This past weekend, myself and three other friends from Australia had the pleasure of attending the 2013 Hot Products World Finals in Lake Havasu City, Arizona. The trip has been a long time coming and we thought it was time to make the 20 hour journey. How was it? Amazing! So much to see, so much to do, and so many cool people. We spent several days wandering around, catching up with long time suppliers and supporters, well known friends and doing things that the average Joe probably wouldnt have. All this because if this great sport. We werent there for the racing, but I have to say, its still very much alive and kicking and it was quite an eye opener to see how far its come since I personally was last involved in it. Some of the open ski, and GP boats are just amazing. The other thing that stood out for us were the people...Americans specifically. I admit that I had the idea in my head that they would be rude and arrogant. It may have been the guys in this sport, or just the area we were visiting, but Ive never come across a nicer bunch of people, and I apologise for thinking otherwise. Being my first trip, I guess I can blame the media? Either way, we were treated like family by many people that hardly knew us apart from a few forum or Facebook posts. Monday at Body Beach was no exception...The Bright family again looking after us with some bloody beers and the TPE/701 boys hooking us up with some skis to ride. Its amazing to see so many freestyle skis in one area, and be able to ride them, and talk to the owners. I must admit, I was a little star struck and first, but soon found these same guys that I have looked up to for years are just normal guys that love what they do. To meet and hang out with some of the worlds best freeriders like we had known them for years was simply amazing. So, to all those people that took the time out to to make us feel welcome, drink beer, let us ride their skis, put up with our late night shenanigans, let us ride in their stupid HP boat, access the judges tower, and generally took the time out to hang out with us even though were were only there to watch, I salute you and hope we can offer the same hospitality when you decide to come to Australia. I also have to mention my travel buddies...Butch Pfrengle, Daniel McKenzie, and Keaton Watts. We spent pretty much every waking minute with each other, and there were no punches in the face, and no arguments. Horsey Sauce? I wont go there. Considering I live 15 hours away from these guys, and only see them once a year, I couldnt have asked for a better crew to go away with. We have met a lot of new friends from Australia and abroad while at Havasu and hope to catch up with you again next year, and thank you so much for making our trip so memorable. Never in my wildest dreams would I have thought I would actually make it over, let alone be made to feel so welcome. Until next time.... Watty - RP Michelle Petro Craig Maudsley Todd Saulnier Taylor Curtis
Posted on: Fri, 18 Oct 2013 21:12:42 +0000
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