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Gallery: PWC Racing Community Says Farewell To Tyron Motzouris

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Each of us at The Watercraft Journal send our condolences and support to Tyron Motzouris’ family and friends after his passing last week. In a short, but heart-wrenching post on Friday, Dustin Motzouris let the PWC world know of his brother’s passing after a 2-year battle for recovery from injuries received in a PWC crash during World Finals at Lake Havasu City.

I will always love and miss you. Fly high Tyron Motzouris. Till we meet again.

A post from Tyron’s wife, Dominique Motzouris, followed shortly after, stating:

It has taken our family a while to process all that has happened over the last week. Tyron unfortunately got sick over a week ago and it was not something that he could overcome.

Our precious Ty’s fought such a hard fight over the last almost two years, he had been through so much and was so strong through it all!

Yesterday God welcomed Ty’s home and he will not suffer anymore. 

Our hearts are broken, there will never be any words to describe what Ty’s and our whole family has been through over these last two years.  We are so thankful to have had this extra time with him and the opportunity to care for him at home until his final days. 

Ty’s we love you so much, more than words can ever say, life has changed for us all and we will never stop missing you! You had the most pure soul and left a mark on this earth.  I will always be so grateful for the amazing 16 years I had to spend with you and you have given me the best gift in life and that is our two girls Madison and Willow. 

Your time with us will always feel too short and we may never understand it.  We promise to make you proud, your legacy will always live on through your girls and we will see you again.

Some say that the true testament to a life well-lived, is the memories you leave behind, and as WCJ began to reach out to those in the PWC community to collect some of those memories, the PWC family was a step ahead of us, and tributes to, and memories of Tyron began to flood social media, portraying so much better than we ever could, the place Tyron held as a racer, as an innovator, as a friend and as a family member. 

Three quotes come immediately to mind when remembering Tyron’s interactions with those of us here at WCJ, and when reading the messages and memories being posted from all across the world by those inside and outside of the PWC family.

Writer Shannon Adler stated, “Carve your name on hearts, not tombstones. A legacy is etched in the minds of others and the memories they share about you,” and it is abundantly clear that Tyron carved his name in the hearts of so many, and left memories that will be a part of the PWC culture forever.

Dolly Parton wrote, “If your actions create a legacy that inspires others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are an excellent leader.” It is equally clear, from watching Tyron’s interactions with his brother, and with young racers throughout the last decade that I have been involved in the sport, that included in Tyron’s legacy is his place as a leader, both in and out of the PWC community.

And lastly, from Maya Angelou, “If you’re going to live, leave a legacy. Leave a mark on the world that can’t be erased.” You definitely did that, Tyron.

From Stephen Whitaker
I feel like I had the privilege of watching you grow up Tyron Motzouris. From the tubby, smiley little boy always giggling, fishing rod in hand, friendly demeanour and his bud Keegan Beattie in tow most often at the Yacht club/ boat garage and fishing with his Dad Peter Motzouris on the boat. I’ll never forget the little voice and always so respectful.

I watched you grow as Dustin Motzouris and I carried on with riding and training and soon you joined us.

I watched you grow from a tubby little chap into a strapping, strong young man and then into one of the best athletes in the sport of world jet ski racing while overcoming multiple obstacles with your health. You helped run Z-Craft and were there for your mom Marilyn Motzouris your brother Dustin and the rest of the family when your Dad passed. Your commitment to your family and the family business was unwavering.

You and Dust then started your own thing building the best race skis in the world. You most certainly left your mark as the two brothers revolutionized the jet ski racing world.

You married Dominique Motzouris and started the most beautiful family and just grew from strength to strength. Your girls loved you and you treated them like absolute Gold, you loved Dom with all your heart, they were the apple of your eye.

You moved to the states and joined Dust and Mandy Hyman Motzouris . You were one of the best brothers, uncles and brother in laws anyone could ever ask for and your nieces loved uncle Ty’s!  Your brother Dustin finally had his best friend by his side again and you two did it all together, built and designed skis, trained together and grew from strength to strength. A force to be reckoned with.

Watching the tributes pour in over the past few days has been both heartsore and heart warming. You’ve left a legacy behind and the respect people all over the world have for you is just a testament to the special person you are. You will always be remembered for the smile, laugh and genuine care and respect you had for anyone you crossed paths with.

It’s devastating that you are no longer with us anymore but I’m glad you are finally at peace. Your family tried so hard to fix you and they exhausted every possible thing they could as they loved you so much.

Thank you for your friendship and the lessons you left us all with Ty’s. The world is a better place because of you.

RIP Ty’s till we meet again brother.

From the South African National Jet Ski Racing series
The SAJSBA would like to honour an amazing sportsman, an even better person, a good friend, a son, a brother, and a loving husband and father. Tyron Motzouris played a big part in the SAJSBA family for many years. He was kind, humble, considerate and loyal. He will be sorely missed.

