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Seven Deadly Questions With James Bushell

Interviews

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September 15, 2015

Seven Deadly Questions With James Bushell

The Watercraft Journal: You’ve enjoyed a long career in jet ski racing and have the championships to prove it; what continues to push you to continue to compete when others don’t?
James Bushell: Yes, I have been racing for 15 years. I loved the sport from day one when my dad bought a jet ski, I wouldn’t get off it so he then went out and bought another for me. So it’s all down to him really why I got into the sport. I just love being in the water love the speed, and all the good times jet skiing brings. I love the sport and love winning – this is what drives me. I never give up and train hard to win.

WCJ: From your unique perspective as a world champion racer, what do you see that makes you enthusiastic/positive for the future of PWC racing?
JB: The adrenaline rush keeps me enthusiastic. The adrenaline starts for me being on the line with the best racers in the world, when the band snaps you calm down, apart from if I’m in the lead, there is no better feeling being in the lead at World Finals in Pro Runabout or at King’s Cup. I think that is what keeps me coming back racing because you can’t get that feeling any where in the world. Winning keeps me positive, also I would love to see the sport grow this keeps me positive for future. I see the growth at King’s Cup each year it gets bigger and better, also the U.S. Tour in 2013 was great and I am looking forward to seeing the world championship to see if they make it an awesome event. I think the sport is growing but there are too many organizations they all just need to pull together and make one big organization and grow and promote the sport.

WCJ: You have been partners with Sea-Doo for a long time now. Can you tell us how that partnership came about? What makes this relationship so important to 158 Performance?
JB: Yes I have worked with Sea-Doo since the start of my race career, this also helped me set up 158 performance, the largest Sea-Doo dealer in the UK (also Scarab distributed for UK and Spain, and Flyboard distributed for UK). We work with many racers and build a lot of race boats, we work alongside Sea-Doo Centre also building my race winning RXP-X SDC turbo shark. We can supply and race ready ski from stock to full-blown GP. BRP have the best products and the race results prove it.

WCJ: We’re excited to announce that you’ll be participating in the inaugural Pro Watercross World Championships! What can you tell us about what classes you are planning to race? (What classe(s), and what kind of PWC)?
JB: Yes, I am pleased to be coming to race; I raced the 2013 tour and was great loved the people and loved the racing. I would love to race the tour again. At a the World Championship race I will be working from Jason Russo trailer so I would like to thank him and Julian for sorting all of that out for me. I will be racing in Pro Open on my Sea-Doo Centre RXP-X. I think it is awesome that the race will be on CBS Sports, it’s just what the sport needs.

WCJ: What are some of the best techniques that you’ve found to prepare (both physically and mentally) for a race? Can you tell us a little bit of your training routine?
JB: I train in gym about 4 times a week get out on my bike, ride my Kommander stand up ski.  Any training is good but I love getting out on my bike or stand up, I would love to practice on runabout more but to be honest my turbo boat uses too much fuel would be expensive training. As for mentally, just stay calm focused. I never “big myself up” like some racers, I just stay low key and get on with the job.

WCJ: After this month’s World Championships, what other events do you plan to race this year? Where else can we see you?
JB: I will go straight to World Finals and I thank Mike from Optimaracing.com who will be getting my ski to Havasu. From there I go on to Thailand. Thailand is one of my favorite places to race just love the atmosphere the trophies are awesome (if I’m lucky enough to win one). Thailand and Havasu are my favorite places, they have everything, weather, atmosphere, great waters and great racers.

WCJ: OK, here’s your chance for some shout-outs: Is there anyone that you’d like to thank?
JB: I would like to say big thanks to mum and dad, 158Performance, SB Components, Sea-Doo Centre, Jettribe, Blowsion, Jettrim, WORX, Kommander, and BRP! Thank you!

Cargo Wave Awards a New PWC Trailer to Northeast PWC Club

News

Kevin Shaw

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September 14, 2015

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Cargo Wave Awards a New PWC Trailer to Northeast PWC Club

Waaay back in July, Cargo Wave, LLC., the makers of the the watertight, and lockable Cargo Wave trailer launched the “Cargo Wave Towable Giveaway,” offering one of their 100-percent American made, a dual opening, canvas-hatched lightweight (85-pounds) trailers to eligible participants who provided proof of membership in either a PWC club or sanctioning body. Entrants needed to produce proof of either a club or sanctioning body membership and a brief description of how their club would use the Cargo Wave.

