10 amateur divisions took to the waters of the Orlando Watersports Complex today to battle for points and pride during their semifinals of the 2008 Air Nautique Wake Games. Riders not only looked to advance in their respective division, but were also vying for a spot on one of the 10 Air Nautique Wake Games teams.
The Jr. Men’s Division featured the largest field of riders in today’s contest with nearly 20 of the most talented young shredders in the world. Robert Soven, Harley Clifford, Jacob Valdez and Steel Lafferty each led their heats in today’s quarterfinals with Valdez posting the highest score (63.89). All four rippers will be joined by eight other riders in tomorrow’s semifinals.
Six riders advanced past today’s Men’s I semifinals with Sam Thomson posting the high score (67.78). Tim Clinton led the Men’s II Division and will be joined by two other riders in Sunday’s finals.
The Jr. Boys Division was led today by Joe Martella. Martella will face off against Ben and Parker Watts in the finals. Kyle Evans posted the high score in today’s Boys’ semifinals with a 72.67. Evans will be joined by five other riders for Sunday’s finals.
Kat Laird (Masters Women), Taylor McCullough (Girls) and Morgan Cresent (Jr. Women) each led their respective heats today and will all advance to tomorrow’s finals.
Four riders advanced past today’s Masters semifinals with Kevin Michael posting the highest score of the division, 61.11. Steve Weisser and Matt Vermillion will both move onto the Veterans finals after advancing past today’s semifinals.
Amateur riders will also have a shot to pick up some extra cash at the Air Nautique Wake Games, as Pleasurecraft Marine Engine Company (PCM) is sponsoring the PCM Amateur Best Trick Award. This award is a $500 bonus presented to an amateur rider chosen by tournament officials for landing the most impressive trick of the contest.
To catch all the wakeboarding action from home, tune in to Fuel TV. For exact air dates, visit www.kingofwake.com.




