. My family has always been a boating, waterski family. My dad was a waterski pioneer in East Germany and my brother, who is 2 years older than me, was and still is a great 3 event water skier. I followed my big brother everywhere and became a 3 event skier as well. I have the most amazing parents and even though we were growing up in a communist country they made it possible for us to waterski, get a great education and they taught us the right things. So after the wall came down in Germany and and we had to face the “real world” we were ready for it. As for as my education goes I studied Sport Science and finished with a Masters Degree in Sports Psychology. I think in general I’m a very happy person, I love what I do and I’m very lucky and fortunate in life.

I think you’re the only woman in the world who owns 2 cable parks. Tell us how that happened? It started in 1989 when I competed at the 3 event European Championships. It was my very first time cable skiing and not only did I come home to East Germany with a medal but I also got to meet Bruno & Gisela Rixen and they offered me support whenever I needed it. That same year the wall came down and I needed their help so I reached out to them. I had just finished my Masters Degree in Sport Science and four months after the wall came down I was on my way to Deerfield Beach, Florida. I couldn’t speak English, I didn’t have any money but I was “hungry” for the new world so I made the the big move to Florida.

Can you tell us when the idea to own your own cable park came to you? It was not really an idea. I was just following my passion

In the early 90’s no one believed in cable in the USA. Everyone smiled at us but only a very small group of people saw a future in cableparks. It was frustrating sometimes because I felt I was swimming against the tide – but I knew that it was an amazing concept. It was proven in Europe and I did not understand that the cable concept was not accepted in the United States. Don’t get me wrong my background is in 3 event boat skiing and I still love it – but for the future growth of the sport, the potential reach of the people, the environmental aspects, and many other reasons cable was the only answer.

How do you see cableparks evolving in the future? Well obviously I believe in the system of cable wakeparks and I’m thrilled to see the growth of the sport and the industry. I would love to see cable wakeboarding as an Olympic sport. I think we will see an unbelievable growth in cableparks not only in the USA but worldwide. I’m very very happy that Mr. Bruno Rixen can witness the outstanding success of his idea, how many lives he has touched, how many dreams he has created and how much happiness and joy he brought to us with this simple idea of cable skiing / wakeboarding.

It was difficult to establish this great idea... but I wanted to How have your spots grown and changed over the past be part of this incredible process of developing cableparks 5 years? and creating dreams. So I went back to the mother country Clearly wakeboarding has become the dominant form of – East Germany was not developed with cableparks yet riding at most parks. The riders, the ages of the participants, and I created my Dream #2, Wasserski Neubrandenburg. and the crowds will always change but the basic concept The grand opening was in 2000 always stays the same. We which was around the same are creating this amazing, I N T H E E A R LY 9 0 ’ S N O O N E time that cableparks started to watersports environment where BELIEVED IN CABLE IN THE USA. get more awareness in the USA we are welcoming all types of EVERYONE SMILED AT US BUT ONLY with the opening of OWC that riders including waterskiers, A V E RY S M A L L G RO U P O F P E O P L E same season. Here in Germany kneeboarders, wakeskaters, SAW A FUTURE IN CABLEPARKS. cableparks have been in business and wakeboarders. Regardless of for almost 50 years and they are age, race, color, or background we more hip and up-to-date than are all enjoying time on the water, ever. I am lucky to be a part of cable park scene in both the together, as beginners and professionals, both young and old. USA and Europe. No matter what – we are here for the love of the sport and that will NEVER change and this simple “link” will never change What are your roles at Ski Rixen and Wasserski BUT it will make us grow beyond our imagination! Neubrandenburg? I am the President & Owner of both parks which means that Tell us more about the type of riders you have at both spots? I need to be able to do everything. Fortunately I have two Both parks are very family and beginner oriented. But we also outstanding teams on each side of the world who make this have our local heroes who made our parks (especially Ski little miracle possible. Nothing would work without a great Rixen) popular in the whole wide world and the USA. support system of my family and friends. Do you have a team of riders at each spot sponsored by You have one spot in Germany and the other one in Florida. you? If not tell us why: What is your typical yearly schedule? We do not have a “TEAM”. But of course we have a spectrum It is a bit crazy! I have to be where I’m needed the most which of sponsored riders from local future heroes, to people with is not really predictable. The winter time is designated to disabilities, to German National Champions and more. We Deerfield Beach because in Germany only the restaurant is still have local icons like Rob Mapp, Donald Shelbrick & open during the winter while the cable is closed. Chad Forrest riding on a regular base at Ski Rixen! Tell us more about the names you chose for your both cableparks: Ski Rixen of Quiet Waters, USA was grandfathered in during the year of 1983 as “Ski Rixen International” but it was always known as “Ski Rixen”. The name “Wasserski Neubrandenburg” is typical for Germany. We have over 80 cableparks and the majority of them are named after the city where they are located.

Do you host any wakeboard or wakeskate events during the year? We are constantly hosting local events & cash prize events. In Germany we hosted the IWSF World Championships in 2010. It would be so much more FUN to host events if the IWSF and the WWA would find a common ground for judging, age groups etc.

music

s t ef tor d j su nnee

suggest to you....

Popcaan

Kranium

Junction

Nobody Has To Know

RDX (feat. Road Elf)

Vybz Kartel (feat. Buju Banton, Ce’Cile & Ragga Bear)

Every Style

Gon’ Get Better

Alkaline Hype (Nah Change)

Charlie Black (feat. Timberlee) Live Ina U House

technik

Th e Re public

I nsta Wa ke BY BE N LE C LAIR A ND LR AY V IL L AFUERTE / P HOTO : IAN CURRY

This is a first of a kind portable two tower system which only requires an electricity output. No digging, no permit and can be installed in less than a week. The Republic Insta-wake was designed by Lray Villafuerte with the input of some of the best wakeboarders in the world.

