Home Blog Page 139

Real Review: Sea-Doo OEM GTI/GTR/Wake 170 PWC Cover

By
Kevin Shaw
-
0

“No, you can’t!” countered a very upset commenter in a terse back-and-forth online. The topic at hand was PWC covers and the question arose whether a watercraft could be towed any measurable distance beneath a cover without being scuffed, scratched or otherwise. I, having quite a bit of experience with this topic, answered in the affirmative with a single caveat; make sure it’s a really good cover. My opponent vowed otherwise, citing anecdotal experiences with less-than-top-quality covers, inadvertently proving my point.

Not all PWC covers are created equal, and nowhere is that more evident than when it comes to towing. Cheaply made covers are often stitched together from bargain-priced canvas, often the same stuff you’d make a child’s school backpack from. These covers discolor under heavy UV light, becoming chalky and brittle; layering your watercraft in a fine layer of black flakes that is, before ripping apart after a short while. Yes, you’ll definitely get what you pay for in this category – so spend your money wisely.

Although often maligned as being the most expensive, the factory-sold covers are often the best in the market. In many cases, the OEM covers are even included in the price of the unit – most notably top-of-the-line Limited-package Yamaha WaveRunners and the top-tier Sea-Doo GTX Limited. In the case of The Watercraft Journal‘s 2020 Sea-Doo GTI SE 170, our OEM cover was offered as an accessory item available through Sea-Doo’s Parts & Accessories catalog for $269.99, definitely not a impulse purchase.

Yet, the cover (which fits all 2020 GTI, GTI SE, GTR and WAKE 170 models) is designed specifically to protect your Sea-Doo from the elements and help preserve its finish while in storage and trailering it to a destination. In fact, Sea-Doo even labels their covers as a “weather-resistant trailering cover” – so what makes Sea-Doo’s PWC covers safe to tow with when others aren’t? The easy answer is it’s soft inner lining and laminated mesh vents. Let me explain:

At speed, the disparity between high and low pressure air over the ski cover result in some pretty violent flapping, which can act as a low grit scuff pad over time. To counter this, Sea-Doo’s covers are lined with a soft, velvet-like lining that is as gentle as wool. Equally, the cover has strategically placed vents that allow passing air to vent in and out, equalizing pressures and reducing – if not eliminating – flapping. And thus, no scuffing, or “panel abrasion” as Sea-Doo calls it.

Were that not enough, the factory Sea-Doo covers are made with a heavy-duty UV-resistant solution-dyed polyester canvas with higher wear areas reinforced with a doubled-up layer of canvas. Elastic bands keep the lip taut to the PWC with side hooks that attach to the bond rail to secure the cover while trailering. Lastly, the cover includes zippered openings allow access to mooring cleats (ideal for securing covered watercraft on the trailer), the glove box, the front storage bin (good for refueling), and even the rear LinQ perches to attach accessories on the rear deck with the cover in place.

I had already towed the GTI SE 170 – with the cover installed – from Tennessee to Louisiana for the annual MudBug PWC Rally back in June and knew full-well of the cover’s ability to keep the ski clean from road grime and dirt over the 11-hour drive. Yet, it was after fully detailing the Sea-Doo for a later video and covering it did I see how well it protected it from the elements. Only a day or two after pushing the covered PWC outside did the heavens open up and rain poured for several days straight. Once the clouds parted, I removed the cover and found the plastics still looked glossy black and panels debris-free (although the footwells had collected some water after the deluge).

It bears repeating that when it comes to PWC covers, you get what you pay for. The OEs spend a lot of time and money to get their covers to fit snuggly, to offer the best access and use, and most importantly, provide the best protection as possible; and Sea-Doo’s GTI/GTR/Wake 170 Trailering Cover has not let me down once. As a final tip, it does wrinkle up pretty badly when its been crammed into its carrying bag after a while, so let it sit out in the sun a while to relax (so it’s not as wrinkled as it is in my pictures here).

Winter Boat Show Modified Schedules And Cancellations

By
Brice Leckrone
-
1

By now, the manufacturers have revealed what is in store for their 2021 watercraft lineup.  There is definitely a lot of excitement buzzing around and people are anxious to get out, check out the new models, and put their hands on the fresh paint.

Well unfortunately not so fast says the pandemic.  The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) has just announced some changes and cancellations to the winter boat shows across the nation.

