1. It's a Team Sport
At first glance, a waterski race might seem like an individual competition, but that couldn't be further from the truth. Waterski race teams consist of the racer, the driver and an observer. The driver must be able to anticipate how the racer will handle certain speeds and water conditions. It's the driver's responsibility to make sure the racer isn't put into a situation that could cost valuable time. The observer is perhaps the most important person on the team. It's the observer's job to relay signals from the racer to the driver. Even if the racer isn't signaling, the observer should watch carefully for changes in the racer's stance and give directions to the driver.
2. One is Better Than Two
Skilled waterski racers often compete on one ski rather than two. The single ski, also referred to as a mono-ski, can cut through wakes much quicker and more efficiently than two skis. Using only one ski also results in less fatigue for the racer, who doesn't have to worry about keeping a proper distance between two skis. That being said, learning to race on a mono-ski can take a lot of practice, so novice racers typically opt for a pair of skis.
3. The Race Ski
Race mono-skis are wider than traditional waterskis and are typically around 8 feet long. They have two bindings, one in front of the other, for the racer to place his feet. The distance between the racer and the boat is dependent on water conditions and the type of race. The race team wants to avoid the line ever becoming slack and dipping into the water, but racing too closely to the boat can cost the team the race. The race team should have several different lengths of line available for each race.
4. Race Time
Waterski races either require the racers to complete a certain number of laps on a course, with the winner being the racer who completed the laps in the least amount of time, or to complete a time trial, in which the winner covers the most ground during a limited amount of time. Waterski races can be thrilling to watch because most have all the racers start at the same time, so spectators can clearly see who is in the lead and watch position changes. Courses are generally a few miles long.
5. Join the Team
It's usually not necessary for those interested in waterski racing to find a team on their own. Many waterski clubs organize teams and races, and will be happy to take on new members. Clubs need racers, driver and observers, and observers are usually in high demand. Many clubs offer classes or individual instruction for novices.
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