The Republic Rails team wanted to showcase how simple and versatile this set up can be by installing it on the island at Republic wakepark in the Philippines. For the first time you can have an affordable 2 tower portable system that truly represents the potential of cable wakeboarding.

major event series like Street League skateboarding into our sport. The best thing about this is building rails, it’s so much faster to work on a hard surface. Now you can actually ride big rails and kickers in pools with the feeling you’re on normal lake. In this case it also makes the island of the cable look epic and is only reachable by riding. It’s a great way to avoid the big line ups in busy cable parks. I recommend everyone to give it a try at republic wakepark and see for yourself!

This is perfect for trade-shows, competitions and wakeboard schools. It could also fit inside a stadium to showcase big events like “X games” with a “wake the line” feel. This type of installations could be our chance to bring

Ben Leclair

LR AY VILLAF UE RT E

“We did this to pursue our vision of having a skatepark on water concept. The insta-wake can be set up in a few days like a skate park and can be installed on any vacant parking lot, backyard, warehouse with no digging or building of a lake necessary. Also in cold countries during winter where you cannot wakeboard due to water turning into ice, the installations can be moved into a warehouse during winter time and people can still ride.

As early as 2006 we had 6 2-tower systems already with bi level pools before the industry was still dreaming about it. Now there are hundreds of 2 tower set ups all over the world and it’s great. The next level to push the sport further is the republic instawake set up we did. Making cable wakeboarding more and more accessible everywhere.”

sensitive interview

pedro c al d as INT E RV IE W : Â PHIL SIRECH / PHOTO : FERNANDO GUZI

T h e yo u n g m a n m a y o n l y b e 15 yea r s ol d, h e’s a l rea dy a pure shre d d e r. T h e l i t t l e p ro d i g y s t a r t ed r iding a t onl y 9 yea r s ol d a nd h is pa s s i o n n eve r l o s t i n t e n s i t y wit h t ime. Even t h oug h h e’s rea l s t a r a t sc h o o l , t h e yo u h g Ca l d a s d oesn’ t for g et t o l ive h is l ife l ike t h e k ids his a g e .

Hi Pedro , can you introduced yourself in a few world? Hi, my is Pedro, i’m 15 years old and i’m from Brasil.

We ain’t got snow here in Brasil, so no snowboard for me, but i really enjoy surfing and skating.

You’re most a cable rider than a boat rider can you tell us why? My first touch whit wakeboard was on a cable, also my dad is the owner of a cable here in Brazil.

You’re probably The new revelation in Brazil, with a fresh entry on the Redbull team. How do you feel about that? I feel really lucky in being part of this team, its a honor.

You don’t travelling so much all around the world, tell us why? Is hard to me to travel because I cant travel alone yet, only whit my parents and they don’t always can travel whit me.

And whom riders inﬂuence you the most? For me, yonel have one of the most style riding nowadays. Which videos blow your mind the most the last season? Beyond perspection made me look for Wake in a different way, really good.

What is a typical day for Pedro Machado Caldas in Brazil? My typical day is pretty simple, school and then Wake.

Tell us more about your life? I’m wake up early in the morning go to school and after i took my bike to go to naka wakepark for shredding with my friends.

Can you tell us the 5 best Cable place to Be for you in the world and why? 1/ Thai Wake Park, funniest cable i’ve ever ride 2/ Naga Cable Park, home is home, and have good sliders 3/ CWC cable park, diferent sliders whit a awesome vibe 4/ BSR, really nice cable whit an awesome bi-level 5/ OWC, first cable i,ve ride, always brings me good memories Do you do other sports? Like snowboarding, skateboarding, etc.?

What do you do more, during the wakeboard season? Riding, Riding, Riding, and chilling a bit… Are you most a contest rider than a free rider? I’m a really conpetitive person, but I enjoy a free sessions.

You ride since a short time, what wakeboarding provided you? Wakeboard provided me the life I asked to god, whit good people around me. What is your best memory as wakeboader? Riding all day whit my friends in a sunny Sunday is my best memory as a wakeboarder. About it, how did you discover this sport? My dad itroducted wakeboard to me when I was 9. Any big fails? Lucky, none. Could you speak about Your new contracts and sponsors? I’m sponsored by Red Bull Brazil, Naga Cable Park and Marreco Wake School. What are your plans for this year? In the next month i’m moving to Orlando to improve my riding and I want to compete on the worlds. Thx for all your answers Pedro -. Any last words? See you guys soon thanks Unleashed for the opportunity to get this interview , as we say here in Brazil “eh noix”.

BY MATT MONTORO

Â© Hector Urzaiz Calpe

In France, the FISE is the most anticipated extreme spor ts event of the year. It takes place in the scenic city of Montpellier a n d ga t h e r s a l a r g e r a n g e o f d i ff e re n t disciplines such as Bmx, Skateboard, Dir tbike, Fmx and so many more. But for u s r i d e r s , i t ’s t h e wa ke b o a r d i n g eve n t that we all look forward to exper iencing the mos t.

