OK, so it’s time we started taking the Flyboard a little more seriously. The fanbase for this new sport – because it’s far surpassed that of being a toy or a hobby – has swelled to new proportions. Magazines, international championships and even competitive tours have all joined to make Franky Zapata’s creation a worldwide phenomenon. We should’ve listened when Jerry Gaddis of Greenhulk.net and PWCPerformance.com fame started selling dual props to these guys in bulk…
Now the wakeboard and accessory manufacturers are in on the flyboard as well. Recently Hyperlite System announced their top tier bindings and boots for the Flyboard. A huge name in wakesports, Hyperlite has established themselves as a major player in building strong, durable and comfortable boots, bindings and boards for wakeboarding.
Now, banking off of the similarities between the Flyboard and wakeboards, Hyperlite’s bindings and boots mount directly to the stock Flyboard, allowing the rider to adjust for a personal fit. Equipped with a very handy quick fasten and release system, the Hyperlite upgrades not only add better comfort and use, but safety as well.
The instructional video below overviews how the new bindings and boots work with the stock Flyboard, as well as some great Flyboard action that’ll make you want to give it a try.
Well, the mad scientists at Krash Industries are at it again. With the introduction of their all-new purpose-built Predator hull, the surf-charging design is nimble and agile in the waves (measuring at 200cm in length 72cm wide and 55cm tall).
Unique to the new Krash ski is a tail plate system that allows the rider to change and “tune” the hull for different surf conditions, also permitting for the addition of a second plate for larger conditions, making for slower rotations or faster surf riding.
Additionally, the new Predator includes adjustable lifters, sponsons, dual cooling, scupper, pump shoe, and will accept either a Kawasaki or Yamaha running gear, with a pole bracket for easier assembly. To stir up the hype, the Krash Army of riders stormed the first round of the IFWA at Portsea, Australia.
A small clip of the Predator Photo shoot we did in January and a big congratulations to the Krash Army riders after the 1st round of the IFWA at Portsea Australia. Below is a quick sneak peek at the exclusive Predator photoshoot:
Yamaha’s FX HO Cruiser shines like a beacon in Pure White. The deep creases and sharp lines are handsome and gives a very mature look to the three-seater.
If there is one thing we’ve seen the Yamaha Motor Company excel at over the other OE manufacturers is offering a runabout that is neither bare of amenities or swimming in top-of-the-line features. In recent years, Yamaha’s FX HO and FX HO Cruiser models have struck a chord with older buyers looking for a machine that is both mature in design and execution, all the while delivering big on three key attributes: fuel economy, smart storage and ride comfort.
A couple months ago, we had the opportunity to review Yamaha’s outgoing 2013 Yamaha FX HO and found it to be an apt solution to the consumer looking for a fun, spirited ride that wouldn’t drain the wallet. Yesterday, we boarded Yamaha’s 2014 entry in the next class up, the Cruiser.
The 2014 FX HO Cruiser retains its fuel-mileage friendly naturally aspirated 1,812cc four-cylinder four-stroke pushing its thrust through a slightly smaller 155mm than the SVHO’s race-ready 160mm pump, producing approximately 180-horsepower.
From behind, the FX HO Cruiser’s attributes really become apparent, like the large swimstep, tiered “stadium-style” seating and wide footwells.Without the aid of the higher-octane SVHO model’s centrifugal supercharger, the HO’s oomph is not found off the line, but throughout the mid-range, delivering a smooth but noticeable surge of bottom-end torque.
But do not be dissuaded, the HO Cruiser is no wilting flower. We had plenty of fun careening through the ins and outs of Kentucky Lake, the Cruiser’s big displacement plant sprinting through the serpentines without breathing heavy. Reaching a healthy 62mph top speed bests many naturally-aspirated models, particularly with a full tank (18.5 gallons) and a 220-pound rider.
