The Gremlin
Plettenberg Bay, 9th July 2013 – The annual Wedge Classic bodyboarding contest, held last week in Plettenberg Bay, was another huge highlight on the South African bodyboarding calendar, with riders from all the provinces gathering at the popular Wedge Beach in Plett to fight for the “King of the Wedge” title.
The competition was fierce, from the Boys division all the way of to the Pros, with conditions varying from testing to absolutely brilliant. SABA chairman, Michael van Huyssteen said: “Once again, a very well run event and, in all aspects, did South African Bodyboarding proud. The riding from all divisions was of a very high standard.”
Central Kwa-Zulu Natal rider, Iain Campbell was the definite champion of the Wedge Classic 2013, winning both the Drop Knee division and the Pro division, making him the undeniable “King of the Wedge”. He came up against tough competition in the Drop Knee final with Bradley Moys, Michael Ostler and Chris Green.
The Pro Man on Man final saw Iain again facing off with Bradley Moys, which was absolutely epic to watch! Ultimately, Iain Campbell clinched both titles, a feat achieved just last year by Sacha Specker. Iain said of his wins :”It is always amazing to be back in Plett for the Wedge. I am happy to be ‘King of the Wedge’ 2013 and to get the double title as Sacha did last year. The feeling is back at the Wedge and it was awesome to see everybody from all over the country there to enjoy the Wedge.”
With over 100 entries and daily crowds of 500+, The Plett Tourism catch-phrase of “it’s a feeling” was clearly in evidence on the beach and in the water. The Red Bull chill-out lounge and spinning station kept the riders on form during the contest and Red Bull’s Mobile music ensured that there was always something happening on the beach, with Wedge promo girls, soccer matches and a generally celebratory atmosphere as riders and spectators enjoyed that “Plett feeling”. Mike van Huyssteen said of organisers Offthehook Events: “The association with Offthehook Events is going to be a long one and here’s to another 18 years – at least!”
Another standout of the contest was 10 year old Alex Nutt, who took second place in the Boys division after some very consistent riding from Plett local, John-Barry Coleman. Alex, however, won “Best Move of the Contest” with a huge invert that saw him tied for this honour with South African Bodyboarding Champion, Tristan Roberts – which was then broken by a final vote from the Head Judge – with Alex winning!
South African Champion Tristan Roberts took the Juniors trophy after a tough battle with Plett locals, Nik Martin and Michael Searle, and WesternProvince’s Wilder Schultz, producing some of best moves of the contest! Another highlight was the Ladies division, which had 8 entrants, twice as many as last year’s Wedge Classic. SABA chairman said: “This is one the largest entries that I have seen at a South African Bodyboarding event.” The division was ultimately won by Janneke de Kock with Plett local, Nicky Gerricke in second.
It was great to see the local Plett kids placing so highly throughout the contest and, with intense provincial pride on display throughout, the South African Champs in September in Mossel Bay are sure to be thrilling. Next up on the South African Bodyboarding circuit is the “West Beach Warfare Contest” taking place from 9-11 August at West Beach, Port Alfred.•