To the Motzouris family: Our deepest condolences go out to you all during this difficult time. The strength you have all shown over the past two years has been immense. During your time of grief may you find comfort in his memory.

Fly high Tyron, until we all meet again.

From Heidi Leitch
In honour of a true gentleman and awesome human… Rest peacefully Tyron Motzouris, u took me under ur wing and taught me my holeshot starts when I was the only girl racing stand ups with the boys… ur kindness and determination will live on in all our hearts forever… my deepest condolences to ur beautiful family.

From Clinton Gauld
Tyron Motzouris, you will really be missed . You were an asset to this world and human kind. I know this is a terrible time for Marilyn Motzouris, Dustin, Motzouris, Vanessa Taylor, Mandy Hyman Motzouris, Dominique Motzouris,Tyron’s Children and all other family . When I read all the peoples in the worlds condolences for Tyron , it just shows how many peoples lives he made an impact on. Tyron proved that the good people are still noticed and remembered. As Tyron’s family I think you can be extremely proud of what an impact he has made on so many.

From Richard Robert Sparks
T-Nutz… So lucky to have known you and had a few years of being your friend. You’re driven nature and humbleness will always be an inspiration. My memories of you will always be cherished and held close to my heart my bru. Rest in peace buddy..!!!!

From Deven Farthing
RIP Tyron Motzouris. It feels like yesterday that you guys dropped off my new hull and we were training at body beach. Thank you for everything you and Dustin Motzouris have done for me and the sport as a whole. All the things you have done for me and taught me will never be forgotten. You will be missed.

From Sally Cathrine Ensor -Smith
Our condolences to the Motzouris  family , rest in peace Tyron Motzouris, fly high , always a legend to many We bought my Kawasaki standup from the Motzouris brothers many years ago, and they both gave me their time teaching me how to race that machine with lots of laughter and happy times on the water  in SA. May GOD now have Tyrone racing jet skis in heaven, doing what he always loved.

From Mark Gomez
The Motz family fights for what they believe in. In this case it’s their family, our beloved Tyron has passed after fighting for so long. May you rest in peace, we are all so proud of you for the impact you have had on and off the race course. I will sincerely miss you and will be cheering your legacy on watching your brother Dustin continue to carry your passion through the business and supporting the family.

From Jackson Jay Rod
Rest in Peace Tyron Motzouris 08/29/2024. I wish you would have been able to recover from your injuries 2 years ago and we’d all be watching you and your brother train and prepare for finals. But here I am writing this post. You finally left us, mind and body. Your spirit lives on in all the lives you’ve touched. There’s a version of us that lives in the minds of those that have known us. So in a way you’re still here, all the best parts and the best times. Carry on in spirit and continue to be the ball of positivity you were in life in spirit, guiding your friends, and most importantly your family as they go through this trying time. 

From Ronnie Parker
Every time I ride, and watch a GP1R race, I will thank Tyron for his incredible contributions to our sport. He was an innovator, inspiration, and a friend to all. God Speed!

From Kole Cramer
Rest In peace to a good friend, As I sit here and look at these amazing photos and awesome times we had I can’t ever forget about them. The amount of laps we’ve spun at body beach. The amount of races we battled. The amount of times we lined up next to each other. The amount of laughs and good times. The amount of times talking on the phone figuring out if this worked good or that worked good. Tyron, thank you for everything, thank you for believing in me and most of all thank you for all the support and drive you have given me. RIP my friend.

From David Zipperian
Such a loss for words right now….. Nobody is supposed to die doing this sport…… Tyrone long before you message me long before we became friends you motivated me…. I’m so sorry…… My friend Joseph is going to make up some stickers….. .. Rip  Tyron Motzouris Forever strong #2za….. The rest of my season is dedicated to you my friend….. I will Give them the horns the best I can….. Say hi to Nedra for me. See you on the other side of The checkers…

And in a message to WCJ from Sam Nehme:
Everyone here at Broward Motorsports is saddened to hear about the loss of Tyron Motzouris.  Our hearts pour out to his family and loved ones left behind.  Life is not always fair, but God always has a plan.  Ty impacted the sport of jet ski racing in so many ways.  He has left a mark on a sport and industry that he loved so much.  His accomplishments both on and off the track were equally impressive.  First and foremost, he built an amazing family but also went on to build an industry-changing business along with a long list of racing accolades.  Ty will be missed by all but remembered forever.  RIP my friend.

Get Ready for the Newest Yamaha JetBlaster Series with Cycle Springs Powersports

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There’s no denying that Yamaha consistently produces top-quality personal watercraft year after year, and what better place to get them than from our great friends at Cycle Springs Powersports – the largest Yamaha jet propulsion dealer in the world? While they are certainly experts in all things motorsports, they’ve been putting a lot of focus lately on the 2025 Yamaha JetBlaster Series and its variants.

