British Water Ski Racing Programme 2014

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As the Chairman of British Water Ski Racing, it is my pleasure together with GB Team Captain Karen Brooks and the entire Racing Committee to once again welcome you to the British National Water Ski Racing 2014 season.

This year the British Waterski Racing National series will comprise seven races beginning at Lyme Regis on the 4th May, for Round 2 we make a welcome return to the popular Cardiff Bay event followed by sunny Hunstanton for round 3. The lovely West Country resort of Brixham hosts Round 4 later in June followed by Kent’s Allhallows Race 5 in July, the Oyster Town of Whitstable host the penultimate race with Weston Super Mare being our final race a week later.

I am pleased that we can again look forward to a programme of Europe Cup races this year, our very own GB Stone Watersports Club in Essex host Round 1, Ybb’s in Austria host round 2, with the Viersel Diamond Race as round 3 and Geel round 4 both of which are in Belgium.

The 2014 European Championships will be held in France from July 19th to 27th, with Rounds 1 & 2 at Vichy followed by Rounds 3 & 4 at Eguzon.

The venue for the 2014 Racing Ball will once again be the Thistle Hotel on the Seafront at Brighton on November 22nd, where we shall be celebrating not only another successful year in British National Ski Racing but hopefully some major achievements in the European Championships.

In conclusion I would like to wish everyone a very enjoyable, successful and safe year of Water Ski Racing in 2014.

Barry Frame

Chairman of BWSW Racing Committee

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Our vision to provide the best water ski experience for everyone to enjoy

British Water Ski & Wakeboard is the National Governing Body for water skiing in Great Britain and is recognised as such by Sport England and UK Sport and is in receipt of Exchequer Funding from them.

British Water Ski & Wakeboard is the only recognised voice speaking for water skiing in the UK. Joining us is the best way of supporting the sport now and for the future. We are a non-profit making organisation with all of our income invested in developing and protecting water skiing throughout Britain from the grassroots level through to our top athletes.

British Water Ski & Wakeboard is responsible for the development of the sport; co-ordination of national and international competition; selection of National teams; training and registration of coaches and officials; and increasing the opportunities for participation in water skiing for all residents of this country, including the disabled.

British Water Ski & Wakeboard also actively encourages newcomers to the sport, promotes good practice and safety and works to enhance and improve standards of coaching and driving. We also have highly active competition programmes in all divisions of the sport.

International Links British Water Ski & Wakeboard is affiliated to the International Water Ski & Wakeboard Federation (IWWF) through the Europe and Africa Region (E &A).

Britain is a major player in the world of water skiing having individual skiers and riders as World and E & A Champions, as well as teams featuring in the medals at World and E & A Championships. As part of the IWWF we also have a good number of our members sitting on World and E & A Committees and therefore able to put forward a British perspective into the rules of the sport.

The IWWF is responsible for organising World Championships in the Sports Divisions (see below). The E & A Region organises EA (European) Championships is the same divisions.

National Sporting Links British Water Ski & Wakeboard is a member of the Sport and Recreation Alliance which is the umbrella organisation for the national governing and representative bodies of sport and recreation in the UK and represents more than 300 members organisations. Its work takes in a wide range of activities, from campaigning on behalf of sport and recreation to providing its members with services like training and networking.

www.skirace.net 4 | BRITISH WATER SKI 2014

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27 APRIL

29 JUNE

Europe Cup Round 1 Stone, Essex

Europe Cup Round 3 Viersel Diamond Race

4 MAY

6 JULY

GB National Round 1 Lyme Regis, Dorset

Europe Cup Round 4 Geel Belgium

18 MAY

13 JULY

GB National Round 2 Cardiff, Wales

GB National Round 5 Allhallows, Kent

31 MAY

19-27 JULY

Europe Cup Round 2 Ybbs Austria

European Championships Vichy & Eguzon France

8 JUNE

10 AUGUST

GB National Round 3 Hunstanton, Norwich

GB National Round 6 Whitstable, North Kent

22 JUNE

17 AUGUST

GB National Round 4 Brixham, Devon

GB National Round 7 Weston Super Mare

For more information on Water Ski Racing and to view each race pack visit www.skirace.net BRITISH WATER SKI 2014 | 7

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The main race is divided into Formula 1, 2 and 3 and is open to any age or sex of skier.

Formula 1 • All hulls must be a minimum of 18 feet in length • Boats can be single or twin outboards or single or twin inboard engines • Maximum engine power of 9.420 cc Formula 2 • All hulls must be a minimum of 18 feet in length • All boats must have single outboards only • Maximum engine power of 300hp Formula 3 • All hulls must be a minimum of 18 feet in length • All boats must have single engines only • Maximum engine power of 150 hp / 111.85 Kw

The support race is divided into the following categories: Ladies Open to ladies of all ages Juniors Up to and including the year of the 17th birthday Senior Man 35 years of age and over Open Class Any BWS member

The Brit kids race is divided into the following categories and skiing times: Brit Kids A Up to 11 years old on 1st January of the year of competition, and race for 15 minutes plus a lap.

Brit Kids B 12, 13, 14 years old on 1st January of the year of competition, and race for 25 minutes plus a lap.

www.skirace.net BRITISH WATER SKI 2014 | 9

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• The crew consists of a boat driver and one observer only.