Each sport has its own park and the athletes can expect technical and fun obstacles from the FISE. As for the wakepark it’s the only time we get to ride a actual pool gap in France and the park is just insane! It has two system 2.0’s, side by side, and you have to consistently perform hard lines, both day and night, to make it to the final rounds. This year was once again a great experience for me. I’ve been competing at FISE for the last 4 years. I feel like I’ve been getting closer and closer to the level of the top riders that are here to play for the coveted podium positions. I love traveling and discovering new places. I often travel to Asia during the cold months which allows me to make progress in my riding. I believe my winter training could be the reason that I’ve been advancing in this event. The FISE setup is one of my favorites in France, not only for the competition, but also because I get to ride a park that is unique and completely crazy. It’s only once a year and we have to make the most of it! I realized that several of my friends and family were there to support me and I’m so grateful for their support. In addition I couldn’t have done it without my sponsors: ION, HUMANOID, BTR, Iwakeboard and Ozed. It’s thanks to them that I’ve gotten this far. This year, there were so many really talented riders that I’d never seen before, as well as all the top riders like Dom Hernler, Ben Leclair, Bob Soven, Aaron Gunn and many more. It’s always nice to see some of the top riders come from all 4 corners of the planet to Montpellier for this event.

Dominik Hernler

THIS YEAR, THERE WERE SO MANY R E A L LY TA L E N T E D R I D E R S T H AT I ’ D NEVER SEEN BEFORE, AS WELL AS ALL THE TOP RIDERS LIKE DOM HERNLER, B E N L E C L A I R , B O B S OV E N , A A R O N GUNN AND MANY MORE.

Mat Muncey

Sylvain Antoine

Results: 1-Dominik Hernler / 2-Aaron gunn / 3-Bob Soven 4-Julian Cohen / 5-Antoine Allaux / 6- John Dreilling

For the last 4 years I’ve been knocked out of the competition just before the final rounds - but this year was different. I could almost touch the finals with the tips of my fingers. Unfortunately I missed out on the last round by half of a point! Luckily my French buddy, Antoine Allaux, managed to tear up the semi finals and earned himself a place in the finals. We were all there to cheer him on and watch him destroy the obstacles. Antoine made France proud by placing fifth at the end of the competition. FISE isn’t just about wakeboarding. It’s also about partying (almost every night) and celebrating our victories and our losses with our buddies and riders from around the globe. FISE isn’t FISE without a good party and the notorious, Paul Bichet, of course! FISE is 5 epic days with an atmosphere that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. I highly recommend coming to check it out as it’s definitely worth the detour! On the program: An unbelievable show with some of the best riders, from each discipline, who come to party, to win or just to enjoy the creative courses they provide for us!

In conclusion - DON’T MISS THE NEXT ONE!

form

s t r e t c h y o ur

b o u n d ar i es BY HOW TO WAKE / PHOTOS BY MATT ROY

If you ask the top-ten perfor ming athletes in the wor ld to name a benefit of cross-training, at leas t eight of them will mention injur y prevention. While injur y prevention is by far the mos t widely recognized benefit of cross-training among athletes , there is little to be said about how adding a seemingly unrelated activity to your wor kout regimen can do much more than prevent injur ies .

There are dozens of reasons why you should consider spicing up your fitness routine with “out-of-the-box “activities that test you both mentally and physically to help improve areas of weakness and increase all around performance. At HowtoWake.com we’re all about pushing those around us to get outside of their comfort zone so we naturally jumped at the chance to teach one of Instagrams hottest Yoga instructors, Naya Rappaport how to wakeboard at the newly opened Miami Watersports Complex in Hialeah, Florida. With the help of Professional Wakeboarders Marc Shuster and Noah Flegal we set off on our task to collectively broaden our horizons and document the experience. “My heart started to pound and anxiety began to kick in when I got on the dock. After strapping my feet to the board the first thing that came to mind was the constriction of leg movement. I instantly missed the freedom of my Yogi toes.”

Now while Wakeboarding and Yoga are on opposite sides of the spectrum, any athlete can immensely benefit by practicing and learning new techniques associated with cross-training exercises. For example, a sport like Wakeboarding can help increase strength, balance and response time while an activity like Yoga can help rehabilitate injuries, improve blood flow, rejuvenate the mind and body and even help you stay fit through an injury. With this in mind we thought it would be interesting to see how quickly Naya could pick up a new sport and what benefits (if any) could come from it.

Naya held the handle in close as the cable began to lurch forward where she quickly found herself in an unfavorable position landing into the water face first resulting in a Kevin Hart “she wasn’t ready” type of moment. Naya explains, “I immediately focused on my breathing as I do for Yoga to help regain my composure, then I squared the board in the direction I wanted to go and braced myself for round two”.

Within minutes of arriving at Miami Watersports Complex, Naya was getting her first crash course in Wakeboard lingo and bracing herself for whatever may come. Naya tells us,

After receiving a few extra pointers from Marc and Noah, Naya got up on her second attempt and made it all the way

to the end of the course as she smiled from ear to ear. She tells us “My main focus was trying not to fall, I was slowly adjusting to the quick movements as opposed to yoga where I would move more slowly to get into position. This gave me a whole new understanding of balance since you can still maintain control even while moving in a much more rapid and mechanical manner than I am used to”.

definitely came away feeling like I learned a bit more about myself and how my body reacts to certain situations.” We highly encourage every athlete to get outside, try a new sport or activity and see how it changes your thought process towards your main sporting discipline. You’d be highly surprised how beneficial it can be when you take the time “MY MAIN FOCUS WAS TRYING NOT TO to get outside of your comfort F A L L , I WA S S L OW LY A D J U S T I N G T O zone while simultaneously THE QUICK MOVEMENTS AS OPPOSED expanding your skillsets and TO YOGA WHERE I WOULD MOVE MORE awareness. Heck, you might SLOWLY TO GET INTO POSITION”. even enjoy yourself along the way!