The brand’s handlebar-mounted Cruise Assist and No Wake Mode are marked by large, easily accessed buttons that provide a gratefully audible acknowledgement when activated. Setting your speed is easily done with a second confirming press of the button and readily adjustable via the up/down toggles. We were a little dismayed that the Cruise Assist capped at 45mph, but shrugged it off as more evidence of Yamaha’s commitment to safe, enjoyable riding.
Many features, such as Yamaha’s high visibility rooster tail and right-hand reverse lever are more identifiers of Yamaha’s strides towards increased rider safety. The new reverse lever is a mechanical affair with a scrolling gear indicator in the grip itself announcing when the ski is engaged in “Neutral.” Other touches – such as Yamaha’s retractable Pull Up Cleats and twin watertight storage compartments are as underrated as they are understated.
On the water, the FX HO Cuiser’s hull shows itself as one of the sport’s most diverse designs, as in its present form is smooth, comfortable and responsive, while racers have used the same design to reach tremendous speeds and perform daring acts of athleticism in a variety of water conditions.Although the the FX HO Cruiser is one of the driest rides we’ve enjoyed, its front storage is cavernous but not watertight, so a drybag is recommended for items that you want to keep dry.
With over 33 gallons of available storage, we discovered the specificity of Yamaha’s design: cell phones, wallets and keys fit snugly in the in-dash screw-top (and padded) bin, while gloves, drinks, sunscreen and GPS would fit in the glove box. Larger items like backpacks, dry bags and flipflops are best suited for the ample bow stowage as towels or a change of clothes belong in the other screw-top underseat container. Lastly, tow ropes, swim fins or goggles slide in place in the rearward deck bin.
For 2014, Yamaha really stepped up the classiness of the FX line with attractive two-tone traction mats and improving upon their already iconic tiered Cruiser seat. Standing at 6’2″, we found the forward-most seat bolster a little too close to the steering than we’re used to, but thoroughly enjoyed the cushy padding and lower back support.
We have to applaud Yamaha for what we consider possibly the most comfortable handgrip found on a production PWC today. The pistol-grip style contour of the grip and oblong shape fit naturally in the palm of your hand. It, like so many other features, are something you’d normally overlook unless we mentioned it, and we think you’ll agree too.
It’s unusual for us to heap so much praise on such a minor detail, but Yamaha has managed to execute what we feel to be some of the most comfortable hand grips available on a production vehicle.Small touches like the two-toned coffee-and-charcoal traction mats or the supple three-step Cruiser seating provide small touches of luxury.
Aesthetically, the new FX HO Cruiser is strikingly handsome, angular and adult in its overall look. We have an unusual fondness for the Pure White paint but be warned, you’re going to want to wear sunglasses. Even on an overcast day, this ski reflects light with unmatched brilliance – so much so we wondered if was actually a safety feature!
The FX HO dashboard is spartan, with a single analog gauge that trades between RPM and MPH upon demand. Flanked by a single LCD screen, the available information includes fuel levels, speed and little else. If water temps, a depth gauge or compass heading are important to you, you’ll have to go elsewhere.
One major trait that we were very satisfied with was the Yamaha’s solidity. From the sturdy-feeling adjustable steering to the secured locking of each storage compartment, the FX HO feels stout without being cumbersome. At 825-pounds (dry weight), the Yamaha remains lightweight due in large part to its proprietary NanoXcel hull and deck material.
Besides the large boarding platform, Yamaha’s commitment to excellence is found in unnoticeable details like the flattened swimstep that retracts flush with the bond rail or the snap-shut rear deck storage that stows ropes and diving gear.
At speed – be it seated or standing – the Yamaha greedily sluiced through windblown chop with nary a rattle or chatter, it’s big plant thrumming beneath the seat. In fact, we paid close attention to the engine sound while riding. Without the staccato whine of a supercharger, the natural baritone of the 1.8-liter was a refreshing change of tune.
