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Evolution Powersports Reveals 165-Horsepower Turbo Kit for ALL Sea-Doo Sparks

By
Kevin Shaw
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While so many of us have been waiting for BRP to pull the trigger on a performance-bred Spark, the mad scientists at Evolution Powersports just unleashed the beast in the form of a 165-horsepower turbocharger kit for all 60 and 90-horsepower Sea-Doo Sparks. Sharing the same hull as the first Spark launched in 2014, the Evolution Powersports kit fits snuggly in both generations of Sea-Doo’s Rec Lite watercraft.

The EVP 165HP Turbo Kit was first introduced in a Facebook post stating:

Summer time is around the corner which means Big Power for the water We’re kicking off our PWC lineup with the ALL-NEW EVP 165HP Turbo Kit for ‘14+ @seadoo Spark 60/90HP, co-developed with Precision EFI!

Now available! Be one of the first to own EVP’s potent 165 HP Spark Turbo Kit at a special introductory price. Follow the link below for more information or to purchase yours today! BOLO for more Sea-Doo Performance Packages for GTR 230, and the RXP-X/RXT-X platforms!

Paired together with Precision EFI, the EVP Turbo Kit is a join venture offering “the most powerful, responsive, and reliable Sea-Doo Spark performance upgrade available anywhere.”

When equipped with the EVP 165HP Turbo Kit, you’ll immediately convert your tame Rec Lite runabout into a wild and nimble performer.

Remember, it’s all about power-to-weight ratios and producing nearly double the horsepower of a stock Spark puts this little 2-seater (or 3-up) in RXP-X 325 territory in regards to throttle response and acceleration. Be prepared to have the ride of your life and check out the EVP 165HP Turbo Kit HERE.

Gallery: RIVA Racing Launches New Limited Edition Yamaha FX350R & GP350R (Video)

By
Kevin Shaw
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If you don’t think we’re in the middle of a horsepower war, you best start start looking a lot closer. While Yamaha Motors, USA hasn’t officially launched a retaliatory salvo towards their Canadian competitors, RIVA Racing is doing the dirty work for them. Launching a pair of Limited Edition FX SVHO and GP SVHO WaveRunners each producing a dyno-proven and reliable 350-horsepower, these two runabouts bridge the gap for Yamaha enthusiasts looking to own race-grade weaponry without the torment of tangoing with less-than-reliable speed shops.

That’s right, the world leader in performance personal watercraft – RIVA Racing – is back at it with its FX350R and GP350R signature series of WaveRunners. Each package was developed by RIVA’s in-house team of engineers and tuners, trial tested by racers around the globe, and proven on race tracks worldwide. If you’re a performance enthusiast looking for closed-course championship acceleration, top speed and handling but don’t want the hassle of finding a reputable shop, these limited-run RIVA Edition WaveRunners are going to be all you need.

Before we get into the massive parts lists that make these so impressive, we might as well jump to the chase: the GP350R runs a blistering 86mph, as the heavier full-sized FX350R roars up to 81mph – both on 93 pump gas. No race-grade gasoline is required for these machines. But any good jet skier knows a well-rounded machine is much more than just going in a straight line: each unit includes upgraded steering and handling components for complete rider control. Each unit is built in-house by RIVA’s master technicians, so there’s no worry that each ski will be assembled correctly.

So what does each WaveRunner get? Whether it’s the GP or FX, the parts list is pretty much identical. Each Limited Edition begins with RIVA’s Maptuner tuning license; a high flow billet fuel rail; Power Filter Kit; pre-filter; RIVA’s catch can & engine breather upgrade kit; their supercharger shaft upgrade kit; Gen-3 Power Cooler Kit (with a Tial 50mm BOV); Pro-Series engine cooling upgrade kit; intake manifold upgrade kit; vacuum port adapter kit; valve retainer upgrade kit; rear exhaust kit and billet oil filler cap.

That’s all just what’s found under the recovered seat. What about everywhere else? RIVA improves the Yamahas’ hookup with a Solas Concord impeller; pump seal kit; top-loader intake grate; ride plate; Pro-Series sponson kit; Pro-Series steering system (again, that’s been anodized to match either red or blue); RIVA’s Pro-Bar aluminum handlebars (30″); billet aluminum control levers (also color-matched to your ski); ODI Rogue grips (130mm/no flange); ODI grip end cap & clamp kit; the aforementioned custom seat cover, custom graphics package and a custom valve cover (black).