• The minimum age for a driver is 18 years of age.

• The minimum age for a observer is 16 years of age.

• Either one or two skis maybe used, although skis must be in serviceable condition and must be florescent flame orange.

• The minimum length of a tow line is 21 metres, including handles. Maximum length of 75 metres including handles.

• Either single or double handles may be used.

• Life jackets or built in buoyancy wet suit must be worn by the skier. All skiers must wear a top which is florescent in colour ensuring they are visible in the water.

• Drivers and observers shall wear a life jacket in a easily visible colour. Life jackets must be equipped with collars and leg straps • Skiers must wear crash helmets meeting the British Water Ski regulations.

• Non skiing crew members must also wear bright red or orange helmets.

www.skirace.net BRITISH WATER SKI 2014 | 11

Marathon Races Before the start of each race every team shall attend a briefing, this enables them to understand the circuit. All courses run in an anti-clockwise direction.

Race distances: Main Race 50 minutes plus 1 lap Support Race 35 minutes plus 1 lap Brit Kids A 15 minutes plus 1 lap Brit Kids B 25 minutes plus 1 lap

Race control flags Yellow - Caution The judges and safety boats will raise the yellow flag when the skier has fallen, when a skier is in the water or in any other case of interference after the National flag has started the race.

Red - Stop the race All judge boats will carry a Red flag to stop the race on the instructions of the Chief judge. At the completion of the race the red flag will indicate ‘return to the pit area’.

Black - Disqualification The black flag is used to notify a competitor that he/she has been disqualified and must retire from the race.

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Races are to be conducted over a 5 km course where possible.

For a simultaneous mass start, a 3 minute signal shall be given by raising the National flag together with a green flag on a starting boat or dock in sight of the skiers and boat crew.

The 30 second signal is given by lowering the green flag. Skiers may then enter the water from their boats which may then take up the slack in the ski line. The start will be signalled by the lowering of the National flag and skiers must not be in a skiing position until the start is signalled.

When shown it will be pointed at the offender and they must withdraw from the race immediately.

Blue The blue flag is used to signal to all competitors that the leader of the race has begun his last lap.

Chequered - Finish The chequered flag indicates the end of the race.

Orange For use by observers when their skier is in the water.

Blue/white To be used by observers when medical attention is required.

Skier: Jack Lynch aged 25 is a tree surgeon from Reach. Jack has been skiing for 13 years and learnt to ski with his family in Hunstanton. Jack says his best racing experience has been skiing in the Diamond race in Belgium.

Driver: Bradley Cannings aged 40 is a Managing Director from Exeter. Bradley has been driving for over 18 years and learnt to ski at his local club in Exmouth when he was only 4 years old. Bradley started racing as a teenager and he says his best racing experience was the Catalina Water Ski Race in America.

Observer: Tim Mayers aged 45 is an electrician from Lyme Regis. Tim has been observing for over 25 years and started many years ago in Lyme Regis at a regional race. Tim says his best racing experiences were winning the Diamond Race in Belgium and winning the River Trent races 2 years running.

This will be the first year the team have competed in Formula 1 and they are looking forward to the challenges it will bring.

When asked what they enjoy most about racing they said “Racing at different venues and different water conditions.

There is also a good close group of competitors which make a great friendly atmosphere.”

When asked what advice they would offer to new teams they said “Don’t get carried away with what everyone has or uses on the circuit. It takes a number of seasons to become honed at ski racing. We raced for many years with inferior equipment but eventually became good enough to win races because of ability and not the best equipment.”

TEAM H2O

Boat number: 200 Area: Lyme Regis Power Boat Club

BRITISH WATER SKI 2014 | 13

TEAM TAYLOR RACING Boat number: 925 Area: Hunstanton Ski Club

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Skier: Richard Kirk aged 38 is an equipment and electrical engineer from Newmarket. Richard has been skiing since he was 12 years old and was taught to ski by his parents. When asked what Richard’s best racing experience had been, he said “I have had some fantastic experiences from racing all over the World but the main ones were the Catalina race in USA, taking part in the World Championships in Australia and also winning the Diamond race in Belgium in 2011.”

Richard’s training regime includes swimming, running, cycling and circuit training.

Driver: Greg Bassam is the owner of GB Watersports and is from Peterborough. Greg has been driving powerboats for many years and has been involved in ski racing for many years too. When asked what had been Greg’s best racing experience he struggled to say, as he has loved each and every race.

Observer: Roy Taylor is managing director of Taylor’s Autos in Sherbourne. Roy has been observing for 5 years and started ski racing as his family were involved in the sport.

Roy says his best experience was meeting his wife Clare.

Greg and Roy have raced together for many years and Richard has joined the team this year. Richard has achieved a huge amount in his racing career and the team look forward to a challenging year in Formula 1.

Skier: Will Newland aged 22 is a architectural designer from Caterham in Surrey. Will has been skiing for 14 years and learnt to ski in the off days at the 1999 World Championships in Spain when his Mum was competing for Team GB. When asked what Will’s best racing experience was he said “The whole of the 2013 season was incredible. Formula 2 was so close and competitive every race was so hotly contested with Jack Lynch, Dave Sewell and James Bartlett among others all in the running! But the moment that really capped it off was the 3rd place finish in the last race at the Worlds in Tenerife and stepping onto the podium. That was a pretty special way to close out the season and meant so much.”