The Yamaha JetBlaster Series, whose previous models are currently available at Cycle Springs Powersports both online and at their brick-and-mortar dealerships in Florida, is an excellent line of watercraft for those searching for precision handling and impressive speeds, all housed within a compact, lightweight frame. The series measures in at a minimal size—116 inches by 45 inches, weighing only 530 lbs—yet still manages to deliver remarkable boost and agility.

The design of the 2025 line is exceedingly sleek, with a glossy, “straight-off-the-lot” finish and a reinforced polypropylene deck that work together to provide a durable, great-looking watercraft. The series will be available in four different variations, ranging from the high-end deluxe riding experience of the JetBlaster DLX WaveRunner to the perfect family fun machine of the JetBlaster LTD.

Those looking to get their hands on one of these slick new releases from Yamaha will have to wait a few more months, but if you’re interested in a discounted 2024 Yamaha JetBlaster, there are still several available from Cycle Springs Powersports. They’re offering nearly $1,000 off on several models from the 2024 line, bringing the total price down to less than $10K—a steal for such a high-quality watercraft.

And to branch out for more savings, for those ready to pull the trigger today, August 31, you can catch the final day of the ultimate Yamaha clearance event at Cycle Springs Powersports and pay no freight or dealer prep on 2024 wave Runners plus take advantage of 5.9% financing for up to 72 months. And if you’re wanting to expand your watercraft fleet beyond your ski, you can get up to $20,000 off new Yamaha boats plus receive up to a $2,000 Cycle Springs maintenance card with any new purchase. New Yamaha boats start at just $299.90, including trailer.

Moreover, Cycle Springs always provides top-notch repair and replacement services for older models that may need a tune-up as we approach the end of another summer. Be sure to check out their website for all things watercraft the next time you’re looking to upgrade your rig!

ECW Sylvan Beach Race Just Around The Corner

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In PWC Racing, there are several annual competitions where the location has become as iconic as the race itself.

In some cases, it is a factor of PWC-suitability – the site boasts easy access, ample and close dry pits, a perfect launch area, lends itself to innovative track layout, and consistently provides optimal water conditions for racing (for some, that may mean mirror-calm waters for blistering times, while for others, it means Daytona waves) In other cases, it is more about the non-race related benefits of the site – great weather, great restaurants and bars, great locals, and great scenery.

Of course, there is Havasu, and Daytona, and Pattaya Beach – but one such site flies more under the radar, but yet always comes up in conversations about the “best race sites.”

And as chance would have it – a hefty portion of the top riders in the US happen to be heading that direction in just over a week, as East Coast Watercross preps for the iconic and annual Sylvan Beach race.

Rounds 9 and 10 the 2024 SBT East Coast Watercross Tour 2024, and also serving as the @ijsba Two Stroke National, is scheduled for September 7 and 8 at Sunset Beach, with Registration & Safety Tech from 2-8 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 6th.

See below for information on the site, the race, and a plethora of racer notes and requirements, directly from the East Coast Watercross race directors.

The event will be held at this location:
Sunset Ave
Sylvan Beach, 13308
Please have your IJSBA Membership card, or if necessary register/renew online at www.IJSBA.com

Sylvan Beach, NY Rounds 9 & 10 Schedule-
Friday, Sept. 6th-
2pm-8pm: Registration & Safety Tech. Please try to get your Registration and Tech done today as we have a busy weekend planned!!

Saturday, Sept. 7th-
7am-8:30am: Registration & Safety Tech (Steve Hotchkiss will be available for late arrival tech as needed—please get your boat through tech before it hits the water!)
8:00am: Mandatory Riders Meeting
8:30am/immediately following riders meeting: First practice, be ready to go at riders meeting!
Practice order will be posted on the board.
Racing begins after practice! (First motos)
At the end of first motos approx 1:30pm:
30 MINUTE LUNCH BREAK
Racing resumes immediately after Lunch. (Second motos)
Awards for Watkins Glen Day 2 (Round and today (Round 9) will be approx. 30 minutes after last moto of the day.

Sunday, Sept. 8th-
7am-8:30am: Registration & Safety Tech
8:00am: Mandatory Riders Meeting.
8:30am: Last chance practice and new arrival practice only
Racing begins after practice! (First motos)
At the end of first motos approx 1:30pm:
30 MINUTE LUNCH BREAK
Racing resumes immediately after Lunch. (Second motos)
Awards Ceremony to follow approx. 30 mins after last moto of the day.

Awards: ECW 2024 Round 10, Triple Crown Competition, 2-Stroke Nationals Trophies, ECW 2024 Tour Champions.
…and last but not least, the RAFFLE DRAWING FOR X2 JET SKI and other prizes!!

