This year Windermere’s DEFIANTwake will be hosting the second organised wake event since the ban was imposed and with it the second consecutive Ride For Peace event on the Lake. Its all about getting as many boats and riders on the lake at one time over the weekend and having as much fun as possible! As most of you know, World Peace Day is on the 21 September every year and our Ride For Peace event will be on the weekend of the 18 & 19 September. Tell all your mates, join the group, find a ride and get over here!!
There’s no real format, more of a weekend-long jam session. There is a Facebook group dedicated to this, so if you’re keen check it out and join it.
We realise that being a boat-based crew on a lake it is significantly harder to hook up a ride than a cable-based event, but if you’re keen to be a part of it then hit up the Facebook group and we’ll try and organise you a ride over the weekend. And if you are a regular Windermere rider and you fancy joining in then feel free to get out there – this is as good a weekend as any and as good a cause as any!
Obviously, we would advise that all participants acknowledge the Lake Bylaws and the 10 nautical mph limit, we hold no responsibility for those of you who would wish to do otherwise…
Remember, we’re not asking you to break the law, we just ask that you have fun. It wouldn’t bother us if you all wakesurfed – it would just be nice to see a great turnout.
The forecast looks awesome so hopefully catch up with many of you out there,
We only ride this spot from time to time and I’m sure you can appreciate why.
It’s only 4 feet deep and tastes worse than your average swamp. Up until a few years back the Swans ruled the entire lake, this all seemed to mysteriously change when the Polish immigrants settled on the banks. And no matter what colour your bindings are they always come out green.
You can forget perfect pass and the digital ballast systems; we are running a 1979 Stars & Stripes!
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Photo Credit: Kenny
However we have had some killer session on this sweaty pond and our intentions are to try and get some obstacles on here in the near future, so watch this space…
Autumn seems to creep up on us much faster each year. Luckily for us Wednesday nights have been spent riding the X1 up at Whitworth in between System 2.0 nights, taking full advantage of that precious evening sunlight.
It’s proved beneficial having a firm riding pattern, knowing roughly where and when you’re next session will happen. Beat the System and Alliance Rail Nights at Blackpool have resulted a social boom for our local wake community and we’ve seen so many improvements, styles and hammers go down there over the past few months, both wake and skate!
We’ve helped drag originals such as Chris and Buzz out the Northern Monkey closet, and after years of no bindings due to knee injuries it’s been truly inspiring to watch them ride. So if this summer has taken a depressing, physical toll on you’re body don’t get hung up, just adapt.
For many, wakeboarding doesn’t seem as attractive when the sun isn’t shining. Thick neoprene suits, scarves and snowboard jackets seem to scare many off, and as a result you’re only left with a handful of folk that are equally as amped to shred. You might need to hook up with someone new or jump on a boat that you didn’t know existed. These may be the most fun and progressive times you’re wakeboard’s ever seen.
Yesterday we took advantage of our deserted lake to perfect our Ollie technique.
Yet again Mike Bibby conjured up a treat, using some off cuts of timber and an abandoned traffic barrier. We erected Mike’s handiwork in the lake and made it as challenging as we dared.
It was cracking fun to try a range of grabs, 180s and 360s over the bar knowing that you were reasonably safe if you came up short.
After months of not riding due to a dodgy knee, Sam Iddon also stepped up to the challenge. He cleared it with ease then ended up chucking some ridiculous shifty bonk spins off the post, whilst lapping up the high speed turns to hit the obstacle over and over again.
It was great to see some snowboard style on the water and I don’t think I witnessed one wake jump all day. As a result the exercise certainly boosted confidence and improved our existing Ollie abilities.
Its been said before, two tower cables are the ideal place for beginners even if you have never wakeboarded before. Kiteboarders and existing cable riders have said it’s an awesome tool for getting you’re head round the air tricks such as mobes and S-bends.
But what about if you want to hit RAILS? If you’ve approached wakeboarding from skating or snowboarding background, spending most of your time hanging off a concrete ledge or flying down a skinny hand rail, the wakepark is for you.
