The Palm Beach County Sports Commission is partnering with the International Waterski and Wakeboarding Federation (IWWF) to bring more than 200 riders from around the globe to compete in the Palm Beaches. The IWWF Pan American Cable Championships will take place from Sept. 22 to Sept. 24 at Shark Wake Park, located inside Okeeheelee Park.
The Pan American Cable Championships will serve as a qualifier for the 2022 IWWF World Cable Wakeboard and Wakeskate Championships in Thailand. The top four U.S. athletes’ placements from each age category from 14U through Veterans will be representatives of Team USA. Any individual competing will be qualified to compete as an individual for the IWWF World Wakeboard and Wakeskate Championships.
The field of competitors will be comprised of athletes from across the United States, the Caribbean and South America. The influx of international visitors will create a strong economic impact for Palm Beach County.
“These IWWF Pan American Cable Championships will bring international competitors and worldwide attention to Palm Beach County. The Palm Beach County Sports Commission is thrilled that our partnership with Shark Wake Park and the IWWF has brought this world-class event to the Palm Beaches for the first time,” said George Linley, executive director of the Palm Beach County Sports Commission. “These championships will attract international visitors, which will create a boost for the county’s hospitality and restaurant industry.”
Shark Wake Park opened in June 2019 and has already established itself as a top venue for watersports competitions. Located inside Okeeheelee Park, the high-tech cable system at the park allows both beginners and advanced riders the perfect space to hone their craft. The two full-size five-tower cable systems at the park give riders the competitive edge they need to succeed at the highest levels.
At 1,700 acres, Okeeheelee Park is a local landmark — a paradise for athletes and their supporters, and an inviting catch-all for sports both common and unusual. One of the most versatile venues in Palm Beach County, Okeeheelee Park includes eight tennis courts, six pickleball courts and one grass volleyball court. Five lighted baseball fields and four lighted softball fields touch all the bases, while four lighted multipurpose fields are ideal for soccer, rugby, lacrosse and football. The park not only contains a 27-hole public championship golf course, it is also one of the few venues in the region with an 18-hole course for disc golf.
