Utah surfers to board with pros

OGDEN - Flowrider Utah, the state's original indoor surfing simulator will host a prominent regional tour stop on the national 2010 Wave Loch Flow Tour on Saturday, July 24 from 2 to 10 p.m. During the Pioneer Day competition, local riders are encouraged to attend and ride with the expert flowboarders. In addition, Flowrider Utah is preparing to host the 2010 Wave Loch National Championship in August.

The Flow Tour regional stop will bring many well-known competitors from across the United States to Utah to defend their national titles. Two of the best boarders, Sean Silvera and Nick Nguyen will flaunt their best 360s, shuvits, kick flips and secret-weapon skills. Silvera is the 2009 Number One Expert Stand Up Flow Boarder and was awarded the Wave Loch Flow Tour Stand Up Maneuver of the Year. Nick Nguyen is the Wave Loch 2009 Flow Rider of the Year and was awarded the Bodyboard Maneuver of the Year.

Any age or ability can participate in the competition. The competition will consist of beginner to master divisions for bodyboarders and stand-up riders. More than $3,000 is up for grabs in cash and prizes for top honors.

Contestants can sign up in person at Ogden's Flowrider Utah prior to or the day of the event. The initial entry fee to compete is $35 for amateur and $40 for expert divisions. A $5 entry fee will be applied for each additional division. The fee includes an hour of practice time with other contestants and pros, tour t-shirts and prizes. Registration and practice sessions will occur on Friday, July 23 from 8 to 10 p.m. as well as Saturday, July 24 from 8 to 10 a.m.

In August, every serious competitor will gather at Flowrider Utah to defend or take the national title. Competitors will earn cumulative points during the tour's 15- stops for an overall rating at the 2010 Wave Loch Flow Tour National Championships held on August 12, 13 and 14 in Ogden. Flowrider Utah will also host free activities, games and entertainment throughout the three-day event for the community.