Driver: Martin Wiles aged 51 is a Managing Director of a road haulage business and is from Peterborough. Martin has been driving powerboats for 8 years and he started in 2005 after the World Championships in Hunstanton where he was part of the organising committee. Martin’s best racing experience was the Diamond Race and competing in the World Championships in Tenerife last year.

Observer: Nigel Newland aged 46 is a Director in a construction/ development company from Caterham in Surrey. Nigel has been observing in a racing environment for over 15 years. He had been a skier until 10 years ago when he started driving and observing for his wife and then his son Will.

Nigel’s best experience was driving for Will in the World Championships in Tenerife last year.

TEAM 47

Boat number: 47 Area: Hunstanton Ski Club

This will be the first full year of National racing as a Formula 1 team but they have competed at club level and also in a number of European cup races.

Some of their achievements to date are : British Mens Formula 2 champion 2013, 5th placed Men’s Formula 2 skier at the 2013 World Titles in Tenerife (1st placed British and 1st placed European F2 Skier), 2nd place British Men’s F2 2011, 3rd place British Men’s F2 2010, 2nd place British Men’s F3 2009.

BRITISH WATER SKI 2014 | 15

TEAM ON THE PULL

Boat number: 38 Area: Hunstanton Ski Club

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Skier: Harvey Robinson aged 25 is a mechanic from Burwell in Cambridgeshire. Harvey has been ski racing for 10 years; he started skiing at a national competition in Hunstanton in 2003 and hasn’t looked back since. Harvey says his best racing experience was winning the F1 GB Championship last year. Harvey says his fitness regime is to ski as often as he can.

Driver: Robert Jenkins aged 33 is a marine engineer from Weston Super Mare. Robert has been driving boats for over 14 years and got involved with racing when he bought his first boat. Robert’s best experiences whilst racing were winning the GB Championship in 2012 as well as taking part in the World Championships in Belgium and Tenerife and also the European Championships in Holland.

Observer: Sean McCann aged 24 is a chartered accountant from Cambridge and has been observing for 5 years.

Sean started skiing in 2002 and after an illness he started observing. Sean says his best racing experiences were winning the European Championships and also the Diamond Race in 2004 as a Brit Kid skier.

This will be the fourth year Harvey and Robert will race together and their goals for this year are to stay at the top of their game in Formula 1. When asked what they enjoy most about ski racing they all said that they enjoy the extended family of ski racers and also going to different venues around UK and Europe.

When asked what advice the team would offer to new teams joining the sport they said “Talk to people, get involved and enjoy it!”

Skier: Darren Kirkland is a construction consultant from London. Darren has been skiing for over 30 years and started skiing with his uncle and has been competing at International level for his entire adult life. Darren says his best racing experience was winning the Diamond Race in Belgium.

TEAM PLUS ONE

Driver: Neil Harvey aged 50 is a oil Executive from Illminster.

Neil has been driving powerboats for many years.

Observer: Wayne Harvey aged 54 is an accountant from Cardiff. Wayne has been observing for many years and started observing when he was no longer able to ski.

This will be the first year the Plus One Racing team will compete together although each member of the team has years of experience. When asked what they enjoy about the sport they all quoted ‘the fun!’ The team goals for 2014 are to win the Formula 1 National Championships.

Boat number: 34 Area: Weston Super Mare

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TEAM STAND AND DELIVER Boat number: 121 Area: Lyme Regis Power Boat Club

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Skier: James Bartlett is an engineer in the South West. He has been skiing competitively for seven years with this being his fifth year competing in Formula 2. His father, John Bartlett, competed for 20 years as a driver in the sport and is the reason James got involved in ski racing originally. One of James proudest moments was being selected for Team GB last year and competing at the World Championships in Tenerife. Racing amongst the worlds best water skiers and ski racing legends was unforgettable.

Driver: David Ellis is a managing director from Penarth in Wales. David has been driving power boats for many years and he says his best racing experience was taking part in the World Championships in Tenerife in 2013.

Observer: Colin Harris is a mechanic from Cardiff. Colin initially skied and then retired from skiing to observe many years ago. Colin has been racing for 40 years this year and his most memorable experience was winning the Diamond Race in Belgium.

This is the first year this team has raced together, but they have years of experience between them. Objectives are to remain competitive and strive for podium finishes.

A sport which has it all – a great family sport that comes in a variety of flavours.

Water skiing is both a recreational activity and a competitive sport. The majority of British Water Ski & Wakeboard’s members ski or ride for fun and to keep fit. They may participate by skiing on two skis, one ski, riding a wakeboard or a kneeboard, barefoot, or other means of keeping afloat! The majority ski at clubs or cable centres and ski schools affiliated to British Water Ski & Wakeboard, but there are also many who ski on the sea or estuaries or rivers with no formal club structure. Our policy is to promote water skiing as much as possible through clubs who can then control the activity and make sure it is carried out safely and with respect for other water users.

BAREFOOT Use the boom, ski shoes and a good coach/driver and you’ll be ‘footing’ at around 25mph in no time. Starting on your back, sitting up and gently placing your soles on the water are the ingredients, which make up the art of learning to barefoot.