Priced at $13,399, the full-sized three-seater is no entry-level machine. But with gas prices where they are, the 110-plus-miles on a single tank of fuel that the HO Cruiser offers will quickly recoup the initial asking price. All in all, we find the FX HO Cruiser as a great solution for riders who are looking for the ideal balance of limited luxury, comfort, efficiency and fun.
Good news is always welcome, and recently Powersports Business had plenty of good news to report. According to the latest figures released from Info-Link Technologies, personal watercraft have continued their year-over-year sales gains. January’s gain of just over 10 percent bests December’s sales gains, which is a good sign.
According to the report, PWC sales reached peak in September 2013 after a pretty ugly plunge into “negative territory” during the first half of 2013. Since that time, sales have continued on an upward trend since July of 2013.
Undoubtedly, an influx of exciting new products ranging from the budget-friendly, entry-level Sea-Doo Spark which has been the talk of the town, to a virtual tidal wave of top performance machines like Yamaha’s stellar SVHO-powered FZ- and FX-series runabouts and Kawasaki’s Godzilla-horsepower 310-edition Ultras, have lured in new and return buyers to dealerships.
Likewise, Yamaha’s pre-owned certified program – a first of its kind for the personal watercraft industry – has been met with some success, helping equip new buyers with previously owned, studiously-reviewed and certified WaveRunners.
We also accredit a small percentage to “hibernating buyers,” or buyers who have held off purchasing a significant purchase – such as a full-sized personal watercraft – throughout the leaner years during a down economy and have finally decided to make a purchase as consumer confidence has continued to edge upward.
Of course, we’re not out of the down economy woods yet, but enthusiastic buyers have been met with dealers enthusiastic to meet budgetary needs and financing goals to help move new and pre-owned units and that helps.
Not only did last week’s Grand Prix of Qatar kick off the beginning of the globetrotting Aquabike World Championship, but the contest was rife with highs and lows, disappointments and elation. When the water finally settled, it was France’s Cyrille Lemoine, Jeremy Poret and Jennifer Menard who executed an unheard of sweep of their respective classes.
France’s Cyrille Lemoine’s win in Runabout GP1 was as hard-earned as any title as Lemoine outpaced and outlasted motos filled with crashes, disqualifications and mechanical breakdowns.
Although Lemoine came home with the GP1 Runabout title, it wasn’t given away. Qatar’s Doha Bay was abuzz with expectation for Runabout’s defending World Champion Yousef Al Abdulrazzaq.
But it was all for naught as Al Abdulrazzaq was immediately black-flagged after racing the wrong way around the course – this being his second year making the same dangerous error. “I cannot believe it has happened again,” he grieved. “There was a miscommunication between me and officials and I misunderstood what they said. It happens.” (No, no it doesn’t. – Ed.)
The heat went to Qatar’s Al Haidus with Lemoine in second after Mattia Fracasso’s ignition key slipped out.
The next day, Al Abdulrazzaq comically bad luck continued as he scrabbled from last place to second until he was ejected from his ski in a collision with Teddy Pons. Reboarding, Al Abdulrazzaq fought to reel in Waleed Al Sharshani in third until engine problems dropped him from contention.
Pictured above is the fateful inside pass by Poret over Macc during the first day’s hotly contended moto.
Fracasso came back swinging until scattering his engine, handing the race over to Pons and Lemoine. Lemoine came in just 10ths of a second behind Teddy Pons, which gave Lemoine enough points to earn the French rider his third Grand Prix win in Qatar in four years.
Sadly, this was the culprit that downed Chris MacClugage’s stellar lead over the pack and dropped the American from potentially taking back the weekend.
A surge of anticipatory enthusiasm electrified the crowd as the Ski GP1 took to the water. Boiling down to a face-to-face showdown between France’s two-time World Champion Poret and America’s 18-time IJSBA World Champion Chris MacClugage. Macc led the 18-ski pack the first moto of Day 1 with a 3-second gap over Poret.
Undaunted, Poret reeled in the leader and pulled an inside pass on lap 3. Although a tight race until the end, Poret came out the victor. “I couldn’t have hoped for better,” said Poret. “For me it was almost a perfect race, I know I can make a better start but was very happy with the over take to get the lead.”