Each platform is sold in either a red/black or blue/black livery, and features customized exclusive graphics and color-matched anodized RIVA Racing components, not to mention a custom, race-ready seat cover by Jettrim. Priced at $33,895 and $34,395 respectively, RIVA Racing will only produce 10 of the two models. Superior handling, break-neck acceleration and one-of-a-kind styling makes these WaveRunners faster than most professional racers and better looking than anything from the factory. If the other guys wanted a horsepower war, RIVA Racing’s custom Yamahas aren’t bringing a knife to a gunfight.

Video: Jet Tech’s Guide to Jet Ski Pontoon Maneuvering

By
Chris Carringer
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If you’ve ever struggled with getting your PWC on and off a pontoon smoothly, you might have wondered what exactly you’re doing wrong. Smoothly executing the transition can require a level of finesse that can seem daunting to beginners, and doing it correctly isn’t just important for looking cool – it’s necessary for yours and your watercraft’s safety. That’s where Jet Tech’s guide to pontoon maneuvering comes in.

Before revving up your engine, consider a few key factors that could affect your strategy. Your weight and the model of the jet ski, as well as conditions such as the presence of currents or other watercraft nearby can all play a role in determining the effort and technique needed, so plan accordingly and take all necessary precautions before attempting this for the first time. 

As detailed in the video, there are a few important steps for putting your jet ski into the water. Firstly, ensure it starts smoothly and that the drain bung is securely in place. Start the jet ski while it’s still on the pontoon, then gently push it back towards the water’s edge, maintaining control without letting it plunge in fully. Once it’s in position, mount the jet ski and clip in, using your body weight to assist in thrusting it backward as you navigate off the pontoon.

As for getting back onto the pontoon, the most important thing is to take it slow. Approach the pontoon from the water, guiding the nose of the jet ski gently onto the platform. With a light acceleration, coax the jet ski onto the pontoon until it’s fully secured. Then power down the engine and prepare for your next adventure.

Mastering the art of getting on and off a pontoon with your jet ski is all about technique and safety. For a visual guide and a comprehensive walkthrough of the process, check out Jet Tech’s YouTube video. With their expert tips, you’ll be navigating pontoon life like a pro in no time.

A Look Back At The 2024 Mark Hahn With Ross Wallach

By
Jessica Waters
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With the 2024 Mark Hahn 300 Memorial Race in the books, and the 2025 Mark Hahn on the calendar, The Watercraft Journal caught up with race director Ross Wallach to take a look back at his history with the race, how this year’s race went, and what to expect for next year’s Mark Hahn. 

He explained that it is a unique race, and talked about his history with Mark Hahn, who had been instrumental in getting Wallach involved in jet ski racing again after a hiatus, and who passed away during a race held by Wallach.

He said his connection and friendship with the PWC Racers is another reason the race is important to him, and why he works hard to keep the legacy of the race alive. 

 His friendship with  Mike Fulmer and Jim Russell also played a part in his involvement and dedication to the race, Wallace said. 

Aside from his personal connections, Wallach says it is important to PWC racing in general to have a race of this nature.

Despite the popularity of the race, and how well it is respected among racers, every year sees registration lagging well into the registration period, but Wallach says that, although challenging in terms of organization, it is normal in the race world, and said the racers alway come through in the end.

Wallach talked about the starting location, which moved last year from Crazy Horse to its new spot Lake Havasu State Park.

He said that the move has been a positive one, despite concerns expressed prior to last year’s race when the move first took place. 

He said the time of year, and the weather is part of the reason the race has become known as a tough race. 

This year, on the 20th anniversary of the event, unlike most years, the water on Lake Havasu was calm and mirror smooth, leading to faster lap times, with laps times up to one minute faster for the top racers, as well as a higher percentage of racers completing all the laps.

Wallach discussed how endurance races require a flawless day to make it through the race. 

As with what seems to be a high number of races lately, a small amount of drama ensued online following the finish of this year’s Mark Hahn, and Wallach addressed the events that led to some online tension.

