River Rodeo returns to the Gorge

Judging criteria is BIG AIR, which means the best jump. This appeals to windsurfers of all ages and sailing disciplines as it includes the wave, freestyle and race competitors.

Organizers are Kyle Ponichtera and Kelsey Hoult of BootLeg Productions.

It was wasn't that long ago, actually it was 10 years ago, when Kyle Ponichtera was a young junior windsurf competitor. Not long after that Kelsey Hoult joined the windsurfing youth in the Gorge. At that time, and for several years later, there were more wave competitions in the Gorge. Today, the wave events are far fewer than what they would like.

The duo decided it was time to give back to the sport that they love so dearly. The result is the rebirth of the River Rodeo.

Although neither has put on an event of this magnitude before, they have received a great deal of support from the windsurfing community.

"Columbia Gorge Windsurfing Association (CGWA) executive director Diane Barkhimer has really provided us with many ideas as well as a check list of what we should be doing ahead of time" says Hoult.

Ponichtera added "Darren Rogers, who has much event organization experience, has also offered much support and is a wealth of information."

To date there are 22 sponsors. Volunteers are still needed, however.

Competition will take place at Swell City the first 4.0 day between August 27 through September 10 with heats beginning at 8:30 a.m. Competitors are asked to listen to radio station Q104 for announcement or call (541) 298-5116.

Categories will include men, women and juniors. Entry fee will be $50 for men and women, $30 for juniors.

Registration will take place on site the day of the event. Juniors must have a parent/guardian signature. Entry forms are available at Windwing, by calling (541) 296-1865 or email at scaledwn@gorge.net.

Prizes include $1,500 for men's first place, $500 for women's first place, and equipment for juniors and second and third place finishers.