By By Jared Florreich / staff writer
July 10, 2003
For wakeboarding, kneeboarding, and slalom waterskiing enthusiasts, Dream Lake is the place to be this weekend.
The International Novice Tour League will make it's third stop of the summer this Friday-Sunday at Dream Lake. Jim Roebuck, owner of the INT League rights for Mississippi, said the weekend's festivities will be something to see.
"It'll be a hot and heavy competition and it's fun to watch," Roebuck said. "We're having a great year so far, and I expect it to continue here at Dream Lake."
The INT League format is based on ability, which according to Roebuck, provides a competitive setting for those at similar skill levels. Awards will be given in all divisions, first-third places, and everyone receives points for competing at each event.
Points from individual events throughout the state are accumulated to determine a State Champion in each division, upon which the champions will receive an invitation to the INT League Championships, which will feature participants from 30 states.
Friday there will be a wakeboard clinic from 4 p.m. until dark, which Roebuck said is ideal for beginners to wakeboarding, and for those looking to improve their wakeboarding skills.
Saturday will feature wakeboarding and kneeboarding, with registration beginning at 9 a.m. The event will run all afternoon, and according to Roebuck, will feature all types of riders.
"We'll have riders from beginners to semi-professional riders," Roebuck said. "You'll see age groups from six-years-old on up."
Slalom waterskiing will conclude the event on Sunday. Participants in all sports will be scored on the number of successful tricks, or stunts they can perform.
Roebuck said he expected over 70 participants on Saturday, and 25-30 on Sunday. Roebuck said that over 800 people attended last year, and said it would be hard to match last year's crowd.
Admission to the weekend's event is free of charge, but it costs $40 to compete in an event. The public is encouraged to attend.