Well, that window has closed as Cargo Wave is happy to announce that Ed Emerle and the Northeast PWC Club are the proud winners of the Cargo Wave from our 2015 Club Raffle! Above is an image of Ed receiving the new trailer (that is so big that you can even sleep in it (for those really looking to maximize their PWC camping experience, we suppose!). Paul Thomas of Cargo Wave, LLC. stated:

“Cargo Wave would like to congratulate Ed Emerle and the Northeast PWC Club… they are the winners of the 2015 Cargo Wave Jet Ski Clubs Raffle! In communicating with Ed since the entry of their club, it sounds like they have a great group of folks, a great team of ride schedulers and some of the coolest water runs on the east coast! I believe they will be able to benefit quite well to put their new Cargo Wave through the paces on their rides, and I am very happy to provide them with a great PWC accessory in the Cargo Wave! Pack it up and go Northeast PWC, share it’s use within your members and have a fantastic close to the 2015 season and a great 2016 riding season!”

Towing Matters: 2015 Sea-Doo Wake Pro 215

Watercraft

Kevin Shaw

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September 14, 2015

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Towing Matters: 2015 Sea-Doo Wake Pro 215

It is very likely this will be our last review of a 2015 model before the 2016 Sea-Doos are revealed. There’s so much buzz surrounding the reveal that it’s trickled into a completely unrelated watercraft review. Maybe it’s just because we’re so excited to see what is coming out. Maybe it’s because Sea-Doo never fails to impress when it comes to injecting oodles of innovation into their product. For 2015, the industry’s leading PWC builder held its grip on the largest marketshare thanks in large part to the entry point Spark. Equally, Sea-Doo maintained pointed dominance is certain specific segments, one being tow sports.

Ever since the original Bud Wakeboard Tour in 1992, Sea-Doo has been involved in the evolution of wakeboarding and wakeskating. Its involvement and support of the Nike Wakeskate Team has provided valuable insight in developing new product, and continues to support team riders, Ben Horan, Matt Manzari, Andrew Pastura, Nick Taylor and Silas Thurman.

Based on the same S3 hull shared with all GTX and RXT models, the Wake Pro 215 makes good use of the tiered hull design.

Above left: Same with all (non-suspension) GTX and RXT models, removable rear panels allow easy access to the iBR (Intelligent Brake & Reverse motor) and batter bank. Above right: A quick-release filler cap accesses the Wake’s 15.9 gallons of fuel capacity.

Sea-Doo’s introduction of tow sports-targeted watercraft was a bold one 8 years ago. Since that first unveiling, the Wake models (in all of their formats) have progressed dramatically. Today’s highest-equipped Wake craft is the Wake Pro 215, a supercharged, stable and sophisticated machine that offers more than what is listed on the page. Based upon Sea-Doo’s larger S3 hull that is shared with all RXT and GTX full-sized three-seater runabouts, the stepped design employs offshore race boat tactics to reduce drag while improving surface adhesion. When gliding across flat water, the S3 tracks like a high speed monorail, never wavering or wagging.

Sea-Doo engineers are credited with mastering the art of PWC ergonomics, particularly in the seat and footwells. The large single-piece scalloped seat hinges on a gas shock, indexing high allowing maximum access to the engine compartment without watching your seat float away. The bench is smartly narrowed at the driver’s knees and broadened at the seat, with wide, moderately angled coves for multiple foot placement options. Another benefit from sharing the S3 platform is the 5-point tilt steering that articulates the entire gauge cluster as the bars move up and down. And all readout and operation controls are wisely integrated into the steering.

Above: The Wake Pro 215 comes with Sea-Doo’s watertight front storage bin, accounting for part of the PWC’s 13.7 gallons of storage.

Sea-Doo has been involved in wake sports since the first Bud Wakeboard Tour in 1993 when riders boarded behind GTXs.

Yet, the Wake Pro 215 is much more than merely a rebadged GTX. The Pro includes much of the same equipment as its smaller, naturally-aspirated sibling, the Wake 155, namely a detachable board rack that features a smart snap-and-latch locking system and dual bungee cords to secure any wakeskate or wakeboard; and a three-place adjustable/retractable ski pylon. The pylon can extend high above the rear handrail to pull a full-sized adult out of the water, a raft full of screaming kids or even another PWC (don’t ask us how we know), or retract below the handgrip allowing reboarding passengers to use the folding swim step and railing without interference. Topped with an eye hook, double handgrips, and even a rubber hoop, the pylon is a cinch to tether your ski rope and ride.