Please Note: site and event details are below
Sylvan Beach Site Info:
The event weekend location for GPS: ( The event is on the shoreline park, between the lake and the Amusement Park not actually at the Amusement Park, however the below address proves to be most reliable for GPS)
Sylvan Beach Amusement Park
112 Bridge St,
Sylvan Beach, NY 13157
Beach/Waterfront Specifics:
• This venue has a clear sandy beach
• skis can be beached, or on stands
• There is no on site paved launch, watercraft must be launched off the beach or by using an off site launch ( plentiful in the area) there is a paved launch nearby.
Pit Vehicle Specifics( town law is no atvs on the beach, this has obviously been an issue, and we have advocated for you. There will be a path for atv’s, machines are to be used to load and unload watercraft only! Please park your machines at your trailer for the duration of the day and walk to the site):
• ATV/UTV must NOT be used to transport people or equipment other than when a watercraft is attached and in tow in the beach area.
• ATV/UTV Must be insured with proper paperwork available for local law enforcement.
• No operators under the age of 16 will be permitted.
• No free riding
• No speeds above 5mph
• No operation of pit vehicles before or after dark
• No Pitbikes

Race Course:
• The entire race course area is strictly off limits, except during Course Marshall led course orientation and racing.
• No one is to be on or in the course area without Course Marshalls on water. Violators will be DQd from the event. This is mandated by the terms of our Regatta Permit with the State.

Race Rules:
• Racers meeting will be held at 8:00am both Saturday and Sunday and is Mandatory for all racers
• Pre Registration will close Wed 9/4 at 11:30 PM . Pre Registration is non refundable/non transferable.
• Pre Registration is the only way sponsors will be announced at the event, and ensure classes will be structured to not be back to back.
• Racer position for Moto 1 is based on random computer generation. Finish order for Moto 1 will be starting position for Moto 2
• Top 5 Racers must bring watercraft immediately to the designated tech inspection or risk being DQ’d. Racers are responsible for dissembling/reassembling any parts required
• All racers/holders must sign waivers during sign in. Participants must have PWC go through safety tech prior to racer’s meeting
• Racers are invited to bring family on to podium for awards, please dress appropriately due to photography.

Concession/Selling/Drones:
• Concession or selling of merchandise is not permitted on site.
• Commercial photography must be approved with signed release.
• Drones are not permitted.

Schedule:
Saturday reg/sign in 7:00-8:00
Sat/Sun:
Mandatory Racers meeting 8:00am
Course orientation : 8:30am
Racing Begins: approx. 10am

Hotel/Camping Info:
Local hotels are available, with many within 20 minutes.
There is CAMPING on site now. Flat fee of $100 per camper will be collected and paid directly to the town. This fee must be paid separately than race entries/merchandise/etc. Camping must be paid by cash as we can not accept digital payment for a separate entity. Camping is primitive, with no services provided, first come first serve. Camping is generally not permitted at this site per town rules, please be extremely respectful in order to protect this special exception we have been granted.
PARKING PASSES for all vehicles not camping will be $20 paid in cash at registration per city- please display the pass or risk getting ticketed by the city!!
Please see the attached list of local businesses who made this event possible. Please make every attempt to patronize them and also to thank them for making racing possible in Sylvan Beach!

Questions, please email us at [email protected]

Video: Join JetCast for the Reopening of Snapper Season in Australia

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Whether the year’s model reveals were spot-on, or more of a let-down for you, there is little denying that PWC fishing is becoming a more and more prominent subset of the PWC world.

With a plethora of accessories and additions available that have been created and marketed just for those on the hunt for the perfect catch, and more and more PWC mods – and models – geared specifically for fishing, the number of people combining PWC fun, and fishing, is growing.

Whether you are an avid fisherman, looking to delve into PWC ownership to expand your fishing opportunities, or you are a long-time PWC racer or rec rider, looking to add yet another avenue of enjoyment with you jet ski, PWC fishing may be just the adventure for you.

And while there are a plethora of inspiration- and instruction-based websites and youtube channels out there when it comes to this activity, there is little doubt that JetCast has a place in the upper echelon of that list.

In the latest video release on the JetCast YouTube Channel, Aussie JetFisher Paul Hayes, along with Mick Duncan and Mark Irwan-Pack, head out on the waters in Southeast Queensland for the reopening of the snapper season, and some offshore fishing action, showing off the capabilities of the Yamaha FXHO Waverunner (2023), and Sea-doo Fish Pro Sport (2021).

Check out all the action and fun on the well-shot and well-edited video, and while you’re there, be sure to check out the video from three months ago when the JetCast folks sneak a Spanish Mackerel past the increasing competition from sharks!

 

Celebrate Down-Under Dads’ Day With Deals on Jet Tech Jet Ski Bundles

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There are several groups of folks in this world worthy of celebration – and there’s a few of those groups worthy of doubling down on that celebration.

