Before she joins us this summer for three weekends of demos, clinics and private lessons, we spoke with world champion — and The Cliffs Wakeboarding Coach — Abby Delgoffe about her journey with the sport, what advice she gives to beginner wakeboarders and what inspires her most.
- How did you discover wakeboarding?
I first wakeboarded with a group of friends in high school. Believe it or not, it took me 2 summers to get up! - What has been your most memorable experience on the board?
Trying my first double flip — a flip no woman has landed behind the boat. I remember getting enough guts to try, and never looking back. I didn’t land it, but the feeling was exhilarating. I’ve been on a mission to land it ever since! - What has been your most memorable experience at The Cliffs?
It’s hard to nail down just one! I love watching people fall in love with the sport just like I did when I was younger. I can see the spark and the passion growing as I come back year after year. I also love when people surprise themselves at how well they do and how fast they learn to get up out of the water! - Why would you recommend wakeboarding as a new hobby for those looking to try it?
You name a cooler hobby to have!! It’s exciting, you can spend the day on the water with friends, its exercise, and there is no better feeling of accomplishment than landing or learning a new trick! - What’s the most common piece of advice you give to beginner wakeboarders?
Wakeboarding is easier than it looks. To get out of the water, you have to keep your body tight, but let the boat do all the work to get you out of the water. Anyone can do it! - Where is your favorite place in the world to wakeboard?
I love my home lakes of Florida for their consistency of weather, but there’s nothing like the beauty of Lake Keowee — the mountains and the color of the water are just breathtaking! - Who or what inspires you most?
I’ve been lucky to have been surrounded with strong women in my life — people who have led me to believe anything is possible. This truly allowed me to pursue anything in my life, feeling supported. This support inspires me to pay it forward!
We are so excited to welcome Abby to Lake Keowee for three weekends of wakeboarding this summer! If you are a member of The Cliffs ready to ride with a world champion wakeboarder — whether or not you’ve ever been on a board! — register online to join us June 8-10, July 13-15 or August 10-12 for mini-group sessions, small group clinics and private lessons!
