Can I just Ski Around the Buoys?
As long as NH boating laws are followed, you can, but due to the small size of Back Bay and the presence of underwater hazards (sunken logs, sawdust bottom and sand bar), the skier and boat paths are extremely important. Using a competition ski boat with tracking fins is necessary in order to drive a straight path through the course and to safely navigate the skier drop zones. The State of NH permits limited skiing hours on the slalom course and ski jump and the club has adopted safety rules and guidelines for courtesy, so it is recommended you become a member. See all club rules here.
Can I just ride over the jump?
Skiing over the jump is for experienced club members only and should not be attempted without proper equipment and coaching. If you’re interested in learning more about the jump event please see all rules here, and contact us below.
If I’m a member, can I ski any time?
The ski course has restricted hours of use. Practice is only permitted from 8AM-1PM and afternoon hours from 4PM to sunset. When there is a queue to ski, skiers are limited to 8 passes, with a fall counting as a pass, and skiers should alternate by boat/group. No skier shall take a second set before all skiers present have taken their first. All other traffic in the area has the right-of-way. See all rules here.
How do I join the club?
Anyone can join by following these steps:
Send club documents and annual club dues ($145 per individual or 1st family member, $50 for each additional family member with a cap of $295) to Abenaki Water Ski Club, 7 Red Sands Lane, Alton, NH 03810
Non-skier or injured skiers can help support the club and stay connected by joining as a Friend of Abenaki Water Ski Club by sending club documents and reduced-rate dues ($50) to Abenaki Water Ski Club, 7 Red Sands Lane, Alton, NH 03810.
Why do I have to join USA Water Ski & Wake Sports?
USA Water Ski & Wake Sports requires all club members to join in order to provide the club with insurance. A USAWS&WS membership also enables you to participate in tournaments.
Can I use my own boat?
If you are a member and own a tournament approved ski tow boat with fins, then yes! This classification of boat is necessary to maneuver in the course without probable damage to the boat and/or ski course.
Do I need my own ski boat?
A boat is not required for membership, however access to a tournament approved ski tow boat is necessary for using the slalom course and jump. Members with boats are NOT obligated to provide skiing opportunities for members that do not own boats. It is advised that potential members without a ski boat identify their opportunities to ski prior to joining the club.
Can I register to ski in a tournament?
All USA Water Ski 3 event members are able to ski in any class C or class F sanctioned tournament. It is not a requirement that tournament competitors join AWSC. Events are listed, and can be signed up for on the USA Water Ski & Wake Sports website here. AWSC sanctions 3 tournaments each year. Annual NH Open, Lakes Region Open and the New Hampshire State Water Ski championships.
Can anyone drive skiers?
You must be a AWSC member to drive a skier in the slalom or jump course. Any member who wishes to drive for skiers must comply with all NH boating rules and regulations, and additionally must become certified by USA Water Ski & Wake Sports as a trained driver. Before driving in Back Bay, you are REQUIRED to ride with a designated experience club member to see exactly where and where not to go. Under no circumstances should a club member drive in Back Bay before receiving proper instruction. Back Bay is a unique area that has many underwater hazards. Following the boat path is critical to avoiding underwater hazards which include unmarked rocks, sand bars and logs. Underwater hazards can cause serious damage to the boats and potential personal injury.
Do I need my own equipment?
It is recommended that persons interested in exploring the sport of water skiing invest in their own equipment. Having equipment that fits and is set-up properly for the skier is a key to having success on the water. Equipment is very personal to the individual and can be expensive. Therefore, club members are unlikely to offer the use of personal equipment and are not obligated to do so. Club members can make suggestions about where and how to acquire proper equipment. A good source for used equipment is www.ski-it-again.com.
I still have questions. How can I learn more about the club?
Anyone interested in exploring the sport of water skiing can contact us here. Watching ski practice and talking to our members at the AWSC club dock in Back Bay is a great way to get acquainted with the club. Attending a club sanctioned tournament is another great way to learn more.
