Édito – La route vers les Jeux, entre opportunités et défis

Brisbane 2032 : Pendant des années, l’idée d’un wakeboard olympique relevait de la discussion entre riders, autour d’une bière après une session. Puis, les rumeurs ont enflé dans les coulisses des compétitions. Aujourd’hui, le rêve se concrétise : l’Olympisme n’est plus une utopie, mais un chantier en pleine construction.

Lors du dernier Congrès de l’IWWF à Londres, le message était clair : le cable wakeboarding n’a jamais été aussi proche des Jeux. Pour démêler le vrai du faux, Unleashed Wakeboard Magazine vous fait un petit résumé des échanges avec  Lisa Baloo et C-Lo (Carlo dDela Torre New president of IWWF asia ), deux acteurs clés lors de cette réunion . Voici leur analyse, sans langue de bois.

1. LE RÉVEIL : FINI LES SPÉCULATIONS, PLACE À L’ACTION

Lisa et C-Lo étaient dans la salle quand José Antonio Pérez, président de l’IWWF, a détaillé les échanges avec le CIO. Le verdict est sans appel : ce n’est plus une hypothèse, mais un processus engagé.

La différence avec les tentatives passées ? Le CIO connaît désormais le wakeboard. Plus besoin d’expliquer ce qu’est un rail ou un kicker : la question n’est plus la visibilité, mais l’organisation.

2. POURQUOI LE CABLE SÉDUIT LE CIO

Le wake a explosé ces vingt dernières années : parcs en Asie, en Amérique du Sud, riders de plus en plus techniques, équipes nationales structurées… Les bases sont là.

Mais c’est le cable qui coche toutes les cases de l’Agenda 2020+5 du CIO :

✅ Écologie : Moins d’empreinte carbone que le boat.

✅ Accessibilité : Plus de spots, plus faciles à installer.

✅ Infrastructure : Compact, adaptable aux villes.

✅ Jeunesse : Un sport qui parle aux nouvelles générations.

Comme le résume Lisa Baloo : « Le cable répond parfaitement aux critères du CIO. » Ajoutez à cela des systèmes électriques fiables et des conditions contrôlées (pas de vent, pas de vagues), et vous obtenez un sport “télégénique” et planifiable – un argument clé pour les diffuseurs.

3. LE DÉFI MAJEUR : L’UNITÉ FACE À LA FRAGMENTATION

C’est le point noir du wake : IWWF, WWA, tours indépendants, événements locaux… Chaque acteur a sa valeur, mais pour le CIO, c’est un casse-tête.

• Règles différentes selon les compétitions.
• Calendriers qui se chevauchent.
• Parcours athlètes dispersés.

Lisa le souligne : « Cette diversité a fait notre richesse, mais l’Olympisme exige de la coordination. » C-Lo ajoute : « Moins de friction, plus de dialogue, des structures claires. Une direction commune, sans uniformiser notre culture. »

Leçon de l’histoire : En boxe, la fragmentation a failli coûter son statut olympique. L’unité n’est pas une bureaucratie, mais une nécessité.

4. L’IWWF : LA VOIE OBLIGÉE VERS LES JO

Seule la fédération IWWF est reconnue par le CIO. C’est sous son égide que les standards olympiques se construisent :

✔ Anti-dopage (conforme WADA).

✔ Règles unifiées.

✔ Juges formés.

✔ Qualifications internationales.

Les étapes clés :

• World Games 2025 et 2029 (tests grandeur nature).
• Para Wake (en cours de reconnaissance par le Comité Paralympique).

5. L’ARGUMENT ÉCONOMIQUE : POURQUOI LES JO SONT UNE CHANCE

C-Lo met le doigt sur un problème crucial : l’économie du wake est fragile.

• Les riders sont plus forts que jamais, mais qui peut en vivre ?
• Les marques souffrent (coûts de production, logistique, inflation).
• Les vues Instagram ne paient pas les factures.

Les JO, c’est bien plus que des médailles :

Sponsors externes (au-delà de la niche wake).

Financements publics (accès aux infrastructures, budgets nationaux).

Stabilité (pour les athlètes, les marques, les parcs).

6. L’EFFET SNOWBOARD : UNE LEÇON À RETENIR

Dans les années 90, le snowboard était comme le wake aujourd’hui :

• Culture underground.
• Événements indépendants (Air & Style, US Open).
• Structures désorganisées.