Check out the modified list below to see which shows are affected at this time as well as a full explanation from the NMMA.

The health and safety of everyone involved in producing, exhibiting, and attending our shows is of the utmost importance. Following a thorough market-by-market analysis regarding the feasibility of producing safe and successful NMMA winter boat and sport shows in 2021, we are making significant modifications to our show schedule in the first quarter of 2021.

The modified 2021 winter schedule is as follows:
 
Proceeding as scheduled:

 Postponed to a later date:

 Canceled for the winter of 2021 only:

These decisions are in the best interest of our consumers, staff, members, and industry and are the result of months-long conversations with exhibitors, health officials, venue operators, and other stakeholders on producing safe, successful, and high-quality consumer experiences. We understand the vital role boat shows play in showcasing new products and generating sales for our industry, and at this time, NMMA expects to resume its full show schedule starting in September 2021.

For the three shows currently proceeding as scheduled or postponed to the spring, plans will be guided by our ‘health and safety first’ principle and are subject to change. Our team will continue to closely monitor the situation in each market and work with federal, state, and local authorities on those events.
 
In a strategic change to NMMA’s boat and sport show roster that is unrelated to the modified 2021 winter show schedule, an agreement was finalized this week to transfer ownership of the Kansas City Boat & Sportshow, Chicagoland Fishing, Travel & Outdoor Expo, World Fishing & Outdoor Expo, and Saltwater Fishing Expo to Sportshows LLC. An update on the acquisition is being shared with those exhibitors, and an announcement from Sportshows LLC will be made in the coming days.
 
Rest assured, since the outset of the COVID-19 health crisis, we have worked closely with our Board of Directors to ensure the long-term financial viability of the association. NMMA has stable and diverse revenue streams and remains in a strong financial position. We stand ready to deliver a full range of services, including producing world-class boat shows, on behalf of our members and the broader recreational boating industry well into the future. We look forward to continuing to produce robust sales and marketing events as we navigate the global pandemic together and continue welcoming boaters to the lifestyle.

To that end, recognizing the association’s important role in reaching the consumer and extending the industry’s reach and voice, NMMA is evolving its boat shows to meet the demands of today’s consumer and tomorrow’s buyer. This winter, we will launch a new program that connects the power of NMMA’s boat shows across the country and puts into motion a strategic initiative that will integrate boat shows with the industry’s national Discover Boating campaign, providing a more seamless, meaningful consumer experience. Details will be announced in the coming weeks. In the meantime, to learn more about this opportunity, contact Alisdair Martin at [email protected].

Thank you for your understanding and ongoing support during these unprecedented times. If you have questions, please do not hesitate to contact our Senior Vice President of Boat and Sport Shows, Jennifer Thompson, at [email protected].

New Sealver Z6 Hevo Waveboat White Edition

By
Ocean Priselac
-
0

The Sealver Waveboat company expanded its Z Line with the Z6 white addition of the Hevo. Sealver introduced the new look through a recent Facebook post and it’s another stylish boat from them. The white boat has a very clean look, with contrasting gray seating and flooring. The boat has a generous amount of storage with under seat compartments and front storage.

It comes in at just under 19 feet and its semi-rigid Hypalon hull offers ease of maneuverability. The boat has the capacity for seven people, offering plenty of space for you and a group of friends. For added performance, the Z6 Hevo can be powered by a jet-ski with a 300HP engine. Ease your ski into the Sealver interlock system and off you go.

The boat is versatile and Sealver offers a choice between standard or full wake set up. The standard set up is enough to get you and some friends on the water with room to sit and also stash your bags. Options are available to make it a little more comfortable.

Add a Ti-Top for a little shade and add a table to set drinks and plates. An extra fuel tank is available as well. This will enable to go further and stay out longer. You may want to spring for the 12v inflator in order to keep the hull full and buoyant or to deflate for storage purposes.

The full wake set up comes standard with a table, Bimini top on the wakeboard tower, extra fuel tank, and the 12V inflator. The standard and the full wake offer a custom trailer as an option. The trailer will haul your ski and Sealver Z6 Waveboat.

See images of the Sealver Z6 Waveboat and watch a short clip of it in action on the website. It’s a nice rig for someone who wants the best of both worlds, without the maintenance or cost of a full-on boat.

