World Finals 2010, Lake Havasu City, Arizona, USA

Well it's the best time of the year again - World Finals time.  This year it is even more exciting for me as I didn't think we could financially afford to come so it was a bit of a late decision but as usual my wonderful Mum and Dad (with some help from my great sponsors) have come up tops and so here I am.  I am so grateful, Thank you.

I would just like to take a minute though to remember three special people who  can't be with us this year - Jeremy Hoyland, Cesare Vismara and Thomas Reiterer -  we are thinking of you and know you are with us.

It is so lovely to meet up with everyone from around the world, friends new and old and who all share the same passion as me. I hope everyone has safe, fun and fair racing.  Good Luck everyone and thank you to all at IJSBA and K38 for your great work.

Have you ever seen anyone so excited about Mushy Peas? This is Nedra below the crazy lady! If you don't know her don't worry you will hear her - to all those watching on the live stream listen for the cow bell.  She really is a star (well I thought so until she got me up to talk at the junior day - I never talk in public usually as I am too nervous, thanks Nedra!).

All team GB have arrived safely now - my graphic sponsor Steve Robinson (Ski Pimp) and his wife Andrea and son Harrry and the luckiest racer in GB (if not the world)  Lewis Goodchild arrived last night.

Click on the photo of me and my dad to see my slideshow of my mums photos.

Click on the photo of Kevin and me practicing (the only time I will ever be in front of this amazing rider!) to see a video of me in practise.

I have had a good time practising - not without one or two issues for Dad (it wouldn't be the World Finals without a few hitches but I hope its not as stress full as last year for him!).  First day he had a blonde moment during some R & D and managed to pop my engine - don't think he will ever live that one down in himself!  He had an issue on Matts ski to sort oh and then there was a sticky moment at the Crazy Horse practice area but apart from that I am happy to say at the moment all seems to be going ok so fingers crossed please - but it's racing and anything can happen.

All signed in.

So lets get this 29th Quakysense (amazing Quakysense) World Finals rolling....................

Official practise started today and gee it was rough. Didn't get a chance to practise the log jump though yet as its not in place! I was a little disappointed that due to the schedule I can't race the open class on my open because I need it set up as a back up for my limited class and there isn't enough time to change the intercooler etc, so I will just race open on my limited boat but after today's practise I don't need no open boat if its that rough anyway!  I didn't go above half throttle.

Tuesday = racing begins today, my graphic sponsor Steve Robinson (AKA Ski Pimp) has his first moto today- Good Luck Steve, just go out there enjoy it, have fun and I hope pinky behaves for you. Brad Rickerby and Sophie Perrin from GB also have their first motos today. My racing starts on Wednesday.

Wednesday = My first day of racing today and don't know what happened really.  I finished 6th in my first Moto in expert ski limited - I have already written being placed in 3 of my classes because of the double log jump (which was introduced new this year into my classes and I didn't know until I got here!) and it is high and hard but even without the log jump I just didn't feel good and wouldn't have been placed any higher, can't explain what happened really.

Congrats to the Brits, Brad got a second overall, Sophie got a third overall, hope Jims back gets better soon and I would like to say thank you to my dad for all his hard work and for helping Garry repair Sophies race engine.  Also thanks to Tim for working on my head at night and shipping it to me asap, Thanks Tim, much appreciated and a huge thank you to Quakysense for my new custom made race gear - love it Thank you guys soooooooooooooooo much.

Let's see what tomorrow brings.

Hope our juniors can make 1, 2 and 3 on the podium how cool a podium would that be.

Thursday = Well things started better as I won my heat race for Amateur Open but thats were it ends!  I got placed about 5th and 6th I think - the boats out here just seem so fast Quinten and Kevin just drove straight by me. Think my hopes of one, two and three for juniors is over too - Matt was in fifth after a slow start and on the last lap he took a swim, a big one and lost his goggles.  Sophie finished about 8th or 9th and Dan was behind them so come on lets cheer them all on today as they are on a downer and lets show the world what our juniors are made of. Lisa won us a world title in Vets thank goodness and James  won his moto one in Pro/Am stock.  Poor Old Lewis had a tough time too.  Just not our year this year and I so wanted to keep that Nations trophy.

We attended the Parade of Nations and flew the flag high though.  Thanks Kay for organising that - it is really nice.

BIG thanks to my dad and my new pit bitches - Steve and Tomo who worked hard  yesterday dragging our boats up and down that sand.  My wonderful Dad worked alone in the garage again last night taking the engine out and changing my turbo so hopefully I won't be a smoky Joe today - as yesterday I was smoking literally but little pinkie held on for me but we only have a used turbo not a new one.

Friday = not the best start in the world, flat battery on my ski and I am on the line in an hour!  Sorted that one and went on to have a great moto 1 in Pro/Am Limited with the guys - I finished third behind Kevin and Quieten and that was with a double log jump too so well happy with that but then as I was going to the line for moto 2 my turbo was playing up again and so I had to jump on my back up and I just didn't have a good moto two so disappointing really.  I finished 5th overall in Pro/Am Limited.  My boyfriend however went on to win Pro/Am runabout stock and Jack Moule took home runner up World Champion Amateur Freestyler - Go Mouley.  With a massive thanks to the Zier Family Dad is in the garage again tonight.

