Havasu Teen Places Fourth In Pro Watercross Competition In Nashville

By Janet Cruz

Sebastien Girello, 14 of Lake Havasu City, placed fourth out of 12 competitors at the Pro Watercross Music City Grand Prix in Nashville, Tenn., last week.

Watercross sports involve athletes who race on unpredictable open water varying from lakes, rivers and oceans, on personal water craft. At times, speeds can reach 75 mph during competition.

“Personally, my favorite part of the sport is the intensity of lining up on the starting line with your competitors and coming around the first corner in front of everyone,” Girello said.

At only 14, Girello, who previously competed in the junior category this year, competed with competitors who were older than him in the Pro/Am Ski GP class category. Typically certain age groups are grouped to compete, but Girello knew he needed to sign up for the Pro/AM Ski GP class with competitors ages 15 and up.

The sport features some of the most talented and gifted, particularly in freestyle segments where competitors use their abilities and routines on the water with their watercraft, and perform special routines in front of judges.

Girello has competed in the sport for more than five years and says there is a lot involved to participate.

Submitted photo by Sebastien Girello

“This sport is very competitive and requires a lot of physical training to be able to last the whole race,” explained Girello.

Girello, maintained firm at fourth place throughout the race against his older competitors.

Other Havasu teens who placed in the junior categories include Jet Ski riders Maddix Haynes coming in first place, Josh Simon who came in second place and Parker Kaiser who came in third.

The event took place in Nashville, Tenn., in the Cumberland River. It was a part of the Music City Grand Prix Indy Car race. where Girello placed fourth in the Pro/Am Ski GP class.

Riverscene magazine welcomes all competitors back home!