The nation's top barefoot water ski athletes will compete in the 30th annual Barefoot Water Ski National Championships, Aug. 13-18, at the Blue Moo in Black River Falls, Wis. More than 150 barefoot water ski athletes are expected to compete in the six-day event.


Barefoot athletes in 24 divisions - ranging from juniors to the 60 years and older divisions - will compete for national titles in wake slalom, tricks and jumping. Athletes competing in all three events will be eligible for the prestigious overall titles.

The wake slalom event consists of athletes crossing the boat wake as many times as possible in two 15-second passes. Tricks competitors perform as many tricks as possible in two 15-second passes. Jumpers, who are each allowed three attempts, go for distance while leaping off an 18-inch ramp. Competitors reach speeds of up to 43 mph on their bare feet.

The tournament will be sanctioned by USA Water Ski, the proprietor of the Barefoot Water Ski National Championships. Officials from the American Barefoot Club, a sport discipline of USA Water Ski, will conduct the national championships.