Dream Lake hosts INT League
By By Jared Florreich/staff writer
July 13, 2003
The International Novice Tour returned to Dream Lake Saturday to compete in wakeboarding and kneeboarding. Alltel Communications sponsored the event, which concludes today with slalom waterskiing.
On a day when the weather was picture perfect, the heat was the only complaint among audience members.
But the heat didn't affect the 55 riders, as they performed high flying stunts, flips, turns, and maneuvers that many of us only dream about and wouldn't dare attempt.
The INT League was created 10 years ago, and is active in 30 states. Jim Roebuck owns the rights to Mississippi's INT League and has been involved with the league for five years.
This weekend's event was the third of the year for Mississippi's INT League.
Roebuck said that they have a tour concept with the league, and travel to different cities around Mississippi. Previous stops have included Jackson, Tupelo, Olive Branch, and Meridian.
Roebuck was pleased with the turnout.
Dream Lake owner Jack Middleton said he's seen the growth first hand.
Reed Johnson of Yazoo City has been wakeboarding for about four years and said he's hooked, despite the fact injuries happen.
The weekend's event marked the third time Dream Lake has hosted an event. Dream Lake serves as the site for State Games, INT League, and USA Waterski action.
Middleton hopes to possibly add more events.
Middleton said it costs $20 to ski. Other options include $80 a month or $1,000 a year for unlimited water action. He said club members, which include seven to 10 people are looking at possibly purchasing a club boat.
Riders were scored on the number of successful tricks or stunts performed and on the difficulty of the stunt. First place winners will get the opportunity to compete in the INT League championships in Bakersfield, Calif. later this month.
Winners included: Men's Novice: David Ride, first, Danny Beard, second, Scott Chism, third. Mimi Outlaw (8-under): Brett Myers, first, Kendal Carpenter, second. Junior novice: Blake Armstrong, first, Taylor Dial, second. Women's Novice: Megan Roebuck. Women's Intermediate: Monica Lambert. Men's Intermediate: Adam Weyenberg, first, Matthew Ride, second, Brent Myers, third. Men's Advanced: Chad Tidwell, first, Sam Marshall, second, Ryan Ruleman, third. Junior Intermediate: Clark Tidwell, first, Nate Scrubbs, second, Tyler Robertson. Men's Advanced: Chad Tidwell, first, Sam Marshall, second, Ryan Ruleman, third. Expert: Brandon Conner, first, Cody Weker, second, Brad Ruleman, third.