WCJ is working to talk with Jon Ford & Mike Maniscalichi, overall winners of the 2024 Mark Hahn Memorial Havasu 300, and will have that story soon.

Be sure to check out the race website, as the date for the 2025 Mark Hahn Memorial Havasu 300 has been set for Saturday, February 22, 2025, and registration will be available soon. Full race results from this year’s race are also available on the website. 

Kawasaki to Offer Integrated Apple CarPlay on All 2025 Ultra JetSkis

By
Kevin Shaw
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In an announcement made late last week, Kawasaki Motors USA finalized licensing agreements with Apple Inc. allowing all 2025 JetSki models equipped with Kawasaki’s full-color TFT digital dashboard to operate the CarPlay operating software. CarPlay enables a radio or head unit to be a display and controller for an iOS device, pairing the operator’s Apple iPhone to the JetSki’s existing onboard interface.

Incorporating CarPlay into the existing TFT (thin-film transistor) display places Kawasaki ahead of the industry regarding rider infotainment, allowing the operator to employ the existing jog dial to scroll through the iOS prompts effortlessly. Per Kawasaki’s announcement, only the larger 7-inch TFT dashboards will receive the CarPlay option, as they hold a higher speed processor than some smaller displays.

More than 800 automobiles come with support for CarPlay. Per Apple spokesman, Willrow Hood, “The addition of Apple CarPlay to the Ultra JetSki lineup will make for Apple’s first powersports application. This will allow operators to access Apple Maps, music, contacts, podcasts and more, similar to CarPlay applications found in traditional automobiles while out on the water.”

Identical to most CarPlay-equipped vehicles, operators will connect their iOS devices through a USB connection (found in the watertight glove box) or through the onboard wireless Bluetooth connection. Unlike automobiles, the TFT dashboard is not a touchscreen, requiring the existing jog dial and controls below the steering neck to be used to navigate the different apps and prompts.

As noted above, adding the super-popular iOS interface to the Ultra JetSki lineup pushes Kawasaki far beyond its competitors, and all without requiring any costly physical upgrades or hardware. To learn more about Apple CarPlay being made available on future Kawasaki JetSkis and whether it will work retroactively on existing Ultras, click the link HERE.

Video: Kawi Performance Launches 310-Powered STX Build Series

By
Kevin Shaw
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Few companies have proven their mettle when it comes to troubleshooting, problem solving and offering proven positive results for Kawasaki JetSki owners than Kawi Performance. Within the past dozen years, Steve Ciervo and his team have made huge gains in improving the longevity of these machines – not to mention increasing horsepower, sharpening throttle response and much, much more.

Wanting to demonstrate Kawi Performance’s prowess, Ciervo took to YouTube to announce their latest – and likeliest most ambitious – project yet: a 310-horsepower Ultra-powered base model STX 160. Purchased as a bare shell, the powertrain, fuel system and complete digital engine control system was pilfered for a aluminum mini jet boat, allowing Ciervo to pick up the hollowed JetSki for a song.

Interestingly, Kawi Performance will not be gutting a 2014-and-up Ultra 310, but will start using a previous generation’s 300 motor. Ciervo stated that the 300 will be completely overhauled, fitted with forged internals and updated to match the current 310’s output (if not a tickle more). Below we’ve inserted the first video, but make sure to subscribe as Kawi Performance seeks to update the series weekly.

Splash Cash: Yahoo Finance Delves into the Details of PWC Financing

By
Chris Carringer
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While few are immune to the exhilarating allure of cutting across the water on a speeding jet ski – the wind in your face, the spray popping up against the hot sun – one of the most significant barriers of entry for riders can be figuring out how to afford such a luxury. New jet skis can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000, with luxury models going even beyond that. Of course, not everyone has to purchase a jet ski to enjoy it, with renting becoming an increasingly popular market at marinas worldwide, but even then, the daily price adds up.

For anyone who really wants to get into jet skiing, buying one can be a great long-term investment, and more accessible than some might think! A recent piece at Yahoo Finance details some of the ways to finance a PWC, making it an accessible financial decision for both first-time buyers and those looking for an upgrade.

Yahoo Finance suggests four possible pathways for financing a jet ski: taking out a personal loan, using a credit card, a personal watercraft loan, or manufacturer financing. While you can read the full write-up at Yahoo Finance for more details on each option, there are several important factors to consider while choosing.

