2025 Moomba Masters

Moomba Magic: New Champions Rise on the Yarra

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Moomba magic: New champions rise on the Yarra

2025 Moomba Masters

Image: Moomba Masters

By Jack Burden


MELBOURNE, Australia – The 64th Nautique Moomba Masters International Invitational, the longest running event in professional water skiing, delivered another electrifying spectacle on the Yarra River. With its storied history and the festival’s raucous backdrop, no event in the sport draws a bigger live audience. And with it came the unpredictability, the high drama, and a new crop of champions.

The Yarra Claims Its Victims

The Moomba Masters is as much a battle against the conditions as it is against the competition. The infamous Yarra River played its role once again, dashing the hopes of even the most seasoned skiers. The cutthroat LCQ format and brutal preliminary rounds saw big names like reigning under-21 world champion Annemarie Wroblewski and experienced duo Elizabeth and Steven Island miss out on the slalom finals. Trick skiing had its own share of heartbreak, as reigning world overall champion Louis Duplan-Fribourg, along with several other top contenders, failed to navigate their way into the finals after a string of early falls.

Trick Finals: The New Gold Standard

Finals Monday kicked off with a fireworks display in the tricks event, where the women’s showdown was another chapter in the decade-long dominance of Erika Lang, Anna Gay Hunter, and Neilly Ross. Lang, already the Moomba course record holder, set the pace by rewriting her own mark with 10,830 points in the prelims. The final was razor-close, but Lang edged out Hunter and Ross for her third consecutive Moomba Masters crown.

The men’s event was an all-out war, where 12,000-plus was the magic number. Joel Poland, returning to the Moomba Masters after a five-year absence, threw down early with a score above 12,000. Jake Abelson, already riding high from his junior competition victory and course record (12,150), stepped up to take the lead with 12,230. Reigning world champion Patricio Font stumbled in his toe pass and couldn’t claw his way back despite a monster hand pass. Then came top seed Matias Gonzalez, seemingly on the brink of victory until he opted for a wake 180 over a high-scoring risk move, handing the title to Abelson—his first professional win. It also marked the first time in history that all three podium finishers cracked the 12,000-point barrier.

Slalom: A Legend Returns and a New Star Rises

Women’s slalom delivered a storyline no scriptwriter could have crafted better. The two favorites, Whitney McClintock Rini and defending champion Regina Jaquess, had barely survived the LCQs after early-round struggles. But McClintock Rini, skiing first in the finals, set a mark that none of the remaining 7 skiers could beat, securing her tenth Moomba Masters title and cementing her status as the undisputed Queen of Moomba.

The men’s slalom final was another thriller in what has become a wildly unpredictable discipline. Nine different winners in 2024 suggested an anything-goes environment in 2025, and the final reflected just that. Sixteen-year-old Damien Eade took the early lead, before Poland—showcasing his versatility—edged further down the 10.75m line. Then came Freddie Winter, just nine months removed from a broken femur, clawing his way into contention before local hero Lucas Cornale raised the bar to three buoys. It seemed a winning score until the wily veteran Thomas Degasperi managed a piece of four ball, setting the challenge for top seed Charlie Ross. The 19-year-old Canadian skied with a composure beyond his years, securing a full four and his maiden professional title, making him the youngest Moomba Masters slalom champion since Carl Roberge in the early ‘80s.

Jump: A Changing of the Guard

While the conditions kept the scores low in slalom, the jump event was an entirely different story, with personal bests falling like dominos throughout the tournament. The absence of Jacinta Carroll, who had dominated the women’s event for over a decade, left a power vacuum that was quickly filled by Brittany Greenwood Wharton. Making her Moomba Masters debut, the American put together a gutsy performance to fend off a strong challenge from Aliaksandra Danisheuskaya and secure her first professional title.

On the men’s side, the competition was stacked, but the weekend quickly morphed into a two-man showdown between Austria’s Luca Rauchenwald, fresh off a University World’s victory, and Great Britain’s Joel Poland. Poland, already having an outstanding weekend across multiple events, continued his surge by launching a monstrous 69-meter (226-foot) leap to claim his first Moomba Masters jump title. But he wasn’t done yet. Under the Melbourne city fireworks display, he capped off the event with a dominant night jump victory, soaring 68.6 meters (225 feet) off the smaller 5.5-foot ramp, putting an emphatic exclamation point on his weekend.

Moomba Magic Lives On

The 2025 Moomba Masters was a festival of breakthroughs and unexpected turns, a reminder that on the Yarra, past records and rankings often mean little. New champions were crowned, legends continued to build their legacies, and the world’s biggest water skiing stage proved once again why it remains unmatched in drama and spectacle. As the crowds dispersed and the festival wound down, one thing was clear: the Moomba Masters remains the ultimate test of talent, nerve, and resilience.

2024 Nautique Masters Water Ski and Wakeboard Tournament

Joel Poland Makes His Return to the Moomba Masters

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Joel Poland returns to Moomba Masters: A comeback on the Yarra

2024 Nautique Masters Water Ski and Wakeboard Tournament

Image: Johnny Hayward

By Jack Burden


The best water skier in the world is back where it all began.