Saturday = Well done Matt for getting 2nd in his junior heat.  My luck just continues to go down hill I am afraid.  My best boat did another turbo yesterday so we really have got something going on there so that boat is now dead.  Then I went out in my heat race and my boat didn't go off the line very well and then half way round the track it stopped dead and threw me off.  So something is going on there too.  So I don't know yet if I have a boat for my ladies class as we lost the light last night so will have to wait until light to see if my boat is working or not.  My back up boat isn't as fast as my best boat anyway but at this moment I would be happy for her to be just working.  If not then I will just have to watch my class!

Sunday = Really not my year this year!  Had a problem with my back up boat - thanks to Mark Queen for his help in our last minute attempt to get me to the line and to Klipper for the offer of a boat.  I made it to the line for Moto One only for my exhaust hose to come off on the hole shot lap.  My dad was on the line holding Matt in the next race so I knew he couldn't help me so thanks to a very nice gentleman (you know who you are) for helping me get the boat started again and at least limping around the track to get last place points.  Game over for me now this year.  I went out in Moto 2 and came home 3rd and it was rough out there.  Its so disappointing when you come all this way and I know how expensive it is and how much commitment my parents and sponsors have put in to getting me here this year. 

Matt won his moto one so all was going good there until he came to the line and said his boat had lost top speed so from what I hear as I was out on the track my Mum, Dad and my Pit Bitch team were running around like crazy, holding the race, clearing Tech etc so that Matt could jump on my boat for his moto 2.  Thanks Jim for the offer of Lisa's boat too.  It wasn't to be Matts year either and unfortunately there was a rider in the water and Matt just didn't see him in time and hit him (there was so much surf).  Matt was so gutted he just couldn't carry on racing and so retired early.  The good news out of all of this is that the other rider is ok.

What a day.  James got third in Pro runabout superstock though and Lee Stone won Pro freestyle with an amazing show so it wasn't too bad a day! 

I got 5th overall in Ladies - yes another 5th plate - seems five is my number this year! Can't say I am too keen on the number myself.

I would like to say a massive thank you to my amazing parents who have worked so hard and all my wonderful sponsors.  Boss I know you were watching me and that you are coming to get me! Thank you to my Pit Bitch team who were amazing, my Dad says he couldn't have done it without you - dragging those boats up and down the sand all day long etc.  Thank you.

I hope Abdul Hameed Al Siyabi who was injured makes a full recovery asap.

Thank you to IJSBA, K38, River Rat Team and Mark, The Zier Family and Jeremy Poper (Congrats World Champion), Z Force for working late at night for me, Quakysense, Ski-Pimp, Jet Trim, Star-Bar and everyone who has helped me out again this year.  My Family and I have made some lovely friends through the World Finals.  Thank you all.

Congratulations World Champions.

I hope my Dad is ok after injuring his finger loading the crate - he was just off to hospital as I had to leave for the airport.  Hope you are ok Dad - you are the best in the World and I love you loads. 

All those going to the King's Cup and Racing in China - Good Luck.  I wish I was going to the Kings Cup as it truly is one amazing race.

Thank you Quakysense for an amazing World Finals.

Live streaming should be up and running from today www.ijsba.com http://player.voiceamerica.tv/video/657F610F33/live-oct-9th--10th-ijsba-world-fin

Sorry if my reports are brief but it so difficult during the finals as it is so busy and tiring.  My Mum has hundreds of photos but has not had time to process them yet.  I will put them up just as soon as she has time.      

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World Finals, Lake Havasu City USA 2009

How exciting - its almost World Finals time again - flights booked, house booked, holidays booked.....can't wait to see everyone again real soon.....

27th Sept 09 - Just sorting ski's out to ship today......

See you all in a couple of weeks. Happy training everyone.

Oct 9th - We arrived safely in Lake Havasu, as did our ski's - all straight forward with no problems.  Just having a few days adjusting to the time difference (8 hours behind the UK) and chilling out really before the hectic race week starts, although I have been to body beach most days for a little ride in the lovely warm sunshine and Thanks to Team Austria for the welcome party (mum says thanks for the swim!!).

Click on the photo to see my photo slideshow (1)

Oct 11th - Just got back from a weekend in Las Vegas where I went to see the Supercross.  Ready to start racing now.

Click on the photo below to see some of the Supercross action (2).

Thursday 15th October 2009 - Sorry everyone for not reporting back more but it's really hectic here in Havasu and very tiring! The days are long as I am up at 5am and cycle down to the race site at 6am. We have had many problems with my ski and I would like to say a big thank you to my Dad, Jeremy Poper, Randy at Wat-com, Christoph at Tech-one, and Klipper for their help - Thank you. It is very difficult for us as we have limited tools and parts that we have shipped so Thank you to every one willing to help.

Click on the welcome photo to see my photo slideshow of action (3)

It is so lovely to see everyone here and I just love the atmosphere.  Already World Champions have been made and today I can't believe I am saying this but I won Expert Ski Limited.  I remember Jordan Fielder winning this class several years ago. I can't believe I won this class and I had a great race too with Jake Zier and Keifer King putting a lot of pressure on me. Keifer won the first moto and I was second and I knew if I was to win the World Title I had to win moto 2 - there was no choice and Keifer was pushing me so hard in moto 2 but I managed to hold it together to take the win in moto 2.

Congratulations to everyone and Good Luck to everyone with their races in the days ahead. 

