It’s autumn, late into the ski season. It’s getting dark early and the temperatures are falling along with the leaves.

     As we try to squeeze out the final passes of the season we adorn all kinds of short suits, full suits and dry suits. We use heaters in our boats, hot water showers, anything and everything to keep warm and continue skiing.

     If you try to explain this to a non-skier, you will get a “deer in the headlights” look, and a “you’re nuts” response. Well, they’re probably right. The low sun is brutal reflecting off the water. The one, three and five balls are a guess as to when to start the turn.

     Our ears are cold, our hands are cold and our feet are cold. But we will continue to ski for a few weeks more. 

     If psychologists were to do a study of water skiers in the fall they would probably find some brain deficiency that compels us to continue on while other people are in sweat shirts going to football games with stadium blankets.

     I would rather be on the water. Fall is a great time of the year to ski. The lakes are empty of other boaters, the sky is crystal clear, the trees are in full color around the lake, and the sun is warm on a neoprene wet suit. 

     Personal best are not as forthcoming even though we are in top ski shape after a summer of chasing buoys. But it’s almost a celebration of what we’ve accomplished this year to ski deep into the fall season. Put the game on the radio, pack some snacks and a hot thermos and have a tailgating party at the lake. We even pack a small TV to watch the game between sets as we get warm.

     Eventually we will have to pack away the gear, winterize the boat and go into hibernation for the winter. Until that time we will keep chasing buoys, running shorter lines free skiing and enjoying the last bit of warmth from another successful ski season. 

     When we finally do give in to the elements, most of us will hit the gym or take on other sports for conditioning for the next season. But no matter what time of year it is, being on the water chasing buoys is never far from our mind. It’s an obsession that can never be conquered.

      For the off season we have lots of video to study from this past ski season. I’ve put together a video of all the club members skiing, driving their boats and just hanging around and having fun. Kind of a documentary, so on those cold winter days when it’s best to stay indoors, I’ll go to the gym, pop it in the VCR and see what I can look forward to next season.

     Talk about motivation…

 
Gordon Slingerland

Gordon is a regular contributor and can be found carving buoys in his spare time.

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