Reigning world record holder in Men’s Overall, 2024 WWS Overall Tour champion, and 2024 Waterski Pro Tour jump champion, Joel Poland will return to the iconic Moomba Masters in downtown Melbourne from March 8-10. It’s been five years since Poland last carved up the Yarra River, and his return makes an already electric event even more explosive.

Poland last competed at Moomba in 2020, where he finished third in men’s tricks. It was a fitting result for an athlete whose professional career first gained traction at this very event. From 2018 to 2020, the Brit made three consecutive Moomba appearances, cutting his teeth on the notoriously unpredictable Yarra—a river that can make or break the best in the world.

But then, an unwanted break. Visa complications kept Poland out of Australia, forcing him to miss the last three editions of the world’s longest-running professional water ski tournament. Frustrating? Absolutely. But Poland never lost sight of the Moomba Masters. A self-proclaimed superfan of the event, he has bided his time, waiting for his chance to return.

This time, he comes back a different skier. More titles, more records, more experience. His preparation? A northern hemisphere winter spent training in Chile at Lago Valle Maipo with the Gonzalez family. While it’s still early in the season, Poland is expected to be a serious contender in all three events—slalom, trick, and jump.

The Moomba Masters is already the most exciting event on the water ski calendar. With Poland back in the mix, it just got even better.

Ryan Dodd leaves the dock at the 2023 Moomba Masters

Strong Field Confirmed for the 64th Moomba Masters

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Moomba Masters Set for a Thrilling 2025 with World’s Top Skiers

Ryan Dodd leaves the dock at the 2023 Moomba Masters

Waterskiing’s finest set to converge in Melbourne (image: @vincephotography)

By Jack Burden


The stage is set for the 64th Moomba Masters International Invitational, one of water skiing’s premier events, as the Victorian Water Ski Association sends out invitations for the tournament scheduled for March. A total of 69 athletes from 15 countries have confirmed their participation, promising a fiercely competitive and diverse field.

The 2025 roster boasts an impressive lineup, including five of the six individual event world record holders. Notably, the tricks field features all five current skiers who have scored over 12,500 points and all three women who have surpassed 11,000—setting the stage for an intense competition.

While the top seeds include well-established names in the world of water skiing, the rest of the field is comprised of emerging talents, many of whom are relatively unknown. The event’s timing and location have historically posed challenges for Northern Hemisphere athletes, adding an extra layer of excitement as young competitors aim to make their mark on the global stage.

The IWWF University Worlds, held the week prior in nearby Auckland, New Zealand, has further strengthened the presence of young talent traveling to the Southern Hemisphere for this year’s event.

A notable omission from the entry list is Jacinta Carroll, the world record holder, who retired after securing her tenth consecutive Moomba Masters title last year. Her absence guarantees a first-time winner in the women’s jump event.

The Moomba Masters, held in downtown Melbourne during the city’s annual Moomba Festival, draws the largest crowd of any water ski event globally. The Yarra River, with its brackish water, variable tidal currents, and challenging bounceback from the riverbanks, presents a demanding test for athletes. However, the unparalleled atmosphere of skiing in front of thousands of spectators makes it one of the most thrilling experiences in the sport.

Top 10 Seeded Women:

SlalomTricksJump
Regina Jaquess (USA)Neilly Ross (CAN)Aliaksandra Danisheuskaya (USA)
Whitney Rini (CAN)Erika Lang (USA)Brittany Wharton (USA)
Elizabeth Montavon (USA)Anna Hunter (USA)Regina Jaquess (USA)
Neilly Ross (CAN)Alexia Abelson (USA)Valentina Gonzalez (CHI)
Alexander Garcia (USA)Hannah Stopnicki (CAN)Lili Steiner (AUT)
Annemarie Wroblewski (USA)Aliaksandra Danisheuskaya (USA)Sade Ferguson (AUS)
Trinidad Espinal (CHI)Daniela Verswyvel (COL)Kristy Appelton (AUS)
Sade Ferguson (AUS)Valentina Gonzalez (CHI)Lara Butlin (AUS)
Alice Bagnoli (ITA)Erica Hayes (AUS)Sanchia Outram (GBR)
Christhiana De Osma (PER)Megan Pelkey (CAN)Zarhli Reeves (AUS)

Top 10 Seeded Men:

SlalomTricksJump
Nate Smith (USA)Jake Abelson (USA)Joel Poland (GBR)
Frederick Winter (GBR)Patricio Font (MEX)Ryan Dodd (CAN)
Thomas Degasperi (ITA)Matias Gonzalez (CHI)Taylor Garcia (USA)
Charlie Ross (CAN)Martin Labra (CHI)Luca Rauchenwald (AUT)
Lucas Cornale (AUS)Louis Duplan-Fribourg (FRA)Louis Duplan-Fribourg (FRA)
Joel Poland (GBR)Joel Poland (GBR)Jack Critchley (GBR)
Steven Island (USA)Edoardo Marenzi (ITA)Igor Morozov (IWF)
Nicholas Adams (AUS)Pol Duplan-Fribourg (FRA)Tobias Giorgis (ARG)
Joel Howley (AUS)Tobias Giorgis (ARG)Edoardo Marenzi (ITA)
Jaeden Eade (USA)Dominic Kuhn (AUT)Archie Davis (AUS)

