WatCon has recently uploaded a must-see video for any serious jet ski enthusiast. In this episode, shop owner and passionate collector John Zigler introduces the “Butch’s Racing Christy Carlson Old Race Ski,” a true vintage gem from the ’91-’92 racing era.
John’s deep connection to the sport shines through as he details every authentic aspect of this classic piece. The video highlights the hand painted finish, complete with Butch’s original decals and every original sticker—tech sticker included. With Christy Carlson’s name emblazoned on the ski, it stands as a proud reminder of a past era of jet ski racing. For those who may not be familiar, Christy Carlson was a prominent figure in the early days of race jet skiing, and this jet ski from Butch’s shop in Grand Rapids, Michigan is part of the sport’s history.
One of the most intriguing parts of the video is John’s take on restoration. While the idea of reviving old personal watercraft is tempting, he makes a compelling case for preserving these relics in their original state. For him, if you repaint a PWC and restore it, it’s no longer the real deal. He goes on to emphasize that the untouched condition is what gives these old skis their charm and historical value.
John also shares a glimpse of his broader collection, which includes rare pieces like “Harry Goatcher’s West Coast 550 mod boat” and “Chris Fischetti Polaris Octane.” These treasures, along with the legacy of Butch’s jet ski shop underscore John’s dedication to keeping the history alive. What’s more, he highlights that he’s always on the lookout for new additions to his collection!
For dedicated watercraft fans, this video is an invitation to relive the glory days of jet ski racing. Head over to WatCon’s YouTube channel to catch the full feature and join John’s call for preserving these one-of-a-kind classics.