In the bow, the Pro 215 is provided with the same watertight locking storage bin found in top-of-the-line GTX models that snugly snaps in place beneath the hood with two tabs. The Pro 215 also includes the VTS (Variable Trim System) toggle on the handlebars (rather than needing to scroll through settings prompts in the dash), assisting in finding the right trim angle while towing or just riding. But the biggest advancement and coolest feature on the Pro is its unique use of Sea-Doo’s proprietary iTC (Intelligent Throttle Control) system.

All S3-based watercraft all share the same 5-point adjustable tilt steering system that incorporates the entire gauge pod for unobstructed viewing.

Above left: The retractable ski pylon is sturdy and can extend high above the rear seat or retract flush with the rear handrail. Above right: All Wake models include this removable, locking board rack.

Although all iTC-equipped Sea-Doo watercraft come with a selection of on-the-fly engine map tunes – between “Touring”, “Sport” and “Eco” modes – the Wake Pro 215 also includes a catalog of “Wake Mode” select tunes. These five pre-programmed engine maps manage the supercharged 3-cylinder 1,494cc Rotax engine’s throttle response and acceleration curve, ranging from mild to aggressive. This way, the driver can better manage how the Wake Pro 215 will launch when towing a wakeboarder or towable. Although nowhere near where it could be, the seeds of Sea-Doo’s Wake modes could blossom into what could be (eventually) anti-cavitation “traction control” for hard, aggressive launches.

America’s Motor Sports – Middle Tennessee’s leading family of Sea-Doo dealerships – provided The Watercraft Journal with a new 2015 Sea-Doo Wake Pro 215 to put to the test. On two separate occasions we romped on the Wake Pro 215 to see what she could do. As hinted at above, we spent a great deal focusing on the various Wake modes, seeing how they dampen initial acceleration, permitting for the skier or wakeboarder to pop out of the water with ease. Although nowhere near as prominent as with the smaller Wake 155, a full-sized boarder or a heavy-laden towable can manage to swing the Pro 215’s tail, particularly if the driver isn’t ready to negotiate the shift in weight.

Above left: A closer look at the retractable ski pylon. Above center: The hinged seat reveals the supercharged 1.5L Rotax 3-cylinder which can run on 87 octane (minimum). Above right: The Wake Pro 215 shares the same iridescent livery as its smaller 155HP sibling.

Priced between a 260-horsepower RXT and an equally-powered, lush GTX Limited 215, the Wake Pro 215 is targeted specifically for wake sports and towing and should be compared as such.

We enjoyed our time with the Wake Pro 215 but bristled a little at the $14,349 asking price. For $450 less, one could fetch a 260-horsepower RXT ($13,899 MSRP), or an opulently-loaded GTX Limited 215 for $350 more ($14,699 MSRP). Of course, neither include the specific towing options exclusive to the Wake Pro 215, so choosing the Pro should be specific to wanting to tow wakeboarders or drag the kids around on a raft. The Wake Pro 215 is truly a dedicated machine and has been bred to be so.

Special thanks to America’s Motorsports for use of the 2015 Sea-Doo Wake Pro 215.

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Real Review: Jobe Ruthless Molded Side-Entry Vest

Gear

Kevin Shaw

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September 11, 2015

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Real Review: Jobe Ruthless Molded Side-Entry Vest

At first we were a little concerned that we had put on some extra weight. In our previous review of Jobe’s Youth Progress Neo Vest, we knocked the Netherlands-based company for its lost-in-translation sizing, but this time around we knew we had the right size selected for our new Ruthless Molded Vest. Now the question was whether we were no longer the same size.

Thankfully, neither were right (or wrong for that matter). Rather, the soft, pliable EVA foam-paneled side-entry vest had yet to be broken in. Similar to a new pair of jeans, we found that the neoprene-covered molded foam simply needed to relax a little as it conformed to our frame. And sure as the jeans analogy, the Ruthless Molded vest suddenly became our absolute favorite side-entry vest we’ve tested since launching The Watercraft Journal nearly two years ago.

