The MotoSurf event in Texas.
Traditionally, surf contests have always revolved around waves. Sometimes, they’re man-made, but typically, if you don’t have waves then you don’t have a contest. That wasn’t the case for a recent contest in Galveston, Texas.
On Saturday, May 14, Texas hosted its first ever MotoSurf Race on the outskirts of Galveston Island. MotoSurf are gas-powered or electric motorized surfboards that simply require water, no waves necessary. Over 30 competitors from around the world came to participate in the latest form of surfing.
“We’re trying to grow the sport, grow the community, trying to get people involved in this unique new water toy,” race organizer Jordan Davlin told KHOU 11. “You don’t need wind. You don’t need waves. You don’t need a boat to put it in the water.”
The event was a hit and saw athletes from the United States, Germany, Czech Republic, and the UK. Nikolas Blaha, MotoSurf World Cup runner-up, flew in from the Czech Republic to help design the course and to help train and inspire new riders.
Another standout at the event was Mark Gomez. Gomez is a talented jet ski rider who has recently been transitioning into the MotoSurf world — this race was one of his first.
Motorized surfing is being described as “snowboarding in a bathing suit” and “surfing without waves.” It’s still a young sport but may be the next big thing? Or not, who knows. Two more races are scheduled to take place this year in the Houston area.
“This sport, for so many people, it’s connecting them. It’s connecting the world,” Blaha said.
