UK Personal Watercraft News
24th July : Motor Show Pics.
A selection of Jetmans photos of Sundays Xtreme Action Water Show at Excel during the British International Motor Show are now online.

Check them out in the photo gallery.
24th July : Wego Kite Tubes Withdrawn.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Sportsstuff, Inc., of Omaha, Nebraska is voluntarily recalling about 19,000 Wego Kite Tubes.

CPSC staff is aware of 39 injury incidents with 29 of those resulting in medical treatment.
Those injuries include a broken neck, punctured lung, chest and back injuries and facial injuries.
Sportsstuff has received reports of two deaths in the United States and a variety of serious injuries.
Sportsstuff has been unable to determine the cause of the incidents. 
Neverless, the company has withdrawn the kite tube from the market and is undertaking this voluntary recall out of abundance of caution.
The Sportsstuff Wego Kite Tube is a 10-foot-wide, circular, yellow inflatable watercraft designed to be towed behind a power boat.
A rider in the tube becomes airborne by pulling on handles attached to the floor of the tube.
Model 53-5000 is printed on the tube near the product valve. The floor of the tube has black caution warning stripes. The cover for the product bears a skull and crossbones and the statement “Never Kite higher than you are willing to fall.” The tubes were imported and sold through marine distributors, mail order catalogs, and various retailers from approximately October 1, 2005 to July 11, 2006 for about $500 to $600.
 

Consumers should immediately stop using the kite tubes and contact the dealer you purchased this item from with regards to the recall!

 
Consumers can also visit the firm’s Web site at www.sportsstuff.com for more information.
 
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risks of serious injury or death from more than 15,000 types of consumer products under the agency’s jurisdiction. 
Deaths, injuries and property damage from consumer product incidents cost the nation more than $700 billion annually.
The CPSC is committed to protecting consumers and families from products that pose a fire, electrical, chemical, or mechanical hazard.
The CPSC’s work to ensure the safety of consumer products - such as toys, cribs, power tools, cigarette lighters, and household chemicals – contributed significantly to the 30 percent decline in the rate of deaths and injuries associated with consumer products over the past 30 years.
24th July : Extremelives.co.uk.
Just launched, www.extremelives.co.uk will provide jet skiers with the knowledge and support needed to progress and develop their techniques.
With the facility to book coaching sessions in 16 extreme sports online at locations across the globe, and up-to-the-minute techniques and advice on the psychology of learning, the site will help participants to develop their skills quickly and safely, under the guidance of leading experts.
There is also an up-to-date listing of the most exciting sports events occurring throughout the year.
Accelerated learning techniques, combined with a network of experts, ensures Extremelives offers customers the fastest path of progression within their chosen sport.
Beginners also benefit through the non-elitist and fun learning environment that Extremelives provides, along with the reassurance of full cancellation cover on all courses.
All customers receive ongoing advice from experts based at the national coaching centre, ensuring that their learning programme is tailored to individual requirements.  
Neil Emmerson, Extremelives training advisor, explains: “It is imperative that every responsible jet skier perfects a few essential skills to ensure their own safety and that of others on the water.
We are able to offer a network of expert coaches across the UK who can train you and award the Personal Watercraft Certificate as proof of competence.”
Extremelives, based on Hayling Island near Chichester , was set up by a group of extreme sports enthusiasts, all with many years experience of working within the industry.
Jet skiers visiting the south coast are invited to drop in to say hello, and make use of the free internet access, collection of latest sports magazines and refreshments.
www.extremelives.co.uk
24th July : The Wight Stuff Pics.
A selection of Jetmans photos from the Solent Skiers Association Charity Cruise 'The Wight Stuff' held on Saturday are now online.

Check them out in the photo gallery.
24th July : Jetraid 6.
The 6th Edition of the JETRAID, the WORLD RAID CHAMPIONSHIP, is going to begin the 18th November from the city of Colonia del Sacramento in Uruguay.

