Wakeboarding – an event most only see on cable television – makes its debut in Bacolod with the staging of the first Bacolod Wakeboard and Wakeskate Winch Jam at the East Block parking lot in Bacolod City starting today.

The event marks the first time the extreme sport is also held in the Visayas, Manfred Ruiz of StokedInc, which is sending three riders to conduct a demonstration and clinic during the two-day event.

At a press conference Thursday night, Ruiz said wakeboarding is growing in the country, pointing out that events are being held in Manila and other neighboring provinces.

A 200 ft makeshift pool has been constructed, while a power winch has also been installed. When similar events are held at lakes, boats are used to pull enthusiasts, Ruiz said.

"We are actually bringing the event into the city," said Ruiz, whose teammates, Carlo Dela Torre and Jemir Blanco are also participating in the winch jam.

Ruiz admitted that wakeboarding can be an expensive sport but with the sport being promoted and facilities being constructed, it will not take long before the country produces champions in international competitions.

In fact, Ruiz said that despite little exposure, some Filipino riders came up with noteworthy finishes in the Singapore waterfest last year.*CPT

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