Hey Cliff did you get the Make-a-Wake RCII system? I think that for folks where it's easy to swap ballast, riding backside is great fun. The RCII does that.
Sean and Dennis, I LOVE riding backside. It's a new challenge and while I'm not great at it I really enjoy it. Personally I enjoy doing new things out on the board.
The AzWA contest's inclusion of backside was last minute and my understanding is that all of the riders were asked if they wanted to ride backside - the majority ruled, I would guess. They only had the one boat and so practically speaking it allowed an equaliztion of rider assessment AND gave everyone more riding time. I know that James and I were enthusiastic about the option, when asked. I think that most of the folks that rode had a blast with it. It was great fun and in the moment folks were laughing and enjoying themselves. To me, that has great promotional value.
I like the way that Ed S is working with this option at Wakefest. Participants will get two rides and the OPTION of riding backside on the second pass. So that would accomodate Sean's desire not to be FORCED to ride that way and accomodates me because I want to demonstrate that I (believe
) am a more progessive and well-rounded rider than those who can't ride backside.
I also think that in a situation as with AzWA, where you only have the one boat and some free time, running everyone port and then again darkside is fun and introduced a number of people to another facet of riding.
I know that Ed S has also TALKED about requiring some form of backside at the NWL Nationals and maybe this is the better option - allowing folks the option of being able to ride backside...but I also understand Ed's point. If you are going to confer the title of NWL national wakesurf champion it would best if that person COULD ride backside.
Just one of the issues to be wrestled with when you have dedicated sides to ride.