ScubaFest Report

[ComputerJoe]

Well we got back Monday afternoon from a great time in Columbus. The Ohio Council of Scuba Divers did a first class job and it paid off with results. Estimates are that 700 scuba divers went through the show over the weekend. At the Thunder Bay Underwater Preserve's booth we were talking to someone almost non-stop Saturday and Sunday.

The show had multiple presentations non-stop from 9:00am till 4:00pm each day. Everything from photography and video workshops to re-breather and travel talks. There even was this guy telling folks about what is happening up here in Thunder Bay and everyone was gracious and helpful. The stage was set on Saturday when Aqua Immersion set up their booth and started pouring glasses of free beer!

Folks present include Bernie Chowdhury (The Last Dive), Pete Nawrocky (Dive Rite) Mid-West Dive News, David Haas, David Trotter, Valeria VanHeest and her charming children. Oh did I mention that John Chatterton popped in Friday.

The show did what I look for in every show I go to. And that is to educate and inform the diving community about the many facets of this scuba discipline we all practice. If I come away from a show knowing just one thing I didn't know, or have gained a deeper understanding of something I did, it is a worthwhile adventure.

Sounds like the show is going to be at the same time and same place in 2010 so mark your calendars for one of the better show in the Great Lakes area.

 

[BoneCrusher]

It sounds like it was a great show! Thanks for sharing! Wish I could have made it this year. I will definately put it on the calender for next year.

 

[PvtStash]

had a great time, will definately do it again...

I did a lil' MAST mini-workshop (trying to swing the Real program April 18/19th in Vermilion), and saw Rich's tech presentation (good, but an hour just isnt enough time).


Oh! an I caught a photo op w/ Mr. Chatterton as well and he signed my Shadow Divers !! , he's way cool but smaller than he looks on TV

 

[Divers Incorporated]

I was really impressed with the show this year... I am REALLY looking forward to next year. It was great to see everyone who visits the quarry all summer.... only 7 more Days until opening DAY April 1.

It was great to be able to hang out with so many facebook, scubaboard, and quarry friends. Thanks to everyone who came by the booth. I am really looking forward to summer!

The dates for next year are March 19 - 21, 2010 I already have my booth.

Hope to be diving with you soon!

 

[bladephotog]

I was honored to be a judge for the photo contest. There were some really nice entries. But I will say this, the Great Lakes category was unfortunately very small in numbers considering where the contest is held. If you want to have a chance at winning a great prize next year jump in one of our Great Lakes and start snapping away!

 

[ComputerJoe]

Sorry Andy,
I'm one of those who choose not to chance missing the right shot and went to video. At 30+ frames a second it's hard to miss.

Maybe a video category next year would get other submissions. But you would need a week of Sundays to watch that many videos.