Broward Motorsports Racing Your Performance Headquarters

By
Ocean Priselac
-
0

Broward Motorsports is the world’s largest factory race team. The team has won more Aqua X Championships than any other team. They have held that title for three consecutive years. Broward Motorsports has scored many World and National Championships for the IJSBA and ProWatercross.

This is one hell of a well-rounded team. When guys like Chris MacCluggage, Eric Francis, Jimmy Wilson, Sam Nehme, and many others, one can expect success. This is the cream of the crop! The Broward Motorsports website has a gallery of pictures of the team in action.

Tim Judge and Dean Charier are two of the best mechanics in the watercraft industry and they are the backbone of this team. Judge and Charier are responsible for keeping the PWC in top shape and that doesn’t stop with the racers; the customers’ machines receive quality maintenance and repairs as well.

Judge and Charrier want to ensure that everyone is happy with the performance of their watercraft. The Jet skis are taken out on the shops’ private lake and tested to make sure the craft meet Judge’s and Charrier’s expectations before returning them to their rightful owners.

Check out the website to find everything you need and maybe some things you don’t. Broward Motorsports created its website with you in mind and the intention of providing all customers with access to the same components that they use on their personal watercraft.

Broward Motorsports has five locations and the company is an authorized dealer for Yamaha, Sea-Doo, and Kawasaki ensuring that the staff are able to meet your needs. You can contact them here, [email protected], with any questions you may have and the crew will be happy to help.

IJSBA Announces 40th World Finals In 2021

By
Kevin Shaw
-
0

Building from the then-budding USJSBA racing championships in 1980, the newly formed International Jet Sport Boating Association hit the ground running in 1981, culminating in the first-ever World Finals held in Lake Havasu City, Arizona. Believe it or not, that was forty years ago and 2021 will celebrate four decades of the IJSBA World Finals this next October 2nd-through-the-10th.

This news comes at the conclusion of the 39th annual Finals that saw depleted numbers of racer participation, attendees and vendors due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which most notably, heavily restricted international travel. IJSBA’s Scott Frazier wrote:

IJSBA is announcing the 40th World Finals. No asterisk, no question about it, we just wrapped up the the 39th consecutive World Finals and next year will be the real deal when it comes to the ruby anniversary in 2021. Mark your calendar now for October 2-10, 2021, at Crazy Horse Campground and Resort in beautiful Lake Havasu City, Arizona. IJSBA will start releasing regular information in just a couple of weeks after we wrap up all of the 2020 World Finals business. We look forward to seeing all of you for this very special celebration.

Gallery: 39th Annual 2020 VP Fuels IJSBA World Finals in Lake Havasu City, AZ

By
Ally Emig
-
0

The 2020 race year may have been a big letdown for some race sanctions due to the pandemic, but that didn’t stop the IJSBA from putting on the 39th VP Racing Fuels World Finals in Lake Havasu City, AZ. Racers from all across the US flocked to the freshly christened “PWC Capital of the World” to not only take home titles, but to also see longtime friends and rivals. Even a few lucky international riders were able to compete despite rigorous early planning and many quarantine setbacks.

Throughout the entire year, there were many whispers and rumors going around of World Finals not happening this year. With the West Coast sanctions receiving cancellations to almost every race event planned, the promise to have World Finals this year looked out of the question. But IJSBA President Scott Frazier ensured the PWC racing community that, indeed, World Finals was happening.

Frazier released steady updates of what to expect at this year’s event, and described the newfound complications that riders, pit crews, and vendors may have to endure during the week due to COVID-19 regulations. Regardless of the setbacks, racers from all over arrived ready and willing to take home titles and bragging rights.

This year proved to be, as Havasu local Nedra Atwood would put it, “all about the kids” with young riders completely dominating not only their Junior classes, but proving their worth in the Expert and Pro classes too. 12-year old Havasu resident Sebastien Girello (#27) claimed overall wins in both Junior 10-12 Lites and Am Ski Lites despite admitting not wanting to practice this year.

“I didn’t have much motivation to practice and be ready for the race during the summer,” Girello admitted. “After a while, I realized it was my last year racing in 10-12 before moving up to 13-15, so I trained hard the past couple of months, and it paid off! I won twice!”

Throughout the week, numerous young racers continued to top the podium. Race legend Dustin Farthing’s son Devin Farthing (#116) swept up the overall win in Blaster GP and took Top 3 in a full Sport Spec line-up. Havasu local Ryder Wildeboer (#888) took home the overall in Expert Ski Modified, Pro-Am Ski Lites, and Pro Am Ski Stock. Revin Harris (#100) also had an impressive week, dominating the AmSki GP overall win and finishing Top 3 in Pro Am Ski GP.