We think its the most effective way to hit obstacles.. Ok Jet skis would be sweet and maybe not quite as expensive, but lets be honest you aint gonna find a fruity selection of sliders and kickers in your nearby canal. And why waste a perfectly good wake behind a boat if your mission is to solely session rails. Plus you’ve got the social aspect of the system 2.0 just like the boat everyone can chill in the sun, music on, good times.
Our aim back in June was to create a chilled out atmosphere at an affordable price. This, in my opinion is the most enjoyable time to ride. And also where you tend to go completly mad and try something new.
With the help and support of all the staff at Blackpool Wakepark we made it happen. Thursday Nights you can ride 3 sets of 7 minutes for just £20. (book to avoid disappointment)
Now Alliance Wake have stepped in and run rail nights on Tuesdays. They have sent local wake guru’s Tim & Chris Woodhead who provide expert coaching from beginner to pro level.
After yet another successful weekend of coaching, competing and partying the benchmark for riding is still escalating at an alarming rate. And for the first time, Live Bands and DJ’s rocked Loch Stock up to official Festival status.
Simon Shepherd 1st, Gordy Forsyth 2nd, Scottish Stu 3rd
Preston MasterCraft supplied the Limited edition X2, which threw up an even bigger, better wake than the last stop in Dumfries due to the deeper waters of Loch Earn.
Simon Shepherd took 1st Place, and with a 2nd place on the first Loch Stock last month he will take some beating off that overall podium position. We rode on Simons Nautique in 2008 and it’s awesome to see the shear progression in his riding in just two years.
The chicks showed no mercy in the chilly water, Lancashire lass Becky Hall stomped a huge Tantrum at the end of her run landing her in a well deserved 2nd place.
Sam Filsell 1st, Becky Hall 2nd, Suzi Lennox 3rd
Judging and coaching was supplied by Ultrasport rider David Ocaoimh. His friendly approach and commitment to wakeboarding was felt by all. And I can’t begin to describe the energy, style or consistency of this young Irish athlete.
David is currently coaching this week at Loch Lomond Wakeboard, which is the venue for the 3rd Loch Stock next month. (7th – 8th August) The LWC have something big brewing for the next event and no it isn’t Lancashire tea…
Observing the likes of Rathy, Soven, Nicola and Amber bust it out last week in the finals at Wakestock in what can only be described as the ‘downstream rapids of death’ shocked me and made me realise how fussy we can be when it comes to boat riding.
As a Wakeboarder or Wakeskater, a weekend of partying whilst watching some of the best riders in the world generates an unstoppable urge to get out on the water and shred.
On the Tuesday evening after Wakestock we arrived at the local lake with the intension to ride, and despite the dirty swans, green algae and bad forecast we bloody well rode.
Far from the cleanest, deepest or calmest of waters.
Spending a session hitting the sketchy ski jump or getting your head round some handle passes may break you free from that heelside wake to wake rut.
Far from the best water, but far from my worst set.
What we witnessed at Pwllheli marina last Sunday clearly illustrated that rough weather, shallow water and choppy conditions are no excuse to not ride. And in fact the ability to produce in chop on competition day, whilst under pressure inspires me more than any YouTube clip of 1080’s, 1260’s and so on.
I’m not saying make an effort to ride when it’s rough, but if the boat’s already been launched or you’ve planned to go riding with your pals, then you should probably give it a go.
Our Beat the System sessions have taken off even better than anticipated. Twenty odd minutes of intense riding for only 20 sheets has resulted in some aches, pains, bruises and more importantly serious progression!
Last night Bibby stomped a nice pressed back 3 off the new incline box, (which is really nice.) There are two more obstacles due to arrive over the next few weeks so keep an eye out for those. . .
During our Thursday sessions we’ve been receiving some essential coaching from Harry Seymour and local kiterboarder Scott Sloane with regards to the notorious Air Raleys.
Scott’s, nontechnical, flamboyant, ‘just send it’ approach to air tricks has made us question what all the fuss was really about, especially when his chum, Ali Barrett showed up and spent most of his set in the air, upside down or spinning.
Mr. Seymour’s riding originated on boat until he moved to London as a student. Subsequently he adjusted his riding style to suit the cable. And luckily for us he is now based in Blackpool due to work. Because most of us are primarily boat riders it’s been vital for us to get a true wakeboarders’ side of the story.
