MasterCraft wakeboarders were recognized at the Wake Awards in Orlando, Florida this past weekend during the 2008 Surf Expo. The Wake Awards recognize 15 different awards in video, photography and top riding in both of the wakeboarding and wakeskating categories. The Wake Awards are determined by an industry-wide voting panel of over 50 members. The King and Queen of Wake are determined by a season-long race for the crown where riders accumulate points at designated WWA events; namely, the MasterCraft Pro Wakeboard Tour.

New for 2008 was the crowning of the “Queen of Wake." This award is the highest accolade in competitive wakeboarding.  The first annual "Queen of Wake" title was won by Nicola Butler in her first, rookie year.  
  
This year's Legend Award was presented by the four current Legends including Scott Byerly, Shaun Murray, Darin Shapiro and Parks Bonifay.  Zane Schwenk was honored with this year's induction, joining this exclusive club in front of friends, family and the entire industry.
 
Rusty Malinoski repeated as Best Wakeboarder and was ecstatic as his name was called and the limited edition of WakeBoarding Magazine cover was unveiled. "To be recognized for the second year in a row is a dream come true," Malinoski said. "To do it once is totally amazing and to back it up the following year is even more special to me."
 
The 5th annual Wake Awards presented by Rockstar Energy Drink was captured by Fuel TV and will air on national television in November for those who weren't able to make the event.  Look for more information on air dates coming soon.

To learn more about the official award winners for the 5th Annual Wake Awards, go to wakeboardingmag.com

 

 

Copy and Rusty’s image courtesy of Wakeboardingmag.com