2025 water ski calendar

2025 Water Ski Season Calendar: Everything You Need to Know

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2025 water ski season calendar: Everything you need to know

2025 water ski calendar

The 2025 professional water ski season kicks off in March at the 64th Moomba Masters in Melbourne, Australia (image: @jmommer2)

By Jack Burden


The 2025 water ski season is shaping up to be another action-packed year, featuring a robust calendar of major events and thrilling competitions. Following an exhilarating 2024 season, this year promises intense battles on the Waterski Pro Tour and beyond.

Waterski Pro Tour Overview

Last year, the Pro Tour was dominated by an unpredictable men’s slalom season, with Will Asher leading the pack. On the women’s side, Jaimee Bull, Regina Jaquess, and Whitney McClintock Rini delivered an unforgettable season-long showdown. In 2025, we expect more of the same high-level competition.

So far, 11 events are confirmed for the 2025 Pro Tour. Among these:

  • Nine events will feature slalom skiing.
  • Three events will showcase jump competitions.
  • Four events will include trick skiing.

The season kicks off in the U.S. in the spring before heading to Europe for a tightly packed June and July schedule. Afterward, the tour returns briefly to the States before culminating in the much-anticipated World Championships.

Marquee Events & New Additions

  • World Championships (Recetto, Italy – Late August): The biggest event of the year will determine the sport’s best in all disciplines.
  • Ski to Glory ProAm (Ioannina, Greece – Early September): A brand-new addition to the calendar, this event will feature all three disciplines and marks Europe’s first professional jump competition since 2018. With the largest prize purse in Waterski Pro Tour history, it is set to be a major highlight.

Other Key Competitions

Following the World Championships, details on late-season events are still emerging, but fan-favorites like the MasterCraft Pro are expected to return.

Beyond the Pro Tour, the legacy events, including Moomba and the U.S. Masters, will continue to draw top talent. These marquee competitions will showcase slalom, trick, and jump skiing, as well as wakeboarding.

Additionally, while details are still being finalized, the WWS Overall Tour is expected to host another round of professional overall tournaments.

Looking Ahead

With events spanning four continents and hundreds of thousands of dollars in prize money up for grabs, the 2025 season is set to be one of the most competitive and financially rewarding yet. Whether you’re a dedicated fan or a competitor, this year promises nonstop action and unforgettable performances on the water.

Tournament (Events)LocationDate
University Worlds (S T J O)Auckland, New ZealandFebruary 26-March 2
Moomba Masters (S T J)Melbourne, AustraliaMarch 6-10
Swiss Pro Tricks (T)Clermont, FloridaApril 20
Swiss Pro Slalom (S)Clermont, FloridaMay 4
U.S. Masters (S T J)Callaway Gardens, GeorgiaMay 23-25
Lake 38 ProAm (S)Tallahassee, FloridaMay 30-June 1
Monaco Waterski Cup (S T)Roquebrune-sur-Argens, FranceJune 6-8
Louisiana Night Jam (J)Zachary, LouisianaJune 7
Moulay El Hasan Pro (S T)Rabat, MoroccoJune 14-15
Portugal Pro (S T)Barragem Carril, PortugalJune 21-22
Fungliss ProAm (S)Donmartin, FranceJune 21-22
Botaski ProAm (S T)Seseña, SpainJune 26-29
San Gervasio ProAm (S)San Gervasio, ItalyJuly 4-6
Oxfordshire ProAm (S)Oxford, United KingdomJuly 11-12
California ProAm (S J)Elk Grove, CaliforniaJuly 18-20
Under-21 World’s (S T J O)Calgary, CanadaJuly 26-August 2
Hilltop ProAm (S)Arlington, WashingtonAugust 15-17
World Championships (S T J O)Recetto, ItalyAugust 27-31
Ski to Glory (S T J)Ionannia, GreeceSeptember 4-7
Travers Grand Prix (S)Groveland, FloridaSeptember 26-28
King of Darkness (S J)Winter Garden, FloridaOctober 24-25

The 2025 Syndicate

HO/Syndicate Pro Team Introduces World-Class Lineup for 2025

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HO/Syndicate Pro Water Ski Team Introduces World-Class Lineup for 2025

The 2025 Syndicate

Image: www.hosports.com

HO Sports


Arlington, WA — HO Sports is proud to unveil the 2025 Syndicate Pro Water Ski Team, featuring an all-star roster of world-class athletes who represent the pinnacle of competitive water skiing. With a blend of seasoned champions and rising stars, the team is poised for another year of outstanding performance on the global stage.

