By Jack Burden

Amidst speculation surrounding the future of Malibu’s Response TXi model following recent company layoffs, Malibu Boats has solidified its dedication to tournament waterskiing in Australia. The company announced a long-term sponsorship agreement with Waterski & Wakeboard Australia (WAWA), ensuring its support for the Australian National Water Ski Championships until at least 2030.

The announcement, made during the Open finals at the 2024 National Championships by Noel Gordon, a representative of Malibu Boats Australia, reaffirmed Malibu’s longstanding commitment to the sport in Australia. Gordon expressed Malibu’s pride in continuing to sponsor the national championships, highlighting the company’s long history of support for tournament waterskiing in the country.

Mark Quinn, President of Water Ski Australia, echoed Gordon’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of Malibu’s sponsorship and its positive impact on the sport over the years. “It’s great to have them back on board for the next five years,” shared Quinn, “hopefully we keep running in this direction for many years to come.” Quinn praised Malibu’s involvement in various initiatives, including the New South Wales Malibu Series and junior development programs, underscoring the value of their continued partnership.

The sponsorship announcement comes amidst rumors surrounding the future of the Response TXi model following recent company layoffs. However, Rob Corum, Malibu’s marketing manager, dispelled these rumors, affirming Malibu’s commitment to producing the world-record ski boat for the foreseeable future.

Corum, now overseeing the promo program in the US following Dennis Kelley’s unexpected termination, is collaborating with AWSA to try to maintain the presence of Malibu boats at tournaments across the country. The stated goal is to continue to use all three manufacturers at AWSA Regional and National Championships this year, although there are areas of the country where this may be challenging.

Despite some uncertainties regarding promo boat availability in the US, Malibu remains a key supporter of tournament skiing in Australia. Malibu’s strong presence in Australia dates back to the early 1990s when it acquired Flightcraft, subsequently establishing a manufacturing facility in Albury, New South Wales, in 1994.

The company retains deep ties to the water ski community in Australia, perhaps exemplified by Gordon, who is himself competing in the Australian Nationals this week and whose wife, Cathryn Gordon (née Humphrey) is a former Moomba Masters champion.

The move to sign a long-term deal to continue to support Australian water skiing is a positive sign, signaling that the TXi is here to stay. Gordon, for his part, is adamant, telling us to “look out for the TXi 25, [we’ve] got some improvements coming!”