After 7 days of race and 1000 km of distance the pilots will arrive to Punta del Este, one of the most famous resort in South America.
The race is composed of 50% speed and 50% adventure with flash races, off shores, navigations with GPS, close course, endurance and of course, a lot, lot of luck.
The PWC can be super stock but we recommend you to bring a stock one, because to win this race the first step is to arrive the seven day.
The last five edition the JETRAID was made in Africa in places like Senegal, Mauritania and Guinea Bisao, that’s why this race is world famous as the “Dakar of the sea”.
This is the first time that it comes to South America and we are planning to stay in this continent the next years visiting exotic places like Chile, Brazil and Venezuela.
So if you want be a part of the team check our net on www.jetraid.com
There are still very few places yet.
Transportation of PWC from Europe is provided from Amberes and Málaga and don’t forget that the most important thing to bring is the spirit to have fun.
21st July : Two Rescued Off Kerry Coast.
Two men have been rescued off the County Kerry coast after their jet-ski was seen to capsize.
The men had earlier left Rossbeigh Beach.
 They spent more than an hour in the water before they were collected by a fishing boat.
Elsewhere, six people were rescued after a boating accident on Blessington lake in County Wickow yesterday evening.
Four people fell into the water when their small boat capsized.
Two other people got into difficulty when they tried to help.
U.TV
21st July : Dangerous Dinghies Spark Fury.
Dangerous dinghies have sparked fury in Skegness again as retailers continue to sell inflatables which are being used in the sea.
The appearance of a new inflatable super-toy, a motorised, inflatable jetski, has incensed beach safety groups and protestors further.
Coun Sue Binch said: "They are death traps. I was incensed by these things because you can't use them in the pool, so people will use them in the sea.
"Whoever invented them ought to be ashamed, and those selling them ought to be ashamed."
The 'toys' are on sale in Halfords, Heath Road, Skegness, for £99.99.
Acting manager Lance Hopkinson said all customers buying them are immediately advised not to take them into the sea.
After the Coastguard expressed concern about them, Mr Hopkinson planned to withdraw the jetskis from the shop yesterday, Tuesday.
But a spokesperson from Halfords' head office said: "The display is still current; we will make a decision about whether we make an exception for the Skegness area by the end of the day."
With inflatables of all descriptions now appearing on the beach Coun Binch was annoyed to see Tesco, in Richmond Drive, Skegness, was selling inflatables inside the store on Friday.
At the same time Coastwatch was fundraising outside the shop.
She said: "It's ironic. You have got someone out there trying to save lives and yet they are selling inflatables inside!
"I rang Tesco's head office and was told they are good sellers and until the government tells them to take them off the shelves they will continue."
The Standard asked Tesco to comment but it had not responded at the time of going to press.
John Irving, coxswain of the Skegness Lifeboat Station, said: "It's down to the individual stallholders and their consciences whether they sell them.
"All we can do is keep driving the sea safety message and hope they help us."
A national sea safety awareness campaign, Beachwise, will be launched from Monday by the RNLI and will take place throughout August.
Coastal Amenities UK, which owns the beach between Ingoldmells and Mablethorpe, has a policy that tenants are not allowed to sell inflatable boats.
Skegness today
19th July : Jetskier & Personal Watercraft Magazine.
The August Edition of JS&PW is on sale from all the usual stockists priced £3.20.

Included in this edition are all the usual sections plus Inside The New Quad Ski, Yamaha Wavefest, Luke 'Showtime' Stocks in Profile, RXP V's GPR, Girls That Ride Part 2, Race Report and much more.

Get Yours Now!

19th July : Line One Website.
Line One Distributors are the largest source of Jetski Spare Parts & Accessories in Europe and have been supplying Jetski spare parts for over 25 years to both the trade and retail customers.
Their warehouse is extensively stocked with all the latest Jetski products, so when you place an order you can guarantee it will be processed, professionally packed and dispatched within 24hrs.
 
Check out the thousands of spares and accessories on their all new website!
www.lineonedist.co.uk
18th July : Countdown to Motor Show.
For the first time in 30 years the biggest, most anticipated and unrivalled event in Britain is back in London with a NEW look, NEW interactive experiences, NEW dates and more NEW and exciting cars than you'll find anywhere else in the UK.
Taking place at the state-of-the-art exhibition centre ExCeL London (previously held at Birmingham's The NEC) from 20th- 30th July 2006, The British International Motor Show is the ultimate day out for everyone who drives a car.
 
What's that got to do with Personal Watercraft you ask?
 
Well, This years event will play host to the Xtreme Action Display team.
1000's of visitors will get the chance to see Freestyle, Race Demonstrations, Water skiing and wakeboarding performances.
The Xtreme team will showcase freestyle riders Lee Stone, Ant Burgess, Dan Ashcroft, Todd Watson, and James Anker, Gary Gregg and Paul Martin, AKA The Pierats.
Joining them for the daily shows will be the GB1 of Phil Pope supported by racers from the British Championship as they demonstrate the skill and stamina required to pilot modified PW around the buoys.
The waterskiing and wake board displays will be performed by none other than Guinness Record holders for the largest human pyramid at 28 people, the Tampa Bay Ski Team. The shows will be similar to those presented at Sea World.
With the voice of Mr World Finals, Mike Young keeping you up to speed with proceedings its sure to be a fantastic show.
Oh, and there will be some cars too.
 
