I wasn't going to say anything about this, but the more I thought about it the more it irritated me. I hate when prejudice raises it head like this and makes generalizations. I don't mean to condone the behavior in this photo, but the intimation is that ONLY wakesurfers behave like this. Which, IMO is inflammatory and totally unfounded. Further, the suggestion that it is bad behavior that motivates legislative action is also unfounded. However, please offer some evidence that would possibly support your suggestion.
I have had the opportunity to meet many professional athletes that wakesurf, including Charlie Stevens in the picture. Many, not ALL, but many of these athletes are pompous and self-serving. They actually start believing their own press and act like everyone adores them. Charlie is NOT one of those. We had him on our boat for the better part of a day at Surfest last year. He is respectful, polite, soft spoken and an incredible athlete. He's also a young man and if it's one thing we all know, boys will be boys. I doubt that he caused any property damage but my guess is that he'd make it right if that happened.
The MOB group folks are a bit "fringe"'ish. But they also make considerable effort to be responsible. They post warnings about how to safely winch that takes into consideration not only safety elements but also not disrupting other users of the area.
I also know that the MOB group folks are pretty responsive to public opinion, no doubt if they want to jib structures, in the future, they'll bring their own as they have done in other videos. Also remember that they are like any publication/film company...posting pictures or text on how to properly put your PFD on doesn't sell copy. Check any skateboard magazine where folks are grinding public property, etc.
Anyway...wakesurers by and large are mostly families: mom's, dad's, kids and we are respectful, law-abiding folks.
Well except for Ed and Dennis.
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