Season launch on the Waikato
The New Zealand Water Ski Racing Association season got underway at Mercer today, with crews lining up for the first event of the 2025/26 season. The Mercer River Race course is a physical 46-kilometre test, starting at Mercer, running downstream to the Elbow Water Ski Club in Pukekohe, and then looping back upstream.
Since its debut in 2016, Mercer has earned a reputation as a lively season-opener, with a varied course. The benchmark remains Messiah’s 2016 record of 17 minutes 54 seconds.
This year’s programme included the feature Long Race at 10:30am, a Powerboat Race at 12:30pm, and a Support Ski Race at 1:30pm. With 13 boats entered in the Long Race, competition promised to be fierce.
Challenging conditions
Instead, conditions played the deciding role. A strong breeze funnelled across the Waikato River, kicking up short, steep chop that tested both crews and equipment. Boats bounced through uncomfortable water, while gusts made holding a steady line difficult.
Despite organisers’ best efforts to run the programme, the weather ultimately shortened the day. The Long Race went ahead, but not all were able to compete.
Results on the water
For those who made it through, the achievement was significant. Agent Orange claimed the win in 40 minutes 51 seconds, with skier Logan Kennedy behind the boat and driver Nigel Kennedy supported by observer Hamish Kennedy.
The Player came home second in 46 minutes 11 seconds with skiers Adam Forgacs and Jayk Dick, driver Russell Dick, and observer Graeme Briggs. Third went to Ceminel in 48 minutes 30 seconds, with skiers Nick Taylor and Michael Witherford, driver Cole Varley, and observer Rick McDermot.
The planned Powerboat Race and Support Ski Race were called off after conditions continued to deteriorate, with organisers and crews agreeing it was better to regroup for the next event.
Looking ahead
On social media, the NZWSRA summed up the mood: “WHAT A DAY. Insane weather providing very challenging conditions today with over half the field not making it to the finish line and providing some great results!! Bring on our first circuit race in 3 weeks’ time at Lake Karapiro.”
From Mercer, the season will head to Karapiro in early October, followed by Arapuni, Hamilton, and the Bridge to Bridge on the Waikato River in November. The Bryce Newton 100 Miler at Blue Lake and the Wellington Nationals are also highlights, with the Trans Tasman Challenge wrapping up in April 2026.
Mercer may not have run as planned, but it set the tone for another summer of speed, teamwork, and competitive spirit.
