2025 PWC Racing schedules are flooding the social media feeds; the 2025 Boat Show Season is underway, and even though much of the country is a bit of a deepfreeze right now, there is little doubt that many PWC racers are starting to get impatient for the start of another race season. 

And while there are a list of “must dos” for each racer to get ready for that season – from physical training for themselves to upgrades and modifications for their PWC, not to mention the mundane tasks such as trailer upkeep and gear checks, there is one aspect of racing that is not talked about near as much – sponsorships. 

While sponsorships may not be the goldmine they once were, there can be no denying the fact that securing sponsorship is a key component of funding your race addiction. 

In a 2015 WCJ article, Roger Berkon shared some advice for racers who are looking to secure sponsorships before the 2025 race season, and we thought now would be a good time for a refresher. 

At today’s “touring series” level, personal watercraft (PWC) racing is not only becoming a serious sport, it can easily become a business and an investment. It can be an investment in a state-of-the-art PWC, or two, support equipment, a hauler; an investment in team development, crew recruitment and travel to each of a minimum of twelve poorly scheduled geographically divergent race venues per season year.

Even the well-funded teams and riders are considering outside sources to fund their racing budgets. The outside sourcing, and the search for commercial participants (sponsors) and investors, must be done with the same research and consultation as any other business investment or capital expenditure. You and your outside sources have every right to expect a reasonable return; be it in hard dollars to your race team, or the benefits of brand development programs and campaigns that stimulate higher sales volume and increased traffic resulting in subsequent profit to your outside sources.

The point here is that sponsorship is a vital income source. You must develop this source with the same effort you put into your racing program; you must provide a valuable market service and or advertising vehicle in return for the sponsorship dollars. No longer can you attract sponsors or team investors with flashy graphics, creative numbers or smoke and mirrors.

In the PWC racing world of today, your off-water wars can be won incrementally by producing exciting, informative, efficient communications at every level of your marketing and promotional mix. This holds especially true when you are selling PWC racing. To accomplish this requires thorough knowledge of every aspect of the sport and industry; a carefully conceived strategy designed to impact each of your opportunity areas. These subjects are not the absolute function of advertising or sports marketing agencies. You must develop your own marketing and promotions person; someone that is close to or from within your own race team who can effectively and profitably reach each of your team’s targeted opportunity areas.

You must be aware that successful promotion motivates marketers and increases corporate participation; marketing creates the awareness and demand factors; advertising makes your prospective sponsor/commercial participant take that step toward the buying decision; and in this context the buying decision is “buying in” or making the sponsorship investment.

You and your team’s M&P person must follow a logical, step-by-step, approach in making your marketing effort pay off in maximum profitability. You must consider all available industry data, including trade publication surveys and national trade show profiles. This research is your only way to determine the targeted markets’ moods, actions, and emotional hot buttons.

You must maintain constant awareness of your competition off-water as well as on-water; follow their marketing and commercial participant solicitations; make on-site pit visits as well as in-shop visits and when the opportunity arises, use their events and promotions, as well as your own, as directional factors. In this way you will further develop your ability to attract sponsors and produce team income through commercial participation and promotion.

It is imperative that your race team be clearly positioned as the best available in the minds of your audience and your targeted market. This demands properly focused and consistent communication; an image that is positive and memorable, and performance on and off the water that delivers!

Any age-old misconceptions about PWC racing must be dealt with and dispelled. Fortunately, through the effort and continuing success of race organizers AquaX Series and subject-specific publications such as The Watercraft Journal, plus the never-ending support of manufacturers such as Yamaha, Kawasaki, Sea-Doo and high-end tuners RIVA MotorSports, there are few remaining negative misconceptions; however, never lose site of the fact that the developing new image and the real potential for commercial benefits in PWC racing are still unknown by most of your out-of-industry targeted markets.

