Ask the Experts | Your Driver To Success

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[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Lucida Grande, Arial, sans-serif]The next element in the success equation is the driver.[/FONT] [FONT=Trebuchet MS, Lucida Grande, Arial, sans-serif][/FONT]


[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Lucida Grande, Arial, sans-serif]Always try to find a tow boat driver who has experience towing wakeboarding and water skiing. For best performance, the driver should drive a straight boat pattern, except when turning around to go back in the direction you came from.[/FONT] [FONT=Trebuchet MS, Lucida Grande, Arial, sans-serif][/FONT]

[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Lucida Grande, Arial, sans-serif]Most riders select a speed between 20 and 23 mph that suits their skill or experience.[/FONT]

[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Lucida Grande, Arial, sans-serif]It's the driver's one and only job to get to the requested speed and just hold it, unless the board rider request a change. I notice a variation of just a few 1/10's of a mile; it affects the shape of the wake and how the board rides over the water.[/FONT]

[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Lucida Grande, Arial, sans-serif]But while you may not be that aware of minor changes, accurate consistent speed is important for all level of riders, not just the pros. If you are fortunate to ride behind a boat equipped with speed control, that makes the driver's job easier and allows the driver to focus more on the giving the rider a straight path.[/FONT]


[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Lucida Grande, Arial, sans-serif]My Nautique G23 uses their Zero Off system.[/FONT]


[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Lucida Grande, Arial, sans-serif]The start and pull out acceleration for the rider should be appropriate for your weight and the power of the boat, in order to give you a consistent, smooth pullout.[/FONT]


[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Lucida Grande, Arial, sans-serif]I should also mention that both driver and rider should become familiar with the site, considering water depth and other boats.[/FONT]


[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Lucida Grande, Arial, sans-serif]The key to good runs is to practice, practice, practice with your driver and observer.[/FONT]
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[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Lucida Grande, Arial, sans-serif]Raimi Merritt wins her 10th World Cup with her recent win in Linyi City, China. Raimi is also 2 times IWWF Open Women Wakeboard World Champion and a Masters Champion. Raimi is sponsored by Mynt, Nautique, Hyperlite, Rollei Actioncam America, Breathe Boardwear, Proof Eyewear, OrigAudio, Wakami, Peripheral LS and Fly High. Visit www.raimimerritt.com for the latest news. Raimi also offers personalized coaching in Orlando, Florida. E-mail raimi@stevemerritt.com to schedule a lesson.[/FONT]
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Lucida Grande, Arial, sans-serif]Photos courtesy Raimi Merritt, Nautique and Zenon Bilas.[/FONT]