Water Ski Racing
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
|
Water ski racing consists of a number of water skiers who race around a set course, as done in Formula One Grand Prix motor racing. This is the fastest type of water skiing.
A water ski race team consists of a boat driver, an observer and a skier. The driver will tow the skier behind a powerboat, varying the speed as different water conditions are encountered, according to the driver's knowledge of the skier, the observer's ability to read the skier and the signals which the skier gives to the driver.
Rookie water ski racers who have not progressed onto a monoski, can race on a pair, although it is far easier to compete on a single ski, once learned. A race ski is normally between seven and eight feet in length with two full boot ski bindings.
Water ski races take place over a set distance or a set period of time. Race durations vary but can range from a few minutes to over one hour, depending on the type of competition. Skiers start a race at the same time or at short intervals and then race around a set course which can range from one to many laps.
Skiers need a sufficient level of physical fitness to compete successfully in his or her category. Observers need good concentration and will relay signals from the skier to the driver, read the skier in order to optimise his/her performance and keep the driver informed of other boats and skiers which may be approaching or close by. Drivers need to take the team around the course, listening to the observer and using his/her own judgment on speed a line of direction.
[edit] World Champions
The IWSF World Water Ski Racing Championships began in 1979 when the inaugural event was held in Great Britain. Held every two years, the event grew to accommodate Junior Boys and Junior Girls categories in 1995 and then the Formula 2 category for both Men and Women in 2003.
List of Water Ski Racing World Champions
[edit] International Races
Held every two years, this event consists of four races in each category over the course of a week.
This huge event takes place at the town of Echuca in Victoria, Australia. 80km of winding Murray River, the Southern 80 has become the most well attended race in the world. It's a fantastic weekend of partying and racing for everyone. Over 120 bends and up to 120mph - this race is truly spectacular.
Catalina United States of America
From Long Beach California, it's called "The Greatest Water Ski Race in the World" and it's been going since 1949. Powerful boats of up to 40ft in length tow novices and world champions out to Catalina Island and back to Long Beach. It's the one that every racer wants to win.
Sydney Bridge to Bridge Australia
The original major race of Australia. The Hawkesbury River sets the scene and although a world classic, this race is one where many an Aussie racer first wet their feet. Hundreds of skiers come from all over the world for this great event, just outside Sydney.
Grafton Bridge to Bridge Australia
From the town of Grafton in Northern NSW, this lively weekend of racing is set on the beautiful Clarence River. Australia's fastest, hurtle down the river and back setting some scorching speeds.
Diamond Race Belgium
The most gruelling water ski race in the world tests the best of any skier's ability on the narrow Albert Canal at Viersel near the historic European city of Antwerp. A truly unique event with a great European racing atmosphere to go with it.
Super Ski Race of Montréal Canada
This unique 140km Canadian Super Marathon starts on the St-Lawrence River between Longueuil and Montréal and teams power down the river to Sorel and then up to the Port of arrival in Longueuil.