To find out more visit...
www.xtremeaction.co.uk or www.britishmotorshow.co.uk
18th July : Amputee Fundraiser Jetskis Round Ireland.
Veteran fundraiser Matt Browne, who lost his leg to diabetes six years ago, today completed his inspirational 1,000-mile record a day ahead of schedule.
Arriving back at Howth, Co Dublin, from where he originally set off 19 days ago, the Kildare man said he was looking forward to a bath and a good night`s sleep.
"I`m totally exhausted and every muscle is aching, but I`m thrilled," he said.
"At times the sea conditions have been very choppy and it was tough going. On two occasions waves hit me with such force that my goggles were taken off my head and washed overboard."
The 53-year-old set off on June 25, travelling south towards Waterford and Cork before making his way around the craggy Kerry coastline and northwards along the Atlantic seaboard.
From Donegal to the north Antrim coast, Mr Browne continued on his epic journey back to Dublin through the choppy waters of the Irish sea.
"Every day brought a new set of challenges whether it was due to tides, to mechanical difficulties, or to the weather. Some days the waves were as high as eight metres," he said.
"I had to really hold on. The task was made much harder by the fact that I had to remove my prosthetic limb, so balance was difficult.
"Fortunately, the hours that I spent in the gym, building up my strength and my stamina seem to have paid off. But I`m really looking forward to a good night`s sleep and to a long, relaxing bath."
Mr Browne stopped off each day during his sometimes gruelling battle against the high seas and elements at towns and villages along the coast in a bid to raise €100,000 (£69,000) for disability campaigner Rehab.
"Without doubt, the highlight of the trip has been the opportunity to meet so many people who came out to welcome me to their local area, and to show their support for Rehab," he said.
"It was lovely to arrive ashore after spending hours on a jet-ski and to have so many people waiting to greet me."
Already known for his quirky approach to fundraising, Mr Browne last year completed a 250-mile round-trip across the Irish Sea on a jet-ski, raising €30,000 (£20,670) in the process.
He also organised Ireland`s first Sheep Steeplechase Race, the popular Thorny Rose competition, a male alternative to the Rose of Tralee, and a 750-mile bus reverse around the country.
Utv
18th July : Jetskier Rescues Drowning Couple.
A Jet Skier who came to the rescue of two people who nearly drowned in the rising tide off St Andrews on Saturday has remained an anonymous hero.
The watersports enthusiast rescued the unidentified man and woman after they became trapped by the incoming tide at the West Sands shortly after 4.30pm.
However, following their dramatic rescue and safe passage to the shore the jet skier took off with neither the couple nor the coastguard able to find and thank him for his quick thinking.
A spokesman for the coastguard said the couple had a lucky escape but confirmed that despite searching the bay for the mystery man their search had proved fruitless.
He said, “Our search last night never uncovered who the jet skier was so it looks like he rode his ski off never to be found.
“I know the couple are both extremely grateful for his assistance in what was an extremely scary situation.”
The drama began when emergency services received a string of reports of two people apparently becoming trapped by the incoming tide.
As the water rose, the situation became more desperate and lifeboat crews from Broughty Ferry lifeboat station and a Sea King helicopter were scrambled.
A coastguard spokeswoman said, “There were reports that the couple were almost fully submerged but the jet skier arrived and pulled them to safety.
“They were treated by ambulances at the scene and both were in shock at the ordeal but neither sustained any physical injuries and did not require any hospital treatment.”
thecourier.co.uk
18th July : UK Fireman Honored Participant.
The first annual 2006 Summer AWA-K38 H2O Responder Team Challenge results are in!
We had a blast, more than fun, it was a family event, which brought all of us together from all over the globe to the fringe of the US Continent, the Pacific Ocean was our playground for 2 days of festive comraderie.
Mother nature was kind to us with mild weather, during a very hectic spring season, we had blue skies and a rolling ocean to work with. This is a unique event that supports swiftwater and flood training and any other type of water rescue disciplines.
This year we focused on our Kawasaki Jet Skis for the primary competition skills and a Wahoo Lifesled for our team events.
This event is dedicated to supporting a worthwhile charity, while bringing together our H2O Responder community for several days of fun and competition.
Team Liquid Militia took top honors on Kawasaki STX 3-seaters during a grueling 2 day event hosted at a private beach resort in Santa Barbara, California courtesy of the Schulte Family Foundation.
Participants, family and friends camped on the event site, practicing one day in the Pacific Ocean, followed by the competition finals the next day. Courses were timed events that represented technical skills commonly used in training with Personal Watercraft for rescue purposes.
John Alexiou from Team Slapper took home top honors in the individual runabout slalom, while Jonathan Cahill from Team Liquid Militia took the stand up title. Times were either split, individual or combined depending upon the event for overall points that divided the teams into 3 overall placings. A Lifesled was used in the 3 person rescue course and all teams took home sponsor donated prizes.
Gary Cross from the Hampshire Fire Brigade in the UK was a honored participant. He is here on a Winston Churchill fellowship to observe and study how agencies in the United States manage flood and swiftwater rescue operations was a member of Team Slapper.
The H2O Responder Team Challenge benefits the Higgins and Langley Memorial Swiftwater Awards program, H2O Responders are honored to support this well deserving program.
Steve Miller was the lead judge coming all the way from Maryland from the Cabin John Volunteer Fire Department. Steve has been a volunteer for 35 years and a supporter of the Higgins and Langley Memorial Awards for Flood and Swiftwater.
Nancy Rigg who is the founding mother of swiftwater/flood rescue training worldwide and also with the H&L Awards, camped with us along with her mother, whom was our party mascot. We love Shirley Rigg and Nancy and are most grateful to be blessed with their presence.
This family has been instrumental in saving lives and helping those who have lost dear ones through drowning incidents worldwide. Our event is dedicated in honor of this family, the H&L Awards and to those who work in the water rescue field.
Please join us in 2007 to celebrate another year of learning, working and sharing. We hope to see you there!
Special appreciation to our first year award participants and winners, with their dedication and attendance this year set the pace for what comes next. Are you ready?
TEAMS:
Team Liquid Militia
Captain: Ray Wolfgramm
El Granada, California (Towsurfer, instructor)
Jonathan Cahill
San Mateo, California (Firefighter/Boating Safety Instructor)
Easton Thodos
Santa Barbara, California (Lifeguard)
Team Rancho
Captain: Ryan Smith, Rancho Cucamonga, California (Boating Safety Instructor)
Trevor Smith, Rancho Cucamonga, California (Recreational Rider)
Nick Cardenas, Rancho Cucamonga California (Recreational Rider)
Justin Mellon, Rancho Cucamonga, California (Recreational Rider)
Team Slapper
Captain: John Alexiou, Santa Cruz, California (Boating Safety Instructor/Lifeguard)
John Freutel, San Diego, California (USNavy)
Gary Cross, UK Hampshire Fire Brigade (Firefighter)
Events:
Team Stand Up Slalom
Victim Pick-Up
Rescue Board Relay
Beach Cart Run
Judges:
Steve Miller, Maryland
Kyla Dominguez, California
Shawn Alladio, California
Charity:
Higgins and Langley Memorial Awards for Flood and Swiftwater Rescue.