Your overall presentation must be sophisticated, tasteful and in keeping with the desired image; your success will be achieved by impacting the key purchasing influences; namely the prospective sponsor’s perception, executive’s opinions, and the marketing team’s recommendation. Do not forget that the buying decision, in your targeted market, is based primarily on self-gathered data and the information you presented. If budgets restrict you to only one informational piece be sure to include a section designed as a guide to PWC racing. Keep in mind that the typical corporate marketing person’s experience with PWC racing is limited to the scant coverage on TV or what very little is in the local sports pages.

Position your race team clearly as the ultimate in the market, try a thematic approach; youthful, well spoken, the ultimate product or corporate representative; the finest PWC racing team in the sport today and you are totally committed to racing for “podium-finishes” in the best racing series. Capitalize on existing mystique through an image-oriented campaign in the appropriate media; create your rider’s celebrity, or perhaps you are owned by a South Pacific Coconut Plantation or your Crew Chief breeds porcupines in the off-season. Establish and maintain share-of-mind. Create and capitalize on all PR opportunities whenever possible, particularly with regards to your participation in the racing series and its related special events. Clearly communicate the advantages and benefits of an association with your team and the series.

Produce highly informative social media content in such a way that all key advantages are depicted, tell the story and effectively position your team in the minds of commercial interests and out of industry sponsor prospects.

It is vitally important that your team be organized in a business-like manner and is structured in such a way to properly receive and justify sponsorship income. You must stay focused on the commercial objectives of the sponsor/investor as well as your race team. And at all times consider your combined liability exposure and limit your risks as much as possible and continue the building and development of your team management, staffing and race equipment development.

To consider doing it any other way will lead to a very short, albeit exciting, venture into PWC racing lasting only as long as your financial resources or your willingness to keep writing checks. If you feel that you need help in any of the areas above, seek professional advice. It may make the difference that allows you to realize your goals in this wet and exciting segment of power sports racing.

The 2025 Boat Show season officially kicked off yesterday, Jan. 8, with the opening of both the Chicago and New England Boat Shows starting their five-day run that will end on Jan. 12. The Atlanta and Charlotte County Boat Shows crank up today and will also run through Jan 12, with the Oklahoma and Daytona Shows rounding out the week with two-day schedules on Jan. 10-12.

With more than 35 high-profile shows listed on major event calendars, plus regional and dealer boat shows scattered across the country and, indeed, throughout the world, the coming weeks offer ample opportunity for PWC riders – whether newbies or pros, racers or recreational riders, or anything in between – to check out the 2025 PWC models, accessories, marine electronics and equipment.

Taking advantage of your nearest boat show means being able to compare models, brands and features all in one location, often side-by-side, while having the opportunity to talk directly with experts, manufacturers, dealers and other PWCers who are happy to share their ideas, recommendations and options (sometimes rock-solid, sometimes best taken with a pinch of salt). Not to mention some of the deep price cuts offered by dealers and manufacturers to convince you to walk out of the boat show with the Christmas gift Santa forgot to leave under your tree. Many events offer activities and hands-on experiences – and many, if not all, are promoted as being 100% family friendly

Yamaha, who recently hyped the upcoming Boat show season on their social media accounts, also linked from their main WaveRunner website event page to the boat show-dedicated site, where they posted the following information:

Come see our 2025 lineup of Yamaha Boats and WaveRunners up close and take advantage of exclusive boat show deals you won’t find anywhere else! Special offers, expert advice, and more! Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade, we’ve got something for everyone. Tag your boating crew and tell us which show you’ll attend!

Yamaha WaveRunners and Boats are always a top draw at boat shows around the world, known for their cutting-edge designs and unmatched reliability. As boat enthusiasts look forward to discovering new boats at boat shows in 2025, Yamaha doesn’t disappoint. One of the key highlights is the all-new JetBlaster WaveRunner Series, which combines high-energy performance with affordability. In addition, Yamaha is enhancing the on-water experience with the introduction of the Yamaha Audio System, now available on the FX Series, VX Series, and GP Series WaveRunners. This innovative feature brings high-quality sound to the water, further solidifying Yamaha’s reputation for excellence.

