The event draws competitors from powerhouse Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea and Thailand to compete in the men's Open, men's Masters and women's Open.

The third edition of the tour features three stages: the first was held in Osaka, Japan, from September 16 to 18 and the second will take place in Singapore on November 18 and 19.

This year's contest will be run under Asian Wakeboard Association (AWA) and World Wakeboard Association (WWA) regulations.

Each player is allowed two passes up and down the 350m-long lake to perform in a set time. A competitive free ride format will apply as contestants are judged on three style categories: execution, intensity and composition.

The contenders who accumulate the highest scores in the course of the three stages will take the trophy.

Thailand's Patiwad Jaemjan has taken the lead in the men's open after winning the first stage in Japan. He now has 100 points.

Though the 18-year-old local favourite sustained an injury to his right toe, he is upbeat about his chances.

"My injury is not serious now, and I don't think it will affect my form much. I'm certain I will win," said Patiwad, who won the 2006 Reef Wakefest in Singapore.

Apart from Patiwad, an eight-member Thai squad includes Tatsanai Kuakoonrat and Bunyalo Jumruang, last year's overall champion and runner-up, respectively.

The winners of the men's Open will be awarded prize money of Bt60,000, while the men's Masters and women's Open champions will take home Bt30,000.

Somporn Suphop

The Nation