Presented by and Special Thanks for the ongoing support of our sponsors:
American Watercraft Association-H2O Responders
Schulte Family Foundation
Liquid Militia Core Wear
Kawasaki Motors Corporation
K38 Water Safety
Gath Headgear
Lifesled
Hydroturf

globalsurfnews.com
18th July : Jetskier Slams Rescuers.
A JETSKIER who had to be rescued twice within an hour was unrepentant yesterday as he got back on the water.
Self-confessed "beach bum" Garry Lawrence, 45, was towed to safety twice after his Jetski broke down on the River Tay at the weekend.
But yesterday, as jobless Lawrence returned t o Broughty Ferry beach to frolic on the water with pals, he hit out at the volunteers who came to his aid.
He said: "I had flares and all the other proper equipment. If I'd needed help I would have used them.
"One of the spark plug leads was faulty but there were other Jetskiers who could have towed me in."
John Stewart, president of Broughty Ferry Jet Ski Club, called for tighter legislation.
He said: "You don't drive a car without having passed a driving test and it needs to be roadworthy and insured. Any- one can buy a high-powered motor boat or jetski and go straight on the water."
And last night Andrew Jeffery, second coxswain of Broughty Ferry Lifeboat, said: "Our position is quite simple - people should be aware of all the safety measures before they go to sea."
dailyrecord.co.uk
18th July : PC Dies In Jetski Tragedy.
A NORTH Wales beat bobby yesterday died from a heart attack as he was towed behind a Jetski.
PC Stephen Nesfield collapsed as he rode a wave board off Dinas Dinlle beach near Caernarfon just after 5pm yesterday.
His wife and children watched in horror as the off-duty Nantlle valley officer suffered the heart attack.
A999 call brought coastguards and paramedics rushing to his aid. But despite frantic attempts to revive the popular bobby, he was pronounced dead on arrival at Ysbyty Gwynedd, Bangor.
Last night the keen sportsman's death was called a "massive loss to the community".
His family were being comforted by relatives and friends at their home in Waunfawr, near Caernarfon. Police confirmed it was a "sad" incident.
Mr Nesfield, who was in his 40s, spent 22 years with North Wales Police and was based in Pwllheli, Nefyn, and Caernarfon and Penygroes.
Stationed at Penygroes, he took over the Llanllyfni ward as a Community Beat Manager in December 2003.
While there, he became hugely popular for fighting the causes of the residents of the largely rural area, which covers Nantlle valley.
He was also well-known as a sports enthusiast, and was keen on mountain climbing and watersports. One close friend said: "He was an amazingly fit man, which makes it even more of a shock.
"He was a real outdoors type, into mountain climbing, skiing, all sorts. I had, and a lot of people had, a real respect for him.
"He was an amazingly popular man, and will be a massive, massive loss to the whole community. It sounds strange, but he was the kind of man who was so nice, he was almost too nice to be a policeman."
Another friend said: "It's a terrible thing to happen. He was an incredibly popular man."
A police spokesman said they would investigate the incident but it was now being treated as "a very, very sad incident" and not an accident.
ICNorthWales
18th July : Lifeboat Rescues Jetskier Twice In Day.
Calls for tighter controls over jetskiers have been made after a lifeboat had to twice go to the rescue of the same man.
The incident, on the Firth of Tay at the weekend, comes just weeks after the actions of jetskiers on the Firth of Clyde following the Arran ferry were condemned as "lunacy".
Broughty Ferry lifeboat had to go out twice to a jetskier who has in the past rejected the opportunity to join the local club where he would receive training and information.
Last night Shona Robison, the SNP MSP, reiterated her call for compulsory basic training for anyone taking to the water in a jetski and a national register for the machines.
She said: "These are very powerful craft. I have already called for both a national register and mandatory training.
"The clubs offer courses which would give some proficiency before people get on what is effectively a motorbike in water.
"If there was a national register then it would enable jetskis involved in incidents to be traced."
Andrew Jeffrey, second coxswain of the lifeboat, said they were on exercise when they spotted the jetski in trouble not far off the station.
He said: "Another jetskier was attempting to tow it, not very successfully to say the least, so we immediately reacted, launched the boat and towed him ashore.
"We were just recovering the boat afterwards when almost immediately he disappeared out and broke down again.
"We saw what had happened and went out again. It was a busy afternoon with four separate trips, two of them to the jetski.
"Most jetskiers are entirely responsible and there is a very active club here - Tayjet - who know what they are doing, have got the safety message and drum it into their members.
"We would recommend people join a recognised club and take the right advice. It is certainly possible this man might have benefited from that sort of advice."
He said the man declined to give them his name.
John Stuart, president of the Broughty Ferry-based club, said the problems for the sport were caused by a tiny minority and suggested a national register for water craft could help alleviate the problems.
He said in many cases it was simply ignorance which led to the difficulties rather than people deliberately causing problems, adding that the man involved was one of a group who had previously been spoken to about their behaviour.
He said: "We invited them to join our club, where they would receive the necessary training and information.
"They have not accepted our offer and have acted irresponsibly and recklessly this weekend, wasting the lifeboat station's time and endangering the lives of others.
"You don't get to drive a car without having passed a driving test, proving the car is roadworthy and obtained insurance.
"Anyone can buy a high-powered motor boat, jetski or similar device and go straight out on the water without knowing the laws of the sea, making sure the device is seaworthy or simply learning how to use it."
Caledonian MacBrayne ferries has sent a photographic dossier to the coastguard, highlighting the danger it believes jetskiers are placing themselves in by following the Caledonian Isles boat in the Firth of Clyde.
A spokesman said: "They may see it as an attraction. We see it as a danger to their safety.
"It is sheer lunacy for these people to be playing about in the wake of this vessel."
theherald.co.uk
17th July : Lee Stone Training Pics.
JMUK met up with World Champion Freestyler Lee Stone at the weekend and witnessed a day of practice as he trained for competition.

The amount of time and effort involved in putting together a world beating routine is remarkable. It was impossible to count or even guess the number of times Lee and his Yamaha Superjet were inverted during the course of the session as he repeatedly practiced key tricks including barrell rolls and backflips from his routine.
Lee did however take time out to have some fun in front of the camera and a selection of images can be viewed online.

Check them out in the photo gallery.

17th July : JSRA British Championship Results.
The Jetsport Racing Association British Championship Results from Rounds 4 and 5 are now online.