Any of our readers who regularly digest our “Real Review” reports will know that we’re huge sticklers on comfort over nearly everything else, because in all reality, nobody is going to wear something that isn’t comfortable for too long. Big advancements in EVA molding has allowed for leaps in life vest comfort, and Jobe’s newest side-entry is in direct reflection of it. Jobe has crammed as much shaped EVA into the Batman-body armor design all without sacrificing flexibility.

In fact, the degree of flexibility is significant particularly when considering the Ruthless Molded Vest is equipped with an integrated back support for additional protection. Extra protection is also provided by additional foam panels at each side of the vest. And, as Jobe’s own website attests, “the foam panels are non-water absorbing, fast drying, durable and lightweight.”

Of course, all of this integrated EVA foam also provides the vest’s buoyancy. Being a European product, the Jobe is not USCG (United States Coast Guard) rated, but seeing that very few riders encounter trouble with law enforcement, this should not be a major deterrent, as the Jobe Ruthless vest is CE-approved (an abbreviation of the French phrase “Conformité Européene” which literally means “European Conformity”, wherein the manufacturer declares its sole responsibility, conformity with all of the legal requirements).

Our prior grievances with side-entry vests were numerous but Jobe masterfully addresses all of them through the use of superior materials and thoughtful design execution. The vest is cut long, so it doesn’t ride up. Assisting in this is an innovative first: a strapped-in neoprene kidney belt that wraps tightly around your midsection to keep the vest in place whether through aggressive riding, sitting down or even floating casually.

Jobe designed the over-the-should straps to be wide and low profile, opening up the neckline and large arm openings for an extended range of motion. The modular foam plating on the back and chest allow a wearer to bend back and forth easily and not feel either like being strapped into a corset or wearing a loose sandwich board. Peeling the Ruthless Molded Vest off at the end of a long day can be a little tight, depending on how wet the neoprene skin is.

Entrance into the Molded Vest is via a broad-toothed, anti-corrosion coated zipper (with thoughtful zipper cover to protect your underarm from being snagged on a loose zipper), and two partially hidden webbing straps that weave beneath the armored back and chest, and appear on the sides. A lanyard loop is stitched into the bottom of the chest plate as well.

We logged a great deal of time on our Jobe Ruthless Molded Vest and discovered that we liked it more and more as we broke it in. Admittedly, our first couple of rides wearing the vest weren’t our favorite, but after a supremely hot day out on the lake, we discovered the vest’s ability to wick water surprisingly well, and keep its cool even under the beating sun. As we continue to use the vest over the summer, we knew we had only one option when it came time for our world record “Long Haul” attempt.

As many have seen in the first webisode of The Watercraft Journal “Long Haul,” the Jobe vest is front-and-center for much of the action, and deservedly so. Regardless of the hours spent in the sunshine, the vest’s deep black hasn’t bleached or faded, and the edged haven’t frayed or torn. The screen printed yellow graphics haven’t even flaked off. Again, this vest has managed to hold up beyond our expectations.

Now, priced at £119.99 (or $185 USD), the Jobe Ruthless Molded Vest isn’t cheap. But given the degree of beating that we’ve put on this PDF, we’re leaning pretty hard on saying the near $200 price tag might just be worth every penny. So if you’re like us, and feel that comfort is king and longevity is a must, this side-entry vest just might be the ticket for you too.

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Seven Deadly Questions: James ” X-Man” Xuereb

Interviews

Tam Clucas

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September 10, 2015

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Seven Deadly Questions: James ” X-Man” Xuereb

Many might not recognize the name James Xuereb, but if you were in attendance at the 2014 IJSBA World Finals, you will have noticed the Australian Amateur Veteran Ski racer not only sweep the motos, earning him the World Title at Lake Havasu, but do so with an impressive 30 second lead in both motos.

The Watercraft Journal: When did you first start jet skiing and how did you get into racing?
James Xuereb: Firstly, I would like to thank you for giving me the opportunity to answer the Seven Deadly Questions. As a kid, I always wanted to race dirt bikes, my parents were totally against the idea. It was in 1994, my last year of school and a friend, Ben Pearce and his brothers of four all raced jet skis. I tagged along to a local race to help and watch and fell in love with the sport. It wasn’t until 1997 that I purchased a square-nosed SuperJet and started racing in 1998.

