The event featured competitors ages 5 to 65 from as far away as Pennsylvania and Georgia. But then he learned about Wipe Out Beach, the only surf wave generator of its kind in the Midwest. Then when I actually saw it, my jaw just dropped. Flow Rider pumps 75,000 gallons at high velocity and forces a 3-inch sheet of water continuously over a contoured surface shaped like a wave.
Surfers slide off a ramp, either kneeling or belly-down on the boards, into the water.
Contestants were judged on radical maneuvers, using the entire wave, variety and difficulty of move, and their ability to stay on the wave for 40 seconds. Plaques and 2001 season passes were awarded to division winners. Last year, he qualified for the tournament national championships. On Saturday, he was among several division winners. But some competitors weren't quite as fortunate as Mr. Thole.