Check them out at...

www.jsra.co.uk

12th July : Nicola Makes Waves With Her Mini Jetski.
A talented Bedlington student is set to make waves as her very own mini jetski goes on show in London.
Nicola Emery, aged 22, was inspired by the popularity of mini motorbikes when she created the vehicle and is hoping to take the New Designers exhibition by storm this week.
The Northumbria University student from Clovelly Gardens said: "I spend all my weekends during the summer messing about on the water off the Northumberland coast and as an engineering design student, I am fascinated by some of the smaller motorised vehicles available on land.
"At the moment there's nothing similar available for use on the water and I wanted to combine all my skills and experience to design a vehicle that would exploit the market sector and test my abilities as a design engineer."
"It was a real challenge to ensure that the vehicle looks good and that it works."
"It was particularly important to work out the buoyancy as the size of the vehicle is very small, relative to the size of any person riding it."
Nicola worked at pharmaceuticals giant Merck Sharp & Dohme in Cramlington before embarking on the three-year BSc (Hons) product design technology and is now working at Blyth engineering company J W Colpitts.
The Mini Jetski is her final year project and was transported to the capital this week to feature alongside other designs at the exhibition showcasing the work, talent and energy of Britain's leading graduate designers.
Now in its 21st year, the exhibition attracts a trade and consumer audience of over 14,000 and covers 20 design disciplines.
Dr Bill Fleming, product design technology course leader at Northumbria University, added: "Nicola is one of 12 students from the course whose designs will be exhibited in London and I have been delighted with the range of product ideas which have emerged this year.
"The Mini Jetski will be exhibited in London alongside a solution for flexible desking and 'Cut It', a device which enables children who only have the use of one arm to cut paper."
blyth-wansbecktoday.co.uk
12th July : CWC Charity Run Blown Out.
The recently postponed Clacton Watercraft Club Charity Run from Martello Bay to Burnham on Crouch that was to have taken place on the 9th of July has been rescheduled for Saturday 12th August.