The Syndicate Pro Team for 2025 includes:

Will Asher (GBR): A two-time World Champion, current Water Ski Pro Tour champion, and perennial force in the slalom course, Asher continues to inspire with his precision, consistency, and passion for innovation in the sport. He had 4 Pro Wins in 2024, including the first ever Marrakech Pro in Africa.

Jaimee Bull (CAN): The reigning Women’s World Slalom Champion, Bull has
dominated the water skiing scene with her snow ski inspired, powerful, effortless style. In 2024, she claimed victories at the Swiss Pro Slalom, San Gervasio ProAm and Monaco Slalom Cup and maintained her position as a top-ranked competitor on the global leaderboard.

Rob Hazelwood (GBR): Known for his versatility, personality and technical prowess,
Hazelwood made waves in 2024 with his first ever Pro Wins, at Lake 38 ProAm and
Botaski ProAm. His ability to adapt and excel under pressure makes him a key asset to the team on the water, and his growing talent as a storyteller is unmatched among skiers, off the water.

Allie Nicholson (USA): This Tennessee-born rising star and a fierce competitor had a killer 2024 season, winning the first ever Pro Event in Africa, the Marrakech Pro. Her absolute tenacity on the ski, dedication to pushing boundaries and ability to refine her technique through time, sets her apart as one of the sport’s brightest talents.

Jon Travers (USA): A veteran of the Syndicate Pro Team, Travers brings a wealth of
experience and a history of success. His performances in 2024 were nothing short of spectacular! His dominant Win in Italy at the San Gervasio ProAm, along with podium finishes in Miami, King of Darkness and his own Travers Grand Prix are what made his 2024 season a damn Cinderella story, and landed him in 3rd overall for the Water Ski Pro Tour. Off the water, his role as a mentor to younger skiers highlights his enduring impact on the sport.

Sacha Descuns (FRA): The Frenchmen, Known for his dynamic style and fearless
approach, finished a strong 3rd at the Marrakech Pro in Africa in 2024. His enduring
passion for the sport and relentless drive to improve make him a formidable competitor and we cannot wait to see what lies ahead in 2025!

2024 Highlights and Momentum for 2025

The Syndicate Pro Team enjoyed a remarkable 2024 season, with multiple team members achieving career milestones and capturing major titles. Collectively, they showcased the cutting-edge design and performance of HO’s Syndicate line of skis, capturing the Water Ski Pro Tour Brand Leaderboard for the second straight year and setting new benchmarks in slalom skiing.

For 2025, the team is focused on pushing the limits of what’s possible in water skiing, embracing innovation, and inspiring the next generation of athletes. From World Championships to pro tour events, the Syndicate Pro Team is ready to make their mark.

Podium WWS tour finals

Watch: WWS Fluid Cup – Men’s Overall | World Water Skiers

Video

Road to the Podium: The Epic Finale of the 2024 WWS Tour!”” – Stop 4

World Water Skiers


All roads lead here: the 5th and final highlight storyline of the 2024 World Water Skiers Overall Tour! After an incredible season, it all comes down to this 27-minute action-packed recap at the Fluid Cup, the tour’s climactic finale.

Watch the world’s best water skiers face off in a battle of skill, resilience, and determination. Every storyline, every stop, every moment has built up to this – who will claim the top spot on the year-end podium?

Official Event Page – https://worldwaterskiers.com/tournament/24wws004/

The moments that defined the 2024 water ski season – and the stories behind them.

Year in Review: We Countdown the Most Memorable Moments of 2024

Articles

Year in review: We countdown the most memorable moments of the 2024 water ski season

The moments that defined the 2024 water ski season – and the stories behind them.

The moments that defined the 2024 water ski season – and the stories behind them.

By Jack Burden


Water skiing in 2024 was a symphony of breakthroughs, rivalries, and legends. It was a year where the boundaries of the sport were not just nudged but obliterated. From historic records tumbling to teenagers staking their claim among seasoned veterans, the season delivered a relentless procession of stories that reminded us why we love this sport. Whether it was iconic figures bowing out, future stars rising to the occasion, or tense moments that left fans speechless, the year had it all.

Throughout 2024, skiers showcased their talents across two professional tours, the Waterski Pro Tour and WWS Overall Tour, legacy events like the Moomba and U.S. Masters, and the Under-17 World Championships. At its heart, 2024 was about evolution—on the water and in the stories surrounding it. As we count down the top ten moments, we reflect on a year that redefined what’s possible in water skiing and set the stage for an even brighter future.

Neilly Ross sets a pending world trick record at 11,430

Image: @neillyross

10. Fall of Records

The women’s trick world record turned into a game of musical chairs this fall as Neilly Ross and Erika Lang traded the title in a jaw-dropping display of skill and rivalry. It all began on October 26, when Ross posted an 11,380-point run at the Okeeheelee 3-Event Record Tournament in West Palm Beach, Florida, surpassing Lang’s standing record. But just a week later, Lang fired back with an 11,450-point run at the Timber Cove Record Tournament in Texas—the highest score ever tricked by a woman.