That smile didn’t wear off either. For the next few rounds Naya continued to cut laps and even managed to toss in a casual one handed peace sign for good measure as she gleefully whizzed by, namaste! Naya excitedly tells us afterwards, “Trying something new like Wakeboarding gave me an adrenaline rush! It was a great escape from my normal routine and I can’t wait to give it another try. It wasn’t as easy as I thought it would be to learn but once I got up and began to ride the feeling was incredible and I

Big thanks to Jeff Trudeau and the entire MWC team for the hospitality, Jobe Watersports for the amazing equipment and Matt Roy and Geoff Fagien for documenting the experience. We sincerely had a blast teaching and learning from one another and couldn’t have shared that experience without you guys!

“ I I M M E D I AT E LY F O C U S E D O N M Y B R E AT H I N G A S I D O F O R YO G A T O HELP REGAIN MY COMPOSURE, THEN I SQUARED THE BOARD IN THE DIRECTION I WANTED TO GO AND BRACED MYSELF FOR ROUND TWO”.

We would like t o l e a ve yo u w i t h a s m a l l sel ecJon of Na ya s h a nd picked Yoga poses t h a t c an he lp any a t h l e t e i n c re a s e t h e i r e n er g y a nd fl ex ib il it y w h il e simul t a neousl y h el ping t o preve nt injur y a n d fa t i g u e .

STRENGTH & STABILITY - Chaturanga Dandasana (Four-limbed Staff Pose)

From a high plank align shoulders slightly ahead of the wrists and come onto the balls or your feet. Visualize there is a wall behind your feet so you can stack those heels over toes.

On exhale, bend your elbows and keep them over your wrists. Slowly lower yourself toward the floor, keeping your body as straight as a plank of wood, neither letting your center sag nor sticking your buttocks up in the air.

Bring your gaze to the floor a few inches in front of you. Lower unJl your shoulders are at the same height as your elbows. Do not let your shoulders collapse any lower than your elbows. To come out of the pose, exhale and lower down to your belly or push back up to plank pose.

WRISTS & LEGS - Padahastasana (Gorilla Pose)

From a high plank align shoulders slightly ahead of the wrists and come onto the balls or your feet. Visualize there is a wall behind your feet so you can stack those heels over toes.

If you feel very comfortable you may slowly start straightening both legs. Hold here for up to twenty breaths.

Move your calves out of the way and sit down between your feet (use a folded blanket or bolster to place under sits bones, if uncomfortable to sit).

Stay in this pose from 30 seconds to 1 minute. Gradually extend your stay up to 5 minutes. Slowly come out the pose with the same mindful cauJon that you used to enter this asana.

KNEES - Virasana (Hero Pose)

Kneel on the floor try to keep thighs and knees pressed together. Slide your feet apart, slightly wider than your hips, with the tops of the feet flat on the floor.

what matters

Li o r S o f e r PHOT O : PHIL S IR ECH

We meet this legend dur ing the Monster obstacle Jam 2015 , and grab the oppor tunity to do an Inter view, what matters ! What makes a wakepark cool? You know every wakepark has is own thing like diffrent rails or kickers or even hight of the cable.. (Sometimes its even the same obsticals) but in the end of the day its the vibe and the people that makes the charm of the park... What makes a trick look cool? Defently grab and twick What makes a board cool? Now days all the board are pretty much the same flex size etc.. So for my opinion the color of the board. What makes bindings cool? I would say color as well but in the end what is matter is how comfy they are. What makes a video edit cool? I like high def quality and some diffrent ways of the shots. I think its a great mix What makes a photo cool? Its depends what in the pic ;) Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the most important thing in order to get sponsorship? Sometimes you have to leave your comfort zone and ask for what you want! Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the most important thing in order to progress? Belive in yourself and make it possible..

how to

H alfcab Wall Flip

John D re il i n g P HOT O : PHIL S IR E C H

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve seen this tr ick done in a few videos and I really wanted to lear n it at fise, but the motivation was hard to come by. Then in cash for tr icks Keith Lidberg tr ied a couple (at night!) and lands it second tr y. The next day I knew I had to lear n a flip off the wall. After all day at practice I finally had this tr ick dialed. Here are the things that I found wor ked bes t for me. On the approach, I really focused on a hard edge with your arms close in. This helped me make solid contact with the wall so I had something to push off with. On the take off, I made sure to push evenly with both legs and to set the flip with my shoulders coming back and hips coming up. I found it important to hit with your chest perpendicular to the wall, unlike a normal wall ride where your chest stays up right. I Land on the walk after doing a 180 and really absorb the impact. When leaving the wall I use my legs to start the flip, I push off the wall and think about driving my shins up and over my head. I try see the wall as long as I can. After losing my spot on the wall, I pull my head around and spot my landing. 1. Hard edge with arms in. 2. Push evenly and set the flip (make or break) 3. Absorb the wall 4. Drive the flip with your shins 5. Follow with your head and spot the water. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what worked best for me on this trick. Go out there and give it a try!

HI DOM ! I N E ACH I S S UE OF THE MAGA ZI N E UN L E A S H E D G IVE VOI C E TO R I D E R S LI K E YOU H AVE A S E E N A L O T O F CHANGE I N TH E S PO RT.

and now

dominick

guhrs PHOT O : IAN CURRY L INDHAL

For you What event has radically changed the sport? I think Events like Rising High, Wake the Line, Wake open pushed the Sport a lot! We saw Set ups on that Events that you usually don’t see on a normal cable Park. The Media is getting more into the Sport because of that kind of Events and thats why people get to know more about Wakeboarding and starts to get more famous.

