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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WWA Wakesurf Championships 2024 !

• What: 2024 Wakesurf Championships – Dubai Creek Edition
• When: November 2-3, 2024
• Where: Dubai Creek Marina
• Disciplines: Amateur and Professional Skim and Surf Style divisions
• Entry Requirements: Must have a WWA Membership to participate

Learn More 

Registration HERE 

About The WWA: Developed for riders by riders, the World Wake Association stands as a global network of passionate representatives dedicated to the growth of wakesports. Since 1989 our mission and values remain true to the core of our community. Our position as the authority on competitive standards has been earned through consistent development; sanctioning and producing more than 15,000 worldwide events and counting. We are the only organization solely focused on the best interests of the sport, spearheading a collective movement on the journey to discover where wake takes you. The WWA owns and operates the WWA Wakeboard World Series, WWA Wake Park World Series, WWA Wakeboard National Championships, WWA Wake Park National Championships, WWA Wakeboard World Championships, WWA Wake Park World Championships, WWA Wake Park Triple Crown, WWA Pro Card and WWA Rider Experience. For more information on the World Wake Association, check out www.thewwa.com.

About Dubai Creek Marina: A gracious marina in a unique location – Dubai Creek Marina, incorporating a boat charter operation, chandlery, fully equipped workshop and a boat repair yard, is the first Marina in Dubai to be ISO Certified and is capable of berthing 121 vessels of varying lengths to a maximum of 165 feet, with electricity and water provided for each mooring.Alongside the berths is the chandlery; well-stocked with the latest fishing tackle, bait, marine maintenance supplies and hardware, offering a special order service on request. Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club operates two full-service charter vessels from the marina, “Sneak Away” and “creek Breeze” for all sport fishing and leisure cruising needs.

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– Some short film defining Gavin’s status in wakeboarding.

 GAVIN STUCKEY STATUS

GAVIN STUCKEY GROUNDED

GAVIN STUCKEY FORTYEIGHT

 GAVIN STUCKEY PARK TEAM | ORLANDO

Gavin was that kid who made all the other moms apprehensive about group playdates. He started jumping his bike at the tender age of 2, tackled dirt bikes by the age of 5, and managed to secure false age waivers just to hit the skateparks. Gavin’s initiation into the world of cable wake parks began right in his hometown of Orlando when he was merely six years old. OWC, the well-known cable wake park, became Gavin’s ultimate playground and passion. Over the past decade, he has been honing his skills at skate/snow-inspired wake parks and participating in numerous grassroots events.

In 2021, Gavin achieved an impressive double podium at the WWA U.S. Wake Park Nationals and clinched the top spot at the WWA Wake Park Worlds in Features. Additionally, he secured a podium position in the Traditional category. Taking his talents overseas in 2022, Gavin made a name for himself by competing in prestigious events like Langenfeld Open and Red Bull Wake Duel. While facing elimination only by podium riders, he proudly earned a spot on the podium at Germany’s renowned Munich Mash. Gavin continued his success by securing double podiums at the WWA U.S. Wake Park Nationals once again. Undoubtedly, Gavin possesses a rare ability to seamlessly blend style and technical prowess, making him a true asset to our sport.

GAVIN INSTAGRAM

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2024 Nautique WWA Wakeboard & Wake Park World Championships: The WWA along with Nautique Boats is thrilled to announce  the Nautique WWA Wakeboard & Wake Park World Championships presented by GM Marine  and proudly supported by Major Events Gold Coast, will head Australia’s stunning Gold Coast in September 2024. After 20 years, the World Wake Association is excited to bring this prestigious event back to Australia,this time to the Gold Coast, a country that has long been one of the largest markets in the wakeboarding industry.

“We understand that due to the ongoing

“Securing the premier wakeboarding world championships is a huge coup for the coast,” stated Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate. The Gold Coast’s reputation as a wakeboarding hub continues as the go to spot for wakeboarding enthusiasts to relish in the sport year-round because of the beautiful weather and community.

Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate invites all to join and said, “This is a must-see spectator sport with close-up action guaranteed at the two venues. Make a date with the Gold Coast in September 2024 for the Worlds.”

The 2024 Nautique WWA Wake Park World Championships will be held at the Gold Coast Wake Park, September 21-24, 2024. Followed by the 2024 Nautique WWA Wakeboard World Championships presented by GM Marine” – Marine Stadium, Gold Coast, Australia – September 26-29th, 2024

This two-part series guarantees an unforgettable experience, where both athletes and attendees can revel in the thrill of world-class wakeboarding against the backdrop of the breathtaking Gold Coast.