For example, the interest rate for each option can vary widely, with some credit cards or manufacturers offering a 0% interest rate for a certain period of time, while other options can reach upwards of 12%. Some options for financing also have lower limits on the amount you can borrow, which may limit your options. Lastly, it’s important to consider the repayment term for a loan, as some limits might make monthly payments less affordable.

If you’re in the market for a new jet ski and want to consider a financing option, check out Yahoo Finance’s write-up for a comprehensive guide to your available choices!

Video: RIVA Racing’s New Stage 3 Kit for Ultra 310 JetSkis Roars to 80mph

By
Kevin Shaw
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0

Undoubtedly, you’ve read The Watercraft Journal defend the Kawasaki’s offshore/rough water prowess but at the cost of ripping top speeds equal to that of Sea-Doo and Yamaha. The Ultra dominates in chop due to its deep-V hull and overall heft. Simply put, that means that the Kawasaki sits deeper in the water.

With so much wetted surface, the Kawasaki simply produces far more drag than its slipperier competitors when in glassy conditions. Having to push so much mass through the water requires some serious power, and getting the big JetSki to displace water quicker means some serious know how.

 

Thankfully, RIVA Racing has managed to do both. Requiring a great deal of effort, RIVA managed to redesign its Performance Ride Plate (including a higher ramp, deeper runners and a center skeg); perfected the pitch on a Solas Concorde 14/18 impeller; added a wastegate block off plate; and introduced a billet aluminum K3 supercharger pulley with all stainless hardware and idler pulley.

Of course, the most important feature is the use of RIVA’s Maptuner Nano tuning bundle. This incredibly easy-to-use dongle plugs directly into the supplied diagnostic cable, allowing tuning upgrades to be made through your smartphone app; as well as a king’s ransom of live data and decoding tools.

The end result is a Stage 3 Kit that delivers a repeatable 80mph @ 8400rpm (RIVA states the test unit was a 2023 Kawasaki Ultra 310X ridden in fresh water with 180lbs rider; 1/3-full tank), ignition timing is very safe for use with RIVA’s Stage 3 pulley. Equally, it was all done using the factory waterbox and air intake.

Here’s the original press release from RIVA Racing:
Our Stage 3 Kit delivers a huge performance gain with simple bolt-on modifications! Delivers great acceleration and a top speed increase of 13+ MPH.

The Maptuner Nano Bundle delivers instant plug-in horsepower!

Includes everything you need to connect to and reflash your watercraft’s ECU in one complete package.

Flash your vehicle’s ECU for more power, monitor and log critical engine data, read & clear error codes all from your smartphone! This revolutionary app based device is controlled with your phone via wireless Bluetooth connection. Intuitive & easy to use with a few simple steps!

There is no limit to the number of vehicles or tunes you can reflash with the Nano. Simply purchase one tuning license for each vehicle that you would like to program. This gives you access to RIVA’s world famous Tuning Library along with unmatched technical support. Easily switch between performance tunes and then back to stock settings if you wish.

Features and Benefits:

  • Wireless Bluetooth connectivity to Android or iOS smartphone.
  • Switch between performance tunes quickly & easily.
  • Restore stock tune settings if you wish.
  • Reflash your ECU instantly without shipping it out for programming.
  • Allows reading & clearing fault codes.
  • Includes live monitoring & data logging of critical engine data.

RIVA Wastegate Block-off Kit is installed. Billet block-off plate replaces the factory wastegate valve on your intercooler enabling maximum boost and engine performance.

RIVA ‘K3’ Supercharger Pulley Kit is installed. Smaller in diameter than stock, it produces over 3psi of additional boost delivering incredible horsepower and torgue. Made from billet aluminum and coated with a special military spec material for improved belt wear and corrosion resistance. Stainless steel idler pulley is matched with stainless steel precision sealed bearing.

Solas Concord Impeller is installed. New design incorporates a large blade area and superior hub design that deliver increased acceleration and top speed. Billet nose cone included.

RIVA Performance Ride Plate is installed. Our ride plate increases top speed and significantly enhances handling characteristics.

