It’s regretful that we announce the passing of one of the original testers and pioneers in the sport of jet skiing, Bob “Big Mac” McCord.
An official announcement was made as was a memorial Facebook page yesterday, stating:
“We regret to inform you that our dear friend and colleague Bob McCord passed peacefully and with great love surrounding him today.
“His journey was a strong one in this life he shared. Our condolences to his beloved and his loving children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews and the collective of friends. Bob was directly responsible for all of us enjoying the sport of Jet Skiing today. He was the influence who kept Kawasaki from ditching the Jet Ski Project. Otherwise we would not be here today in this great sport we all love as much as Bob does.
“We were so proud and honored to have Bob be present at the Wake of Fame awards and to receive his induction. This meant so much to all of us in friendship and praise because he made such a significant impact in every aspect of our sport, and few understood today where their history footprint elevated their efforts, for this we are eternally grateful for Bob’s influence. Please let out a shout of love to a life well lived! Get after it in Heaven Bob!”
In 2015, McCord was inducted into the Wake of Fame, here’s the video of that ceremony:
The Wake of Fame also honored McCord with a biographical recount of his life and experience with Kawasaki’s JetSki during its early development and rise in popularity:
