THE 2024 MOUNTAIN AIR CLASSIC
The 24th Annual Mountain Air Classic returned to Billy Goat Island at Lake Burton on August 3rd, 2024. Thirty-five riders from across the region showed up to showed out in keeping the tradition of this historic event alive. Each division went head-to-head behind the Malibu 23 LSV for a shot at the podium and bragging rights.
With access by boat only there was plenty of excitement on the water from the competition to the vibes coming from flotilla of spectators that spread across the island.
We would like to thank our partnering sponsors of this year's event - Singleton Marine, LaPrade's Marina, Springer Mountain Farms, Malibu Boats, Axis Wake, Liquid Force, Terminus Wake Park, Smith Optics, Skull Candy and STZLIFE.
THE 2024 MOUNTAIN AIR CLASSIC PODIUM
GROM DIVISION
1. Hayes Andrews
2. Watson McElveen
3. Bode Rhino
BEGINNER DIVISION
1. Rowan Dixon
2. Jeff Buening
3. Miller Stroble
INTERMEDIATE DIVISION
1. Bowen Glas
2. Cinco Glas
3. Joshua Mason
WOMEN'S DIVISION
1. Sarah Rhino
2. Dallas Rhino
VETERANS DIVISION
1. Randy Rhino
2. Zach McElveen
3. David "Jimmy" Taylor
ADVANCED DIVISION
1. Brock Davis
2. David Stroble
3. Anthony Kennedy
OUTLAW DIVISION
1. Camden Marsden
2. Harrison Glas
3. Chase Andrews
HONORARY AWARDS PRESENTED BY SMITH OPTICS
Stoked Award
Tom McNeely
Worst Crash
Tj Hamrick
For more information on the event visit onewake.com and we look forward to seeing everyone next year at the 25th Annual Mountain Air Classic.
THE HISTORY OF THE MOUNTAIN AIR CLASSIC
The Lake Burton Water Ski Association Tournament was always a staple for the water ski community. Starting as a slalom only tournament on the north end of the lake then eventually moving to Billy Goat Island and becoming a 4 event tournament. This tournament was always focused on families and aspiring professionals alike. In 2000 the long time event was sunsetting but there was a whole new generation of water sports enthusiast on the horizon!
In 2001 the Mountain Air Classic was created following in the LBWSA’s wake. The event was formed to still give the next generation of wakeboarder an outlet for their new passion. Led by Ted Andrews, a Georgia native and water ski legend, the tournament legacy continued. His son Chase Andrews, friend Jamie Graff, Lake Burton’s own Will Vance and Clifton Rhoad helped to organize and run the event. Just like before the tournament was focused towards families and individuals from Beginner to Pro! Chase Andrews always laughs at naming it a “Classic” in the first year but little did he know the event would live up to its name!
The Mountain Air classic has always been supported and made possible from local business such as Springer Mountain Farms, Liquid Force & Matt Long, plus many others. The tow boat for Mountain Air Classic was always a highlight of the event.
The chance to try the latest boat technology as it was progressing was always a treat for local riders. The event was sponsored by JOA (Mastercraft) in the early days then later by WaterSports Central (Nautique). One year after an engine issue Atlanta Inboard (now Singleton Marine Group) came to the rescue with their Malibu and helped pull the event. We were forever grateful for the support of these companies and their commitment to sharing the stoke of watersports.
In 2005 after the passing of Ted Andrews the tournament was continued in his legacy by Chase Andrews, Jamie Graff, Will Vance, and Clifton Rhoad. These young men were able to keep the fun alive for the wakeboarding community for years to come. In 2012 the tournament was passed down to the next generation who had grown up participating in the event. The event was always run by locals but now it was passed onto 3rd generation locals: Gus Bussey, Guy Scott, Parker Stiles, and Jefferson Willis.
A LOOK BACK AT SOME OF THE ICONIC TROPHIES FROM THE MOUNTAIN AIR CLASSIC
The next decade of the Mountain Air Classic was in good hands. These new young men who had a deep connection to the event and its legacy were able to take it to the next level with better exposure, sponsors, online registration, and a website all while keeping the family friendly focus at the center.