Over the past few weeks it’s been extremely interesting to see so many different riders all with unique styles all use the same piece of equipment. The transition between kite, snow, skate and conventional boat and cable riding really does open the System 2.0 to everyone. Wakeskate or wakeboard, from beginner to pro it’s for you!
Harry says: “It’s much safer and easier to try things than behind a boat or full cable system. It tends to hurt less, but don’t hold me to that.”
Both Scott and Harry are keen to help you learn and push your riding to new heights. And with pros such as Becky Hall driving for you there’s no excuse for not getting involved.
The combination of coaching by these rippers will have you landing air tricks quicker than you can spell railey.. railie.. raylee… raley….?
If you’re still a little unconvinced or hesitant about the capabilities of the System 2.0 please watch this video.
Nicola Butler is expected to be down at Blackpool on Tuesday. And if you wish to join us on our Beat the System sessions please do not hesitate to contact us or if you want to contact Blackpool Wakepark directly call Garry to book your sessions on: 01253 836543
You’ll be delighted to know The LWC has teamed up with Blackpool WakePark to bring you a dedicated freestyle evening session at a long awaited affordable price.
Every Thursday evening between 6 and 9 (approx) you will be able rotate between friends and or other riders on the System 2.0. Each rider will be allocated three 7minute slots for just twenty quid. However there are limited places so booking in advance is advised to avoid any disappointment.
Our intentions are to adjust the sliders each session to make them more accessible, and or in some cases, more challenging. Also each week we intend to launch a new random floating jib obstacle that will be perfect to help dial those big spins or ollie back ones.
The system 2.0 is not only an effective way for hitting rails either, the pros have stated that it is the ideal learning tool for raleys and other air tricks that complement both boat and full cable riding.
This revolutionary piece of kit omits the need for any unnecessary swimming or walking. If your about to fall off, chances are the driver has already noticed and you’ll literally be up in a matter of seconds; therefore time on the water is super intense, and almost incomparable to any other means of riding.
If you have any suggestions or questions please do not hesitate to contact us at thelwc@live.com
This offer is aimed at existing wakeskaters and wakeboarders who already own there own kit. To Beat the System please call Garry Thompson on: 01253 836543
Spectators welcome.
See you there this Thursday
Love The Lancashire Wakeboard Club
For Directions:
Ream Hills Farm
Mythop Road
Blackpool
PR43NB
In 1999 Jeremy Gilley – the founder of Peace One Day – successfully completed his mission to create the first ever global cease fire day in the history of mankind. Even though the official day has been sanctioned by the UN many people have not heard about this day or don’t know how they can take part.
On the 21st of September 2007 the first annual Ride For Peace was held to coincide with World Peace Day. Every year since this cable parks, ski centres and individuals from all around the world acknowledge world peace day by Riding for Peace.
Australian Pro wakeboarder Kath Moore had a huge involvement with getting the event up and running and has been actively spreading the word and helping others to get involved ever since. Thanks to Kath, Eban and many other pros Ride for Peace is now a fairly big event on the UK wake calendar.
The Ride for Peace message is about having fun riding, skating, surfing, whatever. It’s a time for you to look beyond all the politics, violence and religion that surrounds us, there is no need to donate, no obligation to do anything other than what you love.
Everyone is capable of riding for peace as the event is not held at one set location; Just show your support by riding on the day or get yourself to a cable park where the riding is usually free, wear the t-shirt, take some pictures, spread the word.
(Surfdome have Ride for Peace clothing for sale)
Last year Windermere’s very own DEFIANTwake crew organised and held a Ride for Peace weekend on Lake Windermere, the first Wakeboard event since the introduction of the ban in 2005. It was a huge success with over 20 ski/wake boats involved! The DEFIANTwake crew have some big plans for twenty ten with rumours of sliders, chase boats, double ups and winches. If you want to get involved, register your boat, follow RIDE FOR PEACE LAKE WINDERMERE on Facebook and more importantly get all your friends involved.