The second day saw even more drama as MacClugage was within one lap of winning when a snapped sparkplug dropped him from the running. Until then, Macc had a considerable lead on the pack and many thought this would hand the weekend’s title to the American. The fateful breakdown gifted Poret with the win, who admitted, “It was very bad luck for Mac. I didn’t want that for him but it is a mechanical sport as well,” said Poret.
And as outlined in the official Aquabike report, “Rok Florjancic remains unbeaten in his nine Grand Prix outings and the man to beat in Freestyle, producing another near-perfect performance to score 98 points out of 100 to secure his third Qatar GP title, ahead of brother Nac and Qatar’s Sultan Al Kuwari.”
Rok Florjancic continues unchallenged for his ninth championship, even over his own brother Nac.
There was a whole lot of thought poured into the Spark prior to its release, but one avenue many people didn’t factor in was Sea-Doo‘s grip on the available accessories for the new entry-level runabout. Upon its release, the $4,999 craft came available with pages’ worth of available accessories, amenities and add-ons.
Initial hype quickly lead to demand, which drew the attention of the aftermarket. In a recent interview with Powersports Business, Hydro-Turf owner Arno Olbricht shared how trying to get his hands on a new Spark proved more difficult than expected:
“'[My local dealer] did have one, but it was pre-sold by the time I reached him, so he contacted the customer and asked if it would be OK if we used the ski to make the pattern and actually put mats and a new seat cover on it for him. …the customer was stoked that he got new product on there, the first of its kind.’”
“’We tried a couple of different colors of pads as well. It all came together pretty quickly,” he said. “We made the patterns for the pads, had the tooling made. We put on one set of pads and realized they didn’t work as well as we wanted, so we quickly replaced them and made another set and put those on.’”
“’I think only one of the three models has any traction mats on it, so we’re able to provide something that’s not factory,” Olbricht said. “And they don’t have anything where the knees go, so we add a knee pad as well. And the seat covers certainly enhance the look as well.’”
As Olbricht relayed in the interview, Hydro-Turf now produces traction kits for both the 2-up and 3-up versions of the Spark as well as knee pad covers and new stylized seat covers. Hydro-Turf’s experience with producing traction materials for PWC, boats, paddleboards, and even motorcycle riders earned them rousing sales for 2013 over the previous year. With their products found on two of three OE manufacturers and kits for every PWC imaginable, 2014 is looking pretty good for the Anaheim, California-based company too.
“Dangerous Waters” creator and host, Steven Moll was a guest judge who hardly contained his stoke while riding the 310-horsepower Kawasakis.
The idea was simple enough: create a panel of enthusiasts made up of celebrities and industry professionals with differing levels of experience. The goal being to create the most unbiased panel to evaluate the six top PWCs; with two models from each manufacturer.
Titled the Skyway Ski Show, 2014 marked its third year. Launched and hosted by Watercraft Superstore and SBT, Greg Pickering and Jon Salvatore and their awesome staff put together a great event. The third annual Skyway Show welcomed all three PWC manufacturers.
Each brand representative were given time to walk through their two models for display to a panel of judges. This year though, the judges were asked to not compare one machine against another – either based on class or MSRP – but rather to put themselves in the shoes of the individual consumer considering purchasing each ski and weigh it on its individual merits. Personally, I love this new platform as it lends more detail to each watercraft and what each brings to the table verses just simply comparing one to another.
The collection of skis on hand for evaluation were impressive: Kawasaki’s Ultra 310LX and 310R, Yamaha’s two SVHO-powered FX and FZS, and Sea-Doo’s RXP-X 260 and GTX Limited iS 260.