BOAT WAKEBOARD In competition Wakeboarding, you get the chance to show off, not only to your friends, but also to the officials and admiring onlookers. Riders perform a subjectively judged freeriding routine. Contestants may perform any manoeuvres they choose in any order they wish. The boat will travel in a straight path on the lake in each direction.

CABLE WAKEBOARD - THE NEW LIFESTYLE SPORT FOR THE 2020 OLYMPICS Wakeboarding emerged from waterskiing and surfing in California and changed the World of classic Waterskiing as fast as Snowboarding did with snow skiing back in the 90’s.

DISABLED SKIING Are you or is someone you know, visually impaired, in a wheelchair, an amputee or perhaps a person with a learning disability? Do you like the idea of water sports but feel that your disability is preventing you from participating?

KNEEBOARD A fun recreational activity for the whole family to enjoy. There is however a more competitive edge to the sport where participants progress to a very high skill level and compete global stage in tricks and slalom events.

WATER SKI RACING At speeds of up to 200km per hour these high performance boats and high performance skiers stretch skiing to the extreme.

TOURNAMENT - CLASSIC WATER SKIING; SLALOM, TRICKS AND JUMP Tournament water ski is the original form of water skiing, from which all other forms have been derived.

BRITISH WATERSKI & WAKEBOARD is the only recognised voice speaking for Water Skiing and Wakeboarding in the UK. Joining us is the best way of supporting the sport now and for the future. We are a nonprofit organisation with all our income re-invested into the continued development of Water Skiing and Wakeboarding throughout Britain, from grassroots level through to our top athletes.

Our vision is to provide great experiences for anyone to enjoy. Our mission is to expand participation, improve performance and beat the world. Joining the federation will help us to support and promote these thrilling water sports in the UK. Every year hundreds of youngsters try the sport for the first time, and want to continue taking part, and with your assistance this will continue. By joining you will help the sport increase in popularity, strengthen our voice when representing the sport to various UK bodies, and ensure that a high standard of facilities is maintained across the UK. QUALIFICATIONS Access to our range of qualifications… e.g. Coach, Ski Boat Driver Award, International Certificate of Competence, Cable Operator, System 2.0 licences and Competition licences. BWSW qualified Coaches and Officials also receive extra insurance. Please email info@bwsf.co.uk for more information. For further information on the qualifications we offer please visit our Coaching and Qualifications page at www.bws. org.uk PERSONAL ACCIDENT INSURANCE As a member you are automatically covered by our personal accident scheme which provides limited benefits which can be topped up if required - cover whilst skiing anywhere in the world or travelling to and from any club, regional, national or international calendared water ski activity organised by British Water Ski & Wakeboard. Registered, qualified volunteer Instructors, Coaches or Officials are covered by 3rd party liability when acting on behalf of an affiliated club or at British Water Ski & Wakeboard events. Note - additional benefits are available and can be “topped up” on payment of a small additional premium.

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MAGAZINE As a BWSW member you will receive our ‘British Water Ski & Wakeboard’ magazine sent to your home four times a year. It contains all the latest news and views plus interesting articles on all aspects of the sport. As a BWSW member you also have access to our online magazine, which includes extra articles and images for you.

SUPPORT AND ADVICE Where can I ski in the UK? How do I take my boat abroad? From everyday questions to specialised technical advice - you will also have access to expert assistance on all aspects of the various disciplines.

OTHER BENEFITS • Cutting Edge - Youth award scheme • On The Edge - Adult award scheme • Access to a range of courses and seminars held throughout the year • Access to the BWSW Talent Development Camps • Access to the BWSW Credit Card • Membership card and MyBWSW online

British Water Ski & Wakeboard

Unit 3 The Forum, Hanworth Lane, Chertsey, Surrey KT16 9JX Tel: 01932 560 007 | Email: info@bwsf.co.uk

BRITISH WATER SKI 2014 | 21

TEAM JAKE THE SNAKE Boat number: 18 Area: All Hallows Ski Club

Skier: Jake Frame aged 20 is a electrician from Rochester in Kent. Jake has been skiing since he was 7 and took part in his first race in 2001. Jake says his best racing experience was the World Championships on Australia in 2011 and also the Catalina race in America in 2011. Jake says his best racing venue was Marnham.

Driver: Simon Faulkner aged 37 is a transport manager from Kent. Simon has been driving powerboats for over 15 years and has been driving and observing for Jake for the past 9 years. Simon raced as a teenager and skied at races all over the country but now chooses to drive and observe for his son Jake. Simon says his best racing experience was at the World Championships in Australia in 2011.

Observer: Darren Elliott aged 45 is a Company Director from Kent. Darren has been involved in water ski racing since he was a teenager and has observed for several teams over the years. When asked what was his best racing experience Darren said observing in the Southern 80 in Australia earlier this year.

Team Jake the Snake have a number of achievements under their belt, which include: British National Junior Champion 2010/11 Individual Bronze medal winner in the World Championships in Australia in 2011 European Cup runners up European Eurokid Champion Twice Diamond Race Winner in Eurokids The team is sponsored by GPS MOT Testing and Online Roadways.

