Every once in a while, there is something posted online that makes you stop scrolling for a moment; something that connects, something that resonates and aligns completely with your perceptions or thoughts on a matter.

I came across just such a post on a couple days ago – one that matches The Watercraft Journal’s view of PWC as a whole, and my perception of the PWC family, as well as the attitudes of so many in the PWC world, that I felt it warranted sharing, in full and unedited, with The Watercraft Journal family.

Shared with permission of the author, and new Region 8 PWC racer, Brian Baker:

My life completely changed August 3rd & 4th – Most of my closest friends know of the many ups and downs I’ve had throughout my life. I won’t make this post any longer than it already will be.

I was a spectator to an event that I didn’t even know existed a year ago. I met Austin Jones out of the Buffalo, NY area and his family welcomed me with open arms. I honestly didn’t even know how to accept it. It’s a small world, mysterious I guess you’d say. I was messaged last year by Kris VanWie who’s in the race scene with his son Kris “Krash” VanWie Jr. out of B’Ville and he invited me out for some ride time. Kris put me on a Yamaha Waveblaster and I couldn’t even take off lol. I thought damn… I’m not going to be able to race without a ski. Then Kris said “Race yours”? I laughed at first and then said “really dude”? A bone stock 20yr. old ski out there racing lol – Then ‘Krash’ chimes in and says “Send it”! I put some thought into it, then some more and decided to send it. I was invited out by Joe DeMario who also races in the P1 AquaX to practice and I was grateful for all the advice as I was preparing for Plattsburgh.

The race weekend came quickly, I drove 4hrs. with gut wrenching butterflies and nerves having absolutely no clue what to expect or do. Saturday morning was here and all my unanswered questions were answered. Chris Scudder immediately began helping me by finding a beach cart. The first cart we attempted ended with a sheared pin on the cart (I began sweating more than I already was) so another cart had to be found – I don’t have a clue what to do I’m thinking at this point. Some time went by and there were less and less boats up in the parking area. Then someone yelled to me, “Hey Freeman is going to get you in”. My heart began beating normal again.

I ran 3 motos out of 4 (weather delay/called event) – I placed second with only one other novice racer, so yes I placed last. That’s where it begins – I did something I never thought I would do and it changed my life forever. I was accepted with the warmest welcome from the East Coast Watercross community. I’m beyond grateful and humbled by their support. The racing took me to a whole new level in life. I had an opportunity to go at the same time as Pro rider Tj Brito. I found something I love doing. I haven’t felt this happy in a very long time.

There are so many people I want to thank – Big big shoutout to the ECW STAFF and Director Shawn Dudek the ones who make it all happen. Always want to give thanks to the Course Marshals for assuring the safety of the racers. Thank you Andrew Freeman for getting me in the water. Thank you to Steve Hotchkiss for the time you took to chat with me. I met so many people, so if I forgot to personally thank you please know I am very very thankful. Until we meet again in the Glen, I’m ecstatic to be a part of the R8 family.