Attending a boat show offers an unbeatable experience for boating enthusiasts and prospective buyers alike. If you’ve ever considered purchasing a boat or simply want to explore the latest innovations in marine technology, a boat show is the place to be. Here’s why you shouldn’t miss out:

First and foremost, boat shows provide a unique opportunity to see a vast selection of boats, from sleek personal watercraft to luxurious yachts, all in one place. You can compare different models, brands, and features side by side, giving you a clear picture of what suits your needs and lifestyle. Plus, many boat dealers offer exclusive boat show pricing, making it the perfect time to buy.

One of the biggest advantages of attending a boat show is the chance to talk directly with experts. Manufacturers, dealers, and seasoned boaters are on hand to answer your questions, offer advice, and provide in-depth insights into boat ownership. You’ll leave with more knowledge and confidence, whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced boater.

In addition to exploring boats, most shows feature accessories, marine electronics, and equipment exhibitors. You can discover the latest boating technology, from GPS systems to fish finders, and even secure boat show deals on must-have gear.

Boat shows also provide fun and inspiration for the whole family. Many events offer activities such as boat rides, fishing seminars, and hands-on experiences that let you enjoy the boating lifestyle firsthand.

Attending a local boat show is a fantastic way to get inspired, enjoy a day by the water, and find your perfect boat. Whether you’re browsing or buying, a boat show is an essential event for anyone passionate about boating.

On the Sea-Doo side of things, they kept it short and simple for the 2025 Boat Show Season promotions, stating: Each city has its own charter season and as we get ready for the most exciting period of the year we want to learn more about everything that can make our adventure more enjoyable and safe in the water. Join Sea-Doo as we meet and connect with our passionate riders and boaters on an exclusive tour around the United States!

Our team, ambassadors and dealers will be waiting for you and be sure, we´ll have surprises that you won´t want to miss!

Exclusive boat show deal: Get up to $2,500 OFF or 4 years of coverage on select 2024 PWCs or up to $5,000 OFF on select 2024 Switch!

Don’t forget to take advantage of the information, deals and other opportunities offered by retailers and dealerships at your local boat show outside of the major manufacturers, too!

Be sure to post up on social media if you attend a boat show to check out some of the great new 2025 models or grab spectacular deals on older models, accessories and gear, and tag WCJ in your posts!

Love jet skis? Enjoy writing? Want some spending dough?

If you answered yes to all three of those questions, The Watercraft Journal wants to talk with you.

Heck, if you answered yes to even one of those questions, and would like the opportunity to explore the other two, we’d still love to talk with you.

As The Watercraft Journal heads into 2025, I am actively seeking self-motivated, dedicated freelancer writer(s) and/or PWC enthusiasts to inform, advise and even entertain our ever-growing readership. 

Ideally, WCJ freelancers will have a strong interest in the personal watercraft (PWC) industry on either the racing or the recreational side (or both), and a familiarity with the terminology, technology and players, but writers that can pick up quickly on the details and culture of the PWC community are encouraged to apply.

Likewise, WCJ freelance writers should be knowledgeable writers, with the ability to turn a phrase, the understanding of journalistic principles and practices, and strong self-editing and proofing skills. However, racers (and families and crew members), fans, recreational riders and industry experts with the ability to follow through on assignments and an interest in learning the art and craft of writing are also strongly encouraged to apply. 

In addition to general interest writers and photographers, I am specifically interested in speaking to prospective writers who are experienced and knowledgeable enough to provide in-depth, insightful and informative product reviews. 

Freelance writers are 1099 subcontractors and will be paid twice a month per a predetermined scale for each written article. Workload is flexible depending on your schedule, but commitment to completing accepted assignments on deadline is essential. 

For more information, please send an introductory cover letter and a resume to [email protected].