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Skier: Charlie Cox is a barman from Brentwood in Essex.

Charlie has been skiing for 7 years and started skiing at Stone Watersports Club behind his uncle’s jet ski. Charlie says his best racing experience was achieving 2nd place in the Euro Cup in Geel, Belgium.

Driver: Rob Morley aged 49 is a race car engineer from London. Rob has been driving boats since he was 8 years old and racing boats for the past 2 years. He started racing at Hunstanton ski club in their club races in 2012 and also took part in some national races in 2013. When asked which races Rob had enjoyed the most he said “I enjoy all of them but my first national race at Stone where I went straight in to a F2 race, it was exciting!”

Observer: Graham Martin from Essex. Graham has been observing and racing for many years although he had taken a break recently. Graham is looking forward to getting back into the boat with Rob and Charlie.

This will be the first year that team Wicked will race together and they are looking forward to the challenges racing in a competitive Formula 2 field will bring.

TEAM WICKED RACING Boat number: 999 Area: Stone Watersports Club

BRITISH WATER SKI 2014 | 23

TEAM SCREAMIN DEMON

Skier: Daryl Tyndall aged 21 is an electrician from Romford in Essex. Daryl has been skiing for 9 years and started racing when he watched a regional race at Stone club and wanted to give it a go. He hasn’t looked back since!

Driver: Peter Tyndall aged 51 is an electrical engineer from Romford in Essex. Peter has been driving for 3 years competitively and he started racing when his son Daryl decided he wanted to give it a go. Peter says his best racing experience was taking part in the European Championships in Spain in 2010.

Boat number: 6

Observer: Simon Smith aged 48 is a furniture manufacturer and upholsterer from Hornchurch in Essex. Simon started skiing, then observing when his children took over the skiing and then onto driving. He has been observing competitively for 8 years.

Area: Stone Water Sports Club

This will be the 2nd year the team has raced together and they love the fact ski racing is very much a family sport and very sociable. They have made many friends all over the world in the last 8 years.

The goals for the Screamin Demon team in 2014 are to do their best in F2 and improve on last year.

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Skier: Pamela Evans, aged 33, is a freelance graphic designer and works in marketing in Somerset. She started skiing competitively in 2013, after following the race circuit with her boyfriend who competes in F2. She decided rather than just sit and watch on the sidelines, she would give it a go herself!

Driver: David Ellis is a managing director from Penarth in Wales. David has been driving power boats for many years and he says his best racing experience was taking part in the World Championships in Tenerife in 2013.

Observer: Colin Harris is a mechanic from Cardiff. Colin initially skied and then retired from skiing to observe many years ago. Colin has been racing for 40 years this year and his most memorable experience was winning the Diamond Race in Belgium.

This is the first year the team will have raced together, but Pamela is looking forward to learning from the years of experience her team brings.

TEAM STAND AND DELIVER Boat number: 121 Area: Lyme Regis Power Boat Club

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TEAM ON A BUDGET Boat number: 49 Area: Hunstanton Ski Club

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Skier: Georgina Robinson aged 18 is a waitress from Reach in Cambridge. Georgina has been skiing for 5 years and got involved with the sport with her brother Harvey. When asked about her best racing experience Georgina said “My best experience would have to be Tenerife 2013 Worlds, terrifying, but amazing”. Georgina trains at the gym as much as possible and enjoys training on the water when she can.

Driver: James Robinson aged 50+ is a courier from Reach in Cambridge. James has been driving power boats for 15 years and started at Hunstanton club races with his father. James says his best racing experience was to be part of the GB team with 3 of his children.

Observer: Chris Lakin aged 27 is a boat builder from Birmingham. Chris has been observing for a few years and Chris says his best experiences have been winning the F2 championship in 2013 and watching Georgina get faster and faster in each race.

The team have been racing together for 3 years and their best achievement to date has been to take the gold medal in the national at Whitstable. The team goals for 2014 are to power through all conditions and hopefully get some good results.

When asked what advice they would give to a new team they said “We would suggest to go in with a open mind. Yes, it’s hard work, but the reward at the end of a race is much greater.”

Skier: Clare Taylor is an administrator from Sherstone. Clare learnt to ski as a teenager behind her dad’s boat and she was introduced to racing by her father Alan. Clare trains hard both on and off the water taking part in spinning, circuits, swimming and also attending the gym. She says her best UK racing venue is Lyme Regis and her most memorable experience to date was taking part in the World Championships as part of team GB in Tenerife in 2013.

Driver: Greg Bassam is the owner of GB Watersports and is from Peterborough. Greg has been driving powerboats for many years and has been involved in ski racing for many years too. When asked what had been Greg’s best racing experience he struggled to say, as he has loved each and every race.

Observer: Roy Taylor is managing director of Taylor’s Autos in Sherbourne. Roy has been observing for 5 years and started ski racing as his family were involved in the sport.

Roy says his best experience was meeting his wife Clare.

The team have been racing together for 7 years and have some fantastic achievements which include: British Champion in both the Sprint and Marathon series in 2013.

6th place in the open women’s race in the World Championships in Tenerife in 2013.

TEAM TAYLOR RACING Boat number: 925 Area: Hunstanton Ski Club

The team are looking forward to travelling to France this year to take part in the European Championships.