We at The Watercraft Journal think Fathers fit nicely in that second category – so when Jet Tech’s new sale came to our attention, we had zero issue with jumping on board and celebrating Fathers Day a second time this year.

While many of us are used to celebrating dads on June 16, the traditional U.S. Fathers Day, our Down Under counterparts in Australia have long celebrated Fathers Day on the first Sunday of September each year – September 1st this year.

And Jet Tech is one step ahead of the game with several Fathers Day Jet Ski Bundles on sale just in time for Sept. 1.

Bundle 1, normally priced at $170 USD and on sale for $122 USD, includes a Jet Tech Inshore Anchor Kit, Jet Tech PWC Fenders, Jet Tech Jet Ski Docking Lines and a Jet Tech Water Repellent Jet Ski Hat.

Bundle 2, normally priced at $155 USD and on sale for $91 USD, includes a pair of Jet Tech Hybrid Sunglasses & Goggles, a Jet Tech Water Repellent Jet Ski Hat, and a Jet Tech Hooded Poncho Towel.

Bundle 3, normally priced at $91 USD and on sale for $61 USD, includes a Jet Tech Grass Change Mat, a Jet Tech Hooded Poncho Towel and a Jet Tech Water Repellent Jet Ski Hat.

And if you’re feeling froggy, you can go with Bundle 4, the Mystery Pack – for merchandise with a value of $94 USD, on sale for $61 USD, and you can truly surprise the dad in your life!

IJSBA World Finals News Recap

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Photo courtesy ronnymac.com
Photo Courtesy RonnyMac.com

As we get ready to flip the calendar page and dive into September, it almost feels like we’re in World Finals Countdown as the IJSBA website begins to fill up with a steady stream of press releases about vendors, sponsors, exhibitors and, most recently, tentative race schedules.

Recapping all the news from the past six weeks:

On July 21, IJSBA announced a rule update and clarification for Stock Class Rules for four-stroke powered watercraft.
Rule: “RAS.7.2 The original electronic control unit may be reprogramed so long as it does not offer any additional inputs or outputs than the original unit, and it must connect with the original connections. No additional sensors may be added (e.g., exhaust gas temperature, detonation sensors, etc.). Engine temperature sensors may be disabled.”
Clarification: IJSBA’s position is that a microchip may be changed so long as it is a like for like microchip. A competitor may remove an ECU microchip and replace it with a microchip with different programming. The microchip must be the same as OEM and be placed into the OEM ECU. IJSBA makes no distinction if an ECU is reprogrammed by sending a code to the chip or replacing the chip with the same chip with different coding. (effective immediately)

On July 30, IJSBA made the official announcement of the inaugural Personal Watercraft Owners Convention at the 2024 Short Block Technologies WGP-1 World Finals. This annual convention serves to provide enthusiasts with an environment to meet and greet key industry figures, persons integral to the evolution of the watercraft, and some individuals who have helped shaped the culture of thes sport. Workshops and presentations will educate about and demystify PWC technology. This convention is free to attend and will take place during the Pro weekend of the World Finals: October 12 & 13. The first convention will have four discussion groups: General PWC, Vintage Ski, Vintage X2, Sea-Doo X4/XPL. Presentations are planned for the following subjects: how impellers work, ecu reprogramming, intake grate, footwear ergonomics, and history of Personal Watercraft. Speakers will include Glen Bothwell (former competition manager of IJSBA), Art Chambers (Sport Class World Champion, Sea-Doo Team Manager), Scott Frazier (IJSBA President), Bill Scott (Works H2O/Oakley), Kyle Kennedy (Worx Racing USA/DASA), and more.

On August 4, and updated on Aug. 7, IJSBA announced the tentative race schedule for the World Finals (The Watercraft Journal will detail the schedule once more finalized schedules are released)

On August 5, IJSBA announced that Greenhulk will be the title sponsor for the inaugural Personal Watercraft Owners Convention

On August 7, IJSBA released a finalized class list for the World Finals.

On August 12, IJSBA announced The Arizona PWC Enthusiasts club as the first PWC club to sign up as a participant in the Greenhulk.net PWC Owners Convention.

Also on August 12, IJSBA announced that, beginning August 15, 2024, they would be processing requests for invitation letters and other support documents for those travelers who need these types of resources to secure visas and other permissions to enter the United States for the 2024 Short Block Technologies WGP-1 World Finals. From August 15 through September 1, IJSBA will be able to provide a 48 hour response period. After September 1, a quick response time can no longer be guaranteed. Please submit any such requests as soon as possible by emailing [email protected].