Then, on November 9, Ross delivered a double counterpunch at the Autumn Record on Lake Ledbetter, tricking 11,430 points in both rounds and submitting two pending world records. The back-and-forth battle captivated the water ski world as the scores awaited review by the IWWF. Ultimately, Lang’s record was denied, and Ross officially claimed the world record for the first time. As of now, her latest scores remain under review.

Regardless of official ratification, the razor-thin margins and high stakes of this duel solidified Ross and Lang as two of the sport’s fiercest competitors, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in elite trick skiing.

Perhaps most intriguing was Lang’s response. After competing at the October Okeeheelee tournament, she appears to have replicated Ross’s record-breaking sequence in a matter of days, perfecting it before her Timber Cove run.

Jaimee Bull cross trains through winter on snow

Image: @abbydells

9. Water is Just Melted Snow, Right?

The 10th anniversary of the Swiss Pro Slalom delivered a fitting start to the 2024 Waterski Pro Tour, and amidst the action, Jaimee Bull delivered one of the most astonishing performances in recent memory. Hosted at Florida’s iconic Swiss Waterski Resort, the event featured a stacked lineup of veterans and rising stars battling through two preliminary rounds and a high-stakes final—all packed into a single day. By sunset, the water had witnessed more than just skiing; it had seen history.

Heading into the women’s event, Regina Jaquess—the nine-time champion and reigning Queen of Swiss—seemed an unstoppable force. She’d never lost here, and few would bet against her claiming a 10th crown. But Jaquess fell short of McClintock-Rini’s lead of 5@10.75m (39.5′ off). Then came Bull, who had spent the winter on snow and only returned to water skiing weeks earlier. Defying expectations she ran 1@10.25m (41′ off) to claim victory, snapping Jaquess’ undefeated streak at the Swiss Pro and leaving the water ski world in awe.

Reigning men’s world champion Freddie Winter summed it up best: “It takes me a month and a half to feel like I can even stand on a slalom ski. Jaimee’s gone out and run 39 maybe in her second or third week of training. It’s exceptional. She looks outrageously good.” Bull’s understated response reflected her shock as much as her grit: “I haven’t been on the water that long, and skiing three sets in one day is a lot. [But] the rhythm was really good, and everything felt smooth.”

By year’s end, Bull’s early-season magic proved prophetic, as she claimed her fourth consecutive Waterski Pro Tour season championship. It all began with a Swiss Pro Slalom victory that was as unlikely as it was unforgettable.

The Eade brothers at the U17 world waterski championships in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

Image: @johnnyhayward_photo

8. Sibling Rivalry Hits New Heights

Sibling rivalry often adds an emotional edge to sports, but few moments have captured it quite like 2024’s Under-17 World Championships in Canada. The final showdown between Jaeden and Damien Eade, two second-generation water skiing prodigies, delivered an unforgettable spectacle of skill, resilience, and brotherly competition. The Eade brothers, top seeds heading into the event, tied for the gold medal in the slalom event, forcing a dramatic runoff.

Jaeden, the elder, had broken an almost decade-old championship record in the preliminary round with 4 buoys at 10.75 meters (39.5’ off). Damien, nursing an arm injury, was a pass back but fought his way to tie with his brother in the final at 2 buoys on the same line length. In the runoff, Jaeden showcased his composure, running a clean 11.25 meters and repeating his earlier record-setting score from the preliminary round. Damien, chasing the highest score in the history of the tournament for victory, managed 3 buoys at 10.75m – falling just short. The embrace that followed between the brothers was a picture perfect moment, a reflection of years of shared training and mutual support.

For Jaeden, the win was about strategy as much as skill. “I just had to play it safe,” he explained, describing his decision to lay up in the finals and force the runoff. Damien, meanwhile, emphasized gratitude: “Just being at Junior Worlds was an awesome experience.” Their father, Kyle Eade, a former professional jumper, summed it up: “It’s a storybook ending for us.”

HO Skis wins the Waterski Pro Tour brand leaderboard

Image: @hoskis

7. Syndicate Sweeps Skiing’s Busiest Week

Four countries, four tournaments, 10 days, and $150,000 in prize money—this was no ordinary week in waterskiing. It was a whirlwind European tour that tested the endurance, skill, and grit of the world’s best slalom and trick skiers. Starting under the Moroccan sun in Marrakech and winding through the Alps, the French Riviera, and central Spain, the schedule was as relentless as the competition.

In men’s slalom one name stood tallest by the end: Will Asher. The 42-year-old veteran rolled back the years with three consecutive wins in Marrakech, Fungliss, and Monaco, cementing his place atop the 2024 Waterski Pro Tour standings. Asher not only won but did so in style, conquering the daunting 10.25m (41’ off) line length twice in the process.

Team Syndicate dominated the conversation throughout the week, claiming over 50% of slalom podiums and all seven slalom titles. Jaimee Bull continued her reign, pulling ahead on the Pro Tour leaderboard with another masterful performance. Rob Hazelwood and Allie Nicholson added individual wins to the team’s haul, while Frenchmen Sacha Descuns showcased brilliance on home waters.