BRITISH WATER SKI 2014 | 27

TEAM TAZ-A-MANIA

Boat number: 510 Area: Scotland

Skier: Marisa Alongi aged 18 is a student from Musselburgh in Scotland. Marisa has been skiing for 3 years and took part in her first competitive race in 2013. Her best racing experience was starting last at Brixham and then finishing first. She spends a lot of time skiing in Scotland but also trains at the gym to keep her fitness on track.

Driver: Alfredo Alongi is a restaurateur from Musselburgh in Scotland. Alfredo has been driving power boats for many years and started skiing initially before driving successfully in Formula 2. He then took a break and has returned to the ski racing family along with his daughter. When asked about his best racing experience he said “My best experience was driving for Marissa in the World Championships in 2013.”

Observer: Steve Bird aged 45 is a builder from Burnham On Sea. Steve has been observing for 10 years and started skiing and then after a short break returned to the racing circuit observing. Steve says his best racing experience was observing in the first race at the World Championships in 2013.

This is the first year the Taz-A-Mania team have raced together although between them they have racked up some great achievements. When asked what they enjoy most about ski racing they said “Being involved in a team and family sport.”

The team goals for 2014 are to gain a podium place in both the national championships and also the Europeans as this is the first year in the ladies event.

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Skier: Rod Hawkins from Bristol has been skiing since he was 6 years old. Rod has skied in the British and European Championships for many years and has achieved the British Seniors Championship crown for the past 4 years.

Driver: Bradley Cannings aged 40 is a Managing Director from Exeter. Bradley has been driving for over 18 years and learnt to ski at his local club in Exmouth when he was only 4 years old. Bradley started racing as a teenager and he says his best racing experience was the Catalina Water Ski Race in America.

Observer: Tim Mayers aged 45 is an electrician from Lyme Regis. Tim has been observing for over 25 years and started many years ago in Lyme Regis at a regional race. Tim says his best racing experiences were winning the Diamond Race in Belgium and winning the river Trent races 2 years running.

This will be the first year the team have competed in Seniors and they are looking forward to the challenges it will bring.

When asked what they enjoy most about racing they said “Racing at different venues and different water conditions.

There is also a good close group of competitors which make a great friendly atmosphere.”

The advice they would offer to new teams is “Don’t get carried away with what everyone has or uses on the circuit.

It takes a number of seasons to become honed at ski racing.

We raced for many years with inferior equipment but eventually became good enough to win races because of ability and not the best equipment.”

TEAM H2O

Boat number: 200 Area: Lyme Regis Power Boat Club

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TEAM REBEL RACING

Skier: Martin Davies who celebrates his 70th birthday this year, lives in Chepstow in South Wales. Martin has been skiing for 44 years and started when he bought a ski boat with a Ford 110E engine, back in 1966.

Driver: David Llewellyn aged 75, lives in Bargoed in South Wales. David has been driving boats for 36 years and started when he met Martin.

Observer: TBC Rebel racing have been racing as a team for 40 years, on and off, and Martin also took part in the cross channel race in 1972.

Boat number: 111 Area: Penarth Ski Club

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The team enjoy the participation of national ski racing.

Skier: Nadia Mersey aged 16 is a student from Islington.

Nadia has been skiing since she was 5 and she has been racing since she was 8 years old. Nadia’s family have always been involved in water ski racing and they have been members of Stone Water Sports Club for many years. Her family taught her to ski and she has skied on rivers, lakes, canals and off shore at lots of different venues. Nadia says her best racing experience was in Gent, Belgium where the water was very challenging. Nadia works hard to keep herself fit and she regularly visits the gym, dances, runs and eats healthily.

Driver: Barry Clapson aged 52 is a Director from Billericay in Essex. Barry has been driving power boats for over 30 years and started with his family as a hobby. Barry then went on to compete himself before taking the wheel and driving for his son and Nadia. Barry says his best racing experience was taking part in the World Championships with his son.

Observer: Simon Smith aged 49 is a furniture manufacturer/ upholsterer from Hornchurch in Essex. Simon has been driving for 9 years and started skiing and boating from quite a young age and then progressed to ski racing. Simon said “When my sons decided they wanted to have a go I then had to get in the observers seat. I decided to get more involved in the driving side and began pulling Nadia in Brit kids.” Simon says he has enjoyed all of his racing experiences but his special ones have been in the 2 World Championships with his sons. Simon also loves driving and observing for Nadia and seeing how much she has progressed.

TEAM TRIPLE EIGHT Boat number: 888 Area: Stone Watersports Club

The team goals for 2014 are to gain a podium finish in every race.

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IRRESISTIBLE WATER SKI RACING TEAM Boat number: 63 Area: Stone Watersports Club

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Skier: Samantha Clark aged 16 is a student from Uckfield, East Sussex and she has been skiing for 12 years. Samantha was taught to ski by her parents when she was 4 and a half and she competed in her first race when she was 8. When asked what Sam’s best racing experience was, she said “Being included in the GB Team for the last World Championships in Tenerife and before that being the 2010 EuroKids European Champion.” Sam tries to spend as much time on the water as she can as well as time at the gym in addition to college PE. Driver: Gary Clark aged 51 is a property landlord from Uckfield, East Sussex. Gary has been driving power boats for over 30 years when he started driving for Sam’s mum in the ladies class at club and regional level before racing nationally in the late 80’s. When asked about his best racing experiences Gary said “I enjoyed many years driving for Sam’s Mum before Sam took over as the main skier. Driving for Sam since teaching her to ski, on to winning the European Championships and recently racing in the World Championships have been an amazing time.”

