18 May 2017 Surf the Bay planned June 16-17

Fairfield Bay is making waves again this summer with the Surf the Bay Water Sport Festival planned Friday, June 16, and Saturday, June 17.

The event will feature extreme and family sports events at the Fairfield Bay Marina on the north shore of Greers Ferry Lake. The wildly popular wake surfing, fly boarding, paddle boarding and kayaking are returning this year. There will also be family-fun water slides where individuals can “ride the wave.” New this year will be an inflatable obstacle course.

Free and open to the public, this water and music festival welcomes visitors of all ages to grab a board, jump a wave or “fly.” Those attending can watch the professionals showcase their craft or sign up to participate in three of the most popular and unique adventure sports in the country: wake surfing, fly boarding and stand up paddle boarding.

Red River Boating will bring wake surfing to Greers Ferry Lake. It’s the only way to catch big waves in a fresh water lake with fun big waves, no rope and no hard falls! Red River Boating Center will also be on hand to show off a few of the fastest, most exciting watercraft on the lake. These boats will be set up to let participants experience the thrill of wake surfing and wake boarding, as well as skiing and kids’ tubing.

New this year at Surf the Bay is the only Craigcat on Greers Ferry Lake. It’s compact, easy to maneuver and fast – perfect for those who want to fish, cruise the lake or just relax in a way that’s sure to be like none other. Rentals are available, along with pontoons, kayaks, jet skis and more.  Find the perfect water toy to enjoy the lake.

Frank Wimberly of Sulphur Creek Outfitters will be on hand to help with stand up paddle boarding (SUP). Stand up paddle boards offer a great way to take advantage of the water and get a fun workout at the same time.

iFlyH2O will demonstrate the newest and most exciting extreme water activity – fly boarding. “Come out and strap yourself to a jetpack, and ‘fly’ above the water like an action hero from a movie,” said Rich Mcgahan from iFlyH2O. “It’s truly like nothing you’ve ever experienced – and one you won’t ever forget. It’s probably the most fun you can have on the water! And it is easier than you may think. Most people pick it up rather quickly. Our certified instructors will be at Surf the Bay to teach those interested.”

If the waves get too extreme, take a free shuttle out to Sugar Loaf Mountain and hike up to breathtaking panoramic views.

“This year’s Surf the Bay will be the greatest one yet,” said Fairfield Bay Marina Manager John Conry.  “This year, crowds will have the opportunity to enjoy all of our new equipment, including our Craigcat, jet skis, Hobie Eclipses and pontoon boats, as well as try their hand at stand up paddle boarding, fly boarding and wake surfing.”

Surf the Bay will kick off with a big beach party at 7 p.m. Friday night, featuring live music from Fiawna Forte (fiawnaforte.com). There will also be water games, dinner, refreshments and more.  Activities start early Saturday morning. Enjoy food vendors, hiking at nearby Sugar Loaf Mountain and plenty of outdoor activities on land and fun in the water. Music can be heard dockside all day, beginning at noon with the Sean Sikes Band playing until 2 p.m., followed by Jason Waterson Music and Open Mic from 4 to 6 p.m., sponsored by The Dock Restaurant and Bar. The Zac Dunlap Band, sponsored by Bud Lady Fishing and The Dock Restaurant and Bar, will perform 7 to 9 p.m.

“This event is growing with each year,” said Rocky Nickles, general manager of the Fairfield Bay Community Club. “Fairfield Bay is becoming the best place to come and enjoy Greers Ferry Lake. Families come from across the state to see what we’re all about here, and we’re super excited to have events like these to showcase the lake and all we have to offer. I can’t think of a better way to spend the weekend.”

For more information on Surf the Bay and to learn more about Fairfield Bay, including overnight accommodations, go to VisitFairfieldBay.com/Surf, or call 501.884.4202.