This is your invite to Ride for Peace 2010, our aim is to inform as many people as we can that World Peace Day exists and to acknowledge the 21st September as that day by doing what we love.
After a dust off and a new spark plug our winch is up and running in the best of health and will be out in free-spooling action in the next couple of weeks. We also have designs for a newer, smaller and lighter winch that fits into a shopping trolley or baby’s pram; thus providing the perfect getaway for those urban adventures.
So if you discover or know of any local drops, gaps or cool locations that you think would be worth winching then please let them be known. You could earn yourself a Free LWC t-shirt!
Here are a couple of photos to wet your wake and skate appetite…
We plan to host regular sessions over the summer in our private lake AKA Bond Pond. If you would like to get involved please do not hesitate to contact us and we will let you know where and when it will be going off.
This is one of five sections for the new LWC 10m long, floating slider.
Summer is just around the corner, and you’ll be glad to know I’ve been riding and working my socks off the last couple of weeks.
Last weekend we got ourselves up to Loch Lomond Wakeboard’s new site for the Loch Stock opening party. We arrived quite late on the Friday night due to a standstill traffic jam caused by a car fire on the M6. The majority headed off for an early night, while Mike Bibby and Lomax caught up on 6months of lost wake, winch and cable talk until the early hours.
The return of Mike Bibby
James Hooper was up bright and early for a morning shred which ended quite abruptly due to knee brace issues however he powered through, with a full day of coaching and a promo video for Liquid Force which is now online.
Our evening was spent hitting the incline rail, driving and coaching provided by Dave Knight.
Wise words by Dk
As night drew in wetsuits where hung up to dry and everyone gathered round the fire with a beer and a burger (that’s a 60-40% meat to bread ratio). Hooper hooked everyone up with pro smoothies made from fresh fruit, vodka and Relentless.
We headed back Sunday morning and left Lomax to his digger and Ray to his hangover, Hooper is also still up their this week, and if you fancy some one on one coaching Loch Lomond Wakeboard have some bargain deals with loch-side accommodation, just give them a call on 07545561360 for more information.
With any Loch Stock Event you’ll be sure to have a cracking time, meet fantastic people and find an abundance of free relentless and Liquid Force demo equipment. We urge you to attend the next stop which is weekend 19th – 20th June in Dumfries. We assume Alliance will have some better words and photos to follow The LS tour in their next issues so keep an eye out for that.
On the way down from Scotland we meandered towards the west coast in search of more wake. The refreshing diversion through Cumbria past miles of untouched natural water was almost spoilt with suit wearing propaganda plastered along the beautiful countryside.
We arrived in Haverigg for a boat set on the super air and then proceeded to watch Matt Royle stomp some rather large grabed spins before making our way to the pub. On a sadder note, if you hadn’t heard already Si Powell who featured in the last post is currently out of action with a broken leg after a wakeskating accident up at PHW a few weeks back. Unfortunately this means he will not be able to ride at Think Tank 2010 which is at Princes Club in three weeks time. Get well soon lad!
Tucked away along our jagged North West coastline, hundreds of miles away from any major towns or cities rests small seaside village called Haverigg. Unless you’re into twitching, fishing or get sentenced to prison you will probably never have any reason for being there. However if you are partial to a spot of wake, like we trust, this energetic little holiday village is somewhere you aught to know about, that’s if you didn’t already…
Port Haverigg Watersports - Easter 2010
Port Haverigg Watersports is situated on a purpose built fresh water private lake. The Lake hosts a range of fixed and floating obstacles, and has staged many wakeboard events over the years. Haverigg was the home venue for the Northern Monkeys and many other riders in the county since the ban on Windermere. And after visiting last weekend, temperatures are already increasing and the Watersports centre is very much alive for 2010.
“We have laid back philosophy and great communication with all our riders”
You can turn up and ride whatever level, No Strings attached. Tows cost £17.50 per set behind the Super Air Nautique which has been referred to as, “The Wake of Death” when loaded up. Wakeskating behind the skate boat is £15 per quarter hour. (If you buy in bulk you can save a few quid.) You can use the winch free of charge, hitting the various sliders and rails in the bay.
