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Blake Hess

Corpus Christi Pro Kicker Comp
Sponsored by the Texas International Boat Show

For those who claim that everything’s bigger in Texas, the party surrounding the 2010 Corpus Christi Wakeboard Invitational was proof positive.  90 degree temperatures and the beautiful Texas coast provided the perfect atmosphere for a party only the Texas International Boat Show could throw!  The stadium seating at the famous Corpus Christi Marina, along with luxury yachts, fishing boats and endless docks all provided top tier seating with amazing views of the action as the Texas Ski Ranch crew rocked the marina along with the some of the best wakeboarders in the country.  The only distraction may have been all the pretty Texas girls soaking up the late spring sunshine.

The invitational was located within the Boat Show marina, so the water was protected from the usually strong coastal winds. Calm water provided perfect conditions for competitors to put on an explosive show and battle for the competition crown along with some of the largest cash prizes ($15,000) in Texas wakeboard history, the purse provided by the Texas International Boat Show.  Riders like Tom Foshee, Gabe Lucas and Corpus Christi native Chad Douglas all proved that Texas is indeed a premier training ground for serious wakeboarders.

Riders competed in six rounds of competition, narrowing the field to eight for the semi finals (all guaranteed to earn at least $1000) and four for the finals on Sunday. Tom Fooshee and Gabe Lucas, took their customary spots in the finals while the other two spots were filled by Austin Hair and Eric Deegan. In one of the toughest decisions of the weekend Joey Bradley finished fifth just missing the finals. The finals consisted of five turns each allowing two kicker hits for each rider giving them ten attempts in the round. The judges were looking at the riders four best hits and wanting to see a variety of spins and inverts. Like last year Tom Fooshee earned the last spot off the dock by qualifying highest in the semi finals. Just like last year Tom waited for the final hit of the competetion to secure his second consecutive title. Tom landed a switch heelside 900  on the very last trick to win not only the tournament but also the J.U.D.Y. best trick award that brought him an extra $1000.

Finals:

1. Tom Fooshee (New Braunfels, TX)
Switch HS 7, Whirley, Crow Mobe 5, Switch HS 9

2. Gabe Lucas (Seguin, TX)
Slim Chance, Wrapped KGB, HS BS 360, HS Off Axis 540

3. Austin Hair (Orlando, FL)
Indy Tant to Blind, HS BS 540, Indy Off Axis BS 360, HS 540 or Whirley

4. Eric Deegan (Houston, TX)
Whirley, TS Off 540, HS Off 540, Melon HS Front

5. Joey Bradley (Arlington, TX)

6. Logan Ferris (Canyon Lake, TX)

7. Chad Douglas (Corpus Christi, TX)

8. Rusty Scott (Dallas, TX)

The Corpus Christi International Boat Show is a one of a kind experience combining all the fun of a traditional boat show with the excitement of the a myriad of events, all in idyllic setting.  The thrills and chills of power boat racing and kiteboarding added spice to the huge fishing tournament and outdoor festival.  Island music entertained in between events as attendees enjoyed everything from fine art to fishing accessories brought in by vendors and artisans.  Whether your preference is shaved ice and corn dogs, or fine dining with ocean views, there was something for everyone at this unforgettable event.

Texas Ski Ranch and the Texas International Boat Show would like to thank the sponsors that made this years event possible: American Bank, Budweiser, Coca Cola, Master Craft, Gulf Coast Marine, Monster, Academy, Eddie Yaklin Ford, Michelob Ultra, NOV Power, Champion Toyota & Whataburger.

Texas Ski Ranch will be hosting their next event at TSR on May 7th-9th. Cablestock is building up to be the biggest event ever at TSR with 6 different wake comps, a skateboard comp, bikini contest and Mickey Avalon headlining Saturday night. For more information go to http://texasskiranch.com/cablestock/

Corpus Christi Pro from Joey Arcisz on Vimeo.