Centurion, the pioneering brand in the world of aquatic sports, is ecstatic to commemorate nearly three decades of wake surfing excellence with its World Wake Surfing Championship. This championship will be held September 21-23, 2023, at the Pineview Reservoir in Huntsville, Utah, as a result of Centurion’s passion for innovation and commitment to nurturing a thriving community.
History of the Championship
Since its founding in 1976 by the visionary Rick Lee, Centurion has been synonymous with stretching the limits of innovation in boating. In the late 1970s, Lee’s pursuit for innovation began with boat racing, which led him to the niche worlds of water skiing and barefooting. However, the water sports industry was limited in scope, with a singular focus on creating the smallest wake feasible for traditional water skiing.
When Lee discovered that the deep V-hull, when slightly listed or weighted differently on one side, created a curl or lip in the wake, making it optimal for wake surfing, a turning point occurred. This discovery gave rise to the concept of endless waves, and Centurion led the wakesurfing revolution as a result.
Later, Centurion introduced an innovative boat known as “The Wave.” This boat featured a revolutionary hull design that incorporated elements of both runabout and ocean-going hulls. Its innovative design not only produced a smoother voyage by dissipating turbulent water, but also generated a larger wake with less ballast weight.
Centurion hosted the first World Wake Surfing Championship in San Diego in the late 1990s. Although these early events were relatively modest, they established the groundwork for what would become a thriving wake surfing community.
Significance of the Championship
The World Wake Surfing Championship holds immense significance in the wake surfing world, thanks to Centurion’s pioneering efforts. “Centurion made the decision long ago that the company was going to be about innovation in general, and that turned specifically into surfing,” adds Amy Mauzy, Director of Marketing for Centurion.
The Centurion World Series of Wakesurfing competitions brought together a diverse group of water sports enthusiasts, many of whom came from ocean surfing and other disciplines. Some were thrill-seeking weekend adventurers. Wake surfing’s minimal entry barrier made it accessible to all ages, from young children to senior citizens.
Wake surfing stood out as a sport that cultivated both competition and teamwork. In contrast to other competitive aquatic sports, wake surfing events radiated positivity and encouragement. The ambiance created by the competitors’ support for one another was unique and welcoming.
The championship’s inclusive nature enticed families to travel together and compete in different divisions, spanning multiple generations. The sense of community was palpable, transcending income levels, backgrounds, and ethnicity. Wake surfing became a shared passion that brought together individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Participation and Accessibility
Accessibility is an exceptional aspect of the World Series of Wake surfing Championship. While only the best athletes are invited, anyone can compete. The Championship includes divisions for professionals, amateurs, adaptive athletes, minors, and masters. This approach assures that wake surfing remains an inclusive sport.
A Major Reveal
On Wednesday, September 20th, at the start of the Championship, Centurion will unveil a game-changing feature on its signature Ri230 boat that “will elevate wake surfing to new heights,” says Mauzy. The company will livestream this major announcement via its website and social media platforms.
The Centurion’s World Wake Surfing Championship is a testament to the power of innovation, community, and accessibility, and not just a sporting event. As the championship continues to flourish, it continues to serve as a shining example of what can be accomplished when devotion and innovation are combined. For more information about Centurion and the 2023 World Series of Wake surfing Championship, please visit Centurion’s website.