On August, IJSBA announced RECOVER 180 As The Official Hydration Sponsor of the 2024 Short Block Technologies WGP-1 World Finals

And most recently, on August 22, IJSBA released a tentative daily schedule for the World Finals, as follows:

Sunday, October 6
Junior Program
Junior Slalom

Monday, October 7
Practice for all Monday/Tuesday classes
Classes Racing:
Novice Ski Stock
Novice Runabout Stock
Amateur Women Ski Lites
Master Ski GP
Amateur Runabout Rec Lites
Amateur Veterans Ski Lites
Amateur Ski Four Stroke Lites
Amateur Ski Modified 1100
Novice Runabout 1100 Stock

Tuesday, October 8
Last Chance Practice: Ski, Runabout, Sport
Amateur Ski Lites
Amateur Runabout1100 Stock
Sport Spec
Pro Am Veterans Runabout Limited
Masters Ski Modified 1500
Runabout Naturally Aspirated
Expert Ski Modified 1500
Amateur Veterans Ski Stock
Amateur Runabout 1100 Stock
Amateur Women Ski Stock

Wednesday, October 9
Pro Am Runabout Limited
Junior Ski 10-12 Four Stroke Lites
Junior Ski 13-15 Four Stroke Lites
Pro Am Ski Modified 1500
Amateur Runabout 1100 Limited
Expert Veterans Ski GP
Expert Runabout 1100 Stock
Expert Ski Modified 1100

Thursday, October 10
Pro Am Ski Lites
Expert Ski GP (Qualifying, Moto 1)
Pro Am Runabout Superstock
Masters Ski Stock
Junior Ski Modified 1100
Pro Am 1100 Stock
Expert Runabout 1100 Superstock

Friday, October 11
Amateur Freestyle
Pro Sport GP
Pro Am Ski Four Stroke Lites
Expert Ski GP (moto 2, 3)
Pro Am Ski Stock
Pro Am Runabout 1100 Open
Women’s Runabout 1100 Stock
Pro Am Runabout Limited
Junior Ski 13-15 Modified 1100
Slalom
Awards for all completed classes

Saturday, October 12
Runabout Endurance Moto 1
GP Ski Qualifying Moto 1, Moto 2
Pro Am Women’s Ski Modified
Pro Freestyle
Pro Am Runabout Stock
Vintage Ski
Junior Ski 10-12 Stock
Junior Ski 13-15 Stock
Runabout GP Qualifying/ Moto 1
Under Bridge Night Show
Slalom

Sunday, October 13
Endurance Runabout Moto 2
Grandmasters Ski Stock
Pro GP Ski Moto 3, Moto 4
Pro Runabout GP Moto 2, Moto 3
Pro Am Women’s Ski Stock
Pro Freestyle
Vintage X2
Junior Ski 10-13 Lites
Junior Ski 13-15 LitesA
Awards

(Note that this is a daily schedule, not the run order for each day)

Also, the following have been verified as vendors for the trade show portion of the 2024 Short Block Technologies WGP-1 World Finals:

Short Block Technologies
Blowsion Kustoms
Jettribe
Yamaha Waverunners
HydroTurf
VP Racing Fuels
Anderson Powersports
Works H2O Designs
Watercraft Superstore
RideNow Powersports
Sound Waves PWC Audio
Kawi Performance
Worx Racing
SOLAS
Bomber Eyewear
PJS
Jetstar
Lee Stone Revolver
High Speed Industries
Western Power Sports
FLY Racing
RonnyMacc Photography
Blacktip Motorsports
Tasco Gloves
Moto-Option
Recover 180
Adonis Impellers
IMS Shirt Werx
Fast Powersports
Arizona PWC Enthusiasts Club
Save Body Beach
Stubby’s Red Wagon BBQ
Mr. B Lemonade and Burgers
PZA Pizza
Marnies Nachos
Scoops Ice Cream
Freeze-dried Sweets
Cometic Gasket
Klotz Synthetic Lubricants
MotoOption/East Coast Watercross
Kawi Performance

Gallery: 2024 Pro Watercross Round 3 @ Lake Hartwell, GA

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This year’s Pro Watercross tour stop at Tugaloo State Park and Mega Ramp in Franklin County, Georgia, served as the final race for the 2024 season for Pro Watercross. 

A longtime favorite among racers and fans, the Lake Hartwell race has, for more than a decade, pinned the middle of the season for the PWX race tour; but this year, with only three races on the season schedule for PWX, and no championship event planned, the Georgia race was the final event for the Liqui MolyTriple Crown season. 

Neither the Championship race normally held at Lake Charles, LA, the newer race event at Lake Havasu City, nor the long-standing PWC annual World Championship race in Naples Florida made it onto the schedule for this year. 

Although we are still awaiting publication of official results for the race, The Watercraft Journal and Waters Edge Photography offer the following photo recap of the event. Contact [email protected] to purchase full-resolution, unwatermarked files. 

