Jodi Fisher, three-time water ski World Cup Tour Champ, gives us a detailed guide to the sport he loves.

It is estimated that over 30,000,000 people around the world water ski, which is a staggering number. The reason for this, though you may argue that I’m biased, is that there are very few sports out there suitable for the whole family - but water skiing is one of them.

The world of water skiing
Rarely in a sport can the whole family participate together, and regardless of what level you take it to, just getting out there and having a blast is what it is all about.  Those close to the water will have seen everything from novice skiers being towed around by jet skis and outboard boats to enthusiasts and professionals competing behind ski boats like the V8 powered MasterCraft Tow Boat, a craft specifically designed for the sport, man-made stretches of water have been created to supply perfect conditions. These purpose built lakes have graded shorelines to give zero back wash from rebounding boat wakes, and high surrounding trees are used for protection from the elements.

The sport has governing bodies in 85 countries that are responsible for organizing events from small local entry-level beginner events right the way up to National competitions. Each level of contest takes into account the competing age range, which starts at five and closes off at 85. At International level, there are three Regional Governing Bodies that put together the annual Championships, and the IWSF (International Waterski & Wakeboard Federation) World Governing Body, organize the World Championships in all of the towed water sports.

How to get involved
Regardless of whether you own a suitable boat or someone else that  does, if you want to have a go at water skiing, I would strongly advise you find out where your nearest water ski club is and have a lesson. Not having the right equipment, conditions and instruction can really affect your first experience of the sport, and you don’t want to be put off unfairly.
You can find out from British Water Ski, the Governing Body for the sport in the UK, where your nearest club or ski school is located as they list details of the clubs in the UK on their website; www.britishwaterski.org.uk

Many of these clubs and ski schools will have Pro-Shops who can advise and supply you with equipment is suited to getting you going in the environment you will be skiing in. I personally recommend Radar Skis because of the quality of the product they build and because of the depth of knowledge going back over 40 years in the industry...

To read Jodi's full guide to water skiing, pick up the Spring issue of Sports Boat and RIB magazine.