The crowd was on its feet when the young rider took to his Kommander GP1 and “battled with the big boys” on Sunday, taking home the overall win in Pro Ski Modified, and quite possibly making him the youngest rider to win that overall class in World Finals history.

With travel restrictions making the attendance a record low this year, that didn’t stop a few international riders from taking home a few wins. Canadian native Mike Klippenstein (#212) brought home overall wins in Master Ski GP and Master Ski Stock, along with Kuwait rider Rashed Aldawas (#130) taking overall wins in Am Runabout Limited, Runabout Naturally Aspirated, and ProAm Runabout Limited.

Other notable wins for the week are David Zipperian (#508), who came back this year with a vengeance and took the overall in Am Vet Ski Stock. Kawasaki rider Jon Phan (#110) won overall in Wednesday’s Novice Ski Stock, a championship he honored after his mechanic and long-time friend, Aaron Cress, who tragically passed earlier this year.

2020 World Finals may have had its share of hardships despite the current pandemic, but overall nothing that attendees hadn’t expected. Vendors such as Jettribe, WorksH2O Designs, Bomber Eyewear, Worx, RockTape, RiznWild, and Jettrim did their best to fill vendor row and strictly complied with the event’s regulations. Local food vendors kept both spectators and racers well-fed and hydrated.

And event safety and staff members worked through many challenges to have a safe and successful week for all that attended. The IJSBA recently released their World Finals dates for 2021 (October 2nd – October 10th), so we can be sure to expect big  things for their 40th anniversary celebration next year!

Gallery: 2021 Yamaha VX Limited HO WaveRunner (Video)

By
Kevin Shaw
-
2

Right out of the gate, it’s important to note that for the past three consecutive years, the Yamaha VX Cruiser High Output (MSRP $12,049) has remained the highest-selling personal watercraft in the world. Again, let me reiterate: for the past three years in a row. And with PWC sales the highest they’ve been since 2007, Yamaha Motor Corp. USA wowed the industry by rolling out an incredible eleven new models for 2021, making this the single largest new product launch in the brand’s 35 years of watercraft production.

Coming into 2021, Yamaha focused on it’s most popular series – the VX WaveRunners – by integrating a king’s ransom of new standard features and accessories previously unavailable on models other than higher-end FX Series runabouts. Of course, the biggest addition to the VX Series is the new top-of-the-line model: the 2021 VX Limited High Output (MSRP $13,549).

Yamaha married its single-most popular WaveRunner with its “everything-but-the-kitchen-sink” Limited accessory package previously exclusive on the TR-1 powered VX Cruiser (MSRP $12,449) and flagship FX Cruiser SVHO. For those unacquainted, the Limited package provides buyers with nearly the entirety of Yamaha’s accessory catalog including a matching ski cover (with glove box access), a color-matched tube and rope, a tube inflator, a tube holder, rope bag and two Yamaha fenders.

New to the Limited package for 2021 is the inclusion of Yamaha’s factory-installed marine audio system; comprised of twin 4.5-inch waterproof marine speakers, an integrated 2-channel (50 watts per channel) amplifier, and a low-voltage regulator to protect the battery that’s all operated by an easy-to-access control pad found below the handle bars on the left hand side.

Also below the handlebars is an all-new glovebox. And not only is it the largest glovebox ever offered for the VX Series, it’s also watertight and lit with blue LED lighting coming from a USB and a 12v power outlet as standard equipment (except for the base model VX and VX-C). In fact, all of the VX’s base storage is up – from 24.6-gallons to 28.4-gallons, thanks to a wider bow compartment for easier access; a more durable, high strength hinge and dampener; and a snap-top, water-resistant box found beneath the rear seat.

The complete redesign of the VX Series’ deck also provides deeper and wider self-draining footwells; a broad, flat rear swim platform; and a completely reshaped seat that radically improves rider comfort and ergonomics. Add to that new standard features like a full-color digital dashboard, and the VX has seriously stepped up its game.

Drivers now enjoy the industry’s first full-color LCD “Helm Control” – the 4.3-inch screen displaying Yamaha’s Connext software reading off fuel mileage and consumption rates, a PIN security code and even the ability to pre-set a maximum speed – all controlled by a touchpad located beneath the steering on the right hand side.