WCJ: As I mentioned you had a massive lead on second place, so much so that some rough chop in the second moto saw you take a brief swim, which still wasn’t enough for second place to catch up. What was going through your mind during these races?
JX: [Laughs] The morning of the races was qualifying. I had never been so nervous. Looking at 40 riders, most that looked like gym junkies, their skis loud and fast. [Laughs] This made me feel so intimidated – I felt like spewing. In the qualifying first start, I nearly hole shot, but got red flagged because someone jump started.

Immediately on my way back to the start line I got this 100% confidence boost. Waiting on the line, I said to Brian, my holder ‘We can do this mate, my ski is on the money.’ Overall, I qualified fourth but made heaps of mistakes, so coming into the main events I knew I could possibly make it work. I mainly focused on a good start, smooth riding and breathing.

WCJ: What support did you have and how did you prepare for your first international race?
JX: I made my decision to go well over 12 months prior to the event. I teamed up with Oz champ of 2014 and great friend Joel Barry and his family who pretty much organized the whole trip and jet ski transport. Preparation was a long-term thought. I built a replica ski I rode and punished for 18 months, meanwhile built my race ski which I did not ride much after development stopped three months prior to [Finals]. For the last three months, I just focused on fitness, which involved riding the spare ski about three days a week and core and cardio fitness at the gym.

WCJ: What racing have you been up to since the World Finals?
JX: After [Finals] it was kind of hard to get motivated and focused, due to the preparations of attending of attending the World Finals. Here in Oz, we had the Yamaha Cup on the AJSBA tour, which was a great idea. I chose to have a break from the Open class and built myself a budget Lites boat for the Cup. Ryan O’Keefe was focused and determined every round winning first, I came second.

WCJ: I think it would be fair to state that racing in Australia is on a smaller scale (in number of events, racers and spectators). How would you compare the racing here in Australia to the States and what would you like to see for Australia’s future in racing?
JX: Yes, it would be great to see more competitors at our Australian events especially with the hard work committee members put in to hosting these events. Obviously, the World Finals is one of the biggest jet ski events held annually, but I think Australia is on par with the way events are run and organized. I think focusing on our Juniors and affordable fees may attract more competitors at our State club rounds. Having a ‘one off’ weekend Australian Titles is a fantastic idea, which may also attract international riders.

WCJ: What are your plans for the future? Will we see you back at Havasu?
JX: At the present moment I am enjoying having a break from racing (kicking back sinking loads on green can, VB no1), catching up on jobs around the house. This year I will not be attending the World Finals, however I do have plans to go back 2016.

WCJ: Is there anyone you would like to thank?
JX: It sure is a big effort with months of prep to attend the World Finals and could not have pulled it off without the help from several people. Big thanks to all that have been apart of the adventure you have all contributed in making a dream come true.

Firstly, my girl Avalon for her patience and motivation. The Barry family for organizing the whole thing. My engine builder, Brad Dawson for one ‘cranky engine’. Andy Tisdall for his involvement in development. Michael from Anglomoil for his support. Garry Watson from WORX Racing, James Berger for some key secrets, and Michael Stevens for persisting with getting us out on the water, rain, hail or shine for training. Brian Colreavy for making a big trip to help me out in any way he could, from making breakfast in the morning to spannering on the ski. Legend!

Yamaha Australia Helps Make 2015 Cronulla Rip N’ Ride Biggest Freeride Payout Ever

News

Andrew Donovan

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September 10, 2015

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Yamaha Australia Helps Make 2015 Cronulla Rip N’ Ride Biggest Freeride Payout Ever

There’s only a week left until Australia’s biggest annual freeride event, the Cronulla Rip N Ride. This year marks the 8th anniversary of this awesome get-together of over 100 riders from all over Australia and the world coming to Cronulla, Sydney for a few days of freeride fun.

Not only is it the biggest event in Oz, but the biggest prize pool in Australia and maybe the world. How much? Over $30,000 worth of gear is up for grabs, thanks to Yamaha Australia and a heap of other great sponsors. Yamaha is giving away a brand new SuperJet again. That’s 5 years in a row and sixth ski to be given away.

The best thing about it is, anyone can be the one to take the SuperJet home. If you entered the event you have a one in 100 chance of winning. It’s a raffle, so everyone is super exited; pros, amateurs and rookies all get to ride together and have fun and learn from each other in a relaxed and safe environment.