All sets include coaching; however the atmosphere is as relaxed or as intense as you make it. If you want to slash around in the sun or wish to transform your riding overnight it’s defiantly a place you should check out.
Simon Powell – Pop-shuv (dialled)
On top of all this The Ski Bar is fantastic for a post session pint or nine. It tends to get rather wild during the summer weekends. They keep a well stocked bar and the home made pizzas are delicious, I challenge anyone in the Lake District to find a cheaper priced Jägerbomb.
Lee informs me that PHW intend to hold a Wakeboard competition at some point over the summer, nothing serious. So be sure to keep your pen poised over the diary.
To book a tow Call:
Jason Attwood 07720839648 or Lee Warren 07746539636
As temperatures gradually begin to rise, and the days get longer, apathy diminishes. Riders return to the waters, fresh bursting with enthusiasm. They watch their favourite wake vid and check the weather forecast on a daily basis.
However for some that was irrelevant, motivation and determination were never put aside.
Windermere locals Mark Humphries and Tom Lomax decided enough was enough.
At 2100hrs, Monday evening their patience was abandoned on the jetty of a nearby marina. Their custom winch built by a local Wakeskater, Adam Charlesworth and Mr Lomax roared into action and pulled them across the bay in virtually total darkness.
Tom Lomax - 9pm Winching Lake Windermere
Tom informs us: “Windermere is buzzing and the local wakeboard scene is building at an alarming rate.”
We look forward to catching up with Tom in the next few weeks, that’s if he ever allows himself a day off work.
Last Friday we set the somewhat ludicrous competition to any rider listening, Our challenge was to ride anywhere in the UK without a wetsuit… winners would receive FREE LWC goodies.
With most weather forecasts across the country predicting a “feels like” temperature of 0ºc I didn’t expect anyone would take us on.
However one extremely keen yet insane group travelled up to Loch Lomond at the weekend, probably the most Northerly Lake in the UK which has finally returned to its liquid state.
With their ball sacks fully retracted they heckled from their boards with a scrap of paper proving the date. (I don’t think I’d of believed them otherwise.)
WINNERS: Leigh Mathieson & Jason White from Rochdale, Lancashire
They both did deepwater starts and a 2 mile pull in nothing more than shorts and a life vest, with the water temperature just above freezing! We awarded the two riders with LWC hoodies to keep them warm, and boat driver and photographer with LWC tees for their very brave/stupid efforts convincing the others it was a good idea.
Leigh Mathieson: “would have done it anyway just for a laugh, but hoodies sealed it. It was the best riding all day, with no restriction of wetsuit, and top hangover cure, same again next weekend, thanks Lancashire Wakeboard Club!”
If you fancy heading up to Scotland yourself for some coaching or just a fantastic weekend on the water be sure to check out Loch Lomond Wakeboard, where they run two Malibu Wakesetters and stunning lakeside accommodation with hot tubs!
With the launch of their new 2010 location and to celebrate the start of this season, they are hosting a SUPER SECRET EASTER EVENT. Its all going off between 2nd – 5th April and £75 gets you 3 Boat sets and 1 nights accommodation. Now that’s value.
Apparently Saturday night is where the party’s at.
No doubt, you’ll return to the water a little rusty… It can’t be avoided. We aren’t robots.
However training during the off season is vital if you aim to pretty much pick up where you left off and more importantly prevent injury on your return to the water. I’m not just talking about working out in the gym either. Whilst the boats are moored up, alternative board sports such as skateboarding or snowboarding are probably the best way to keep you wake skills ticking over.
Ross Barton - Boneless (RIP old ramp)
Trampolines are great for developing a mental and physical understanding of inverts and handle passes. And forget the nonsense your PE teacher drilled into you, that anything other than ballet shoes will rip holes in the bed, Strap in your bindings and dial those grabs and spins!
Tom Stafford - Winter Trampoline Sessions
Knowing where you are in any movement, spin or rotation is crucial. Even if you are learning to cross the wake and you find yourself tensing up and closing your eyes – you simply aren’t ready.
Like many things, taking a mental step back will probably result in a physical leap forwards. Tutorial DVDs and videos should not be neglected, we recommend the Destruction Manual. (From getting up to landing Inverts and Raileys).