Kawasaki Motors Redoubles Factory Race Team Effort with Jimmy Wilson

By
Kevin Shaw
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A Facebook post published last week had many pontificating the possibility of a redesigned SX-R 1500 “race edition” JetSki. Featured front-and-center in the Kawasaki Motors booth in the Pacifico Yokohama, Japan boat show, a gorgeous black-and-lime green standup was on display alongside SX-R 160’s.

The SX-R in question is actually, a uniquely-designed “Hyperion” jet ski made by VK Composites and sold domestically through Rival PWC. Belonging to professional Kawasaki racer, Jimmy Wilson, the #300 Hyperion is actually a part of a far larger effort by Kawasaki to dominate standup racing yet again.

Image: Jimmy Wilson

In an article published on JetSkiWorld.gr, Vasilis Moriatis spoke with Factory Team according to spokesman, Minoru Kanamori about Kawasaki’s efforts to expand its racing efforts globally. Working together with Wilson, Kanamori has been experimenting with different engine tunes and handling setups.

After returning back from Thailand where he joined Kanamori and the Kawasaki Factory Team, Wilson spoke with Moriatis stating, “The Factory Kawasaki ski is a mix of old (2-stroke) and new (4-stroke GP) in my opinion. The ski stays hooked up in turns and doesn’t slide out or hope coming out of the turns.

“I do like that the ski allows for more rider input entering the turns than most of the newer GP skis on the market. I say that because this ski will roll over more than most skis but it doesn’t fall over. It’s stable in the straight line but would be good in a slalom section as well.”

As an observer, it is very revealing how Kawasaki’s Factory Team has adopted the Hyperion design. Wilson is no stranger to aftermarket hulls and has been a worthy representative of Kawasaki, making this particular marriage of the racer bringing in a third-party’s design (and it being so readily accepted by a major factory team) particularly intriguing.

Monster Energy MACC Racing Unveils 2024 Team Lineup

By
Jessica Waters
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Déjà vu. One year ago, The Watercraft Journal announced that Chris MacClugage’s MACC Racing was officially partnering with Monster Energy for the 2023 P1 AquaX US National Championship season. 

As WCJ Editor-in-Chief Kevin Shaw stated in that 2023 announcement, MacClugage – called the GOAT by many – is one of the most decorated and highest winning World Champion athlete across multiple classes, including Pro Freestyle, Pro Ski GP, Pro Runabout /GP & AquaX Pro Enduro, with more than two dozen championships to his name.

Considering not only that impressive resume, but adding in an impressive victory by MacClugage at the final 2023 round in Kissimmee / St Cloud, it should come as little surprise that WCJ just received notice from Monster Energy that the adrenaline junky dream team of Monster and MAAC Racing is a done deal for the 2024 season. 

In addition to the renewed partnership, MacClugage has announced the lineup for the 2024 MACC Racing team, introducing new teammates Tim Miller and Cooper Caldwell.

After receiving the press release, WCJ contacted MacClugage to chat with him about the coming season, but Mac is currently in Spain, competing, but he promised to sit down with WCJ when he returns stateside to talk about the challenges, opportunities and plans for the coming race season and the newest MACC teammates. 

Read the full press release below:
MACC Racing is thrilled to announce the continuation of its partnership with Monster Energy for the highly anticipated 2024 P1 AquaX US Championships. As a pinnacle event in the world of personal watercraft (PWC) racing, the P1 AquaX series draws elite racers globally to compete at the highest level.

Following a challenging start to the 2023 season, Monster Energy MACC Racing finished on a high note with an impressive victory by Chris MacClugage at the thrilling final round in Kissimmee / St Cloud. The team’s triumph has set the stage for an exciting 2024 campaign, with a focus on carrying forward the positive momentum from last season.

In preparation for the upcoming championships, Monster Energy MACC Racing has bolstered its roster by welcoming Tim Miller, a seasoned competitor renowned for his achievements on the US National Tour and at the IJSBA World Finals. Miller’s addition enhances the team’s competitive edge and solidifies its position as a formidable force in the PWC racing circuit.

Alongside Tim Miller, the team is proud to welcome Cooper Caldwell, who will be competing in the P1 AquaX Amateur Enduro Class. At just 16 years old, Cooper Caldwell already brings a wealth of experience and success to MACC Racing. A two-time US Amateur National Champion, Caldwell’s impressive track record includes a 2nd place finish in the 2023 IJSBA World Championship Amateur Runabout Stock Class. His dedication and skill have already made him a rising star in the world of PWC racing.