Although I was a judge two years ago, I was invited to represent the Jetski Junkies and ride herd, corralling the less experienced riders on the hour long demo ride. The panel of judges for this year included Steven Moll, creator and expedition leader of the TV series, Dangerous Waters on MavTV; Keith Thurman, a local Floridian and ninth highest ranked welterweight boxer in the world; award winning watercraft and watersports journalist Jeff Hemmel; and another Florida native, the very beautiful Shawn Dillon, Playboy Magazine‘s Miss February 2013!
SBT and The Watercraft Superstore brought together a panel of judges with various degrees of riding experience to help provide an objective level of rating.
Up for evaluation were six watercraft: Kawasaki‘s Ultra 310LX and 310R, Yamaha WaveRunner‘s FX SVHO and FZS SVHO and lastly Sea-Doo‘s RXP-X 260 and GTX Limited iS (although a pair of Sparks did manage to find their way into the crowd somehow). Each judge was given a survey to fill out, make notes and statements over the course of the day.
The judges first spent 30 minutes going over each ski with the manufacturers representative to learn all the in’s and out’s of each unit. They were encouraged to sit on it, open and play with all the compartments, buttons, and features while being given full access to the rep to better understand the functionality of each component and the ideology behind it. This is something no consumer can get at any demo or sales floor.
After the manufacturer rep experience, the group of judges were split into two groups of three. Each group would remain on the selected watercraft for the entire morning. One group stayed close to shore and familiarized themselves on the watercraft for on-water action photoshoot while the other group sought out on an hour long, 40-mile tour.
During this time, the judges switched up skis, allowing equal time and experience on each unit for both playing and touring. After the first hour was up, the two groups switched again, allowing everyone a chance in front of the camera was well as out in the open water.
Although judges were encouraged to evaluate each unit on its individual merits, all three brands provided its top-of-the-line luxury model and their race-ready performer.As is tradition for SBT, a former Playboy calendar bunny (yes, they’re still called “bunnies”) was chosen to model the new units as well as pose for the annual catalog cover.
After lunch, the judges were given plenty of free time to ride the skis while interviews and the Playboy watercraft photoshoot took place. Again, the judges switch machines and the process was repeated, with all the fun wrapping up by 4pm.
Steven Moll hardly contained his excitement, “What a great day. I rode seven different watercraft!” After addressing the judges and SBT staff before the judging commenced, Moll said, “What an honor. I absolutely love working with these folks!”
I have to say, this was a very well laid out experience and allowing the judges to actually ride the skis beyond just playing around close to shore gives everyone a true experience allowing them to better judge each watercraft. As I sat there, I couldn’t help but see a community of industry professionals coming together for the common good of the sport.
It’s hard to imagine a better location than just off of St. Petersburg Skyway Bridge. Although temps were still a little cool and the skies overcast, everyone had a fantastic time.Every judge was allowed 30 minutes with each rep to review all of the finer details of each unit.
Many thanks to Jon Salvatore and the awesome staff Watercraft Superstore; all the judges; Jon Rall and Minoru Kanamori from Kawasaki Motors USA, Tim McKercher from Sea-Doo and Jay from Yamaha WaveRunners; and Noel, Marty and Dan from Cycle Springs Powersports for supplying and bringing the Yamaha and Kawasaki skis.
We look forward to the results to be published in the yearly Watercraft Superstore giant-sized catalog (what they call a “magalog”). If you are not registered for the catalog, then please go to this link and register.
Original content and photography provided by Kev Hemingway of Jetski Junkies.
“Marriage is a sacred institution…” is what most people say. Then, they dress up in Star Trek outfits and exchange vows in Klingon. It’s hard to call anything “sacred” these days when it includes wearing elf ears and hobbit feet. And although its anyone’s prerogative to celebrate their special day of matrimony how they wish, sometimes you just have to swallow your opinion and wish the couple the best.
Recently a video popped up of one such unique wedding that would normally have looked nearly paradisaical – the sand was warm, the waters turquoise, the skies clear. It was the ideal beachside wedding that many of us dream about right? But there was one thing missing: The wedding party was there, but where was the bride? Suddenly, as a single voice off-camera cries, “There she is!” the DJ queue’s up Survivor’s “Eye of The Tiger.”
