I understand there's probably some limitations on photographing an event like this but I think this could have been improved by shhoting from a lower angle and more side on rather than his 'behind'

Some limitations would be an understatement. At this particular event water levels were low, and the judges kept spectators quite far from the test line. Unfortunately at these scents you have to be creative to get what photos you can.

A high res would be nice (looked like a fun day, though)

would have been great if it was in focus.