Connext can also adjust acceleration speeds from “normal” to “slow” ideal for less confident riders – a smart addition as last year marked the first time in decades that the percentage of first-time buyer sales (52%) eclipsed return buyers (48%). Just aft of the gauges is the newly standardized multi-mount accessory system integrated into the dashboard. Now riders can simply screw in a RAM ball-mount and attach any number of items like a GPS, fishing rod holder, an action camera, and more.

With the deck’s redesign comes a reshaped saddle that is 1.5-inches narrow and slightly tapered at the knees, allowing the driver better lower-body grip while cornering and greater comfort while cruising. This new seat mounts to a secondary deck panel – similar to those first used on the EX Series WaveRunners – providing greater engine access when removed.

Below that is Yamaha’s naturally-aspirated High Output 1,812cc four-cylinder. Producing a reliable 180-horsepower on 87 octane, the Yamaha High Output 4-stroke delivers plenty of low-end grunt for towing the kids on the raft or just ripping across the lake. (It is the same powerplant used in the race-ready GP1800R HO after all.)

In fact, that’s not all the VX Limited HO shares with the GP1800R. The VX models share the same hull and deck molds as the performance-bred GP, meaning the two series share similar handling and cornering characteristics. The differences between the two are in their material construction. The VX Limited HO is molded in Yamaha’s proprietary NanoXcel clay, providing a thinner, yet equally durable molecular bond as FMC, which dramatically shaves weight; while the GP’s are cast in Yamaha’s NanoXcel2 material shaving off even more weight.

Thankfully, the VX Limited’s casting is far more forgiving in rougher water, soaking up a lot of the chatter and vibrations that comes from streaking across a bumpy lake. Striking the balance between sporty and comfortable is a hallmark of the High Output VX’s, and the Limited is no different.

Equally, both series share the same 18.5-gallon fuel cell providing the VX Limited HO plenty of range for those looking to rack up some serious mileage. Though for 2021, the VX Limited HO does pack on a few extra pounds over previous – coming in at 794-pounds, 27-pounds over last year’s model (a large part of that is attributed to the added deck panel, tilt steering and standardized sound system).

Backing out of the dock using Yamaha’s dual throttle RiDE system is a cinch, as its quick forward-and-reverse response is second to none. And since the VX Limited HO comes equipped with Yamaha’s easy-to-operate Cruise Assist and No Wake Mode features, idling through the marina’s prolonged slow speed zone was a breeze.

For 2021, Yamaha radically redesigned its steering controls as well. Gone are the traditional start/stop buttons; replaced by a single ignition-and-kill switch moved to the right-hand side. Equally, the Cruise Assist and No Wake toggles are on the left, while the speed control toggle is now on the right. (It’s a slightly frustrating change that’s gonna a while for the more experienced of us to reprogram our muscle memory.)

Once past the buoys, we could open up the VX for some fun. With a nearly full tank, we managed a respectable 62 miles per hour at 7500rpm. According to our rough math that equals roughly about 13.5 gallons per hour at wide-open-throttle.

When otherwise operated, the VX Limited HO is torquey, with satisfying throttle response offering a playful ride without feeling loose or squirrelly. It’s certainly fun enough for dad to come back to shore with a big smile on his face, with enough static and dynamic stability for mom to feel confident piloting on her own.

For 2021, the Yamaha VX Limited HO comes in Carbon with Lime Yellow with coordinated two-tone Hydro-Turf deck mats. The iridescent yellow is a little flashy for some people’s tastes but Yamaha is pouring on the bold for 2021, and that’s alright with us. Given the balance of an enjoyable, predictable ride; radically improved ergonomics and an avalanche of accessories all with a pricetag of $13,550, it’s no wonder the 2021 VX Limited High Output is going to be yet another home run for Yamaha.

Video: Dawn Dawson’s “Profiles in Freestyle” Interview with Mark Gomez

By
Ocean Priselac
-
0

We are stoked to bring to you Dawn Dawson’s interview with her long-time friend and Hydro-Turf freerider, Mark Gomez. Gomez puts Hydro-Turf to the most extreme testing and the traction keeps in place as he launches into flips, spins, and big jumps.

He modifies his skis with mat kits from Hydro-Turf. Hydro-Turf is an industry leader in PWC traction mats and has backed Gomez throughout his exceptional career.