The 2024 championship will see the team on Yamaha powered Jet Ski’s. Chris MacClugage, Team Owner, Rider, and two-time P1 AquaX US National Champion expressed his confidence in the team’s preparations for the upcoming season. “With the continued support of Monster Energy & Dean’s Team, I feel like we have the fundamentals in place for a successful season. Tim Miller is a great addition to the team. We have over 60 years of racing experience between us.” stated MacClugage. He also emphasized the team’s excitement in introducing rising star Cooper Caldwell to represent the team in the amateur class, demonstrating his dedication to nurturing young talent within the sport.

“I’m excited to be part of the Monster Energy MACC Racing team” says Cooper Caldwell. “I met Chris MacClugage at the 2023 World Finals in Lake Havasu & did a few coaching sessions with him. Chris helped me improve my riding style & learning from all his years of experience has made a big improvement to my performance.”

Caldwell added, “This is a huge opportunity for me & I’m thankful to my dad, Chris, Tim & Dean Charrier for their effort in getting my ski’s ready for the season. I’ve been training hard to prepare for this year’s championship. I know I have a lot to learn in P1 AquaX, but my plan is to listen to what Chris and Tim tell me, take care of the equipment and ultimately be on the podium.”

Tim Miller shared his excitement about his new venture with Monster Energy MACC Racing. Recalling his early days in the sport, Miller reminisced about lining up alongside a young talent who would later become one of the world’s best – Chris MacClugage. In recent years, Miller has been instrumental in developing skis for Cooper Caldwell, with the support of Dean Charrier. Expressing his enthusiasm for the upcoming season, Miller stated,” I’m looking forward to racing with Chris & being part of the Monster Energy & MACC Racing team. We’re ready to battle for the 2024 Championship.”

As the team prepares to embark on the 2024 P1 AquaX US Championship, the stage is set for an exhilarating season of competition with the opening round set to take place in Daytona Beach, 19-22 April.

About MACC Racing: MACC Racing is a leading force in the world of personal watercraft racing, known for its commitment to excellence and passion for competition. With a history of success and a dedicated team of talented athletes, MACC Racing continues to push boundaries and redefine standards in the thrilling sport of PWC racing.

About Chris MacClugage #30: Dubbed the GOAT, or the Greatest Of All Time by friends, colleagues & fellow competitors, Chris, who was once known as merely “The Kid” has grown into his own as the sport of jet ski racing. With 25 career championships, he’s become the most decorated and highest winning World Champion athlete across multiple classes, including Pro Freestyle, Pro Ski GP, Pro Runabout /GP & AquaX Pro Enduro. Chris also holds the current Guinness World Record for, “Most wins of the IJSBA Pro Runabout 1200 World Championships”.

About Tim Miller #37: With a racing legacy spanning back to 1988, Tim Miller stands as a seasoned figure in PWC racing, known for his expertise and dedication to the sport. A consistent top performer, Miller has secured top 10 finishes at the IJSBA World Championships since 2019, showcasing his enduring skill and competitive spirit.

About Cooper Caldwell #193: Cooper Caldwell is a rising star in PWC racing, boasting two US Amateur National Championships and a runner-up finish in the 2023 IJSBA World Championship. With a drive for success and a promising future ahead, Caldwell embodies the next generation of racing excellence.

About P1 AquaX: P1 AquaX is a premier personal watercraft racing series that brings together top racers from around the globe to compete in exhilarating and high-stakes races. With a reputation for delivering adrenaline-pumping action and showcasing top-tier talent, P1 AquaX sets the stage for intense competition and unforgettable moments on the water.

About Monster Energy: Monster Energy is a leading energy drink brand, renowned for its commitment to extreme sports and high-octane action. Partnering with athletes across various disciplines, Monster Energy fuels their pursuits, pushing the limits of what is possible.

About Dean’s Watercraft Performance: Since 1995, Dean’s Team has been at the forefront of the jet Ski racing world. Owned & operated by Dean Charrier – The world’s top tuner & custom parts manufacturer for race jet skis. Dean’s Team has consistently brought in National and World titles year in and year out.

 

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