Wakestock back where it began

CTV Barrie: Wakestock making waves in Muskoka Event known as the 'World Series of Wakeboarding' makes a huge splash in it's return to our region. K.C. Colby reports it's better than ever

A hugely popular event on the water is back in Muskoka, where it all started years ago.

Wakestock is just getting underway in Bala and this year there are some changes.

The boarders are on the water, there are people in the stands and the vendors are setting up for the return of Wakestock to the Bala area of Muskoka and organizer Wayne Rogers couldn't be happier.

“We missed it. It's just a great venue and a great family event.”

Wakestock is known as the ‘World Series’ of wakeboarding and many in the Bala area say it's great to have the event back where it all started in the late 1990's.

“It brings an interesting vibe,” says wakeboarder Ryan Bush. “It makes the town buzz. 99% of it is positive. It's just incredible, the vibrancy it brings to this town again.”

Wakestock moved around in the early 2000's with stops in Wasaga Beach, Collingwood and Toronto. But now it's back where it all started.

Bala resident Doug Brown says the problem Wakestock had in Bala was that it grew too fast which made getting around almost impossible.

“It was crazy. We tried to get to the grocery store to do our shopping and we couldn't.”

This year Wakestock is in Bush's Watersports Park and away from downtown which means local businesses can concentrate on hosting the block parties after the day’s competition.

Tiffany Bol is excited the event is back.

“Fabulous to have it back in town. To enjoy it and bring it back to being a wakeboarding event and showcase our beautiful little town.”

Shane Bol will spend most of Wakestock delivering pizza but hopefully not all of Wakestock.

“If the chance arises I'll be possibly competing. Only in the amateur division but it's a great experience.”

Wakestock runs right through till Sunday night, events start at around 8 in the morning and continue throughout the day.

Tickets can be bought for the day or in a block package.