Bad weather forced the event to be abandoned much to the disappointment of the assembled riders when the Coastguard in agreement with the Marine Police and RNLI advised against setting out in the near gale force conditions.
The morning started out very unsettled with Club Chairman Gary Slater reporting extremely choppy conditions on his arrival at 7am.
As the personal watercraft were checked over and launched the sea state was deteriorating rapidly. Shortly before the rider briefing the club officials received word of what they were likely to encounter en route.
Sixty-Five mph gusts off Brightlingsea and consistent Force 6 to 7 winds meant the event in planning for several months could not take place.
Event marshals went out to scout the shorter alternative run only to report back that the incoming tide was adding to the worsening conditions. The decision was taken to postpone the event until a later date.
The run is set to raise funds for local Essex girl Ellie May Challis (2) who contracted Meningococcal Septicaemia Meningitis Type B back in 2005.
After a long battle, from which she nearly lost her life, she had to have all her limbs removed, her arms just below her elbows and her legs just above the knees.
A trust fund has been set up for Ellie May to enable her to have prosthetic limbs, which unfortunately are not available on the NHS.
Chairman Gary commented.
“Although it is very disappointing not to have completed the cruise for Ellie May, the safety of Club Members is our number one priority. We would like to thank those that came along and look forward to seeing them plus others in August when we shall be hoping for more favourable conditions.”
To find out more or get involved visit:
www.clactonwatercraftclub.org.uk
11th July : Seadoo At Southampton Boatshow.
BRP will make their debut as the direct Importer and Distributor of their recreational products within UK and Ireland at this year’s Southampton Boat Show following their acquisition of Jets Marivent UK.
BRP will be exhibiting a selection of the popular Sea-Doo® Personal watercraft range including the GTI SE™, RXP™ and RXT™ at Stand H001.
The GTI™ is the first Sea-Doo four-stroke, entry-level watercraft equipped with a 130hp Rotax® 4-TEC™ engine. Launched at London Boat Show earlier this year, the GTI and GTI SE models set a new benchmark for entry-level PWC. Each seating three passengers, the new range was recently named 2006 “Watercraft of the Year” by US magazine, Watercraft World.
As well as featuring new deck and hull designs, the GTI and the GTI SE come equipped as standard with Sea-Doo technologies previously only available on higher-end luxury performance models. These include Off-Power Assisted Steering™, a Closed-Loop Cooling System™ and D-Sea-Bel™ sound reduction system.
The GTI SE also sports a number of extra features including a digital speedometer and 16-function digital information centre, and Sea-Doo Learning Key to help new riders.
The ever-popular 215hp RXP also returns, with the revolutionary technology that made it the Musclecraft Shootout winner in the US for two years running.
Alongside it is the RXT, the industry’s fastest three-passenger production PWC, demonstrating that being big never has to hinder speed and precision. Available in “Maya Gold” or “Viper Red”, both craft feature a sophisticated information centre and Off-Power Assisted Steering™, D-Sea-Bel™ sound reduction system and Sea-Doo Learning Key as standard.
The GTI SE, RXP and RXT join an exciting selection of Sea-Doo PWCs in the 2006 line-up. The GTX™ returns alongside the GTX™ Limited, the most luxurious PWC on the market. The GTX Limited now comes with a new Starlight Blue, Titanium Pearl colour scheme and features almost every technology available. It boasts eighteen specifically designed accessories, including a waterproof mobile phone case and a built-in, hand-held GPS system.
In the Sport segment, the Sea-Doo WAKE™ is perfect for extreme activities, including wakeboarding, wakeskating, and skiing. The size and agility of the PWC provides a wide variety of movement and, importantly, minimal time spent in the water after falls!
The wide range provides something for everyone, and, for the first time, every model includes clean technology. The GTI and GTI SE boast a 3-star CARB (California Air Resources Board) emissions rating for 2006.
www.jetsmarivent.com
11th July : Loch Lomond 5-Year Blueprint Being Rewritten.
Scotland's first national park has confirmed it is rewriting the blueprint for its next five years, amid accusations it favours commerce over conservation.
Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park Authority will celebrate its fourth birthday without a long-awaited plan to set out exactly what the body is for.
At its heart is the debate over the competing interests of walkers, homeowners, farmers and water sports enthusiasts.
Officials last night said they did not expect the document to be ready for ministerial approval until October.