All professionals in any extreme sport have their own individual methods and talents. But just look at any Pro rider; they some how manage to make their board look like some kind of yoga mat. Their perfect posture and supple bodies allow them to bend and flex into positions, reach for grabs and poke which make their riding look super stylish, so get stretching!
The Indoboard is an excellent way to improve your balance, motorskills and overall board control.
Board, roller and a flat surface that’s all you need
“The Indo Board Balance Trainer can be used for fun or as a serious workout helps the rider develop balance, coordination, and increased leg strength, while enhancing all important core fitness.”
Girls can do it too…
Chloe Ryding - Killer Heels
You can pick one of these up for around 80 quid, which might seem expensive for a plank of wood. However, it’s unique, robust design allows you to lean and progress tricks that you can easily transfer to the water. (There is a variety of models to suit various sports)
Trust me the possibilities are endless, I use mine in the gym all the time, its great!
The Lancashire Wakeboard Club have access to three Indoboards, two Trampolines and a Skateboard ramp that people are welcome to use.
If you would to participate in any of these training activities drop us an email. (thelwc@live.com) and we will do our best to accommodate you.
As if you weren’t already fuelled enough about the forthcoming season, arrival of a System 2.0 facility in Lancashire has been confirmed. Blackpool Wakepark, said to be opening April 2010 are situated just minutes from Junction 4 at the end of the M55.
www.blackpoolwakepark.co.uk
This new generation of wakeboarding is not just for learners either. The System 2.0 has similar advantages and characteristics to a conventional Cable park without the tedious march or paddle back.
Better tension gives riders smoother rail rides and the ability to do air tricks. But the turnaround is beginner level, so everyone can ride it easily.
Sorry, hope I haven’t interrupted your daily prayers for Flat water and Sunshine…
If you haven’t already emigrated or accidently failed to return from vacation, then you’re probably as anxious as me to crack the ice and ride the somewhat chilled waters of the U.K. Inching out of hibernation, I’m beginning to see eager faces full of motivation for the forthcoming year. Friends return from winter seasons, Boats go in for service and wetsuits are dragged out the loft.
Tom takes fist dip after jack won rock, paper, scissors– Windermere March 2009
In our area there are many factors stacked against people who wish to Wakeboard. Lack of Facilities, Government Laws and High Costs restrict pleasure and progression of many riders.
However, it’s not just the phenomenal amount of duty on Petrol that makes our sport so expensive. Boat owners will be aware; anything with the word ‘Marine’ near by will most likely be attached to a hefty price tag. Insurance, maintenance, storage, transport, registering, Mooring fees the list goes on… – So always help the Captain keep his ship afloat…
On the Brighter side of 2010 – Windermere Lake Wardens may Back down!
Following a huge cull in the number of staff and a significant budget cut– The District Council may cease to attempt to enforce the NPA Speed bylaws as of the 31st March 2010.
Due to more boat owners sticking with the more cost effective Small Ships Register instead of the LDNPA scheme, which was described by the BBC as a Legal Loophole in 2006, a decrease in revenue at Ferry Nab may limit the Wardens’ response to less significant matters.
A fine is a tax for doing wrong. A tax is a fine for doing well.
As seen last autumn, it’s more likely that the National Park Rangers will continue to enforce the ban. Clearly the 10 Mph Speed limit for Powered Craft is still in place and you must comply with all of the Lake Bylaws.
However, Last season Keep Windermere Alive Association witnessed: “wakeboarding frequently at all times of the day”, they are unaware of anyone getting ‘done’ – they reckon if anything you may get a letter but some people have 6 of these. They quite rightly think, “full speed blasting up and down for no apparent reason will attract unwelcome attention” and their bottom line is “at busy times keep a low profile”.
Anyway, before you know it you’ll be wondering where summers gone, so make sure you have something to show for it!
Posted by The LWC 
Simon Shepherd 1st, Gordy Forsyth 2nd, Scottish Stu 3rd 
Sam Filsell 1st, Becky Hall 2nd, Suzi Lennox 3rd
Far from the cleanest, deepest or calmest of waters. 
Far from the best water, but far from my worst set.