Dawson chatted with Mark Gomez via Skype earlier this year and she put together a flawless dialogue with Gomez for her Profiles in Freestyle Series.

Mark Gomez is a talented freestyle and freeride champion who is an awesome ambassador of watersports. He is straightforward and down to earth when speaking about his life and Dawson leaves no stone unturned.

We thoroughly enjoyed this interview and think you will too.

The conversation is captivating and flows from one subject to the next as Gomez shares how he got his start, his competitive drive, and much more. He even invites everyone to reach out to him on Instagram, @MarkGomez137.

After watching the Gomez interview, you may feel inspired to do some jumps on your ski and we recommend heading over to Hydro-Turf for some fresh traction before you do so!

Videos: Two New Storage Bags for Yamaha VX Series

By
Ocean Priselac
-
0

Take a look at these nice new storage bags from Yamaha. The Yamaha Watercraft channel on YouTube presents the 40 Liter VX/GP Stern Storage bag and the fully compatible Yamaha Genuine VX cooler. Both bags will make your outings much more organized and fun. The stern storage bag is super easy to mount to the back of your ski. Just strap it on and go!

The bag is equipped with two side rod holders and has a 40-liter storage capacity and it mounts in such a way that you don’t lose any water sports capability because you still have access to the machine’s tow point. This gives you the best of both worlds because you can fish and also take a friend out to wakeboard during the same trip. The bag retails for $249.99 and the Genuine Yamaha VX cooler will integrate seamlessly with the Stern Storage Bag.

The cooler can also be used by itself.  Load up enough drinks for a full day on the water. You can chill and stay hydrated while you’re out.  The cooler has a wide zippered opening, making it easy to fill with up to 18 drinks and ice. It also features a small compartment for snacks. It is well insulated and has a built-in  handle for carrying the cooler onto land and comes with an adjustable shoulder strap. The Genuine Yamaha VX/GP Cooler Bag retails for $129.99.

Both bags look sharp on the back of the Yamaha WaveRunner and are compatible with all 2015 to current VX WaveRunner models. They also fit the 2017 to current GP WaveRunner models. Both accessories are great additions to the Genuine Yamaha product line. Check out the bags and the all new WaveRunners here. Happy riding!

Hydro-Turf Acquired by Greg Pickren of SBT, Inc., Watercraft Superstore

By
Kevin Shaw
-
0

One of the personal watercraft industry’s most respected brands – Hydro-Turf – has just been acquired by Greg Pickren, owner of SBT, Inc., BlackTip Jetsports and the Watercraft Superstore, among other brands. The move absolves founder Arno Olbricht of his position as CEO, and will relocate the company from its Anaheim, California headquarters to the Clearwater, Florida campus for the aforementioned brands.

Per the press release included below, this move promises to keep the highly-valued Hydro-Turf name and level of quality EVA-foam traction mats and products. To those familiar, Hydro-Turf also supplied traction mats for factory-built Yamaha WaveRunners and Kawasaki JetSkis, as well as many offerings for standup paddle boards, surf boards, and other boats.

What questions remain is the impact on the world of racing. Hydro-Turf regularly supported local and regional racing, offshore events, and more importantly, budding racers. In fact, there are few jet ski racers who weren’t at one time sponsored by Hydro-Turf. With 30 years of history, it’s hard to argue the importance of Hydro-Turf to our sport – something that cannot be done away with. Here’s the original press release:

Marine and powersports entrepreneur, Greg Pickren, has acquired Hydro-Turf from founder, Arno Olbricht. “Hydro-Turf has been for over thirty years and still is the leader in watercraft traction mats and seat covers, and we are extremely excited about this acquisition.  Mr. Olbricht certainly deserves a lifetime achievement award for his contributions to the industry,” says Mr. Pickren. 

“Founding and growing Hydro-Turf to the company that it is today has been my passion for most of my adult life.  I will miss the daily challenges of running the business, but I am confident that the company has a bright future under the direction of Mr. Pickren,” says Mr. Olbricht.

The company will be relocated to a new, larger manufacturing facility in Clearwater, Florida during the first quarter of 2021.  “Hydro-Turf will continue to provide the same outstanding level of customer service and product quality, something for which the company has been known for over the last thirty years,” added Mr. Pickren.

1...138139140...438Page 139 of 438