I will try and keep updating here but it is very difficult.

Click on the photo of me happily taking the Expert Limited Win to see my slideshow(4).

Celebrating winning Expert Ski Limited

1. Anya Colley, England, Hydrospace (2-1);

2. Keifer King, Anaheim, Calif., Yamaha (1-5);

3. Elvis Mihagevic, Croatia, Hydrospace (5-3)

If you click on the podium photo it will take you to another slideshow of photos(5).

Team GB results to date .......

Friday 16th October -

Today was a terrible day and everyone is deeply saddened by the very serious accident leading to the death of Cesare Vismara today at the world finals. Our thoughts and prayers go to his family, Team Serbia and all of his friends. You will be sadly missed Vismara.

R.I.P Vismara.

Racing was suspended this afternoon in a mark of respect to Cesare.

It is a truly very very sad day.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Saturday 17th Oct - due to the extremely tragic events of yesterday and the great loss of Vismara today was a very busy day for me as I now had my races from yesterday to run today.  It was difficult to go back to the race site this morning but I just kept thinking about Team Serbia saying how Vismara would have wanted the racing to continue.  So today I had second motos for Amateur Ski Open & Pro/Am Ski Limited and my heat race for Pro/Am Ladies.

I am happy to say I won Amateur Ski Open - a close call but luck was on my side (for once this year!), I finished on equal 2nd place points in Pro/Am Limited but due to moto two taking the advantage I finished third overall.  I loved the battle I had with Kevin Reiterer in this class - I always knew it wasn't a case of 'if' Kevin passed me but 'when'!  Congratulations Kevin.  I also went onto win my heat race of Pro/Am Ladies.

Click on the photo of Dawn interviewing me to see another slideshow(6).

Sunday 18th Oct - this morning we were down at the race site for a sunrise beach service to remember our missing race director Jeremy.  It was really strange not having Jeremy down on the beach and giving us our little chat before each race at the World Finals this year.  Jeremy went missing almost a year ago at sea whilst attending the Bali beach games.

Remembering Jeremy & Cesare.

Pro/Am Ladies well moto one went great for me and was a repeat of the heat race yesterday and I took the win however moto 2 was a bad moto for me and again I finished overall on equal points with 2nd place but as the 2nd moto carries the advantage I finished 3rd Overall. Congrats to Rachel MacCluggage who took the overall win. Well done to Yuki for your win in moto 2.

Well I have to say Many Many Congratulations to Kevin Reterier who won Pro Ski, Pro GP, Pro/Am Limited and Slalom - well done Kevin and family.

Click on the photo of Kevin & I to see my final slideshow (7).

Great news to finish on ........Great Britain won the Nations Trophy with a total of 8 World Titles - I took 2, Lisa took 2, Jim took 2 and Joe Edwards took 2.  How cool is that for a little country like GB winning the Nations Trophy.

Congratulations to the whole Team GB. What an achievement!

1.Anya Colley (Notts, United Kingdom)

2.Jeremy Poper  (Albuquerque, New Mexico)

3.Conrad Cole (Belle River, Ontario)

I would like to say Thank you to sooooooooooo many people for helping me achieve becoming Expert Ski Limited and Amateur Ski Open World Champion.....My wonderful parents who give everything to enable me to ski - we had many problems this year and my dad never stopped working on my ski for me, to James for all his support, to all of my sponsors who make it all possible - without you all I wouldn't be able to do what I do. To everyone in the Bushey household in Havasu....Garry who never stopped working from the minute he arrived to the minute he left, Pete, Julian, Dan, Lewis ....everyone. To everyone who helped or offered to help when my ski was down Jeremy Poper, Randy at WatCom, Christoph at Tech-One, Klipper, Les - all much appreciated.  To the IJSBA for putting on such a great event and to K38 for being there for us all.  It was also a great honour to be asked by the IJSBA to collect the Nations Trophy on behalf of the whole of GB. Thank you to all my competitors - great racing and lots of fun.  Thanks Nedra for my lucky pink monkey who stayed with me 24 hours a day.

Apologise to Kay and everyone for not being able to attend the Parade of Nations - it's the first time I have missed the event but my ski was down and so had to be worked on so I couldn't get there, I missed you all. Also sorry for not spending anytime with my racing friends from around the World but I was either racing, work was being done on my ski or I was sleeping!

My thoughts go out to Cesare Vismara, his family, friends and Team Serbia and to Jeremy's family, especially Jacqui, Ellenor and Georgia and his friends. Sadly missed.

Hope to see you all next year.

Good Luck to everyone going to the wonderful King's Cup in Thailand - it's an amazing event and I am sorry I won't be there but unfortunately it's just not possible with in the economical climate for me to attend this year but I will be thinking of you all and wish you all Good Luck.

World Finals, Lake Havasu City USA, 2008

Can you believe it's World Final time again - it has come around so fast.  It is lovely to be back here and catch up with everyone - especially the Girl Power team! I was walking through K mart and heard someone loudly singing "oh your pink, your very very pink" and yes you guessed ....it was the one and only Bell Lady - PWC #1 Fan Nedra.