Strong all season, Team Syndicate would go on to pick up their second consecutive Brand Leaderboard title on the Waterski Pro Tour. Their response was a mix of pride and gratitude: “What a year it’s been. We couldn’t be more proud of our team—on the water, in the factory, and in the back offices in Seattle. This trophy wouldn’t be possible without everyone working together and driving the team to be better every day.”

Joel Poland wins the 2024 WWS Travers Cup

Image: @johnnyhayward_photo

6. Three Perfect Rounds

Joel Poland isn’t just rewriting the record books—he’s tearing them apart and starting anew. The 25-year-old Englishman delivered a fortnight of water skiing that bordered on perfection, beating the world overall record in three consecutive rounds. The latter two done in professional competition at the WWS Travers Cup, cementing a third consecutive season championship on the WWS Overall Tour.

This isn’t an isolated hot streak. Poland has been on a relentless tear since last year, when he ended a two-year drought to break the world overall record at the final stop of the 2023 WWS Overall Tour. That moment seemed to unlock a new level of dominance. Since then, he smashed the record again at the Malibu Open, again in the spring at Fluid, and—astoundingly—exceeded it in three consecutive rounds this September. Records aren’t supposed to fall this easily, let alone in bunches. It’s a staggering level of consistency in a sport where perfection is fleeting.

Spare a thought for his competitors, who find themselves skiing in the shadow of history. Louis Duplan-Fribourg, Dorien Llewellyn, and Martin Kolman all delivered exceptional performances at the Travers Cup—indeed, the entire podium surpassed Jaret Llewellyn’s legendary “unbreakable” record that held from 2002 to 2017. The competition was breathtaking, with highlights like a pending under-17 world record from Jake Abelson and a new French national jump record from Duplan-Fribourg. But none of it could hold a candle to Poland, who put up elite-level scores in slalom, tricks, and jump across all rounds.

“I’m pretty happy—three [overall records] in a row now,” Poland said, in his typical understated way. Look away at your peril—he’s not done yet.

Swiss Pro Tricks finalists 2024

Image: @tiaremirandaphotography

5. The Teen Revolution in Trick Skiing

The rise of youth in men’s trick skiing was nothing short of astonishing. Heading into the season, names like Patricio Font and Joel Poland were expected to dominate. Yet, the story quickly shifted to teenagers Matias Gonzalez, Martin Labra, and the prodigious Jake Abelson.

After Font’s early-season triumph at the Moomba Masters, skiers 18 and under claimed every remaining professional trick title. Most remarkable was Abelson, who, in just two weeks, went from never breaking 12,000 points to smashing the world record—twice. This wasn’t just incremental progress; it was seismic, with his combined improvements eclipsing nearly two decades of prior growth in the sport.

The year also marked the highest level of tricking depth ever recorded, with over half of all 12,500+ scores coming in 2024. Abelson’s inspiration came from a variety of sources: the speed and efficiency of Font’s hand pass, the boundary-pushing tricks of Joel Poland, and the blistering pace of Gonzalez and Labra’s toe tricking, to name a few. Far from occurring overnight, the sudden rise in trick scores is the product of “the collective knowledge” of generations of skiers and coaches who have laid the blueprint.

“To consistently trick over 12k, the most important thing for me was to focus on speed,” shared Gonzalez. Labra echoed the sentiment, attributing their collective success to their shared childhood rivalry. “I think we helped each other to be better… we started pushing ourselves to a better level,” he said. The next generation has arrived, and the path to 13,000 points is now firmly in sight.

Regina Jaquess slaloms at the King of Darkness

Image: @waterskiprotour

4. Queen of Darkness

The final weeks of the 2024 professional water skiing season were a relentless showcase of high-stakes tournaments across Florida, but none captured the imagination quite like the MasterCraft King of Darkness (KoD). A festival-like night event, bringing together incredible skiing and an enthusiastic crowd that harkened back to the sport’s glory days. But it wasn’t just the atmosphere that made KoD special—it was the level of competition, particularly in women’s slalom, where the bar was raised to unprecedented heights.

In a dazzling display of skill and composure, all four semifinalists—Regina Jaquess, Whitney McClintock Rini, Jaimee Bull, and Allie Nicholson—successfully navigated the notoriously demanding 10.75-meter (39.5’ off) pass in the head-to-head matchups. It wasn’t just a one-off either; the feat repeated in the finals, making KoD the first event in history to see such consistency at this level under head-to-head pressure.

The semifinals were thrillers. McClintock Rini ran 10.75 meters, likely thinking she had sealed her finals spot, only to watch Nicholson match her, forcing a 10.25m (41’ off) showdown. McClintock Rini held her nerve to edge Nicholson in a tense finish. In the other semi, it was déjà vu for Jaquess and Bull, whose rivalry delivered again. Bull pushed Jaquess to the limit, but the veteran pulled out her signature magic at 10.25 meters to secure her finals berth.

