Waterski Show Takes Place Thursday-Sunday in Wisconsin Rapids
Each July, waterski teams gather for the largest show tournament in the world – and it’s in Wisconsin Rapids.
Starting Thursday, July 20 and ending Sunday, July 23, twenty-four ski teams will converge on the waters of Lake Wazeecha for spectacular, all-day performances at Wisconsin State Waterski Tournament. Hosted by the Wisconsin Rapids Aqua Skiers, the tournament will determine this year’s best of the best in three divisions.
The free event (parking $3) has brought out thousands of spectators each year at Red Sands Beach since its origin in 1967. Prepare to be awed by the athleticism of the skiers as they flip, twist, and spin over jumps; by the teamwork required to make towering, 5-tier pyramids; by the skill of swivel skiers performing 1,080-degree turns and the ballet lines of twenty-five skiers.
Teams are judged based on many factors, including execution, showmanship, difficulty, music, costuming, and overall performance, among others.
The lineup can be found here. The Aqua Skiers, along with the rest of Division I, will perform at four on Sunday, July 23rd with six other teams. Concessions and vendors will be available (carry-ins not allowed.) Breakfast begins at six and the beer tent is open each day.
Bring a lawn chair for a seat at the beach and a camera with a good zoom. Tournament opening ceremonies start at 7:45 a.m. on Thursday with the individual Competition beginning at eight. Individual skiers will perform doubles at 8:00, swivels at 10:30, team jumps at 1:00, and freestyle jumps at 3:30.
Performances by each team last about an hour and begin at 7 a.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Natalie Decker, ARCA race car driver from Eagle River, will be signing autographs at the show on each day beginning Friday.
