Starting

The driver has a massive role to play in the success of each and every start, whether for a first timer or for an experienced skier. Ski boats tend to have high power to weight ratios, and one of the biggest driving faults I see is to use too much power to pull skiers out of the hole. Even if your boat is underpowered you still probably need to pull kids out of the hole at considerably less than full throttle.But before you start the pull, you need to get lined up with the skier in the correct position, ensuring that the skier is clear of obstacles and that the rope is held fast in their hands, and not wrapped around them in any way. The only time to start the pull is when you, the driver, have verified with your own eyes that it is safe to do so, and then only after the skier yells Hit it!.Maneuvering before the start of the ski is a busy time for the driver because not only do they have to monitor the skier and the rope the exact amount depending on how much you can rely on the observer they also need to retain an eye on other boats and the water directly in front of the boat.