Understanding the Recent Updates to Life Jacket Labels: What You Need to Know

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Perhaps the most important gear one can have when enjoying a day out on their watercraft is a quality life jacket. Whether you’re a casual user who takes your jet ski out from time to time, or a competition professional seeking to squeeze the maximum possible velocity out of your racing rig, a life jacket is an undisputed necessity when on the water for everyone. However, the eagle-eyed among us may have noticed that these watercraft staples have received a small but important update in recent years.

The update comes in the form of a label redesign, which seeks to make the information on the life jacket more easily legible and universally understood. Replacing the old life jacket tag design, which was written in paragraph form in small text, the new Coast Guard-approved tags lean more heavily on symbols and illustrations, with a few basic words, allowing international audiences to better understand. The tag design also minimizes consumer strain, as the most important information is printed in large format, allowing consumers to quickly find the jacket that most adequately suits their needs.

Perhaps the most important update is the prominent display of the jacket’s buoyancy, shown as 50, 70, 100, or 150. The majority of current jackets available in the U.S. have a buoyancy of 70, which is the lowest buoyancy approved by the U.S. Coast Guard. Another prominent symbol featured is a circular arrow, which signals whether or not the jacket can properly turn an unconscious person face up—an important feature, especially for those participating in higher-risk water activities. Lastly, the new design features a list of water sports for which the life jacket is not suitable, an imperative thing to know for those seeking to use these jackets for watersports and high-speed boating.

Check out the full breakdown in this article from the BoatUS Foundation to make sure you’re fully up to date on what these new updates mean for you!

Order Now To Take Advantage of RIVA Racing Labor Day Sale With Free Shipping

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With Labor Day just around the corner, the good people at RIVA Racing are running another promotion to ensure you can get your hands on some of their top-quality products in time to make the most of the holiday weekend. This time around, they’re offering free shipping on ANY order over $150 within the continental United States. That includes their wide array of products, from apparel to performance kits, any of which are sure to crank up the fun on your Labor Day weekend!

One product that’s sure to enhance your Labor Day festivities is one of RIVA’s many towable offerings, which range from tow ropes and single-seat tubes, all the way up to the mega “Jumbo Dog” towable that can fit five riders and will surely help you stand out on the lake! If you need even more capacity, check out their eight-passenger “banana” towable for full family lake-day fun.

On the functional side, they offer a number of bags, coolers, and apparel items to keep you cool and comfortable, your cup holders filled, and to ease the hassle of bringing everything out to the lake.

And of course, for those who really want to take their PWC experience up a notch, there’s RIVA’s extensive line of performance kits, all of which are proven to provide significant boosts to your watercraft’s speed and acceleration, upping the adrenaline for all involved in your holiday fun.

Check out the RIVA Racing website now to take advantage of this deal and get your hands on some high-quality RIVA Racing products!

Gallery: Introducing the 2025 Sea-Doo Lineup (Videos)

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May it never be said that Sea-Doo fails to keep us guessing. Shortly after Yamaha Motor Corp. USA unveiled a surprisingly bold push into the Rec Lite segment with its polypropylene-decked “Jet Blaster” series, Sea-Doo pulls back the curtain on its 2025 model line intimating an entirely different direction; albeit a very familiar one for Sea-Doo when observed with a bit of corporate-level perspective.

The big reveals for BRP’s Sea-Doo lineup were a re-dedication to sport fishing, both in the way of a newly re-themed Switch tritoon wholly outfitted for all-day fishing excursions and a tippy-top-of-the-line Sea-Doo Fish Pro Apex. Yes, there’s now a fishing Sea-Doo even more equipped than the Trophy…if you even thought that was possible.

Not far behind is a much appreciated “plussing” of Sea-Doo’s most luxurious runabout, the GTX Limited. Now equipped with both the wild 325-horsepower 1630 ACE introduced last year exclusively to the X-models as well as the hydraulically-damped steering system and a gorgeous 10.25-inch wide LCD touchscreen dashboard.

Apart from the above, Sea-Doo kept the remainder of the 2025 lineup surprisingly mild – so mild that this year’s “premier color” for several of the models is beige. While that might not sounds terribly exciting, they say taupe is very soothing. All kidding aside, for the X-models it’s a deep cut throwback to the 2005 RXT and RXP 215.

Pumping in some excitement into the Switch line is the new Switch Fish variants. Available as either a 170-horsepower or 230-horsepower 18- or 21-footer, the Fish models (starting at $44,299 MSRP) come fitted all the way up to the Bimini top with enough features to fill a Bass Pro Shop:

Two Garmin 9-inch Fish Finders (one at the cockpit and the other mounted to the bow); a bow-mounted Garmin Kraken trolling motor, two swiveling pedestal seats, a Linq-attached 68-liter cooler that doubles as a live well with its integrated wash-down hose, and a quick-access rod storage holder with four spots.