The first few days I struggled a little with the heat and the time difference but I am back on track now (I think!!). We have met up with most of the Brits too who are coming and we had a Good Luck BBQ at ours so hope that works.  Talking of Luck I don't know if I can say its good luck but my timing chain snapped today (Friday) in practice ooopppsss - good luck it was practice and not race day!!!  so my Dad and Ian have got a sweat on in the garage (its 104 degrees!) at the moment.  Hope that's all that happens to everyone and my boat is good to me like she usually is - I have given her a hug, a clean and some food (fuel) so fingers crossed.  It's just such a long way from home and we only have the one boat here so come on everyone cross your fingers and toes please.

I will try and keep you up to date as much as I can and so keep checking back for results (remember we are 8 hours behind the UK) and I will also try and update the slide show with more photos as often as I can. Just click on the first photo of me below in practice to view the slide show of photos.

I would like to wish everyone safe racing and hope ALL the Brits enjoy flying  the flag and bring home the titles but Good Luck to everyone - including my USA, Australian and European friends too. 

Many thanks to ALL my sponsors who make my racing possible - don't forget to visit my very important sponsorship page whilst you  are on my site.

Click on the this (above) photo to go to my slideshow of photos.

Matt and I in practice down at Crazy Horse (before pinkie broke, bless)

This must be a cheaper hobby! Anyone for golf (I missed the Patio doors Joy!)

Its a hard life for some!

Good Luck Everyone.

Team GB - a little good luck get together at ours, unfortunately couldn't get everyone together though

- Simons Ellie is on catch up time, Ant and Perry are not in town yet,

Danny was awaiting the arrival of his boat and not seen Spencer yet.

A really nice night though before everyone is working on boats until all hours

and is shattered from the heat, early starts and racing.

Good Luck Everyone, have fun and be safe.

Well its Saturday October 4th 2008 - The IJSBA World Finals 2008 is open... I am all signed in - although I would just like to say to all my very important sponsors - I listed you on the entry form but at signing in they told me they couldn't fit you in the space and so they would only be able to put some of the sponsors on the form so I am very sorry about that for you and I hope you know how much I appreciate all your support. Luckily you are on my ski and my website address is on everything so when people visit my sight they can find all the information on my site.

I have run my new engine in today and so hope you still have your fingers and toes crossed for me (my dad is just in the garage and has been since 5am stripping my old engine - thanks dad).  I also won a little prize money last night at River Rats party thanks to HYDRO-TURF as I won (my age group) air hockey competition.  Many thanks Hydro-turf - Dad will it help towards the new engine???

Sunday 5th October - Practice at Crazy horse today was rough! I also attended the riders meeting and so already now for practice tomorrow - can't wait.     (Oh and my old engine by the way is not good!!!  No more repairing on that in Havasu so keep those fingers and toes crossed). Think - but don't hold me to it but Matt, Joe, Sophie, Michael, Danny, Ant, Pete and I all have practice Monday 6th with motos on Tuesday and Wednesday.   Perry, James, Simon, Spencer and Ant all have practice later in the week. Good Luck Everyone - our flag will be flying.

Monday 6th October - Today was practice on the race course and boy was it rough this morning, it knocked the lenses out of my goggles! It was really hard going in the morning but luckily it calmed down in the afternoon.

Where do I go now!!!!!!!!!  Ant looking for Busheys GPS!!

Me out in stock practice.

Joe Fish.

Go Girl Power Pocket Rocket Sophie.

Poor old Danny had a few problems with his ski so he went out on little pinkie for his practice.

Matt on his Kawi all ready to go go go.

Go Michael and Happy Birthday.

High flyin Spencer.

Tuesday 7th October - today was qualifiers, pole position races and motos. I will just briefly give you an update - sorry but as its been a long day and we are all shattered (I have done six motos today!) and have another busy day tomorrow but I just want to keep you all basically up to date if I can. Well what a day!  Team GB had good times and sad times. It was a lot calmer than practice yesterday morning thank goodness.  I was first out this morning and had a good morning qualifying for my classes without having to go to last chance qualifies thank goodness.  Dannys boat is fixed thank goodness and he is ready to rumble. I think I was the only one who had to qualify but everyone else had pole position races which went ok for everyone.

The afternoon racing was first moto's for everyone - again I was first out and had a bit of a tricky start as the elastic didn't clear and it wacked me in the head as it flicked back on the metal pole - it was very loud in my helmet but I got going and did ok.  During the race I had a bit of a battle with Steven Lopez from Belgium but he got by me - he is such an excellent rider - although Steven not so close to hitting me next time please! I finished 4th in moto one in this class.  Next out was Ant Hampson and I have never seen him so nervous - bless and he didn't have the easiest time out on the track taking a couple of rough knocks. I was out again next and got a much better start and won moto one.  It was 10 to 12's next and boy did they fly the flag with Joe "fish" Edwards taking the win and Girl Power "Pocket Rocket" Sophie romping home in second place. I was next out again and had to call two minutes on the line and a big thanks to Bell Lady Nedra for having her bucket of tools on the line - it saved the day for me so a big thanks Nedra - I went onto win this moto. The final moto for the Brits was the 13 to 15 lites class and we had Matt Edwards, Michael Perrin and Danny Mace in this one but unfortunately this wasn't a great race for them. Poor Danny who has had a stressful time with boat problems since he arrived and then he suffered a big off - not sure exactly where he finished but think about 12th. Matt was leading the moto by a mile but then hit a buoy and he too had a big off and then poor Michael sadly didn't got off the line.  He managed to get a "rock" in his pump and dispite the very best efforts of everyone trying to help and Garry getting the ride plate and pump off and then back on fast he just finished a few seconds short of getting Michael out for last place points.  Michael is as you can imagine especially after working and training so hard in this heat (100 degrees) and getting to grips with a new boat he didn't manage to show the world what he could do.  Good luck tomorrow everyone for moto 2 and to Pete Hammond (who does excellent spray jobs by the way!) and Perry Fields who are out for practice.

