‘Fantastic’ water ski races draw crowds to Weston

National water ski racing in Weston Bay. (Image: Archant)

Finalists from the recent south west waterski races descended on the town to go head-to-head with competitors from across the UK at the national event.

Crowds flocked to Knightstone Island to get the best views of the racers who reached speeds of up to 100mph across the bay.

Weston Bay Water Sports Club had five waterskiers competing in the finals.

Lauren Bird secured two first places in a very competitive junior category and has now won the 2018 British Junior Championship overall, which is a fantastic achievement with two races still remaining.

National water ski racing in Weston Bay. (Image: Archant)

Paige Teyham came fifth place in two races in the junior category and Thomas Tooze finished second and third in the under 15s category, which was a hotly contested event.

Amelia Tooze won fourth place in her first race, then moved up to third in the junior category in Sunday’s competition.

Hannah Bird managed two first places in the ladies category, which puts her in a strong position in the overall 2018 British ladies championship title.

Simon Dowling won two first places in the men’s formula three category.

National water ski racing in Weston Bay. Junior skier Emily Cannings and her sister Olivia who competes in the under 8's class with dad Bradley Cannings and observer Bill Studley. (Image: Archant)

Simon, who organised the event, said: “The weather was perfect and allowed for some excellent racing on both days. Local skiers did an excellent job and represented the club well.

“A very well done to all teams who took part over the weekend who managed to secure some very good points for Weston Bay Watersports Club.”

Club chairman Steve Benny said: “The event was absolutely fantastic. It was very well supported by everybody and everyone seemed to enjoy it.

“The Weston club did a fantastic job and made it run really smoothly.

National water ski racing in Weston Bay. Team Fourplay driver Karl Teyham, skier Paige Teyham and observer Richard Treseder. (Image: Archant)

“We’re hoping it will return next year, even bigger and better.”

National water ski racing in Weston Bay. Chairman of Weston Bay Watersports Club Steve Benny, Elliot Underwood and race organiser Simon Dowling. Team Hammered and team Bedlam. (Image: Archant)

National water ski racing in Weston Bay. (Image: Archant)

National water ski racing in Weston Bay. (Image: Archant)