2024 Pro Wakeboard Tour: The Final Showdown in Knoxville

The 2024 Pro Wakeboard Tour presented by Supra Boats culminated in Knoxville, TN, bringing a season of fierce competition to a dramatic close. With the overall championship up for grabs, veterans and rising stars alike put everything on the line at Supra’s home turf. As the season’s tightest race yet unfolded, Knoxville proved to be the perfect stage for an epic finale. Let’s break down the key moments, standout performances, and the strategies that defined the final stop of the tour.

Season Recap: How We Got Here

The 2024 Pro Wakeboard Tour has been a rollercoaster of high-flying tricks, unexpected exits, and razor-thin margins. Throughout the season, riders like Nic Rapa, Shota Tezuka, Tyler Higham, Cory Teunissen, and Guenther Oka showcased why they are considered some of the best in the world. From Nic Rapa’s impressive win in Groveland to Shota Tezuka's consistent performances that kept him at the top of the standings, every stop this season added layers of tension and excitement.

Consistency and Resilience: The competition's intensity underscored the importance of staying consistent under pressure. Veterans leveraged their experience, while younger competitors brought fresh energy and innovation to each stop. As the tour progressed, it became abundantly clear that adaptability and mental toughness were crucial—riders had to be ready to adjust their strategies on the fly to handle varying conditions and tough competitors.

Strategic Insights: For wakeboarders looking to replicate the success of these top athletes, the key takeaway is to plan strategically and adapt quickly. Whether it’s selecting the right tricks or adjusting to the unique challenges of each location, being able to pivot is critical.

The Battle in Knoxville: Veterans vs. Rising Stars

With the overall championship hanging in the balance, Knoxville set the stage for an electrifying final showdown. Shota Tezuka entered as the longest-standing competitor at the top of the leaderboard, but veterans Tyler Higham, Cory Teunissen, and Guenther Oka were hot on his heels, tied for second just 15 points behind. Nic Rapa, fresh off his victory in Groveland, was also within striking distance.

Pressure on the Veterans: Shota Tezuka’s experience provided an edge, but with the competition so tight, there was no room for error. Veterans like Nic Rapa and Cory brought their A-game, leaning on their deep well of competition experience to navigate the pressure of the final stop. In these moments, the ability to stay composed and execute under pressure can make the difference between winning and going home empty-handed.

What It Takes: For those aspiring to compete at this level, it's a lesson in mental resilience and precise execution. The pros stay calm under pressure, remain focused on their game plan, and make adjustments as needed, all while keeping their eyes on the prize.

Highlighting the Key Performances: Semi-Finals and Finals

As the semi-finals unfolded, each rider knew that a single misstep could cost them the title. The pressure was palpable, and every trick mattered. Riders pushed the envelope, balancing high-risk maneuvers with the need for clean execution.

Standout Moments: The semi-finals saw impressive performances that set the stage for a thrilling final round. Nic Rapa’s calculated approach and Shota Tezuka’s consistent landings showcased why they were top contenders. Guenther Oka’s innovative tricks and Tyler Higham’s polished runs added to the competitive atmosphere, proving that every rider had their eyes firmly set on the championship.

Tactical Decisions: In the finals, the key was balancing risk and consistency. Riders had to choose tricks that not only scored high but also matched their strengths and conditions on the day. For example, opting for a complex trick like a Crow 7 might earn big points, but only if executed flawlessly under pressure.

The Junior Pro Finals: A Glimpse into the Future

The Junior Pro Finals offered a look at the next generation of wakeboarding talent. Riders like Hunter Gentry, Jet Gibson, and Camden Marson didn’t just compete—they made statements with their performances, pushing the limits of what’s possible at their age.

Rising Stars: These young riders brought fresh energy and fearlessness to the water. Hunter Gentry’s technical precision, Jet Gibson’s bold trick choices, and Camden Marson’s smooth execution were all standout elements that showed the depth of talent coming up through the ranks.

Advice for Aspiring Juniors: The Junior Pro Finals underscored the importance of building a strong foundation in the basics while also pushing the boundaries with innovative tricks. For young wakeboarders, focusing on consistency, mastering technical skills, and staying mentally tough are keys to climbing the ranks.

Crowning the Champion: A Tight Race to the Finish

The final runs in Knoxville were nothing short of spectacular, with each competitor pushing their limits and leaving it all on the water. As the judges tallied the scores, it was Cory Teunissen who emerged as the overall champion, capping off a season of perseverance, grit, and high-stakes performances.

Cory Teunissen’s Path to Victory: Cory’s ability to maintain composure under intense pressure and execute complex tricks like his standout backside 900, toeside 1080, and double roll off the double-up secured his spot at the top. His journey through the season exemplified the qualities of a true champion: resilience, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Lessons from the Champion: Aspiring wakeboarders can gain valuable insights from Cory’s approach—preparation, adaptability, and mental toughness are just as crucial as physical skill. His focus and determination to deliver when it mattered most set him apart, highlighting what it takes to reach the pinnacle of the sport.

 

Dock Like a Pro: Putting It All Together

The 2024 Pro Wakeboard Tour in Knoxville wasn’t just about crowning a champion—it was a celebration of the sport’s highest level of competition and the athletes who consistently push its boundaries. From veterans showcasing their seasoned skills to rising stars making bold statements, this final stop highlighted the resilience, precision, and passion that define wakeboarding at its best.

As we look ahead to the 2025 season, the anticipation for more thrilling battles and jaw-dropping performances continues to build. Now is the perfect time to elevate your own wakeboarding experience by exploring the latest from Supra. Whether you’re an aspiring competitor or simply a fan of premium boating, there’s no better way to get a true feel for Supra’s innovation and performance.