By Paulo Prietto

Dewey Beach Delaware was the site of this year’s East Coast Championships. This was the last stop on the east coast circuit.  Previous contests included Panama City, Cocoa Beach, and Long Beach Island and Outer Banks contests.  This contest had the most competitors ever in any skim event.  I believe a total of approximately 187 competitors flocked to Dewey Beach to compete in this event.  With point totals close, many of the competitors were skimming to be 1^st in their division of the East Coast Circuit.

This year’s contest started off with a bang, literally.  Right before the first pro heat, a thunderstorm rushed into town.  The lifeguards were forced to make everyone leave the beach, resulting in a delay on the contest.  No skimboarding was to occur until the lightning had ceased, so everyone searched for temporary shelter until things cleared up.  It was no more than an hour or so until people were back in the water skimming.  It was difficult to stay out of the water when there were fun 1 foot glassy liners coming in.  The Dewey Beach contest was one of the few East Coast contests this year with skimmable waves.  In the end, I think that contestants were pleased that the east coast championships were not held in meager conditions.   

Some of the contest highlights occurred when local Connor Schmit yanked off his trunks in his heat and finished the remaining 2 minutes of his heat in an American flag speedo.  This was one of the most classic moments in contest history.  Fortunately, many spectators were able to capture this moment on film.  (It’s too bad that you lost that bet, Connor)  Another contest highlight also came from the amateur division when New Jersey’s Chris Marsiniak pulled a kick flip in his heat.  This trick shocked the judges and was deemed worthy enough for the best air of the contest.  Other noteworthy contest highlight came from youngster Michael Brickel, aka “Mini Beak,” when he showcased his skills in the super-heat beating all of his older competition.  Congrats Mini Beak.

The pro competition was fierce.  The crowd wanted a local to take back the east coast crown, but Bill Bryan had other plans.  Joe Vavala put up an impressive performance but was unable to dethrone the Beak Dawg.  When all things were said and done, the top 6 in the pro division were: 

1. Bill Bryan
2. Hometown favorite, Joe Vavala
3. Drew Daniello
4. Paulo Prietto
5. Jason Wilson
6. Brandon Sears

After the contest, everyone cleaned up and headed over to the Wilson’s for an after-party.  Tons of people showed up, grinded some food and enjoyed the company.  It was a great time.  Many thanks go out to Harry Wilson and family for hosting an amazing event, the sponsors, Jerry from Dewey Beach Surf and Sport, and Mike’s Frozen Tundra for treating many contestants, everyone who helped out.

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