Following an extended period of accepting rule change suggestions from racers, IJSBA has compiled and released a set of rule suggestions for the 2025 Competition Rule Book. This year, for the first time, the newly-created Rules Committee will play a part in the process, with the committee’s response to the suggested rule changes to be posted, and taken into consideration in the compilation of the final draft of the 2025 Rule Book.

According to the procedure set out by IJSBA, “The IJSBA Managing Director will prepare a set of recommendations for these suggestions.  This year, an ad hoc Rules Committee was created and IJSBA will post a response from this committee as well.  If you have questions or comments regarding this posting or believe you have submitted a suggestion not included, please email: [email protected].”

The full list of suggested rule changes under consideration, as submitted by racers, is as follows, with IJSBA notations in bold:

• Modify rule excluding promoter participation to allow for this with certain oversite features.
• Refine Ski GP Rules to remove some references to the donor watercraft (pump length, etc.).

The way the f style rules are working as you know is that after the coral if no complain all is good .

Note: The Freestyle Corral does not prevent protests for mechanical violations or missing parts, participation in the corral only prevents protests of hull design and specifications.

On a stand up the intake grate is put there for safety and also in some case to use a loader to load the pump .

What is happening now is the many people are using only a loader plate fix on the side or not even anything as grate

To me this is a safety issue just like the lanyard

I would do away with the restricted plate in this class since none of the ones that were used at world finals this year are the same size.  the speed is about 6mph faster than the 4stroke yamaha seems to be safe . I would think another item for safety in this class would be a letter of proficient from there promoter saying that the Jr is able to control the ski at the increased speeds.

It is known that swapping out the factory camshafts from the normally aspirated VXR ski into the supercharged SVHO makes more horsepower. Some have argued that they are “OEM” and are allowed per the rules for the “Stock Runabout” class. The way I am understanding the rules, is that you could swap cams from any “SVHO” model, in this case 2014-2025 from any Yamaha ski with any model originally equipped SVHO engine. Or for SeaDoo, any 2016-2023 300 ski could use cams from any of those years. I’m not sure how the rules could be written for the use of the 230 cams for the same years, if that’s an advantage or not. I also suppose one could also make the case, per the rules, that an RXP-X couldn’t use the same cams as an RXT-X  or a GP1800R SVHO couldn’t use cams from a FX SVHO, or vice versa.

From speaking to multiple tuners (Yamaha), it’s not a direct plug-n-play swap. The addition (temporary or not) of o2 sensors, air flow meters, and tuning are necessary to get the tune “correct.” This small gain, yet still an advantage, adds a lot of cost to a “Stock” class that most racers would have to hire out to get done, making it harder to gain new racers, like myself, getting into the sport, or even retaining current racers. Adding in clarification, whether allowed or not, would help with costs and complexities associated with building a ski for the “Stock Runabout” class.

RAS.1.2 Original equipment parts may be updated or backdated to original equipment parts of the same model. The part must be a bolt-on requiring no modifications to that part or any other parts except where rules allow substitutions or modifications. Models with the same designation (i.e. RXP-X, SHVO, etc.) will generally be considered the same model unless restricted in the homologation listing (See Appendix).

RAS.3.4 Camshaft(s) must remain stock. Replacement bearings or bearing shells are allowed, providing they maintain their original type and dimensions. Camshaft timing may be changed.

1. 2. Can the rules clarify whether additional tubing and ventilation is allowed or not, in addition to the OEM ventilation tubes?

RAS.2.13 Engine compartment ventilation tubes must remain as originally equipped.

1. 3. Can the rules clarify whether aftermarket “keepers” can be used or not? Although the GP1800R SVHO keepers are very good on their own, I would like the option to use some aftermarket ones when I get my valve springs and retainers installed next month, and don’t won’t to have to pay for this service again if I move up classes and my tuner recommends different keepers. For the “Stock” class, I think there is zero advantage. It’s just more of a piece of mind item using “better” keepers.