Observer: TBC The Irresistible team has a new boat this year and they are looking forward to racing with it. When asked what they enjoy most about ski racing they said “Ski racing is highly competitive but we always race as a family and thoroughly enjoy the social side.”

The teams main goal for 2014 is to enjoy the season, get the boat completely as they want it and get a new team together that gel. Sam can also qualify as a junior for the 2015 World Championships so the teams longer term goal is to be selected for the British Team next year.

Skier: Ben Manchett aged 17 is a apprentice HGV mechanic from Newmarket.

Ben has been skiing competitively for 4 years and was introduced to ski racing as a child as his family have been competing for many years. Ben says his best racing experience was achieving a podium position in the 2013 World Championships in Tenerife. Ben trains very hard to keep himself fit and he circuit trains twice a week, he also runs and cycles. Ben has spent the early months of 2014 training in Australia as the seas are too cold in the UK. Driver: Martin Wiles aged 51 is a Managing Director of a road haulage business and is from Peterborough. Martin has been driving powerboats for 8 years and he started in 2005 after the World Championships in Hunstanton where he was part of the organising committee. Martin’s best racing experience was the Diamond Race and competing in the World Championships in Tenerife last year.

Observer: Sean McCann aged 24 is a chartered accountant from Cambridge and has been observing for 5 years. Sean started skiing in 2002 and after an illness he started observing. Sean says his best racing experiences were winning the European Championships and also the Diamond Race in 2004 as a Brit Kid skier.

This will be the second year that the team have competed together and they achieved a 2nd place in the British National Championships in 2014 along with a 2nd place in round one of the World Championships in Tenerife and 1st place in the European championships. When asked what they enjoy about the sport they said “The team spirit and general camaraderie amongst all the competitors.”

Their team goals for 2014 are to do the best they can as this will be their last year in juniors, they are competing in the British Nationals, European Cup and the European Championships.

The teams advice for anyone looking to join the sport is firstly and most importantly enjoy it, if you want to do well train hard, look after your equipment and keep pushing on hard to the end of the race, a lot can happen in the last ten minutes.

TEAM RUMPY PUMPY Boat number: 47 Area: Hunstanton Ski Club

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TEAM PLAYTHING

Skier: Thomas Smith aged 17 is a student. Thomas has been skiing for 9 years and started on a pair of skis behind a jet ski in 2004. Thomas says his best racing experiences have been winning the Diamond Race and the European Championships in 2012.

Driver: Malcolm Roffe aged 62 is a company Director from Holbeach. Malcolm has been driving power boats for several years and started with a 12 ft Fletcher with a 35hp Johnson 30 years ago. Malcolm says his best racing experiences are driving the boat for his Grandson Thomas and watching him win his races.

Boat number: 1 Area: Hunstanton Ski Club

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Observer: Darren Elliott aged 45 is a Company Director from Kent. Darren has been involved in water ski racing since he was a teenager and has observed for several teams over the years. When asked what was his best racing experience Darren said observing in the Southern 80 in Australia earlier this year.

This will be the second year Darren has joined Malcolm and Thomas as a team. When asked what the team enjoy about racing they said “The starts when it is loud, fast and everyone races to get to the first turn”.

Their advice to a new team joining the sport is “Anyone wanting to be an observer, you are the drivers eyes at the back of the boat, keep the driver up to date with what’s happening behind, where faster boats are and how close.

When the skier waves up or down tell the driver and raise an arm to let the skier know that you have acknowledged their request. Have fun and enjoy the sport.”

Skier: Daisy Slade is 14 and is a student from Brentwood in Essex. This is Daisy’s 3rd season and she was taught to ski by her observer Martyn Robinson. Daisy likes to keep fit by going to the gym and eating healthily. Her best race experience was winning Brit Kids B National Championships 2013 and taking part in the Diamond Race 2013.

Driver: Simon Faulkner aged 37 is a transport manager from Kent. Simon has been driving powerboats for over 15 years and has been driving and observing for Jake for the past 9 years. Simon raced as a teenager and skied at races all over the country but now chooses to drive and observe for his son Jake. Simon says his best racing experience was at the World Championships in Australia in 2011.

Observer: Martyn Robinson aged 47 is a HGV Driver from Rayleigh. Martin has been observing for 13 years and first became interested in racing when he was asked to be a safety boat at a National ski race at Stone Water Sports Club 5 years ago. Martyn enjoys being part of the Jake the Snake team and enjoys his part in each race.

This year will be the second year for Daisy and the team and they are hoping to have lots of fun. Their goal for 2014 is to continue to improve, ski faster and keep her title of Brit Kids B National Champion.

TEAM JAKE THE SNAKE Boat number: 18 Area: Stone Water Sports Club

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TEAM STAND AND DELIVER Boat number: 121 Area: Weston Super Mare

Skier: Hannah Bird aged 15 is a student from Burnham On Sea. Hannah has been skiing for 9 months and learnt to ski in Scotland and enjoyed it so much she decided she wanted to race so she took part in her first race in Cardiff last year.