Yup, there came the bride to the rousing montage theme from “Rocky III” aboard the back of a six-year-old Sea-Doo GTX. With a little bit of help from bridesmaids, bestmen, and presumably the father of the bride, she makes it to terra firma to proceed down the aisle…to the “Top Gun” movie theme.
The bride, Bree Haigh commented, “This was the best day of my life! The entrance definitely had all the guests talking! Thanks for catching the video Miss Eve! It was so much fun planning a wedding!!!! I am normally helping ladies plan the Hens Parties in Cairns with my businesses FN Hot Shirtless Waiters and Vixen Parties Adult Toy Parties and Hens Party Products!”
Ugh fine. It’s Friday and kind of a slow news day. Enjoy the madness here:
Region 8 Northeast Watercraft Alliance action is heating up! In the cold winter’s slumber of ice covered lakes and waterways, noting much is moving except for feverish paced racers and mechanics in the garages and marina machine shops. The wrenches are turning on repairs, modifications and new boat builds. The air heavy with the smell of lubricants, oil and gas. But most importantly the deafening sound of jovial smack talking between racers about the upcoming season is generating steam for 2014!
The tentative R8 race schedule as posted on the NEWA website follows a similar format to last season with the addition and changes in a few venues. Online pre-registration is through www.newa.us and requires all racers to be valid card holding members of the IJSBA for the series.
May 17, 2014 BITE Pro/Am White Water Vertical Shoot-Out
Sacandaga River Route 30, Benson Bridge Benson, NY 12134
518.631.6377
May 31-June 1, 2014 The Beach Brawl
Holland Beach,
Winchester, CT 06098
July 12-13, 2014 Clash for Mass
Matt Reilly’s Pub
750 South Main Street
Lanesborough, MA 01237
413.447.9780
August 23-24, 2014 Region 8 Rager
Clute Memorial Park
155 S. Clute Park Drive Watkins Glen, NY 14891
607.535.4438
Please watch for a surprise JetFest announcement. The June dates will be released soon along with information about the WetWerX, SBT sponsored raffle item which will be raffled of in order to generate a monetary donation to Morgan Baker. For those who are unaware, Morgan suffered a severe brain injury just over a year ago – her friends & family are avid pro pwc enthusiasts .. “JetFest, is a good time for a great cause” !
The “Bite Pro/Am Components Whitewater Vertical Shootout” May 3rd is officially an NEWA bonus points round toward overall tour points. This first of its kind race represents the NEWA’s vision for the evolution of regional pwc events.
The “WetWerX Region Eight Racing Tour” is branching out to new geographical regions in order to provide racers with the best possible venues in the Northeast.
With help from CT Watercraft, closed course racing will return to Connecticut at the opening tour stop. Rounds one & two of the tour, May 31 & June 1, “The Beach Brawl” hosted at Holland Beach, Winchester, CT., will kick off the tour at a stellar venue in a town extremely excited to host closed course racing.
Rounds three & four, “The Clash for Mass”, July 12 & 13, will be hosted on the beach of Matt Reilly’s Pub where racers will be treated to pub drink specials & will be the focal point of the entire town of Lanesborough, MA. Maritime & pedestrian spectators alike are expected to flood the area in anticipation of their first exposure to live closed course racing.
“The Glen” will again play host to the championship tour stop – rounds five & six, ” The Region 8 Rager ” August 23 & 24 at Clute Memorial Park in Watkins Glen, NY. The red carpet is rolled out by this amazing community which is synonyms with racing – Clute Park & Watkins Glen have opened their arms & gone out of their way in order to ensure retention of the NEWA’s final tour stop.
2014 is shaping up to be an amazing year for the NEWA & it’s supporters. Please make sure to visit www.newa.us in order to stay connected with the latest breaking regional news & event information.
