When Steve Chestolowski got onto his first jet ski, a Kawasaki 550, he tipped the scales at 268 pounds. One season later, through jet ski racing alone, Steve lost 60 pounds. No diet, no other exercise—just watercross.

Now the Western Canadian Watercross Association president for three seasons running, Chestolowski knows well the many benefits of the sport; and first foremost is the thrill of it.

"It really gets your blood flowing”, said Chestolowski. “You go from zero to 60 so fast it will pull your arms off.”

Not only is watercross a great way to improve cardiovascular fitness and increase muscle mass, but it builds relationships and community spirit too.

A family affair

Chestolowski readily admits that without the tireless efforts of his wife Robynn, his role as president would fall flat.

“She adds up all the points and looks after all the weekend paperwork,” he said, “and all the racers help out putting in the course.”

The Chestolowski kids are involved too. The little ones are no strangers to riding, and nine-year old Peyton will start racing this year.

The racing community is like one big happy family. All the racers work together to help each other out. The racing weekends are filled with both work and play, with competitors coming together to camp. Most have fifth wheels with garages and once set up the racers make friends of their neighbours and enjoy plenty of pre- and post-race camaraderie.

The thrill of the race truly is addictive, according to Chestolowski, but so is the lifestyle. He is quick to point out that watercross racers are a genuinely good group of hardworking, fun-loving people, ready and willing to do what they can to promote their sport.

Visit the Western Canadian Watercross Association website for more information.