The Watercraft Journal spoke with Mark Harman, National Marketing Coordinator for Yamaha Motor Australia and he had this to say: “For the eighth year running, Yamaha has proudly stepped up as a major sponsor of the Cronulla Rip ‘N Ride. There is no other watercraft event like this in the world, so we’re pleased to support the growing Freeride community by sponsoring this premier event.”

So if you’re in the area make sure you come down to Cronulla this September, 18th-through-20th and say “G’day!”

WatCon To Be At 2015 quakysense IJSBA World Finals

News

Ocean Priselac

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September 9, 2015

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WatCon To Be At 2015 quakysense IJSBA World Finals

The International Jet Sports Boating Association (IJSBA) received confirmation through a press release that WatCon will participate in the trade show at the 2015 quakysense IJSBA World Finals held in Lake Havasu, AZ. Rock County Jet Ski, which owns WatCon, will make an appearance at one of the most prestigious events in the sport of jet skiing. The competition hosts the best riders in the world and the trade show is the place to see what is new to the sport of jet skiing.

John Zigler, President of RCJS and chief designer behind the thriving Watcon line of modification and enhancement parts states that, “Watcon is very excited to support the World Finals as the premier event in the sport and 2015 will showcase the best riders, equipment and teams in the world.” He adds, “Watcon has been busy developing new products this year and look forward to sharing them.”

Check out the trade show and competition if you are in the Lake Havasu area during the first week of October this year. Racing gets underway at 7am and the trade show begins at 9:00 AM, Tuesday October 6. For a complete list of events and times, check out the International Jet Sports Boating Association’s link on their website.

The functions for the week are listed in chronological order and there is an abundance of other quality information throughout the IJSBA website. Enjoy the event!

Video: Enjoy Episode 1 of The Watercraft Journal Long Haul

News

Kevin Shaw

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September 9, 2015

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Video: Enjoy Episode 1 of The Watercraft Journal Long Haul

“Wait!” you’re questioning. “What’s this ‘Episode 1’ stuff?” And yes, you’d be right. A few months back we announced what we called The Watercraft Journal “2015 Long Haul,” a world record attempt at crisscrossing the entire State of Florida both ways. Together with Jetski Junkies’ Kev Hemingway, we put together an awesome attempt to minimize fuel stops, maximize efficiency, and execute a 300-mile ride that zigzagged across an entire state. Sounds pretty cool, right?

Thanks to Sea-Doo for providing us a pair of 155-horsepower, naturally-aspirated GTIs (a Wake 155 and GTI SE 155), Bob Chamberlain at Kool PWC Stuff who not only provided us with a pair of stout storage racks with a quartet of Rotopax fuel cans but showed up and installed them himself, PWC Life for a pair of water-wicking jerseys, Ride Power USA for keeping our smartphones (and GPS) charged, EZ Throttle for keeping our hands from cramping up, and Jet Renu for their support, we were able to make the ride.

Of course, if you’ve read the article, you’ll know that our first attempt was a bust when State Park employees decided to cut out of work 20 minutes early, leaving us stuck at our final lock well before the final 5pm closing time. Government workers, right? Well, that’s not going to stop us as we’ll be announcing a second attempt at this record – and best of all, everyone is invited to join the fun! We want to see 100 PWC charging the canal!

But here’s the big announcement, with this being our “pilot episode,” we’re looking to develop the “Long Haul” into a regular monthly web series! If you like the video below, please share it with your friends and family, as we want to get people excited about the first web show dedicated to making ridiculous attempts at world records and other harebrained rides! Because we’re in it for the Long Haul, it’s always about the adventure. Enjoy!

Gallery: Silver River Monkey Fun Run

Touring

Leonard Micheau

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September 8, 2015

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Wild monkeys in Florida, you ask? Absolutely. They live in Ocala, Florida, along to pristine waters of the Silver River. Many believe they were released or escaped during the filming of the Tarzan movie “Tarzan Finds a Son,” but this was not the case. The monkeys were released by tour boat operator Colonel Tooey to enhance his “Jungle Cruise” ride as to enhance the scenery. He bought six macaque monkeys and released them on a small island. He did not know that macaques are great swimmers and according to locals, they swam off the island within minutes.

