The International Waterski & Wakeboard Federation (IWWF) is delighted to confirm the details of the 2012 Europe and Africa Wakeboard/Wakeskate Championships. The venue will be the lush banks of the Vaal River at Emerald Resorts and Casino, Vanderbijlpark, about an hour outside Johannesburg, South Africa. 

The competition will take place from February 15th to the 18th. With 130 athletes from 13 IWWF- E&A affiliated Federations taking part, their ages will range from Under 9 through to Regional, World Games and former World Champions in Open Men and Women. This year, Israel and Namibia will take part for the first time. Will the hot favourites Italy again win the Overall Team Title? They are the reigning champions and have a team consisting of two current world champions, one silver medal and two bronze medal riders in their team. 

The E & A Wakeboard/Wakeskate Championship is hosted by a different country every year to ensure that all Federations bring their best riders to compete for the title of Wakeboard/Wakeskate Europe and Africa Champion. Each country selects 8 Athletes who compete for Titles in 12 age-group categories. Their final placements in their categories earn team points which are accumulated to determine the overall team placement.

The Official Towboat for the Championships is a Malibu Wakesetter 22 MXZ with a L96 6.0 litre performance engine.

The South African Waterski Federation (South African Wakeboard Association) and the IWWF/E&A World Wakeboard Council and affiliated Federations have combined forces to create one of the most spectacular Championships ever staged. The idyllic conditions of the Vaal River, will guarantee the level of riding throughout the championship will be of world class.

The Emerald Resorts & Casino manages the resort and provides a wide range of entertainment available to the guests and public. These include a variety of restaurants, casino, game farm and kiddies aqua dome.

We the South African Wakeboard Association feel very privileged by being given the opportunity to host this great event and wish all competitors the best of luck in these IWWF/E&A Wakeboard/Wakeskate  Championships and offer my congratulations to all involved.

Written by Darryn Ridgway on 06 December 2012.