Hannah keeps herself fit by going to the gym, jogging and trampolining.

Driver: David Ellis is a managing director from Penarth in Wales. David has been driving power boats for many years and he says his best racing experience was taking part in the World Championships in Tenerife in 2013.

Observer: Colin Harris is a mechanic from Cardiff. Colin initially skied and then retired from skiing to observe many years ago. Colin has been racing for 40 years this year and his most memorable experience was winning the Diamond Race in Belgium.

This will be the first full year the team will race together and when asked what they like about ski racing they simply said “Going fast!”. Hannah came second in the Brit Kid B National Championships last year and this year the team goals are to win every race and get picked for team GB to race in the European Championships. When asked what advice the team would give to a new team joining the sport they said “Get a good consistent team that you trust. Make sure all your equipment is checked and double-checked before you go racing!”.

The team would like to thank the following sponsors : Acorn Financial Planning, Optimum Time Watches, Mi Pac Bags, Diechmann Shoes, Boat Buddy & Grunt Boat Cleaning Products, Kings Fitness & Leisure, Cheddar.

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Skier: Lauren Bird aged 12 is a student from Burnham on Sea. Lauren has been skiing since she was 5 but only took up racing last year along with her sister Hannah. Lauren started skiing with her dad and Steve Cox from Middlemoor Water Park. Lauren says her best racing experience was taking part in her first race in Cardiff last year. Lauren also enjoys karate and jogging.

Driver: Alfredo Alongi is a restaurateur from Musselburgh in Scotland. Alfredo has been driving power boats for many years and started skiing initially and then drove successfully in formula 2 for many years, he then took a break and has returned to the ski racing family along with his daughter.

When asked about his best racing experience he said “My best experience was driving for Marissa in the World Championships in 2013.�

Observer: Steve Bird aged 45 is a builder from Burnham On Sea. Steve has been observing for 10 years and started skiing and then after a short break returned to the racing circuit observing. Steve says his best racing experience was to observe in the first race at the World Championships in 2013.

This will be the first full year the team have raced together and they are looking forward to it.

TEAM TAZ-A-MANIA

Boat number: 510 Area: Weston Super Mare

The team goals for 2014 are to complete every race and hope to get in the British team for the European Championships.

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TEAM TRIPLE EIGHT Boat number: 888 Area: Stone Water Sports Club

Skier: Max Stedeford aged 10 is a student from Billericay, Essex. Max started skiing last year and entered his first race in Eguzon in France in 2013. Max started skiing with friends and family whilst on holiday and he really enjoyed it so he is looking forward to competing in the Brit Kids A category for the first time this year. Max and his family have been members of Stone Water Sports Club for many years and they have been involved in the club races.

Driver: Barry Clapson aged 52 is a Director from Billericay in Essex. Barry has been driving power boats for over 30 years and started with his family as a hobby. Barry then went on to compete himself before taking the wheel and driving for his son and Nadia. Barry says his best racing experience was taking part in the World Championships with his son.

Observer: Simon Smith aged 49 is a furniture manufacturer/ upholsterer from Hornchurch in Essex. Simon has been driving for 9 years and started skiing and boating from quite a young age and then progressed to ski racing. Simon said “When my sons decided they wanted to have a go I then had to get in the observers seat. I then decided to get more involved in the driving side and began pulling Nadia in Brit kids.� Simon says he has enjoyed all of his racing experiences but his special ones have been in the 2 World Championships with his sons.

The team goals for 2014 are to finish as many races as possible and to enjoy every moment.

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Skier: Joe Veater aged 9 is from Radstock near Bath. Joe has been skiing for a year and is looking forward to his second year of skiing in the National Championships. Joe was taught to ski by his family and he has progressed very well for someone so young. Joe is hoping that he can finish all of his races this year and then continue to develop and improve throughout the year. Joe also competes in gymnastics, swimming and football.

Driver: Alan Veater aged 44 is a company Director from Radstock near Bath. Alan has been skiing and driving power boats for over 20 years and learned to ski in Bristol docks when he was 10 and drove his father’s fishing boat also at a young age. This is Alan’s 6th year of driving in the National Championships for Joe’s sister Robyn. Alan is looking forward to driving for both of his children in the national championships this year.

Observer: Tim Mayers aged 45 is an electrician from Lyme Regis. Tim has been observing for over 26 years and started many years ago in Lyme Regis at a regional race. Tim says his best racing experiences were winning the Diamond Race in Belgium, winning the river Trent races 2 years running. Tim is looking forward to bringing Joe on and helping him to improve and develop.

This will be the second year that the team have raced together although the driver and observer have both raced with Joe’s older sister.

When asked what they enjoy most about ski racing they said “The camaraderie of the racing teams, the competitive spirit across all classes and the friendly ski race family. We have made some fantastic friends whilst racing and we love the support each team gives each other.”

The team’s goals for 2014 are to finish each race and enjoy it.

When asked what advice they would give to a new team joining the sport they said “Stay safe and enjoy every minute of every race.”

TEAM KRAKEN

Boat number: 226 Area: Lyme Regis Power Boat Club

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