The bitter row over jetskis, far from being settled by a recent proposed compromise, still represents the battle for the heart of the park.
The national park plan should, at last, decide exactly where the authority stands on the big issues like the balance between commerce and conservation.
However, the original draft, dated May 2005, has found few fans and is now being reworked.
"Parts of the plan are still being revised," a spokeswoman for the park authority said. "It will go to the minister in the autumn."
Asked why the revisions were taking so long, she said: "Because we had a huge amount of responses. It's a big document."
Around 450 individuals and organisations made submissions to a consultation on the draft plan held between May and September of last year. They attacked it from all sides.
Environmentalists are angry that the plan does not do enough to cement the conservationist principles set out in the law that founded the park.
Powerboat and jetski owners are unhappy that their interests, they claim, are not defended either.
The park authority hoped its draft plan would go some way to reconcile the competing interests. Its convener, Gillie Thomson, in the foreward even spoke of "balancing all four statutory aims of the national park".
The aims are: conserve and enhance the natural and cultural heritage of the area; promote sustainable use of natural resources of the area; promote understanding and enjoyment of the special qualities of the area by the public; and promote sustainable economic and social development of the area's communities.
Robert Findlay, an 83-year-old whose family has owned and farmed land on Loch Lomondside for two centuries, doesn't believe the aims can be balanced. And, he says, he has the law on his side.
The founding act for the park explicitly says that the first aim – to conserve and enhance the natural and cultural heritage – must have primacy in the event of any conflict.
Mr Findlay has been angered by planning permission given by the park for developments on the lochside.
He said: "It's not the feet of visitors that are ruining the park; it's the planning decisions being made by the authority."
Kevin Lilburn also lives on the east side of Loch Lomond. But his views on its waters are very different. He too objected to the draft plan, but only because it did not recognise Loch Lomond's role as a rare centre for powerboating.
He said: "The plan needs to recognise that the ability to continue to enjoy existing recreational activities, in their current form, is a special quality in itself and is of great importance."
theherald.co.uk
10th July : Belfast Family Devastated By Jetski Horror.
The family of a 17-year-old north Belfast boy killed in a jet-ski accident while on holiday have been devastated by the tragic loss.
The remains of David Owens were returned to his family home in Thornberry Avenue, Ligoniel, from Bulgaria at the weekend for his funeral which is expected to take place later this week.
A black ribbon has been placed on the front door of the house and his distraught mother this morning said she was too upset to speak.
The teenager, an employee at Crumlin Star Social Club, was on holiday with family members at the Black Sea resort of Golden Sands when tragedy struck.
It is thought that David and his 15-year-old brother had rented a jet-ski on Friday afternoon and the accident happened when his craft was in collision with another jetski.
Fr Aidan Troy said he had offered his condolences to David's maternal grandfather, Brendan, on meeting him at morning Mass yesterday and explained that the family have been heartbroken by their terrible loss.
Meanwhile, local politicians have expressed their shock at David's death.
Describing the teenager as a "very popular and well-liked fella", Sinn Fein councillor Margaret McClenaghan said young people in the area have been left devastated.
Belfast Telegraph
9th July : Teenager Saved After River Drama.
A rescue boat and two jet-skis helped save a teenager after he fell into Glasgow's River Clyde on Saturday.
Rescuers found the 16-year-old boy clinging by his fingertips to the side of a disused boat basin beside Govan Cross, where he had been playing.
Three appliances from Strathclyde Fire and Rescue were also dispatched, as was a helicopter, which was not required.
After the incident at 1815 BST, the boy was taken to the Southern General Hospital for a precautionary check-up.
Jim McNally, the Govan crew manager, said: "When we arrived at the incident, I saw that the young boy had managed to swim to the side of the basin and was literally clinging to the side by his fingertips.
Rescue line
"The crew managed to lower a rescue line down to the boy and then using the rescue line and a nearby fly ladder which was on the other side of the basin, rescued the boy and pulled him to safety."
Craig Shaw, of Strathclyde Fire & Rescue, said the incident could have had a more tragic ending.
"This incident highlights the danger of playing near the water's edge," he said.
