By Scott Roblin

WCWA jet ski races return to Rattlesnake Lake for third year

Jun 26, 2018 | 5:24 PM

RATTLESNAKE LAKE, AB – For the third year in a row, the top jet ski racers from across the prairies set up shop just outside of Medicine Hat.

Rattlesnake Lake served as the site of the first stop of the 2018 Western Canadian Watercross Association season, with points up for grabs over the weekend.

Just over 50 racers took off from the starting line over the two-day event, often competing in more than one class.

From amateurs to seasoned vets on the WCWA circuit, competitors of all abilities and experience ripped up the 10-lap course.

Calgary’s Doug Christensen had himself quite the weekend, winning a handful of heats in the sport and roundabout classes.

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The 58-year-old said it was great to be back on the water and kick off another season of competitive racing.

“You’re full of nerves and adrenaline and all that,” said Christensen. “But, after one or two races you kind of settle down. You can focus a little better, concentrate on the machine, and then you can just go out and have fun.”

Competing at Rattlesnake Lake for the third consecutive year, Christensen said it’s a body of water that allows for the larger roundabout machines to steer with more precision.

“The water is nice, the temperature of the water, not very many weeds,” he said. “It’s a good lake, the track is good, it’s wide open for the big boats which is awesome.”

Christensen leads the Sport Spec class after two days of competition, while he sits in third place among roundabout racers.

The WCWA has seen a recent shakeup near the top of the organizational chain, but there was never a question if the races would return to Medicine Hat for the 2018 season.

President Robert Langley said the Rattlesnake Lake course can be very challenging, especially for those who fall short on long race endurance.

“We’re running longer [races], so it really puts a toll on the body,” said Langley. “Made sure everyone is in shape, and if you’re not in shape it’s very evident that you didn’t do your homework over the wintertime. So, the water conditions are phenomenal, it’s nice that it really roughens up.”

Two rounds down on the 2018 season, the WCWA racers will take a week off for Canada Day before heading to Alix Lake near Red Deer on July 7 for the third round of competition.