Did wakeboarding in the world has changed since you started? Oohh yeeeaaa it changed a lot specially Cable Wakeboarding! When i started Wakeboarding there was no way to imagine a Cablepark like it is now! There were no Obstacles the Products were really bad you had some super big Fins on your Board everything was so different! Now you have Flexboards with no Fins Close toe Bindings and at every Cable Park you have different Rails and Kickers which was so important for the Sport! Wakeboarding looks so much better now than back in the days haha.

It seems that cable wakeboarding, has become more practiced than Wakeboard, behind Boat . Is this really the case? In Europe the cable scene is getting bigger and bigger. When I look at Germany we have almost over 80 Cableparks now and more are coming. So YES. In America i think Boat riding is still pretty big as they still don’t have so many Cableparks but it´s defenitely growing fast so I wonder how this is gonna look like in a few Years!

Over the years and Injuries that could happen to you , did you change the way of your ride ? I have to say i got really lucky with injuries in my Wakeboard Career. I hurt my foot really bad 1 Year ago so i couldn’t ride for 4 Month but now everything is fine again but this didn´t change my riding! I just always try to be ready and not to ride with an Hangover the next day ;) Just always take care of your body and than you should be fine.

How can you explain that? I think one thing is for sure the Gasoline Prize as Boat riding is much more expensive than Cable! I think the other good thing about Cable riding is that you have way more opportunities with Rails and stuff like that. Almost every Cable Park has a sick set Up on Rails now a days so you can mix up a lot of things in one Lap (Air Tricks, Rails, Kickers) which is a lot of fun. But there are definitely way more explanations for that. Well, its more easy to go to the cable and way more cheaper! If you wanna ride Boat first you need to have someone who drives the Boat than its of course the Gasoline Prize which is super expensive and if you don’t live in the US you are not allowed to put a Boat everywhere in the Lake and just drive your Boat! If i would like to ride behind the Boat the next spot would be 4 hours from my Place because on any other spot we wouldn’t have the permission to put the Boat in the lake.

By the end , you have an idea of how long will do some rides and shots ? A lot of people ask me that question till when I can Wakeboard and when will you start a real Job haha but Wakeboarding gives me so much and I love it to push myself to the limits so i will ride until my Body can’t take it anymore and i will do everything for it that this won´t happen but right now i feel really strong so for me there is no way right now to think about for how many more Years i can ride. I hope i can ride forever ;) Do you prefer competition or free ride and shots ? I like everything! I feel like i have to do all three things. Of course i love to free ride but i always need to have a Goal in my life thats why it is really important for me to also compete in Competitions because they push me a lot when i have to compete against all these good riders. But most of the time you have to do a lot of Tricks in one Lap when you are at a Competition and than you can´t make your Tricks look the best that´s why it is also important to Film and make Photos to show your best and stylish riding! I´m just trying to be good in everything :)

How can be your dream wakeboard event made ? It would probably go to the direction like Rising High went down last Year! I got so stoked from that Big Air Kicker that i just wanted to keep hitting it :D So i think a Big Air Event is my dream Wakeboard event ;) Did your last victory change your life ? Not a Wakeboarding Victory ;) But i think if i would win Wimbledon in Tenis it could change my life haha but this will never happen haha.

If you want to add last words, those lines are for you ! Thanx Unleashed for the Interview! Can´t wait to see the next Issue.

new spot

l a s o urce BY VICKY DILL / PHOTO : ANETA CERMAKOVA

Traveling to the South of France always sounds like a good plan and now it’s become even more inviting. La Source Cablepar k officially opened for business in ear ly May 2015 and already r ider s from all over the globe have s topped in to check it out. It’s jus t 30 minutes south of Toulouse in a r us tic town called Carbonne with a view of the Pyrenees Mountains as a scenic background. The owners, Xavier and Aneta Decour, are a young married couple who share a passion for wakeboarding. They both have degrees in architecture and have spent the last 4 years searching for the perfect location to design and build their dream wakepark. In the wakeboarding community the Decour couple are known as stylish rail riders and their experience in the sport is evident throughout the park. Xavier and Aneta want the park to be a place that serious riders can be challenged by - but at the same time beginner riders can learn to ride safely and feel encouraged. Their La Source staff includes cable operators who are both knowledgeable & helpful. It’s a clockwise cable that offers mostly UNIT obstacles as well as a few unique handmade rails. Some of the favorite rails at La Source are their UNIT street series with the pipe as well as the UNIT pyramid rail. Recently they built a metal up handrail that the high level riders are thrilled to have the chance to shred. Beginner riders can enjoy user friendly UNIT kickers as well 2 smaller UNIT Ollie boxes. zhe rails are well placed with good lines. The Rixen cable tension is ideal not only for rail riders but also for those that enjoy doing air tricks. One of the things that makes La Source a destination that all riders must put on their bucket list is the warm ambiance. Both riders and spectators want to hang out at La Source because of its chill atmosphere and cool, relaxing vibe. They have plenty

of viewing areas to watch the riders and whatever you do - make sure you go to La Source with an empty stomach. The food is spectacular and satisfies even the pickiest eaters. The chef, Ludo, who is also a rider, works his magic in the kitchen serving up mouth watering burgers, salads, sandwiches, and cheese platters. The food is so yummy that locals are coming out to La Source just to enjoy the cuisine, to have a drink and to watch the show on the water. La Source also has a small pro-shop selling wakeboards, bindings, wetsuits, life jackets and wake style clothing. They do have rental equipment as well. For guests who may be traveling from afar they provide nice bathroom and showering amenities. When you’re at La Source you’re going to want it to be your home cable. It’s a great mixture of upbeat people who all have a love for riding. After you meet Rixen, the Decour’s cabledog that they rescued a few years back, you’ll never want to leave. You can see that so much heart and soul has gone into making La Source a special place. However, Xavier & Aneta are just getting started. They have a broad vision for the future of the park and so many plans to develop La Source into a rider’s paradise. Make sure to follow them on Instagram @la_source_wake_park and LIKE their Facebook page La Source Wake Park for their latest news and events!