“At a time in our sport where Australians dominate the men’s and women’s pro podium it just makes sense to drop the Worlds in the country producing some of the best riders the sport has ever seen.” Said Shannon Starling, President of the WWA. “With the support of the Gold Coast community, Nautique, GM Marine and all of our sponsors continuing to make our sport grow, the timing was just right.”

Mark your calendars for September 2024 and join us in celebrating the return of the Nautique WWA Wakeboard & Wake Park World Championships to the acclaimed Australia’s ,Gold Coast.

Event Details:
2023 Nautique WWA Wake Park World Championships presented by GM Marine
September 21-24, 2024

2023 Nautique WWA Wakeboard World Championships presented by GM Marine
September 26-29, 2024

Stay tuned for more news comming soon ! #unleashedwakemag

About Nautique Boat Company: Nautique is celebrating its 98^th anniversary of delivering excellence in the marine industry. A subsidiary of Correct Craft, Nautique has been on the waters of the world with a passion for innovation since 1925. Delivering the very best waterski, wakeboard and wakesurf boats on the market, Nautique continues to drive progression with their award-winning technology and dedication to building the highest-quality boats imaginable. New technology, performance innovations and attention to detail are the cornerstones of what makes the Nautique brand the industry leader. Through the Nautique Cares initiative, employees and athletes dedicate themselves to not only making a difference on the water, but to extend their support to people in need around the world. The world’s best ski boat, world’s best wake boat, and a company that cares. To learn more visit Nautique.com

About The WWA: Developed for riders by riders, the World Wake Association stands as a global network of passionate representatives dedicated to the growth of wakesports. Since 1989 our mission and values remain true to the core of our community. Our position as the authority on competitive standards has been earned through consistent development, sanctioning, and producing more than 15,000 worldwide events and counting. We are the only organization solely focused on the sport’s best interests, spearheading a collective movement on the journey to discover where wake takes you. The WWA owns and operates the WWA Wakeboard World Series, WWA Wake Park World Series, WWA Wakeboard National Championships, WWA Wake Park National Championships, WWA Wakeboard World Championships, WWA Wake Park World Championships, WWA Wake Park Triple Crown, WWA Pro Card, and WWA Rider Experience. For more information on the World Wake Association, check out www.thewwa.com.

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WWA Wakesurf Championships :The World Wake Association (WWA) along with Dubai Creek Resort is thrilled to announce an exciting new wakesurf event: the Wakesurf Championships – Dubai Creek Edition, November 4th and 5th. This event will take place during the Dubai Creek Pre-Owned Boat Show and will offer a weekend of nonstop action in Dubai Creek Marina. Mark your calendars for an action-packed weekend November 4th and 5th, 2023, as we bring you the ultimate wakesurfing showdown in the heart of Dubai.

What: 2023 Wakesurf Championships – Dubai Creek Edition

When: November 4-5, 2023

Where: Dubai Creek Marina

Disciplines: Amateur and Professional Skim and Surf Style divisions

Learn More 

Registration HERE 

About The WWA: Developed for riders by riders, the World Wake Association stands as a global network of passionate representatives dedicated to the growth of wakesports. Since 1989 our mission and values remain true to the core of our community. Our position as the authority on competitive standards has been earned through consistent development; sanctioning and producing more than 15,000 worldwide events and counting. We are the only organization solely focused on the best interests of the sport, spearheading a collective movement on the journey to discover where wake takes you. The WWA owns and operates the WWA Wakeboard World Series, WWA Wake Park World Series, WWA Wakeboard National Championships, WWA Wake Park National Championships, WWA Wakeboard World Championships, WWA Wake Park World Championships, WWA Wake Park Triple Crown, WWA Pro Card and WWA Rider Experience. For more information on the World Wake Association, check out www.thewwa.com.

About Dubai Creek Marina: A gracious marina in a unique location – Dubai Creek Marina, incorporating a boat charter operation, chandlery, fully equipped workshop and a boat repair yard, is the first Marina in Dubai to be ISO Certified and is capable of berthing 121 vessels of varying lengths to a maximum of 165 feet, with electricity and water provided for each mooring.Alongside the berths is the chandlery; well-stocked with the latest fishing tackle, bait, marine maintenance supplies and hardware, offering a special order service on request. Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club operates two full-service charter vessels from the marina, “Sneak Away” and “creek Breeze” for all sport fishing and leisure cruising needs.

More about WWA Events on #unleashedwakemag

Find all wake spots in the world on

-WWA Wakesurf Championships –

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