Since then, the monkey population has grown to over 1,000 monkeys, but they have faced issues with some calling for their removal citing health risks and diseases. Over 25,000 citizens sign petitions to save the macaques and as of now, the State of Florida still holds that the monkeys don’t belong on the land but officials are no longer racing to clear them out.

This trip has been enjoyed by many boaters and jet skiers alike. “You need to rustle a bag of potato chips to bring them out,” claims Bill Hills, President of Space Coast Jet Riders and highly regarded expert on boating the waters of Florida and most of the Southeast. He was our gracious “Jungle Cruise” guide my first time many years ago. This trip was a combined group trip with the Central Florida Jet Riders and the Jacksonville Jet Riders.

There are a few rides that remind us of why we do this, of why we buy skis, of why we ride. “The Monkey Run,” as we have come to know it, is one of those experiences that makes you think that buying that jet ski was not only a good idea, but a great one. Arriving at Lake Griffin we got that anxious feeling and started to wonder if we would see monkeys that day. For the Monkey Run, we took Lake Griffin north from the Train Depot boat ramp at Herlong Park. It was a quick jog through a small waterway to the south end of Lake Griffin and a seven mile crossing to the top of the lake and on to the Ocklawaha River.

The Ocklawaha River provides a very scenic view of Mother Nature in her prime. From birds to alligators, riding it always gives one a feeling of serenity. Passing Big Pine and Little Pine Islands, we came up to Highway 42 bridge. From there, we blasted up the Ocklawaha River for another seven miles to the Moss Bluff Lock and Dam.

Originally built in 1925, it was a source of hydroelectric power. It was rebuilt by 1969 to what it is today and now serves as a source to control the lake’s elevation as well as provide waterway passage. With a tug of the bell, a call to the lock operator or a simple wave, we entered the lock. The main conversation of the day was whether 30 skis from the Jacksonville Jet Riders and Central Florida Jet Riders could fit in one lock.

The lock operator seemed to think so and with some three wide, we began our 20-foot drop to the lower Ochlawaha level. A small wake zone to the 464 bridge and it was now time to grab some throttle. As jet skis lineup single file as the river supplied plenty of lily pads on both sides (as well as some downed trees) providing some interesting opportunities for maneuvering.

With a train of riders ahead and behind, taking turns became almost second nature. After a few quick rights and lefts, we came up to a No Wake Zone and a quick left turn at the Silver River. Now we started to see the water beginning to clear and the underwater sights coming in to view. We made another right and headed up to the Ocala Boat Club for a quick lunch and to stretch our legs. Then it was a quick run out and back on to the Silver River to go see if we can find those monkeys!

The Silver River runs from its source in Silver Springs. The Silver Springs is one of the largest artesian springs in the world and generates nearly 550 million gallons of crystal clear water daily. It’s also a tourist attraction and glass bottom boat have been operating in the Silver Springs since the 1870s. The Silver Springs has been the site of several films like “Tarzan,” “The Seven Swans,” “Sea Hunt” and “The Creature From the Black Lagoon.” It’s over four miles of No Wake up the Silver River to the Springs, but the monkeys can be seen anywhere along the way.

With nature on full display, chatting and laughing with fellow jet skiers, the time and miles passed quickly until someone further up relayed that they have found some monkeys. With hearts racing with anticipation, first there were a few, with one just relaxing on a branch. And after some calls, more came out. Many more this time, in fact. We saw some large males, some juveniles and even mothers with babies who also came out to see what was going on. They looked straight at us taking pics and videos as if to say, “This group of tourists are quite peculiar in deed!”

They tolerated us and greeted those bearing gifts. Some seemed more excited than others as they moved from branch to branch. Some moved closer to get a better look as us or to see if we had snacks. A quick fight took place over a small piece of fruit, with the larger and more agile male monkey taking the prize. Survival of the fittest at its best. With monkeys and jet ski tourists having their fill of each other’s company and many pictures taken, we continued up to the Silver Springs.

When almost to the Springs, we pass several glass bottom boats filled with tourists. Now we got the fascinated looks and our pictures taken! I guess they were as surprised to see jet skiers as we were the monkeys just an hour earlier!

The Silver Springs lives up to its billing as you can see clear to the bottom. You can see some wooden wrecks, fish and whatever decides to swim on by. With the skis looking like they are levitating on thin air, riders idled around in amazement. Some took pictures, some took underwater videos, some got their feet wet in the cold spring water and others just took in the sights and chatted it up with fellow riders.

