Drama, Delight and Perfection in Pictures

Teile

Michal Navratil, Jonathan Paredes and Blake Aldridge gather for a jubilant top three selfie.

©Dean Treml/Red Bull Content Pool

(1/17)

The day had started off with a huge crowd gathering out on the waters of Possum Kingdom Lake.

©Balazs Gardi/Red Bull Content Pool

(2/17)

The fans were in fine spirits, and thanks to the blazing weather and exciting action they created a lively atmosphere.

©Balazs Gardi/Red Bull Content Pool

(3/17)

Gary Hunt attempted the most difficult dive in history, but didn't quite nail it this time. It's going to be a huge weapon for him this season though.

©Dean Treml/Red Bull Content Pool

(4/17)

Andy Jones just missed out on a spot in the men's final at his home event.

©Dean Treml/Red Bull Content Pool

(5/17)

And fellow American Rachelle Simpson couldn't find her usual stunning form and finished up in 6th place.

©Dean Treml/Red Bull Content Pool

(6/17)

A bit of magic from the newest permanent female, Helena Merten, ensured that she made it onto the podium in 3rd place.

©Dean Treml/Red Bull Content Pool

(7/17)

But the real surprise of the day was Australian wildcard, Rhiannan Iffland, who put on a delightful diving display to win on her World Series debut.

©Daniel Grund/Red Bull Content Pool

(8/17)

Big smiles, a fist pump and a new star is born at Hell's Gate.

©Balazs Gardi/Red Bull Content Pool

(9/17)

What a feeling! It may be named Hell's Gate but Iffland was clearly in heaven as she celebrated on top of the podium.

©Balasz Gardi/Red Bull Content Pool

(10/17)

In the men's event Michal Navratil held his nerve, and his balance, to land on the podium in 3rd place.

©Romina Amato/Red Bull Content Pool

(11/17)

Blake Aldridge surged into the lead with some wonderful diving, and it looked like he was on his way to victory.

©Dean Treml/Red Bull Content Pool

(12/17)

But Jonathan Paredes swooped...

(13/17)

And he looped...

(14/17)

And after piercing the water in stunning style, barely creating a ripple, he emerged knowing he had sealed the win.

©Balazs Gardi/Red Bull Content Pool

(15/17)

The top three men proudly hold their trophies aloft beneath the scorching Texas sun.

©Balazs Gardi/Red Bull Content Pool

(16/17)

Number one! Iffland and Paredes have stormed into an early lead in the 2016 World Series and what a thrilling season it looks like we're set for.

©Dean Treml/Red Bull Content Pool

(17/17)