"As most schools have started the summer term holiday, I would ask parents to ensure that whether or not their children can swim, they reinforce the dangers of playing near the water's edge."
BBC News
9th July : Man's Legs Cut Off By Propeller.
A man who had a leg cut off and lost part of the other when he was struck by a propeller blade on Southampton Water was trying to climb on-board a boat.
Police said the 40-year-old was a passenger on a jet ski and part of a group of seven adults taking part in water sports on Saturday afternoon.
They were returning to Hythe Marina on the jet ski and a boat at the time.
The man had entered the water and was attempting to board the speedboat when his legs got sucked into the propeller. 
A spokesman for Hampshire Constabulary said: "The engines were running and the propellers were turning. It would appear the person's legs were drawn under by the propeller and severe injuries were incurred.
"In fact one leg, it is believed, has been severed completely and the other leg has been severely damaged."
'Rare' injuries
The coastguard helicopter was scrambled to the scene shortly after 1600 BST after a witness reported seeing the man "in sheer agony", a spokeswoman for the Maritime and Coastguard Agency said.
The injured man, from Southampton, was airlifted to Southampton General Hospital. He lost his right leg and part of his left leg.
Colin Griffiths, watch manager at Solent Maritime Rescue Co-ordination Centre, said: "The scale of the injuries to this person is rare in our experience. Our thoughts are with him and his family at this time."
Hampshire Police were at the scene and the Marine Accident Investigation Branch launched a full investigation into the incident.
Southampton Water - a 28km long waterway - is one of Europe's busiest shipping routes.
BBC News
6th July : Boaters, Jetski Users Harassing Basking Sharks.
Careless motor boat users and jet skiers are putting basking sharks in danger by going far too close to them, marine conservationists said yesterday.
In one incident three boats circled a shark off the coast of south Cornwall, forcing it close to shore and almost on to rocks.
The fine weather and flat seas in the south-west over the last week have prompted a plankton bloom which is attracting the sharks inshore.
The situation is being monitored by life guards. But the Silver Dolphin Marine Conservation Centre in Penzance said it had received a string of reports of people harassing the animals, which grow to up to 10 metres (33ft).
David Ball, head of the centre, said the incident in which the shark almost ended up on the rocks had been seen by staff at the Minack theatre.
"Three boats circled the shark and pushed it towards the rocks. It was only a few feet away when they backed off and allowed it to swim back out."
Mr Ball said he had reports of boat users separating mothers from babies and splitting schools by speeding through them. Damage could be done if sharks were prevented from feeding to take on fat they need for the winter.
A code of conduct has been drawn up to make boat and jet ski users aware of how to act around basking sharks. 
Mr Ball said people should not go closer than 100 metres to the animals.
BBC
5th July : JSRA British Championship Round 4 Pics.
A selection of Jetmans photos from Round 4 of the 2006 JSRA British Championship are now online.

Check them out in the photo gallery.
3rd July : Coastguard Issue Top Tips For Safer Sunshine.
Coastguards throughout the UK are being inundated with requests for coastal rescues as the public flock to the seaside to enjoy the stunning weather.
Last weekend, Coastguards dealt with a whole range of incidents from children on drifting inflatable toys and swimmers in difficulties to injured tombstoners, missing children, broken down vessels and diving incidents.
As temperatures soar, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency is issuing the following top tips to ensure everyone enjoys the sunshine safely.
 
Weather, tides and waves are changeable so check the conditions before you go - most Tourist Information Centres will display local tide times
Watch out for strong currents and waves and take notice of signs
Don't go out of your depth – even strong swimmers cannot swim against strong currents
Look for the red and yellow flags for safe areas.
Keep clear of any cliff edges as they can be slippery when they get wet – cliffs around the UK are very high and do sometimes give way under foot.
Dont drink and drown - eating and drinking before swimming may give you cramps while you're in the water – you may then be unable to get back to the shore.
Drinking alcohol and going in the sea is dangerous, it slows your reactions, increases chances of hypothermia and your judgment of distance will be impaired
If you do get into trouble at the coast dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard
mcga.gov.uk

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