Bridge to Bridge Water Ski Classic just three weeks away
If you’re around Sydney or New South Wales on the weekend of 25–26 November, check out the exhilarating Bridge to Bridge Water Ski Classic.
The annual Bridge to Bridge Water Ski Classic is back in 2023 after five years off, due to COVID-19 and other setbacks. The race is one of Australia’s most renowned water ski races, bringing out a hunger for on-water speed in many a skier and onlooker alike. Held on the beautiful Hawkesbury River just north of Sydney, New South Wales, the event attracts competitors nationally and globally, heralded as one of the most prestigious ski races in the Southern Hemisphere.
This year’s event will be held on the weekend of 25–26 November, with multiple races with different categories held on both days and the main Bridge to Bridge race on Sunday 26. So, if you’re in the area or are able to get there, you should definitely come to check out this exciting event with a stunning backdrop.
The main 112km race commences at Dangar Island in Broken Bay and proceeds along the length of the Hawkesbury River, finishing in the historic town of Windsor. Since 1961 competitors and spectators have been coming to the Hawkesbury region to enjoy the race events and the beauty and hospitality that the whole region offers — particularly the serene township of Windsor.
When the inaugural Bridge to Bridge Water Ski Classic was held back in 1961, a field of only 20 entries (80 competitors) participated. Less than 20 years later, more than 300 boats (1200 competitors) raced up the Hawkesbury River. Then in 1984, a huge 415 entries were recorded — with 1660 competitors. Now, more than 50 years on, a new record is hoping to be set at this year’s event.
It requires commitment and careful planning to complete the 112km course, and many different skill levels compete in this massive event … from regular water ski racers competing worldwide to once-yearly Bridge to Bridge competitors or a family enjoying a sport together, all are vying to get a personal best time recorded for running the course.
The race offers competitors the chance to see the stunning scenery along the Hawkesbury while they race, and onlookers get to witness the excitement in each team as they come around that final bend. Those who have raced this iconic race before comment on that feeling as they come around the final bend to reach the waiting spectators at Windsor Stadium, Governor Phillip Park, often the first thought being ‘I did it!’
This is an opportunity to see a cracker of a race and also see the impressive array of boats pulling the skiers along. The finish line is in front of Governor Phillip Park, an hour’s drive northwest of Sydney (traffic dependent), so come along for a free weekend of awesome entertainment. If you’d like to keep up with event updates, simply hit this link to follow the Bridge to Bridge Facebook page.
If you’re interested in participating, entries are still open until 10 November. You can find the 2023 entry form, event information and event program on the Bridge to Bridge website.
THE NEXT STEP
Escape the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary on the boat of your dreams. Don't wait - Explore now!
Related Articles:
Southern exposure – Boating on the NSW South Coast