Yonel Cohen and Chandler Powell

credit or debit

the ma ki n g o f c r e d i t or debi t BY JOSEPH MATTHEW PHOTOGRAPHY

I n t h e m i d d l e o f M a rc h I wa s e x c i t e d t o re c e i ve a p h o n e c a l l f ro m Yo n e l C o h e n . H e i n fo r m e d m e t h a t h e a n d C h a n d l e r Powe l l wo u l d b e fl y i n g o u t t o C a l i fo r n i a a n d we r e wa n t i n g t o fi l m a doubles edit before kicking off the 2015 season. At only 16 year s old Yonel Cohen is one of the mos t talented r ider s in the wor ld. With some of the cleanes t and mos t technical rail hits , paired w i t h t h e a b i l i t y t o b o o s t eve r y t h i n g f ro m 1 0 8 0 s t o d o u b l e fl i p s , he is easily one of the mos t unique r ider s on the scene. Cohen a n d Powe l l e x p re s s e d t o m e t h a t t h ey wa n t e d t o m a ke a fi l m focusing s tr ictly on rail r iding and s tyle.

Chandler Powell is one of my favorite Liquid Force riders; not only because he is so talented in all aspects of riding, but he also has such a positive attitude on and off the water. You can always catch him with a smile on his face whether he’s teaching rail clinics competing in the WWA, or hosting Free-4-All events.

For our final session we had a photo shoot on several different features and one last dinner with the crew. Tanar and I dropped off Yonel & Chandler at the airport and said our last goodbyes. Yonel told me he would be back soon for the 2nd Stop of Triple Crown. I was motivated to make this edit one of the best of the year. I put countless hours into editing footage, Yonel and Chandler flew into the which resulted in a strong doubles edit Sacramento International Airport and focused on style. were greeted by our good friend Tanar Pigrenet. Tanar, an operator at Velocity After seeing the guys off at the airport Island Park, was kind enough to open terminal Tanar and I agreed that this the park during the weekdays for private was the beginning of something great filming sessions and he allowed the boys in California. I can’t wait to see what to stay with him while visiting California. the future brings for Yonel Cohen and In addition Pigrenet ran the cable for us Chandler Powell, as they are exceptionally all week while we filmed countless sets. talented, young and have such positive attitudes. The industry needs more riders Filming “Credit or Debit” was very like Yonel Cohen, Chandler Powell, and mellow and super fun. It took a total of Tanar Pigrenet. four days of consecutive shooting and about a week of post-production. We I would like to thank the Velocity Crew, shot about one feature a day to keep our Matt Tonne, Jay Miguel, and Velocity focus clear. Our daily schedule included owners, April & Scott Hartman, for waking up with the sun, eating breakfast opening the Park while it was closed at Perry’s Diner, and then off to shoot over the winter to allow us to film all non-stop for hours. After filming we week long! made a nightly habit of going out for an evening skate session at the local skate park - “28th & B”. We wrapped From California With Love, up our days by sharing our evening meal Written By Joseph Hernandez with Tanar and the rest of the crew. Joseph Matthew Photography Before turning in for the night we reviewed 916.225.3654 that day’s footage and made a plan for our www.JosephMatthewPhotography.com upcoming tasks. After four, long, fun-filled days we had everything we needed to drop a heavy doubles edit!

C H A N D L E R P OW E L L I S O N E O F M Y FAVORITE LIQUID FORCE RIDERS; NOT ONLY BECAUSE HE IS SO TALENTED I N A L L A S P E C T S O F R I D I N G , B U T H E ALSO HAS SUCH A POSITIVE ATTITUDE ON AND OFF THE WATER.

Hernler transfert

Yonel Cohen

Chandler Powell

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T RI C K Y

QUI N N S I LVE R N A L E F OOT PL A N O N TH E WA L L O F WAKE CO MPO UN D GE ORGI A Photo : Tyler BlackmonÂ

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T H O S E 2 G U Y S F RO M B R AZ IL B R U N O M ART IN S L IM A AN D B R U N O U L O T T, O N H OW T O S H R ED A R AIN B OW AT N AG A C AB L E PAR K Photo : Fernando Guzi

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DAN N O T O N E O F T H E M O S T S T Y L IS H RIDER FROM UK, STALEFISH GRAB Photo : Max Hunt

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Photo : Phil Sirech UP: ANTOINE ALLAUX , STALEFISH GRAB AT LA SOURCE CABLE PARK FRANCE D OW N : S O P H I E H O G B E N R E G B AC K TAIL ON THE CANNON RAIL AT CAIRNS WAKEPARK AUSTRALIA Photo : Tom Cross

S AM C AR N E ROL L T O S TAL EF IS H G R AB O R L AN DO F L O R IDA Photo : Bradle Rudlege