Of course, like all other Switch models, you can custom configure your Switch Fish to accommodate just yourself or the whole family with a variety of optional seating, tables, storage cubbies and more. Sea-Doo’s Parts & Accessories Department has more quick-attaching features and furniture than you can possibly imagine.

Now, if you’re still trying to keep your fishing addiction down to somewhat reasonable level, maybe Sea-Doo’s newest entry to its fishing lineup, the Fish Pro Apex will satiate your thirst ($24,499 MSRP). The Apex takes everything that the Trophy’s got and nearly everything from the Explorer Pro and tosses in the RXP-X’s hydraulically-assisted steering aaand the 300-horsepower 1630 ACE engine. ‘Cause y’know, fishing…

Yes, you’re getting the standard Fish Pro’s gunwale foot wedges, the extra-bolstered bench seat, the 9-inch Garmin Fish Finder and chart-plotter. You’re also getting the Trophy’s collapsible swiveling pedestal-mounted seat, massive live well LinQ cooler with its innovative electric pump, side-mounted anchor and full color 7.8-inch display.

But you’re also getting the Explorer Pro’s hard-mounted bow railing, collapsible windscreen, center storage organizer, BRP’s Premium Audio system, iDF (intelligent debris-free system), and extending steering column. And as mentioned, the Apex is the only Fish Pro equipped with a supercharged 3-cylinder four-stroke pumping out 300-ponies.

Fans of the Explorer Pro will be grateful to know that it enters into 2025 completely unchanged; well, only the prices of the Explorer Pro 170 ($19,399) and 230 ($20,399) have changed. Equally, the remainder of the Fish Pro lineup stay as-is from last year with the Scout ($15,299), the Sport ($17,599) and the Trophy ($20,699).

For Sea-Doo’s more active enthusiasts, the Wake Pro 230 ($18,599) and Wake 170 ($14,299) introduces the new Sand and Dazzling Blue colorway, also found on the 2025 Spark Trixx models. Whether you’re looking at a single-seater Trixx ($9,199) or a 3-seater Trixx ($9,799), you can opt for Sand & Dazzling Blue or last year’s Dragon Red & White.

For those looking for a standard Spark, the 2-up model ($6,999) or the 3-up unit ($8,299) are both available in Vapor Blue & Dazzling Blue or Sunrise Orange & Dragon Red. Unlike the GTI 130 ($11,699) which carries over last year’s livery, the two variants of the GTI SE – be it the 130 ($12,499) or the 170 ($13,099) – share the same fetching Midnight Purple hue.

As teased earlier, Sea-Doo severely toned down the look of the RXP-X 325 ($19,499) and RXT-X 325 ($20,599) by reaching deep into its history and pulling out a 20-year-old Metallic Tan & Lava Red premium coloration very reminiscent of the 2005 RXP and RXT 215. Although the RXP-X 325 goes unaltered, the RXT-X 325 gets the long overdue hydraulic-damped steering system.

The savvy observer will note that the premier ST3-based Sea-Doos (the RXT-X 325, GTX Limited 325, Fish Pro Apex 300 and Explorer Pro 230) all received this assisted steering device. This indicates Sea-Doo’s acknowledgement of the ungainly characteristics of this hull and the damper’s ability to soften its tendency to wander in chop.

Performance division siblings, the GTR 230 ($14,299) and absolutely riotous GTR-X 300 ($17,299) enter the new model year unchanged, equal to the standard GTX models: the GTX 170 ($15,399), GTX 230 ($16,399) and GTX 300 ($18,099) all share the same Gulfstream Blue & Blue Abyss livery, making them nearly indistinguishable save for the horsepower call-outs on the top deck.

Lastly and certainly not the least of the Sea-Doo lineup is the newly re-equipped GTX Limited 325 ($21,999). Slathered in either Teal Metallic or last year’s premium White Pearl colorings, the GTX Limited receives all-new LinQ drop-in cleats (also equipped on the Fish Pro Apex), the blisteringly-fast 325-horsepower 1630 ACE and an all new dashboard.

The giant 10.25-inch touchscreen display offers a GPS-directed compass, driving data, marine navigation (when paired with the BRP GO! app) and a bunch more. Equally, the Limited includes BRP’s 100W waterproof, Bluetooth-integrated Premium Audio system. It’s also the only 325-horsepower Sea-Doo equipped with iDF.

With a renewed focus on sport fishing, luxury and the higher-end buyer, it’s pretty obvious to see that Sea-Doo is edging its full-sized runabouts towards an exclusive clientele. It’s a bold strategy for sure, so it’ll be interesting to see pays off for them considering the fiscal bifurcation in the marketplace currently.

Powersports sales have taken a considerable hit in the past 18-to-24 months and we’re seeing new buying behaviors from some pretty distinct groups. The Explorer Pro proved as much a winner as the Fish Pro and its many variants, and it seems top tier buyers are clamoring for as many features and accessories as Sea-Doo can dish out.