Click on the photo below to share today's (Tuesday's)  slideshow of the action.

Friday 10th October - Hi sorry I have not posted any updates and sorry today's is just a quick one but its very tiring out here especially with the heat (100 degrees plus) and I am in bed not long after we get back from the race site and up early again - like now its 5.30am here and we are up getting ready to go to the race site for today's racing.

Click on the above photo to take you to another slideshow of  photos

I have had a great few days and I am now able to enter the class I came here to ride in which I am very pleased about. This year the Race Director Scott Fraser said that last years Junior riders had to work their way up the ranks and couldn't go straight to Pro. I had to start in Novice and if I finished top 3 then I could move up classes. No pressure then!!  Well I did - I really really wanted to ride with the pros so I entered into Novice Ski Ladies, Novice Ski Stock and Novice Ltd - I won Ladies and Ltd and got second overall in Stock so that gave me the ticket I needed.  So yesterday I rode in Amateur Ski Open with the boys again and I was really pleased to finish second in the pole position race behind another junior who I raced with last year in juniors Cory Cole on his Superstock boat.  I was very pleased to be on the start line at 7am in practice on Thursday thanks to Dad & Garry who stayed up Wednesday night to rebuild Pinky after she was in tech for a while!!. Last year we ran with the boost restrictor valves fitted but this year tech are just taking your boat out on the water after the race and testing the boost with a gauge then Dad said they checked the charging system, compression, head, cylinder/bore, stroke, gasket, pistons, intake and pump so we cleared tech at 7pm with a bag of bits and I was back on the line at 7am!  Thanks Dad and Garry.

So today I just have my motos for Amateur Ski Open but think they will be tough because its a big line up of 18, and the wind is forecast to be getting up (apparently 40 mile an hour winds this weekend) and it gets rough out there, its enough with the rollers from the boats without the wind!  I didn't enjoy my practice on Monday too much when it was very rough so fingers crossed its not too rough. 

Little Joe Edwards knows all about rollers - he had a big off in his moto two when he hit one of the rollers, he went up in the air and his boat went down but he got back on his boat and carried on. Michael got out in moto two in junior 13-15 lites after sucking up a rock and not leaving the start line in moto one bless and he really enjoyed his race as did Danny Mace.  Matt didn't have too good a ride in this class but he was flying yesterday in his 13-15 limited practice. Sophie rode really well and will hopefully go on to take the top girl junior award.

Ant decided not to go out in his moto 2 as he didn't want to risk damaging James boat - he was so nervous bless. Pete Hammond did really good and will be in the top ten for sure even after getting docked.

James didn't have the best practice of his life yesterday but hopefully today will go better for him. Perry and Simon are also out today. So Good Luck Matt, James, Perry and Simon - you can all do it.

Saturday 11th October - Last night was the award ceremony for the racing so far and Team GB did excellent......

Joe Edwards - Junior 10 to 12 Lites World Champion

Sophie Perrin - Junior 10 to 12 Lites 3rd place

Matt Edwards - Junior 12 to 15 Limited 7th Place

Spencer Wells - Amateur Freestyle Runner Up

Perry Fields - 2nd Limited Runabout

James Bushell - Runabout Stock World Champion

and I collected Novice Womens Ski World Champion, Novice Ski Ltd World Champion, Runner up Novice Ski Stock and 3rd in Amateur Ski Open.

Also Congratulations to Michael Perrin, Danny Mace, Ant Hampson and Pete Hammond.

This weekend is the Pro's which should be great although the wind is supposed to be coming and its going to be rough!

Will try and keep you posted.

Sunday 12th October - the day I came for!  After having to work my way up the ranks and earn myself a ticket for the ladies pro class....today is D day. 

Click on the above photo to take you to another slideshow of action.

Yesterday (Saturday) was really windy and the water was so rough.  In my pole position race I had a rubbish start, just missed someone that fell off in front of me and came out last in my holeshot.  I had nothing to loose - this is what I came for so I just battled it out to take the win in the pole position race.

You can't really see on the photos below of my pole position race just how rough it was but I think it was one of the roughest conditions I have raced in - the wind was just howling across the lake.

I thought I would support Spencer, Lee and Ant and do a little freestyle sub!!!

Well today was no better I am afraid.  It was soooo rough and the worst thing about today was Elysia Ida got injured (I think on the hole shot but I was on the opposite side so not really sure). Elysia had a great first moto taking the win but then broke her leg in several places in moto two -

Get Well Soon Elysia, thats the most important thing about today.

I didn't have the best races today, both my starts were difficult as I just seemed to manage to catch the wave wrong which meant that I came out way down the pack and as the conditions were soooo rough it was extremely difficult to make my way up the pack but I gave it my best shot and made up some places to give me an overall 4th place. To be honest I am just really pleased that I earned my ticket to allow me to ride in Pro ladies and next year I won't have the pressure of having to do that first.