UPDATE:
Unfortunately do to some environmental concerns and political red-tape were able to obtain the required permitting from NYS to host the rapids race in Rochester. However, Bite Pro/Am is switching it up to another location with an added feature of a closed circuit of a downstream off-shoot path called “Riders Choice” on the Great Sacandaga River.
NEW LOCATION AND DATE:
Saturday, May 3rd on the upper Sacandaga River in Benson, NY. Those who have ridden this section of whitewater will attest, it’s a great run!
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As the new year rolls around, so do the event announcements! Here’s the latest from Region 8, The Bite Pro/Am Components Whitewater Vertical Shootout. The one day event will be held on Saturday, May 17, 2014, and is something that should not be missed as it’s the first of it’s kind: an IJSBA sanctioned whitewater rapids race.
Sounds crazy, right? Well, there will be more details to come, but here is a quick lowdown:
Presented by BITE Pro/Am Components, Hot Products, Hydro-Turf, WSM, Rad Dudes, Impros, NEWA Racing, WetWerx, CT Watercraft, ESI Powersports, NYNJA and Rony Rawk Racing, the Whitewater Vertical Shootout is IJSBA and NEWA sanctioned and will be a NEWA bonus round. Final standing points, based upon your timed run will count towards overall Region 8 jet ski tour points for the 2014 closed-course race season.
The race will be executed on a controlled environment man-made facility located at Genesee Waterways Center. It is a facility designed for entry level whitewater kayak training and practice. The waterway source of water is constant and consistent. Therefore, no concerns of flow, or lack there of.
The waterway consists of multiple staged drops, 20-foot total elevation and is 600 feet long. We will post the flow rate, depths and overall course required gate placement when 100-percent sure the figures are accurate. Although the concept sounds intimidating, this particular waterway is honestly not as violent as you may imagine. Those who have ridden rapids before will find the descent entertaining rather than dangerously exciting. The drop off sections are no higher than two feet.
Racers will compete for the best descent time in their respective classes. Every racer in each class will get three runs down – your best time is your score. Classes are as follows: Pro/Am, Ski Stock Spec, Ski Open, Sport Spec, Sport Open, X2 800 Spec, X2 Open and Runabout Open (runabout class will be limited to 1200cc two person capacity 2-strokes and Sea-Doo Sparks).
“Descend & Ascend: Run What Ya Brung” Master-class will be open to any of the aforementioned eligible skis. Those who dare will get three runs up and down the waterway. Best time is your score.
The awards ceremony will be held at the host hotel in a banquet room the same evening of the races. Top three racers in each class will receive trophies. All entrants will receive participation decals and a “swag bag” of promotional goodies from our sponsors. Registration is on-site the day-of only, but please feel free to post on forums, message boards, Facebook, Twitter, or elsewhere to spread the word that you are attending this groundbreaking event.
The original press release:
Presented by: Hot Products Hydro-Turf WSM Rad Dudes Impros NEWA Racing WetWerx CT Watercraft ESI Powersports NYNJA Rony Rawk Racing Monster Energy Drink
Although the concept sounds intimidating, this particular waterway is honestly not as violent as you may imagine. Those who have ridden rapids before will find the decent entertaining rather than dangerously exciting. The drop off sections are no higher than a foot.
Racers will compete for the best decent time in their respective classes. Every racer in each class will get three runs down – your best time is your score. Class structures are as follows;
Pro/Am Ski Limited Spec Sport Spec X2 800 Spec Runabout Open
An awards ceremony will be held at a local restaurant the same evening of the races – top three racers in each class will receive trophies.
Set your GPS to address ” 4272 Rte 30 Benson, NY. 12134 ” , you will have been driving northbound – continue driving northbound 1,000 yards .. you will then see orange road construction barrels which will be place on the left hand side of Rte 30 – turn left at the barrels onto the riverbank access road.
Any questions, please post them here. Many event coordinators will be at the site Friday and hope to have a welcome race community camp fire social that evening.
Special thanks to Scott Frazier from the IJSBA for his unwavering support !