RAS.3.5 Aftermarket valve springs and valve spring retainers may be used.

1. 4. Restricting impellers to just a single impeller like OEM, not a twin impeller, which is currently allowed. It’s a major advantage having the twin impeller, but gets away from the roots as a “stock” ski and doubles the cost. Since the West Coast series runs in elevation and sea level, two impellers, if not more, are necessary. I think it would be a win-win to restrict it to just a single impeller.

RAS.10.1 Impeller may be modified or aftermarket, providing that the original diameter is maintained. Replacement wear rings that are within OEM internal diameter specifications may be used. Silicone adhesive sealant may be used in addition to original equipment seal to seal pump inlet. Visibility spout must be removed or plugged

Runabout Naturally Aspirated: add runabout naturally aspirated to the displacement guide specifically stating what the requirements are for this class. In the past, the class has been four stroke stock 1800 cc (now1900) or two stroke limited 1300 cc (aftermarket hoods are not allowed)

Runabout naturally aspirated is not in the 2024 rulebook and I was unable to find it in a few previous years. I was able to find the displacement in a previous IJSBA post (see below).

Note:  This class was, many years ago, a formula class combining Two Stroke Limited and Four Stroke Stock rules.  This definition was for a specific World Finals.  Afterwards, Mark Hahn 300 Competitors petitioned this class to be a Naturally Aspirated Class which used actual Open Rules.  If this suggestion is adopted it will appear in the Rule Book as a specific category likely called “Formula Naturally Aspirated.”

Ski GP,,,,  boost control,  remove any limits and allow electronic control.  (it’s nearly impossible to make a good test of this unless you get into the ECU of the pilot)  the real number of boot on the water is much different then the trailer test.

Runabout 1100 open ,,, change to “GP”  this will open the class up to other manufacturers, Sea Doo needs the GSX hull the spark is too small to compete with the Yamaha 

Expert Ski GP ,,,, change this class to Expert Ski Modified 

Ski Modified,,,,, clarify rules     1. cam gears 2. fuel pump with regulator , fuel tank (some hulls run other tanks then what came with the engine package originally ), exhaust collector  to be modified or aftermarket. ( some hulls do not fit the original) 

Ski 1100 Modified    Yamaha 1050 can use any exhaust manifold that is OEM by Yamaha. (Yamaha has 3 different manifolds and depending on your hull one fits for some and not others. 

Ski Modified ,  open up the pump rule  for any aftermarket pump as long as it remains OEM dia. ( many company have pumps to sale and they contribute to the sport)

Suggestion:  I suggest the following rule change: Changing VSK 2.2 to allow anyone to create and use modified top decks. Currently, there is a monopoly on who can sell “legal” top decks. This is due to wording relating to the historical approval of the ski. Opening up the rules for everyone to have a chance continues the growth and development of the class, as well as allows the riders to have another aspect of the hobby to get involved in.

Suggestion:  I suggest the following rule change: Changing VSK 2.2 to allow modifications to the bottom of the ski, as long as it stays within the original length (front to back) and width (left to right).

Suggestion : I suggest the following rule change: Changing the wording of VSK 2.4. The current wording allows that we can use a maximum of 2 sponsons. The problem is  the definition of the word ‘sponson’ is interpreted differently by the different tech personnel.  I suggest the wording be changed to “All watercraft may be equipped with a maximum of 1 set of tubbies (front sponsons) and 1 set of sponsons (rear sponsons). A set is defined as a two part system with a left and right component.” I feel that this would relieve some of the confusion that takes place regarding the rule. People tend to call the tubbies, front sponsons and subject them to the dimension requirements and maximum requirements.