Plenty of this and .....

How deep did little pinkie go - bless!!!! Can you just see her under the water?

It was rough and ....

.

cold!!!  It was like a British winter round!

I did win the Open Drag Race World Title adding to my Junior Drag win last year.

Open Drag World Champion.

Some of my collection with my Mum, Dad & Geoff and Kerry who support Team GB all over the globe.

James Proud Dad Steve collecting his World Title for Runabout Stock.

This is me receiving my "Alumini Award" which took me completely by surprise - it's a graduation award as I was top rider going from Juniors to Pro earning Silverware along the way. The Junior Programme over in the USA really is great and a lot of effort goes into it so thank you very much to all involved.

I also picked up "Top Girl Junior of the 2008 World Finals" for GBs very own Pocket Rocket Sophie Perrin who was unable to attend the presentation due to her flights.  Also for GB our new Junior World Champion Joe Edwards also picked up the hardest charger award and Quentin picked up the Pro's choice.

Spencer Wells with his 2nd in Amateur Free Style.

Perry with his 2nd in Runabout Limited.

GB's future - Joe and Sophie taking 1st and 3rd in the 10 to 12 class.

Ant & Lee who did GB proud with their amazing routines.

Click on my photo to take you to my final slideshow of the World Finals 2008.

Many thanks to everyone involved in my success at this years World Finals - my Mum & Dad and family & friends back home who take care of Joel, all of my sponsors who make it possible for me and who I wouldn't be without, to all the pilots I have competed with, Team GB, to the IJSBA Staff and K38 who did a great job and to all my friends both new and old.  Thanks everyone.

World Finals 2007

World Final Photos – click here

Well its here again the amazing World Finals held in Lake Havasu, Arizona, USA and I am lucky enough to be flying the Union Jack and riding here this year.  Its sooooooooooo exciting. 

I will try and keep everyone updated as often as I can so keeping checking back to this page.

I have put a slide show of some photos taken already  – just click on the “World Finals Photos” above and then using the cursors just click on any little photo to make it larger. I will update this as fast as I can for you.

2nd October - Well after what seemed a forever flight and an 8 hour time difference everything is great here and I am having a good time.

4th October - Many of the Brits are here now too James, Lisa & Jim, Perry & Daniel and of course Matt & Joe.  I have met back up with Lauren Macmillan (Girl Power Racer) which is great and my best friend the Boss is here too ……and keeping me in shape.  We start everyday with our fitness regime…Boss, James, me (and sometimes Matt & Joe)  working out – its even harder here as it’s so hot even at 7am when we do it. Today we are off on a bike ride – its great going down to the race site but not so easy coming back!!!  Ask James mum Joy about the hills – Joy and I went on a bike ride yesterday and we were shattered!  After training we have a chill session around the pool before going off down to crazy beach for water training. It’s good down there as everyone is there.

Jet Boy Sheldon gave me a lovely good luck racing rock so hope it works. Thanks Sheldon ….

And many thanks to Boss and Philippe from Star Bars for my amazing Girl Power Pink Star Bars….how cool are these….

7th October - all is still good here, lots of people out practicing and from what I have seen my junior class is going to be a real tough one to compete in, think it will be amazing to watch.  Lots of good riders which is great for the sport.  Today is my rest day so no training just chilling (and keeping up with my course work!).  Think my boat is just about set up to how I like it, had to change some things like running with the stock intercooler in Limited because that's the rules out here. I am all signed on and ready to go.  I would like to thank everyone here for making me so welcome and I have had a great time at Laurens and the parties we have been to - thanks for the invites.

Girl Power!

Wednesday 10^th – All is still good out here and the racing has begun. 

Little Joe Edwards competed in the 10 to 12 Lites class on his Kawi and came 4^th in pole position (no qualifier heat for this class) and 5^th in Moto One. He has Moto two at 11 today (7pm your time) so good luck Joe in your first ever World Finals – you did real good bud. There are eight little buddies in this class all on kawi’s. 

Go Joe !

Joe’s Kawi also went out in 13 to 15 Lites with European Junior Champion on board – Quentin Bossche. Quentin came in third in Moto one (again no qualifiers in this class with ten bigger buddies competing on kawi’s). Girl Power racers who have made me so welcome out here Molly and Lauren came 5^th & 6^th in this class. Well done everyone and hope little Josh that came off is ok? Good luck and Girl Power for today’s final heat.  

GB’s Jim won Moto 1 in Master Vets class on board Lisa’s HSR.

On the Tower

All HSR’s out here have to run stock intercoolers and stock pumps, even in the limited class and they have now also all been fitted with a boost restrictor valve so they all run at the same set boost limit. So lots of things are very different on the HSR. 

I am just off down to race site again as soon as I have done this for you (its 6am here!) and I will try and put the results on the forum and on here as soon as possible to keep everyone at home updated but last night I was just too tired, sorry.  It’s a long day when you have spent 10 hours at the race site and in 90 degree’s – its soooooo much fun though and you get to meet so many people. Yesterday I borrowed Laurens phone as Joe was racing and put it on the forum for everyone as he crossed the finish line– how cool was that!

Today from GB we have ………

• Joe Edwards final Moto in 10 to 12 Lites.
• Lisa Barsby Qualifiers or pole position (depending on numbers) and Moto one for the Vets class.
• Perry Field has Qualifiers or pole position (again depending on numbers) and Moto one in Expert Runabout Ltd.

