Great Lakes Watercross (GLW) is the Midwest’s premier closed-course buoy racing and freestyle tour for personal watercraft. Organized by 2 Wicked Promotions, GLW events showcase exciting racing action across states like Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, Kentucky, and occasionally Minnesota. Our events draw competitive racers and enthusiastic spectators, offering a high-energy experience that highlights the skill, speed, and thrill of watercross racing.
Safety is the cornerstone of every Great Lakes Watercross event. Participants are responsible for their well-being and must adhere to strict safety standards. Required gear includes a personal flotation device, helmet, and back deflector. Racers are also encouraged to wear gloves, goggles, and wetsuits for added protection against the elements.
Participants must assess their own abilities, their equipment, and the racing environment before competing. Those with concerns about the safety of the course, the condition of their watercraft, or the competence of other competitors are advised not to race. Technical inspections ensure compliance with safety standards, and violations result in immediate disqualification. GLW is committed to creating a secure and enjoyable racing environment for all.
Race day begins with registration and check-in, where racers verify pre-registration, sign liability waivers, and obtain wristbands for pit access. Technical inspections follow, ensuring that all watercraft and safety gear meet required standards. Stickers are issued for approved watercraft and are mandatory for participation.
The day officially starts with a riders meeting, covering track rules, responsibilities, and event procedures. After a course demonstration by the marshal, racers participate in practice sessions to familiarize themselves with the course and starting procedures. Racing kicks off after practice, with a race order posted for efficient scheduling.
Throughout the event, race results are promptly posted, and racers have 30 minutes to address any concerns or discrepancies with the race director or scoring officials. After the final moto, an hour is provided for final result reviews. This organized process ensures fairness and transparency, making each event enjoyable for racers and spectators alike.
At the conclusion of each racing round, Great Lakes Watercross hosts an awards ceremony to honor the top three riders in each class. Racers are encouraged to stay for podium photos after receiving their awards. Attendance at the ceremony is mandatory to claim awards or payouts, although arrangements can be made in advance for someone else to collect awards on a racer’s behalf.
For those unable to attend, awards can be shipped after the event, but recipients are responsible for covering shipping expenses. This celebratory moment emphasizes the spirit of competition and camaraderie that defines Great Lakes Watercross.
Jaymi & Brad Bohat
Event Promoters, Race Director & Administrative Director
Jaymi and Brad are the event promoters for the Great Lakes Watercross tour. Jaymi and Brad met about 15 years ago at jetski races! Jaymi worked for Great Lakes Watercross as well as another national promoter, and Brad was a regular racer! Having history in the sport, it was an easy decision to take on promoting the Midwest tour!! Brad directs all of the race operations and Jaymi directs all of the administrative, scheduling, and scoring processes.
Please contact Great Lakes Watercross with any questions, concerns, or general feedback!