Suggestion : I suggest the following rule change: Wording changes relating to VSK 4.3 and VSK 5.2. VSK 4.3 is a rule regarding fuel injection and VSK 5.2 is a rule regarding CDI ignition. The nature of adding an electronic fuel injection system requires the addition of additional sensors, like TPS, MAP, MAF, ect. Rule VSK 5.2 says that no additional sensors may be added. This creates a contradiction, which I feel will lead to friction going through tech. I suggest adding a line to the wording on VSK 4.3 to “Addition of sensors required for electronic fuel injection is allowed”.

Suggestion : I suggest the following rule change: Allowing titanium in rule VSK 6.1. Titanium was used on the top race skis from the early 1980’s to the last year of 440 superstock and 550 modified. I understand the motivation of this rule is to keep costs down, but the additional costs of using titanium drive shafts over stainless is significantly less than the cost of other modifications that are done to the motors and pumps that are somewhat necessary to have a competitive ski.

Suggestion : I suggest the following rule change: Clarifying how VSK 6.1 is measured. The rule is about ‘the overall length of a complete pump and nozzle assembly. The 750 pumps don’t have a shoe as part of the assembly while the 550 does. The rule is there is an allowance of additional length compared to the stock length of the “complete pump assembly”. If you can see the attached picture.

Note:  This suggestion was essentially made by two different parties but only posted once.

I would like to propose a rule change for the 1997 Seadoo xp be allowed to use a carbon fiber hood in limited class, the 1997xp is 95 pounds heavier than its 1996 xp counterpart, the 96xp is allowed a carbon hood in limited class

Note:  This suggestion was made by three different parties.  IJSBA received a similar amount of correspondence apparently aware that this suggestion was being made and asking to preserve the status quo.

On ski gp and sport gp class for engine below 1100 cc. engine can do forced induction but there’s limit of boost. I suggest that no electronic boost control allow need to be only mechanical boost control or manual adjustable only, so they can’t use aftermarket ecu to control awhile racing in the moto.

NOTE:  This suggestion was clarified with the submitting party who intends this this suggestion to be a preservation of the existing allowance of mechanical regulation of boost pressure.

Clarify what brand and model to use for checking boost pressure so everyone will have the same reading on Ski gp and sport gp class for boosted engine.

NOTE:  This suggestion was clarified with the submitting party who intends IJSBA Rules to update the boost pressure blow off or checking device to mandate the product(s) by name.

Runabout superstock class, please clarify if the engine allow to use aftermarket rods and pistons. Because on rule books saying aftermarket crankshaft is allow within 5% of weight.

NOTE:  Persons advocating for shorter more concise rules should take heed of what this suggestion is adressing. The Superstock Class has always allowed aftermarket connecting rods as part of the crankshaft provision (pins, bolts, bearings, too).  This will be rephrased to describe all components of a crankshaft assembly in the 2025 Publishing.

Do NOT Impede Progress of another Racer – Safety Rule

In the drawing here the merge lane corridor is separated by the (Sausage Buoy) and this would be proper set up, but the sausage buoy does not extend this long and is set back further behind the finish line.  We are adding a longer sausage buoy (an extra) to extend this corridor this year.  The arrows indicate what I enforce and are in a straight line as racers should follow a racing line that is as straight as possible and cannot move into the opposing lane.  After the sausage Buoy racing is a straight line to the merge bupy.  A Racer may not move into the other lane, inside or outside, push, block, Slow or Impede the progress of another racer, in order to gain an advantage in the safety corridor leading into the  merge buoy. These lanes in this safety corridor may not be crossed. Race in straight line towards merge buoy.  The racer with the lead going into merge buoy has the advantage.  Passing is allowed in a straight line.  This rule is in place to minimize merge collisions in a higher probability impact zone.  Safety corridor penalties cannot be made up during race.  You cannot hit my sausage buoys ( 1 lap penalty)  You cannot cross over , swing wide or merge into the other lane, coming off of your final turn on inside split or outside split. (1 lap penalty)  Racer will maintain straight line and hold that line through corridor.  Impede progress of another racer in these lanes is (1 lap Penalty.)