The final was a fitting climax to a night of exceptional skiing. Both Jaquess and McClintock Rini ran 10.75 meters again under the fading lights, setting up another dramatic battle at 10.25. McClintock Rini threw down a challenging score of 2 buoys, but Jaquess, in vintage form, responded with an audacious attempt at 3-buoy, complete with a spectacular cartwheel crash as she exited her ski. The crowd erupted as Jaquess claimed the title and delivered an electrifying reminder of why fan engagement matters so much.

“That was awesome,” Jaquess said, beaming as the crowd roared its approval. “it’s great to have all the fans and spectators on shore, it’s a special treat.”

Cole McCormick wins the US Masters

Image: @johnnyhayward_photo

3. McCormick Breaks the Glass Ceiling

If there was a theme for the 2024 men’s slalom season, it was unpredictability. For years, the pro circuit was dominated by a quartet of skiers. But this season, the door was flung open, and fresh faces stormed through. Among them, Cole McCormick’s initial breakthrough at the Masters stood tallest.

Robin Lake, a venue dripping in history and difficulty, played host to McCormick’s maiden professional victory. The tournament was a battle of attrition, with former champions like Smith and Winter faltering at the 10.75 line to miss the final. It came down to McCormick, the 28-year-old Canadian American in his first Masters final, needing to surpass Asher’s five buoys to claim the title.

What followed was raw grit. McCormick scratched his way to five and a half buoys, his ski ejecting him spectacularly into the water but sealing the win. His victory not only ended a four-year drought of new slalom champions but also set off a cascade of first-time winners, with Hazelwood, Vaughn, Mechler, Cornale, and Caruso all adding their names to the annals of the sport before the season’s end.

Reflecting on his triumph, McCormick said, “Words just can’t even describe what this means to me. To accomplish something that you dream about as a kid, to finally deliver a win… just feels unbelievable.” It was a win years in the making, but the timing felt perfect.

Joel Poland wins jump at the 2024 WWS Canada Cup

Image: @johnnyhayward_photo

2. The Jump-Off that Defined a Season

When Freddy Krueger, the GOAT of water ski jumping, and Joel Poland, the sport’s newest star, meet in a tournament final, magic happens. Saskatoon’s marquee event delivered in spades as these two titans brought the house down.

Poland, second-to-last off the dock, needed a monster jump to surpass Martin Kolman and seize the overall victory. His third and final attempt was pure adrenaline, and when the crowd’s gasp subsided, he had done just enough to edge ahead of Kolman and take the lead in the jump event in one fell swoop. Enter Krueger, who thrives on moments like these. His last jump tied Poland’s leading mark, forcing a rare jump-off.

Krueger opted to go out first after winning the toss and opened with the longest leap of the day, adding an extra foot to his regular competition best. “It’s getting challenging, we’ve got shadows on the ramp now, playing with the visuals a little bit, but this kids got talent coming out his ears,” Krueger remarked as Poland prepared for his turn.

Poland’s response was dramatic. After slipping out on his first attempt, he delivered an all-or-nothing second jump, punctuated by a mid-air fist pump. The crowd held its breath, and when the measurements were revealed, Poland had edged Krueger by 30 centimeters (tying once again in feet).

“I was maybe too confident throwing the fist,” Poland admitted afterward, “but man, that felt good.” Their neck-and-neck battle defined the season, featuring several nail-biting finishes as they traded titles, with Poland ultimately clinching his first Waterski Pro Tour championship.

Jacinta Carroll Retires from Professional Water Skiing After 10th Consecutive Moomba Masters Victory

Image: @jacintacarroll

1. Rabbit Bows Out

Jacinta Carroll capped her storied career with one final, breathtaking triumph—a tenth consecutive Moomba Masters jump title, achieved just 100 days after giving birth to her daughter Amelia. It was the ultimate swan song, a farewell fitting for a legend who has redefined what’s possible in women’s jumping.

The path to her final victory was anything but smooth. With just two weeks of on-water training over the past year, Carroll returned to the ramp powered by sheer determination and a rigorously managed recovery. Her third jump sealed the title, and as she stepped back onshore, the emotions poured out. “I started my professional career here in 2011 when I won my first Moomba Masters, so it was only fitting that I come back this year for my last professional jump event,” she said, her voice quivering.

For over a decade, Carroll was an unstoppable force. She rewrote the record books with 42 consecutive elite wins, seven consecutive U.S. Masters titles, five world championships, and the magic 200 foot milestone ticked off.

As Rabbit waved goodbye to the roaring Moomba crowd, there was a collective sense of loss and gratitude. Her retirement marks the end of an era, but her contributions have undoubtedly elevated women’s water skiing to new heights, inspiring future generations of athletes.

Honorable Mentions

  • The unbreakable tie between Degasperi and Caruso at the European Championships, marking T-Gas’ 11th consecutive victory.
  • Winter’s season-ending dock collision at the Monaco Pro Slalom.
  • Vaughn’s maiden professional victory, achieved after nearly two decades on the circuit.
  • The Abelson siblings’ dominance at the Under-17 World Championships, leading Team USA to a decisive victory.
  • TWBC’s rollout of the “helmet cam” at the MasterCraft Pro.