1994 : La FIS prend les rênes. 1998 : Nagano, première apparition aux JO.

Résultat : ✅ Visibilité mondiale. ✅ Financements. ✅ Professionnalisation des athlètes.

Y a-t-il eu des tensions avec la scène “core” ? Oui. Mais les JO n’ont pas tué le snow, ils l’ont élargi. Aujourd’hui, culture et haute performance coexistent.

7. LA FEUILLE DE ROUTE POUR BRISBANE 2032

Pas de magie : la route vers les JO se gagne par le travail. Voici ce qui doit changer :

Renforcer les fédérations nationales (des interlocuteurs pro pour les riders).

Qualifications claires (chaque athlète doit savoir comment se qualifier).

Harmonisation des règles (standardisation mondiale des formats).

Calendrier cohérent (éviter les chevauchements d’événements).

Détection de talents (programmes structurés pour la relève).

Communication externe (expliquer le wake aux médias et institutions).

La maturité olympique, c’est la répétition de structures fiables, pas un coup d’éclat.

8. CONCLUSION : GRANDIR SANS SE PERDRE

Les discussions avec le CIO sont concrètes, les structures se professionnalisent. Les JO peuvent apporter stabilité et visibilité à un écosystème qui en a cruellement besoin.

La peur est légitime : « Les JO vont-ils diluer notre culture ? »

La réponse du snowboard est claire : grandir ne signifie pas perdre son âme. Lifestyle, créativité, événements indépendants et haut niveau peuvent coexister – et même se renforcer.

La vraie question n’est pas “Les JO sont-ils bons ou mauvais ?

“ Mais : “Sommes-nous prêts à travailler ensemble pour bâtir une industrie stable, sans renier ce qui fait notre essence ?”

À nous de jouer.

Philippe Sirech

Rédacteur en chef – Unleashed Wakeboard Magazine

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BRISBANE 2032 : LE WAKE CABLE PEUT-IL RÉUSSIR SON ENTRÉE DANS L’ARÈNE OLYMPIQUE ?

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Plastic Playground made a spectacular return in 2025 at Liquid Leisure Watersports Center, just outside London, bringing back all the energy, style, and technical prowess that has made it one of the most respected contests in the world of wakeboarding.

Gavin Stuckey and Rivers Hendrik rise above the competition to claim top honors. Clad in tie-dye shirts and armed with a fearless approach, the duo delivered a masterclass in creativity, control, and raw power. Their runs were packed with strong tricks, unexpected lines, and just enough wild slams to keep the crowd on edge.

The international wakeboarding scene was out in full force, with top riders representing the USA, England, and Australia—bringing together styles and influences from across the globe. The level of riding throughout the event was nothing short of explosive, reaffirming Plastic Playground’s reputation as a cult event that pushes the boundaries of park riding.

Couldn’t be there in person? Catch all the action and relive the electric atmosphere by watching the replay of the final here.

PLASTIC PLAYGROUND 2025

Check out the recap of the Bali Wake Park’s stop of the #PPWorldSeries2019 on #unleashedwakemag

Plastic Playground was created 8 years ago By a bunch of rider tired of international  wakeboard competitions held by the IWWF and WWA , they want to create their own format , more fair and friendly , who show the right level of this sport . Stuart Marson the Liquid leisure owner say , “Lets go ” and it was the first to host the first Contest in 2015 at Liquid Leisure London , the Full Plastic Obstacles place. Year after year the contest grow and 3 years after the first edition they decide to made a Worldwide tour with 3 stops, One in Thailand , one in Uk  and the final one in Bali Indonesia. Mr Parks Bonifay Still the Goodfather of this contest and the World tour also…

WEBSITE

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One of the most popular destinations after the Olympics Paris 2024

LIVESTREAM IS HERE 

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Camsur Watersports Complex (CWC): A Wakeboarding Paradise in Pili, Philippines

CWC Wakepark Resurgence 2024: Nestled in the heart of the Bicol region, the Camsur Watersports Complex (CWC) in Pili, Philippines, is a premier destination for wakeboarding enthusiasts from around the globe. Since its inception, CWC has grown to become a vital hub for cable wakeboarding, attracting both professional athletes and amateurs eager to experience its world-class facilities. This article delves into the history, significance, and impact of CWC on the global wakeboarding scene, while also celebrating the individuals who have played key roles in keeping this iconic sports complex thriving.

