Water ski racing consists of a number of water skiers who race around a set course, as done in Formula One Grand Prix motor racing. This is the fastest type of water skiing. [1]

A Water Ski Racing team consists of a boat driver, an observer and one or two skiers. The driver will tow the skier behind a powerboat, varying the speed as different water conditions are encountered, according to the driver's knowledge of the skier, the observer's ability to read the skier and the signals which the skier gives to the driver. Novices who have not progressed onto a mono ski, can race on a pair, although it is far easier to compete on a single ski, once learned. A "race ski" is normally between 7'0 and 8'0 in length with 2 full boot bindings.

The length of the ski line will depend on the length & power of boat you are skiing behind, the water conditions and the kind of speed you anticipate racing at on that particular day. The aim is for the skier to be skiing on the "best water" there is behind the boat, whilst avoiding the line dipping into the water or becoming slack. Ski racers nowadays use the "wrapped" position, which involves the skier using two handles which go around each side of the body, to be held together with one hand at the top of the backside. The skier sits into this harness and reaches forward with the other hand, to hold a third handle or rope knot, positioned at arms length away. This technique transfers the strain from the arms and lower back, to the upper legs. It was first used in competition by an Australian named Terry Bennett and it enabled him to endure higher speeds for greater periods of time. Anyway, theory lesson over.....

Joing Rachel, Richard and Huw, we went to Cardiff Bay to watch competitors making a splash in the grand finale to the European Cup! Water Skiing is an increasingly popular sport and Cardiff Bay provides the perfect backdrop to experience the thrill of a series of races. Competitors raced over two days and over different distances, with a fantastic view afforded from the Inner Harbour and from Cardiff Bay Barrage! Here are a selection of photographs from our afternoon, a little bit grey for an August day, but at least no rain!