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M ARC RO S S IT ER L IP S L IDE O N T H E RO N IX L AKE F U N B OX O R L AN D O F L O R IDA Photo : Phil Sirech

obstaclejam

T ERH IL L S MON STE R ENER G Y

O BSTACLE J A M BY V IC KY D ILL /PHOT O: S TIJN VANOVERBEK E

The 3rd Edit ion o f t h e M o n s t e r E n e r g y O b s t a cl e Ja m a t Terh il l s Ca b l epa r k in B e lgium wa s o n c e a ga i n a s u c c e s s ful a nd ent er t a ining event . Ea ch year t he t he eve n t b e c o m e s m o re a n d more int er na t iona l wit h r ider s from The N e t he r land s , G e r m a ny, I s r a e l , Ca n a da , Fra nce, Denma r k a nd of cour se Belgium all c o m p e t i n g t o w i n t h e t i t l e a nd ca sh . Th ere were a t l ea s t 45 r ide r s v y ing fo r a s p o t i n t h e t o p 4 t o s pl it 2500 euros . Fortunately it was a bright and sunny morning for a full day of competition. Lots of people came out to watch their favorite riders. Belgium is quickly growing as a wakeboarding mecca with parks like Terhills, in the town of Dilsen-Stokkem, who offer both technical rails as well as rails for beginners. Terhills is known for its beautiful natural scenery, ambiance that encourages people to hang out and chefs who create meals to die for! The competition format consisted of 10 minute heats with 4 riders in each heat and 2 of them advancing to the next round of competition. This was an obstacles only competition so 50% of the score was based on kickers and the other 50% was based on rails. The riders were judged on their best trick on each obstacle. After a full day of competition the finals were narrowed down to a final heat of 5 well respected riders. Antoine Allaux from France, Diego Hoet from Belgium, Victor Salmon a Belgium native living in Thailand, Joachim Bertelsen from Denmark and Ben Leclair from Canada were the 5 riders competing in the final. Unfortunately Lior Sofer, from Israel, had been riding really well throughout the day but had a setback before finals when he busted his lip open. He ended his day at the local emergency room. Ben Leclairâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s obstacle hits were consistently clean and he really impressed the judges with

his toeside backside transfer on the rooftop. Victorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s kicker hits were solid and he steezed on the rooftop with some hand plants 360 frontside. Antoine killed it with his crowd pleasing kicker hits including both a massive shifty backside 720 and a double grab toeside backside 540. Joachim stuck his tricks early on and tried to land a backside 900 off the kicker, and though he rode off, the landing was shaky. Diego really stepped up his level this year and his rails and kickers were effortless and smooth. The busy day at Terhills ended with chilly weather and a very stylish Antoine Allaux taking first place for the third year in a row. Second place was a tight race between Terhills team rider, Victor Salmon, and Ben Leclair. Fourth place went to Joachim Bertelsen and finally another Terhills rider, Diego Hoet, who not only rode but was the announcer for the day, took the fifth place position. A BIG thank you goes out to the sponsors of the event: Monster Energy, Rixen Cableways, We Are Bomber and Friend Production. A video recap is available on UNLEASHED online. Terhills is already planning the event for next year and riders and spectators can count on it to be even bigger with a few unexpected surprises as well! A big shout out to all the riders who competed and made the event a day to remember.

Lior Sofer

RIP C U R L

S UMMer C ARNIVA L

2015 BY DANIEL GRANT / PHOTOS : NOOM ATICHATPONG

5th Annual Ripcurl Summer Carnival 2015, 5 years Ripcurl have been host in the summer carnival starting from Thai Wake Park in 2010, Siam Center (2011) Siam Paragon (2012) Flowhouse Bangkok (2013) Central Chidlom (2014) and this year taking it out of Bangkok city and take it less than 200km south out Bangkok to one of the most premier beach resort towns on the gulf of Thailand, Hua Hin. Ripcurl have been very diverse with their location each year bringing the Wakeboarding and Wakeskating to a different crowd, bringing the sport to their face. I thankful for Ripcurl showing the support to help grow Wakeboarding and Wakeskating within Thailand and globally. Doing the event this year was a much shorter setup (35 m) and being towed by winch rather than Sesitec System 2.0 like 2013 2014. The Event attracted a lot of kids because it was hosted in one of Thailandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest water parks only opened end of last year. The setup was a right side kicker with a bamboo pole jam and we had a round pipe involved. The riders put on an entertaining show for everyone watching it couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have gone better. In the end, the DJ line up their organized had beaten all previous years. Ending with a massive pool party! Watch out next year will be bigger and better!

road to ropes

The firs t 30 0 0 BY D OMINIQUE GRANGER

The fir s t 3000 km of this tr ip were nothing less than awesome. To get you situated, the Road to Ropes tour s tar ted in ear ly May of 2015, in Bordeaux, France. But really, the whole project star ted at the end of a long, bor ing winter, with the desire to do something awesome for the summer. Like, let’s say, live in a van. Go from cable par k to cable par k. In Europe. For 3 months . Well, that is exactly w hat ha ppened.

Departure point FISE World Montpellier

went roundly and it’s Dom Hernler who went back home with the first place for men, and the French rider Maryh Rougier climbed on the highest step of the podium for the ladies.

Just like each year, the FISE in Montpellier is a real blast. Everyone just pushes their limits day AND night : if you have ever been to a FISE event, you know what I mean! This year once more we saw some incredible riding and fierce competition on the water. Despite some emotional rollercoaster for some of the riders (there were some mistakes in the judging and results had to be modified at the last minute) the overall event

After the madness of FISE, it was nice to head back to some quieter waters (literally!) as me and my faithful camper van headed back towards Bordeaux, for the first official “stop” of the 2015 Road to Ropes Van Tour.

Stop 1

Cosima Giemsa - Hourtin

Wakepark Trifecta – Wakepark Izon, Iwakepark Hourtin and Iwakepark Lacanau. It’s under some colder skies that I woke up on my first morning in Carcans, near Bordeaux, at what was the temporary headquarters for some of the Slingshot team riders, who came to shoot in the area as well. I hence started the trip strong, in company of Steffen Vollert, Cosima Giemza, Ben Leclair, Antoine Allaux, Oliver Bermlund, Ian Curry-Lindhal on top of local rider Matt Montoro and Maryh Rougier. Having them on the water all day long sure made my life easy when it came to get some nice shots. Add to that the peaceful and pleasant set up of all three cables: I was off to a good start.

Matt Montoro - I wakepark Lacanau

Stop 2 TNSames Next stop of the tour was TNSames, a park owed by Exo and located near Biarritz, in the Basque country. Since I HAD to go through Biarritz to head to the next stop, I took the time to stay a couple days and enjoy the nice city and its dramatic coastline. Unluckily for me, the weather was a bit gray and cold, but as soon as I got to the cable park I totally forgot about it. The people riding there didn’t seem to care at all if it was sunny or not and everyone just seemed to have such a blast on the water that they my mood just followed theirs. A young local, Erwin Boumaza (who was featured in our Local Hero interview) gave a lasting impression with a style that you don’t see often in a rider that has only been wakeboarding for 2 years. After spending a pleasant afternoon at the park, it was time for me to head to my next destination, which was a little bit of a drive away: Barcelona.

Erwin Boumaza - TNSames

Stop 3 Olimpic Cable Park, Barcelona To get to Barcelona from the Atlantic Coast, you have two options: go through France, or go through Spain. Since I had never been to Spain, I decided the latter, following the suggestion of a couple friends to go through Bardenas Reales, a desert region that has kind of a Grand Canyon feel to it. I looked at one photo on Google and I was convinced. I was back on the road in no time, found a campground in the region and went for a full day of exploration of the Bardenas desert, a place that gives a lasting impression as soon as you set eyes on it.

Ground film crew and victor Gallego

A day and a half being all I could afford in term of touristic attraction, I sat back behind the wheel and headed to my actual destination, Barcelona, or more precisely Castelldefels, the neighboring city. As far as urban cable parks go, it doesn’t get much better than Olimpic. The set up, the features, the location, the staff – everything is thought and done to make you enjoy your stay. During my time there, good timing, there was the premiere of the movie “Cinco Jotas” (to watch!) as well

as a local competition and the inauguration of a new feature, a quarter spine ramp. Big success on all fronts, the competition brought a lot of people around and everyone had a great time under the Spanish sunshine. After the crazy weekend, I had just enough time to go for a little touristic stroll in the crazy city and take the road, once more. Direction: back to France!

Stop 4 TSJ (Teleski Nautique St-Jean) When driving from Barcelona, the first exit when getting in Frenchy Land is the one to take to go to TSJ, a nice, friendly park at the feet of the Pyrenees Mountain range. Located on a natural lake bordered with big trees, the air there seems so much fresher and life so much better! Arriving on the premises quickly gives you the same effect that a shot of your favorite liquor, a relaxing feeling yet a burst of motivation. The owners welcome you with a big smile and you can quickly feel that everything there has been done with passion. One thing that was really cool was to see one of the features that was at the FISE Montpellier, anchored in their lake. And what was even cooler was to see the young shredders and other local riders have a blast on their new toy, pushing their limits on each lap. Antoine Desperies TSJ

Stop 5 La Source Next stop was once that I was really excited to go discover, as it is a brand new cable. First of all, when you get there, you can’t tell they have only been open for a month or so – no “sorry we just opened we don’t have this or this” kind of bullshit. This is the proof that when things are well done, they work right off the bat. One thing I really appreciated there was the simplicity of things, yet with room for growth and expansion. The owners, Xav and Aneta, are the kind of awesome people anyone would want to be friends with. Both riders themselves (and good ones, too!) they know what riders want and need in a park. They are sure off to a great success, on and off the water: the little restaurant is much more than a snack bar, and the food is delicious and fresh. When even the locals from the near-by town go there just for a drink, a bit or to enjoy the “show” on the water, it means you are doing something right! This is a park to keep an eye on, as I am sure they have some great projects to develop the spot. A mandatory stop if you go to Toulouse area!

Stop 6

Xavier Decourt - La Source Boss

TNX After La Source, I kept going on my journey west and had a quick stop on the outskirts of Marseille, to TNX, just before veering north. Luckily, the timing was good and I caught a bit of quiet weather between two sets of intense storms. The park is also on a great spot, yet more on the simple side when it comes to the premises. As soon as I grabbed my camera to get a couple shots, I noticed a rider I knew on the water. Mister Wes Gumpel was indeed on the spot for the day with a couple of his friends, so it was perfect to get some fun shots on almost all the features. And the adventure now continues: after nearly 3000 km of solo driving, I had the chance to see some absolutely magnificient places, meet great people, make new friends, eat (too much) good food and may be have a couple glasses of wine… and this is only the beginning. As I am writing these lines, I am sitting near the lake in Annecy, in the Alps, planning some wakesurfing session with mountains as the backdrop and then heading to Germany, Netherlands, Belgium and the grand finale, Liquid Leisure in London, UK. So keep an eye out for “the last 3000” in the next issue! Hector and julian

Wakeboarding Contest 26 & 27.09

7500 € CA$H PRICE

1 WE → 3 contests Demos Animations & DJ

Saturday →

IWWF contest & Night kicker contest

SUNDAY →

Obstacle Jam +32 [0]479 564 709 info@thespin.be

The Spin Cablepark Lacs de l’Eau d’Heure 61, rue Crossart 6440 - Boussu Lez Walcourt

Photo & design Artech.be

Black Mountain Hua Hin, Thailand

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