Thomas Degasperi signs with Nautique Boats

Malibu Exits Pro Water Skiing: What Degasperi’s Move Means for the Industry

News

Malibu pulls out of pro water skiing: What Thomas Degasperi’s move means for the industry

Thomas Degasperi signs with Nautique Boats

Nautique is thrilled to welcome Thomas Degasperi back to Team Nautique (image: @nautiqueboats)

By Jack Burden


Thomas Degasperi is a man who knows how to make waves. Not just on the water, where his elegant edge changes and icy composure have earned him two World Championships, but also in the industry that powers his sport. After nearly two decades with Malibu Boats, Degasperi’s recent announcement that he’s joining Nautique Boats signals the end of an era for the Tennessee-based boat manufacturer.

“Excited to announce that I’ve joined Nautique Boats! I couldn’t be happier to be part of this family that pushes the sport to the limit,” shared the Italian skiing legend, known as T-Gas for short. It’s a move that feels both inevitable and bittersweet, signaling not just a personal shift but a broader industry evolution.

The End of an Era

Malibu Boats and Thomas Degasperi were practically synonymous. For 18 years, Degasperi skied behind Malibu boats, racked up victories, and became the face of their three-event program. Rob Corum, Malibu’s marketing manager, said it best: “Thank you for pouring your heart and soul into Malibu. You are an irreplaceable legend.”

Degasperi responded with equal grace: “Malibu has been my home for 18 years. To you and the hundreds of people at the factory, to all my teammates, I couldn’t thank you enough for the hard work and dedication. It has been a great ride.”

But the waters have been choppy for Malibu lately. The company has faced lawsuits, a dip in sales, and budget cutbacks—all while competitors like Nautique have doubled down on their commitment to the sport. Regina Jaquess’s departure earlier this year after two decades with Malibu signaled a shift. Now, with Degasperi’s defection, Malibu has effectively exited the professional waterski sponsorship game.

Nautique’s Calculated Gamble

For Nautique, signing Degasperi is a bold move. At 43—44 next month—Degasperi’s prime competitive years are arguably behind him. His 2024 season saw him finish 5th on the Waterski Pro Tour, with consistent performances earning him seven finals appearances and two podium finishes during the European leg. Impressive, yes, but not exactly the dominance he once exhibited a decade ago.

Still, Nautique appears to be betting on more than just results. Degasperi’s enduring popularity, professionalism, and influence in the skiing community make him an asset that transcends podium finishes. He joins Regina Jaquess in what seems to be a Nautique strategy of consolidating the sport’s most marketable athletes under one banner.

The Bigger Picture

Degasperi’s move underscores a larger narrative about the state of professional water skiing. Sponsorships are dwindling, and Nautique’s signing of both Degasperi and Jaquess feels as much about safeguarding the sport’s heritage as it does about marketing. Despite their legendary statuses, neither skier is in the prime of their career, yet they are among the few to secure lucrative boat deals.

It’s a worrying trend. Of the 12 men who, alongside Degasperi, finished on two or more professional slalom podiums in 2024, only two—Joel Poland and Freddie Winter—have a boat sponsor. Jaimee Bull, a two-time World Champion and three-time Waterski Pro Tour champion, remains without a boat deal despite being at the peak of her powers. If the best in the world can’t attract sponsorships, what does that mean for the future of the sport?

Malibu’s Uncertain Path

Malibu’s retreat from the professional skiing scene is disheartening. The company has committed to continuing production of the TXi, its competition ski boat, but financial pressures have forced cuts to their ski program. With fewer than 50 TXis reportedly produced in the US last year and reduced promo boat support, the sport risks losing one of its most iconic vessels from competition.

Malibu’s struggles mirror broader challenges in water skiing. With a small and declining market, manufacturers are forced to balance passion with profitability. Nautique, for its part, has doubled down on its investment in athletes and events, arguably becoming the sport’s lifeline. But even their deep pockets can’t support the entire ecosystem.

What’s Next?

For now, Thomas Degasperi’s move to Nautique feels like a win—for him, for Nautique, and for fans who will get to see one of the sport’s greats continue to carve turns at the highest level. It’s a homecoming of sorts for a man who grew up skiing behind Nautiques at his parents’ ski school in Italy.

At the same time, Malibu’s scaled-back involvement raises troubling questions about the future of water skiing. Can the sport sustain itself with fewer sponsorship opportunities and declining manufacturer investment? Will other brands step in to fill the void, or are we witnessing the early stages of a slow decline?

Yet, if Degasperi’s career has taught us anything, it’s to challenge conventional wisdom. At 43, T-Gas has just finished one of the best seasons of his career, performance-wise, at a time when most would expect him to hang up the skis. The lesson? Don’t write off anyone—whether skier or manufacturer—too soon. After all, Degasperi isn’t done making waves just yet.