With time getting away from us, it was time to head back downstream, which proved to be way faster. Still courteous to boaters, we were even able to get a few waves from kayakers. We rendezvoused with those that didn’t make the trek to see the monkeys or the springs and we all made that right turn back on to the Ocklawaha River at after that pesky No Wake Zone.

With turns memorized a little better this time, we picked up the pace. Ski after ski moved down the river, riders enjoying the way back with fresh thoughts of the springs and for some, finally seeing monkeys. As we made our way back into the lock, the talk was now about when will we would do it again, some trying to get a signal to beat everyone else to posting pics on Facebook and others taking pics of the group and the lock.

Leaving out of the lock, a few stopped to take a quick break with the one taking a short dip. After realizing that log was actually three-foot ‘gator, it is time to go! Heading back down the Ocklawaha River to Lake Griffin, we only had seven miles left separating us from home ramp. It was a quick dash with the faster skis making it in first. Some now with new bragging rights to add to the day’s list of accomplishments. We all made it back in safely and all accounted for. As we pulled the skis out, many riders stood around to chat and share stories and the “did you see that” moments. Most grateful to see the monkeys. It was indeed a great day.

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Video: Sea-Doo Wants to Pay You $1,000 to Guess What’s Coming Out For 2016

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Kevin Shaw

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September 8, 2015

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Video: Sea-Doo Wants to Pay You $1,000 to Guess What’s Coming Out For 2016

No, this is not a prank. Sea-Doo wants to pay you (actually, five lucky participants) $1,000 towards the “purchase of a new or unused Sea-Doo model or Sea-Doo parts, accessories and clothing.” Yup, all that just for making a solid guess at what Sea-Doo is cooking up for 2016. Of course, y’know The Watercraft Journal has dropped some serious hints and there’s been rumors swirling around for years now, so your chance of hitting the nail on the head is pretty dang close.

All you have to do is go to Sea-Doo’s “What’s Next” contest page and submit your guess. In fact, according the rules (listed below), it doesn’t even appear that Sea-Doo will even care if you’re right or not, as five contestants will be chosen at random to receive a winning prize package. But since you heard about the contest here, do us a favor and let Sea-Doo know that you first learned about the contest at The Watercraft Journal! It makes us look good.

Oh, but here’s what we can gather from the video below: The 2016 craft shown feature two color options: orange/black either GTR or RXT, a white/black RXT-X, and a black/red or orange RXP-X, and from all the shots of turbulent water, we almost *gasp* wonder if a new “rough water” hull might be coming out. The marketing types at Sea-Doo are pretty sneaky like that.

OK, here’s the official announcement:

BRP Ready To Launch 2016 Sea-Doo Line And A Chance At $1000 For Guessing, “What’s Next”
Valcourt, QC, Canada – September 7, 2015 – BRP is preparing for the launch of the highly anticipated 2016 Sea-Doo watercraft line by offering a chance at one of five $1000 prizes° towards a new of unused Sea-Doo model or Sea-Doo parts, accessories and clothing for thoughts on WHAT’S NEXT.

BRP is the world leader in watercraft sales, a result of continual industry leading innovation to improve the Sea-Doo owners’ riding experience making good days on the water great. The Sea-Doo SPARK model has been the catalyst for BRP’s ability to re-spark the industry making the dream of owning a Sea-Doo watercraft a reality for a much more broad audience. The 2016 Sea-Doo line will be launched Friday, September 18 at 10:30PM EST and is poised to extend the heritage of introducing benchmark-setting watercraft.

Watercraft enthusiasts and water lovers alike can go to sea-doo.com/whatsnext starting Tuesday, September 8th to provide their guess as to how Sea-Doo is taking watercraft riding to the next level in 2016. Visitors simply enter their information and provide their thoughts on what the Sea-Doo design and engineering teams have been developing and perfecting and what will be introduced on September 18th. Five random entrants will be chosen and rewarded with $1000 towards the purchase of a new or unused Sea-Doo model or Sea-Doo parts, accessories and clothing.

The conversation will extend to the Sea-Doo social media channels as visitors are offered 10 days of sneak peek looks at What Comes Next starting on September 8th up to the September 18th launch.

° For complete contest rules and details visit www.sea-doo.com/whatsnext