GRAND RAPIDS – The Wisconsin State Water Ski Show Championships will return to Lake Wazeecha’s Red Sands Beach for its 58th year.
The championships will run July 18-21 at Lake Wazeecha in Grand Rapids, just outside of Wisconsin Rapids. Here’s what you should know as you make your weekend plans to see the shows.
It’s a big event
The four-day championship event is the largest and longest-running water ski show tournament in the world. The Wisconsin Rapids Aqua Skiers have hosted the Wisconsin State Water Ski Show Championships since the very beginning.
The statewide championships are sanctioned by USA Water Ski and the Wisconsin Water Ski Federation.
There are plenty of teams and tricks to watch
At this event, you’ll find 23 water ski show teams from all over Wisconsin and 72 individual skiers taking to the water in costume for their five-minute routines. You’ll find human pyramids, barefoot skiing, jumping acts, swivel skiing and stage entertainment all weekend.
Performances include swivel, swivel pairs, freestyle jumping, team jumping and doubles.
There’s more than water skiing
On land, there’s more to enjoy at the Wisconsin State Water Ski Show Championships. The event includes concessions, vendors, a beer garden and other family-friendly fun. Tournament apparel will also be available for purchase.
‘It’s about community’
While dozens of skiers and teams spend the weekend vying for a state title and shot at the National Water Ski Show Championships, the annual event at Lake Wazeecha is about more than competition.
“This weekend is not just about competition,” said Jordan Moon, the tournament’s co-director. “It’s about community. It’s heartening to witness thousands flocking to Lake Wazeecha and supporting local business.”
Skiers and supporters travel from all over the state for the event, boosting the local economic impact in the Wisconsin Rapids area. Moon said the tournament generates more than $3.7 million for the area as people travel and stay in hotels in the Wisconsin Rapids and Plover areas.
Can’t make it in person? Tune in online.
Visit Central Florida will livestream the tournament globally. Last year, the championships reached more than 148,450 views all over the world.
More local news:Lincoln Street construction expands to Riverview Expressway Monday. Here’s how you can get to Kwik Trip.
More local news:Wisconsin Rapids Public Schools announces new principal of Lincoln High School
Contact Caitlin at cshuda@gannett.com or follow her on Twitter @CaitlinShuda.
Local Wisconsin State
Most Popular
Comments / 0