There will be lots of high flying action on the South Saskatchewan River this week as WakeRide kicks off their annual three-day festival.

While there will be lots of professional athletes splashing about, including homegrown wakeboarding star Rusty Malinoski, the real focus of this year’s event is the kids, said organizer Mike Tantom.

The event is being billed as a not-for-profit festival dedicated to providing kids with the opportunity to take part in organized sports, said Tantom, who was a former University of Saskatchewan Huskies basketball player.

“Physical activity helps to deal with diabetes, obesity … and the leadership skills that come along with working in a team setting is something that is always good,” he said.

Aside from the concerts and the beer garden, all the family zone events this year are free. They include an opportunity to participate in interactive games; a learn-to-skateboard session at Victoria Skate Park with local amateur athletes; and astro jumping.

Proceeds from this year’s event will go towards a number of local organizations including KidSport, White Buffalo Youth Lodge, and the Firefighters Pediatric Fund.

To learn more about WakeRide visit their website.

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