Saturday 13^th October – Sorry I have not updated you all for a couple of days but it has been pretty hectic here – up at 5.30am for breakfast (actually its 5am as I write this to you), then cycle down to the race site and on the water for 7a.m practice. We are at the race site all day – racing and supporting everyone and not leaving the race site until around 6.30 pm and then straight to different events like the Parade of flags, awards ceremony etc at 7.30 etc…………..it is hot and tiring but I am having the best time ever although completely shattered.

Yesterday was the most amazing day – I won World Champion Junior 13 to 15 Ski Limited. It wasn’t easy but then as my Dad and Laurent (Boss) tells me – “they don’t give world titles away, no-one ever said winning a world title was going to be easy!!”

Thursday was my practice and pole position – In pole position I had to go on the inside (I had no choice) and I really didn’t want to be there, I was nervous about the way you come out of the splitters together. I wasn’t very quick out of the gate - it’s just a bit of a different start procedure and I missed it by a second or two. I came 3rd out of the hole shot and stayed there until next to last lap when I let a HSR sneak in past me making me fourth. I was very disappointed with myself as I just didn’t ride my best (boss confirmed this too!!!!) and I was nervous and I knew I had to ride better tomorrow.

Friday - Here the starting procedure is two feet on the floor and unfortunately Quinton had his knee up in the pole position moto yesterday so he got penalized for this which meant I got 3^rd position pick instead of 4^th. I choose the outside holeshot this time which I was much more comfortable with but still very nervous on the line – I knew I was riding against the best in the world and that I couldn’t miss the gate (something I have been working hard at) or make a mistake. I had a cracking start and couldn’t believe I came out first; I just tried to concentrate and ride my best. I maintained the lead but on the last lap I had a scary moment – the sun was extremely bright in my eyes and for a split second I couldn’t see the buoy and very very nearly made a mistake but corrected myself in time but this had allowed Quieten to make time up on me and it was neck and neck in the splitters (which were spot on equal) but I just got there and maintained my lead – wow what a race. The problem was I knew I had to do it all again in a couple of hour’s time and this time it was going to be even harder! Everyone’s support was amazing, thank you.

Moto 2 – I picked inside outside holeshot but then 2^nd, 3^rd and 4^th place all picked next to me. I was so nervous – this was the moto of my life. I knew that every racer on the line wanted this moto and boy (lol!) are they good. Starter’s orders – I could hear the air horns of the Brits…..away we go. It was a battle to the first buoy and very very close but “pinkie” and I both breathed in big time and managed to slide in between Quinton and the buoy bringing me out in first. Phew…….but now the race was on. Quinton was in third for the first couple of laps but then in true Quinton style he made his way to second now he was on my case….I knew if it stayed a battle between Quinton and I then whoever won this moto would take the world title – no pressure then – and I know how fast Quinton is!! The first three laps I found especially tough as the water was very rough and the casino “tsunami” boat passed by causing some rollers. I was bouncy a lot and knew I had to settle down (I could hear what Boss would be saying to me!) but Quinton was so on my case. I rode as tight as I could and defended the whole time and on the last lap I took a little sub in the splitter and lost a second which meant Quinton and I came out together but I just had the inside line and then on the last buoy we were so close so I defended to the best of my ability and pinned it to the line to take a second win.

WOW - I just couldn’t believe I had won – it was a tough race (my toughest ever). My Dad picked me up with a huge tight hug and everyone was so kind congratulating me etc… Mum, Rachel, Jim, Busheys etc all came straight round to the tech area to say congrats ……I really appreciate your support everyone ….you made it very special. Boss I have never seen such a smile!!!! Excellent team work with my dad, Boss and Ian….with everything at the ready - back up boat etc……Thank you soooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo very much.

Walking through the pits and performance alley was amazing everyone was just so nice – thank you.

Tech was a lengthy process and very busy but eventually we were told we could go with less than half an hour to the start of the award ceremony so a flying visit home, quick change and off to London Bridge. Again a good night although my speech wasn’t the best I am afraid I was nervous and excited all in one – still floating high and just didn’t thank everyone who has helped me  – really sorry, I never thought I would podium so wasn’t prepared!

So thank you to all my sponsors for everything…A52hydrospace.com, B7sport.com, 158racing.com, AFXhelmets.com, Seadoocentre.com, Grip-gear.com and Star bars. Special thanks for World Final hands on to Dad, Boss, Ian and Les for my boat and hard training. My mum and special brother Joel for absolutely everything and Thank you to all my supporters and riders…….Girl Power!

Special Get Well Wishes to Granddad Bushey who has been a little under the weather the last couple of days and good luck to everyone for today’s racing.

Mamma this one was for you xxxxx 

Saturday & Sunday's racing -  Saturday was my qualifier for junior ski stock 13 -15. I was in heat one with Quentin and many other good riders and as I still remember very well from my 2005 visit the pressure of being in a lost chance qualifier I really didn't want to be in that position ever again. It wasn't my best start but I had already discussed with Dad and Boss that what was important was to qualify and  not take unnecessary risks, I finished in 3rd in my heat.  The top 5 went through so I was safe.  Unfortunately all my Girl Power racers ended up in the last chance qualifier and with just the top 4 going through we had some Girl Power screaming to do and guess what each and everyone of them made it through - now that's Girl Power.  Lauren led the moto from start to finish too. So all four Girls in the final motos tomorrow.