The Birth of a Wakeboarding Mecca

CWC was established with the vision of promoting tourism in the province of Camarines Sur, with a specific focus on water sports. The brainchild of former Governor Luis Raymund “Lray” Villafuerte Jr., CWC opened its doors in 2006. The goal was to create a facility that could compete on an international level, offering top-notch amenities for both casual visitors and professional wakeboarders. What started as a bold vision quickly became a reality, transforming a once quiet town into a bustling center of activity and a beacon for sports tourism in the Philippines.

World-Class Facilities and Offerings

The Camsur Watersports Complex is renowned for its state-of-the-art cable park, which is considered one of the best in the world. The complex features a six-point cable system, which allows wakeboarders to practice and perform tricks with ease. The park is designed to cater to all skill levels, from beginners taking their first ride to seasoned professionals looking to hone their craft.

In addition to wakeboarding, CWC offers a variety of other water sports, including wakeskating, water skiing, and knee boarding. The complex also boasts a number of additional amenities, such as a pro shop, dining facilities, and accommodations ranging from budget-friendly cabins to luxury villas. The scenic backdrop of Mount Isarog and the surrounding greenery further enhances the overall experience, making CWC not just a sports complex but a complete vacation destination.

A Hub for International Competitions

CWC’s reputation as a top-tier wakeboarding venue has led to its selection as the host for numerous international competitions. The complex has hosted events such as the World Wakeboarding Championships and the International Wakeboarding and Waterski Federation (IWWF) World Cup. These events have drawn athletes from around the world, further cementing CWC’s status as a key player in the global wakeboarding community.

One of the most significant aspects of these competitions is the exposure they provide for Filipino athletes. CWC has become a training ground for local wakeboarders, giving them the opportunity to compete against some of the best in the world on home turf. This has led to a growing interest in the sport within the Philippines, with more young people taking up wakeboarding as a serious pursuit.

Celebrating the Athletes and Visionaries with this new Opus

CWC has been graced by the presence of some of the biggest names in wakeboarding. Among these are Graeme Burress, JB O’Neill, Ile Vegni, Sam Dehaan, and Konni Lehndorff. These athletes have not only showcased their incredible skills at CWC but have also helped elevate the complex’s profile through their participation in events and their promotion of the facility on social media and other platforms.

Graeme Burress, known for his daring tricks and innovative riding style, has been a frequent visitor to CWC. His performances at the complex have left lasting impressions on both spectators and fellow athletes alike. JB O’Neill, another prominent figure in the wakeboarding world, has also been instrumental in highlighting CWC’s offerings through his widely-followed online presence.

The contributions of these athletes are matched by the dedication of the individuals who have kept CWC thriving. The Villafuerte family, led by Lray Villafuerte, along with his sons Migz and Luigi, have been pivotal in maintaining and expanding the complex. Their commitment to the facility and to the promotion of wakeboarding in the Philippines has been unwavering. Through their efforts, CWC has not only survived but thrived, continuing to attract visitors and athletes from all corners of the globe.

The Future of CWC

As CWC approaches nearly two decades of operation, it shows no signs of slowing down. The complex continues to evolve, with plans for further expansion and the addition of new facilities to enhance the visitor experience. The ongoing support from the Villafuerte family ensures that CWC will remain a key player in the world of wakeboarding for years to come.

The future of CWC also lies in its ability to inspire the next generation of wakeboarders. With the increasing popularity of the sport in the Philippines, CWC is poised to become a breeding ground for new talent. The complex’s role in hosting competitions and providing top-notch training facilities will undoubtedly contribute to the development of more world-class Filipino wakeboarders.

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More About HYPERLITE

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The Varial Surf partnership is the first of its kind bringing expert knowledge into the world of Wakesurfing. Their patented foam processes and infused glass technology guarantee these surfers are unlike anything seen before in our sport. Based in Ventura, California we’re honored to have these boards built right here in the United States.

Chances are you already know this – Hyperlite has never been so connected with our fellow wake enthusiasts. The #iRideHyperlite program is a force to be reckoned with. Your response to our new posts, videos and products has been amazing and your feedback helps us continue making products we are all confident in.

Hyperlite, we love everything Wake!

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CWC Wakepark Resurgence

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