The Beginners Guide to Jet Ski Racing

Racing Jet Ski’s or PWC’s (personal watercraft) is a very popular sport that has many similarities to boat racing. The difference is that the rider is on a Jet Ski as they are competing in a race. Although Jet Ski racing is only recognized as a recreational sport in many countries, Australia and the United States recognize the racing as a competitive sport.

Lakes are the normal racing spots for these high speed watercraft competitions and every competing rider must wear the required protective equipment in order to compete. There are also several different categories that the Jet Skis are placed in based on the size of its engine, and so each race involves a separate category based on the engine size.

The racecourse is also marked by buoys forming an oval. The course length will never be the same and it can be as far as a mile. There is also a predetermined amount of laps that each rider must make in order to win the race.

A normal race is conducted in heats and each heat includes up to 10 riders. Each winner of the heat moves forward to the next race and subsequently ends after the final race is conducted and a winner has been declared.

If you have never raced a watercraft like a Jet Ski, then you need to try it because it is a truly thrilling experience and is full of action. If you would like to know what it’s all about before you make a full commitment, then there are a few pieces of equipment you will need prior to signing up for a race.

Goggles

Having goggles can be an important tool when it comes to being able to see as the water gets sprayed in your face by other racers. They are not a requirement, but they will definitely save you some trouble in the long run. A good idea to implement, is to apply a floatation device on your goggle’s adjustable strap so that they can be retrieved if they come off during a race.

Helmet

It goes without saying that a helmet is required if you want to participate in any race that is sanctioned. When it comes to Jet Ski racing, you want to make sure you are protected at all times, so it is recommended that you buy a helmet . So make sure that you get one before you participate in your race and make sure that it feels comfortable so that you can get used to it before you begin competing in an actual race. All sanctioning rules include the fact that a helmet must be approved by the DOT/SNELL.

Life Vest and Back Brace

Another piece of safety equipment you must have before you begin racing is a life vest. The life vest that you use must be approved by the U.S. Coast Guard prior to you securing your spot in a race. You need to ensure that your vest is nice and snug and unable to be lifted over your head. Besides a life vest, a back brace is also a requirement if you race in a stand-up competition. It is a great recommendation if you only plan to race in runabouts. You can easily visit a motorcycle shop to get a brace. Ensure that it is able to be worn securely either under or over your life vest.

A Jet Ski That’s Ready to Race

Now that you have the required gear ready, you need to ensure that your Jet Ski is mechanically sound. If you want, you can always check with the race organizers to see if they offer a beginner’s class. If they do in fact have a class for beginners, then you will get the chance to participate in a race that is specifically for those who have any make or model of Jet Ski so that you know how it feels to race without having to wonder if your Jet Ski is good enough. Although you are a beginner, there are still some rules to follow that concern safety. First, your Jet Ski must have a tow loop in case your Jet Ski becomes disabled and needs to be removed from the water.

A PWC lanyard for your wrist is to be worn in case you become separated from your Jet Ski. The purpose of the lanyard is to ensure that your Jet Ski’s ignition is turned off so that the engine can be killed.

A race number is also needed. With a race number, it allows the race director to identify you. The number can be any number of your choosing as long as it’s big enough to be seen.

Locate the Race That You Want

With races happening all around the world, it should be fairly easy for you to find a local race. Once you locate a race that peaks your interest, check the event website, and pre-register so that you can make sure that you secure a spot, and save a little bit of money at the same time. Make a visit to the lake where the race will be held. Ensure that everything is available that you might need, including fuel. Also, get involved with the community on a social network so that you’ll receive the latest race information.

One of the good things that you’ll notice after becoming active in the racing community is how much respect and understanding there is shown towards beginner racers. Always make sure to ask questions if you are unsure of anything as well as become acquainted with fellow competitors. This can be good knowledge for future purposes.

Although this list is fairly short, it will surely grow as you become more experienced. After your initial race, you’ll have a better grasp of what is expected for each race so that you can be a success on and off the track.

Make sure you are ready to have the best experience possible, because you’ll get the biggest adrenaline rush that will have you begging for more. So as you wait for your next race, you should be decking out your Jet Ski to show how dedicated you are to the sport. Not only will you become addicted to the sport, but you’ll see yourself shopping for the latest gear that’ll provide you with an edge against other racers.