I also had the Drag race today which went well.  It was Brandon from the USA, Luke from Australia and myself in the final tomorrow. Brandon and I had exact time runs so it was neck and neck 1st place today. 

Matt also had his pole position race today and had an amazing start taking the holeshot easily and he  lead with ease for the first few laps before steering problems led to a tow off. Daniel also made his debut at the World Finals on his new HSR and finished 11th (I think).

Juniors also have the choice of competing in a slalom competition.  This is my ultimate least favourite event and one that I chose not to enter! However Matt entered this and completed his slalom with an excellent time so just got to wait now until everyone else has completed their runs.

Lisa also had her pole position race - good job it wasn't a qualifying heat as due to some mix up she apparently finished in 14th place!! Watch this space tomorrow though!

Ant put on an amazing freestyle pole position show finishing in 3rd place in PRO!

James - well what is there to say about James except he must be due some good luck at some stage this world finals, surely.

So all the above Brits out to fly the flag for GB tomorrow.  I am absolutely shattered and I am first out racing in the morning so have to be at the race site for 6.30ish!

Sunday 14th October - as I said first out so a very early start - breakfast, warm up, stretches, my 20,000 layers of race clothing so early !!  Moto 1 - well not sure what happened really.  I am not used to racing stock and I just couldn't seem to ride her the same - difficult to explain really but I finished 4th, not my best race but like I have said I can't explain why - it just feels very different riding her stock.

Other Moto 1's - Matt finished 5th in his race, Lisa finished 3rd, James, bless was in 2nd place and then broke his drive shaft so another DNF for him (and a few stressful hours work for Steve, Julian & Graham!).

Drag Racing Final - everyone had been telling me about how different people had bets on this event, everyone was having lots of fun guessing who would win especially as we had equal run times yesterday......and no pressure but how I could win or loose them money!!  The final was in front of the main stadium Sunday Lunch .....so in front of lots of people watching to add to my pressure!                 Full speed ahead...............Luke Day from Australia came third and so the final run now was between Girl Power and Boy Power!  I knew I had to get my 5ft 8 inch body down as low as possible and pin it for the Girls......and that's what I did.  We both had a great start and we were neck and neck half way down the run but then I just gave it everything and took the win for the Girl Power Team! 

Moto 2's now - First out again this afternoon and the wind was getting up a little now too.  I knew I had nothing to loose and just had to go for it.  That's what I did but it didn't go well - I left the start line before my ski - so not used to riding her stock!!!!  I quickly got back on my ski but was well last by this stage but I worked my way up from a full line up to 6th place - I knew to have any chance of making the podium I had to make up one more place up but I just ran out of laps (most of the time I can't wait to see the white flag but this time I wanted more laps!!) but I really enjoyed the race and felt I rode the best I could from the back!  I finished in overall 6th place.  Many congratulations to Kieffer King who took the title.

Matt had a flying start in Moto 2 and easily took the lead, the wind and chop were getting up and local boy Brandon managed to catch up and pass Matt.  Matt eventually finished third giving him an overall 3rd in the World. Matt also took overall 2nd in Slalom. So many congratulations Matt - 3rd in the World at your very first World Finals in 10 - 12 junior Ski and Runner up World Champion in Junior Slalom. Well done mate.

Daniel did real good on his HSR and finished overall 8th - again amazing for his first World Finals.

The ladies class changed overall world title leaders just two buoys from the end.  European Champion Julie Bulteau finished 4th in Moto 1 and lead Moto 2 from the start and just two buoys from the end as she came through to take the World Title she was involved in a collision which sadly wiped her out - I felt very sad for her but thankfully Julie wasn't injured.  Then the next race leader missed a buoy and re-took the buoy rather than taking the black buoy so she was down a lap which now meant that Lisa coming through in fourth place was the new overall race leader - and all this action was just two buoys from the end of the race.  My mum always says a race is never over until you are through the chequered and this race really showed that. Well done Lisa.

Ant once again put on an amazing freestyle routine - he was simply awesome and took 3rd place overall in Pro.  Well done mate.

James - well what can I say!  After Steve, Graham and Julian had worked soooooo hard to change the complete engine between motos in 90 degrees heat James unfortunately broke down again Moto 2 - you so did not deserve this James, bad luck mate but we all know how good you are. Bet he hits the town tonight!!

Well to top off my amazing World Finals - Junior Ski Limited and Drag racing World Champion

I was also  awarded "top girl" and was presented with a lovely pink Thor helmet with "top Girl World Finals 2007" written on it, a talking photo frame and a bag full of other goodies.

Many thanks to Chris Haggies for all his hard work in bringing about the new junior awards programme. It is such an important part of the future of the sport. Keep up the good work please.

Well I have had an amazing World Finals and would like to Thank everyone who has helped me achieve what I have achieved to date - I couldn't have done it without you, so from the bottom of my heart Thank you x

Special thoughts to Jean Baptists Botti – thinking of you mate at this sad time and we all missed you here.

I hope you have enjoyed the photos and updates - please sign my guest book to let me know what you think xxx

Havasu World Finals 2005

Here we go....

Phil Pope (Ria's boyfriend) bless him as his machine let him down

Just a few of the awards....