Search Results for “friends” – Wakeboarding Mag https://www.wakeboardingmag.com Wakeboarding Magazine covers the latest in wakeboarding gear, videos, tips, photos, boats, news, and so much more. Tue, 10 Sep 2024 16:19:54 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.2 https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/uploads/2021/09/wkb-favicon.png Search Results for “friends” – Wakeboarding Mag https://www.wakeboardingmag.com 32 32 New Features and Enhancements for 2025 MasterCraft Boats https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/boats/new-features-and-enhancements-for-2025-mastercraft-models/ Thu, 12 Sep 2024 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/?p=59063 Redesigned helm stations, new software and MasterCraft’s MyDrive rotary encoder now standard on the XT and X models, and more.

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MasterCraft boats wakesurfing
MasterCraft offers all-new features for 2025: MasterCraft X24 and X26 delivering wakesurfing action in an idyllic setting. Courtesy MasterCraft

MasterCraft Boat Company, a MasterCraft Boat Holdings, Inc subsidiary and the world’s best-selling towboat brand, today unveiled impressive new upgrades and enhancements to its 2025 model year lineup. With the industry’s most expansive lineup, MasterCraft delivers unrivaled performance in driving waves and wakes, superior comfort, unmatched quality and reliability, and industry-leading technology across its diverse range of models.

For 2025, MasterCraft has taken the industry’s top towboat lineup to an entirely new level – further driving innovation and making the best even better. Boasting a new dash for XT and X models, MasterCraft delivers a superior driving experience through a redesigned helm. Additional upgrades and enhancements include the all-new MasterCraft MyDrive rotary encoder, NXT FasterFill ballast and standard underwater exhaust for the NXT lineup. Ilmor’s 5.3L GDI High Output Engine comes standard on the NXT and XT, delivering powerful performance and improved fuel efficiency.

“Our team is dedicated to creating high-quality, high-performance boats that become the heart of unforgettable moments with friends and family,” said Greg Miller, Vice President of Global Sales at MasterCraft. “The 2025 lineup offers the most extensive selection in the market, with each model showcasing our commitment to reliable craftsmanship, impeccable fit-and-finish, and delivering the unparalleled MasterCraft performance that our customers expect.”

Read Next: Learn About MasterCraft and Surf to Save Lives

MasterCraft MyDrive
For 2025, shown here on an XT24, the all-new MasterCraft MyDrive will be standard on XT and X models. Courtesy MasterCraft

Industry-Leading Technology

With industry-leading technology, MasterCraft continues to lead the way in innovation. For 2025, the helm area of the X and XT family has been completely redesigned with upgraded screens and software. The X lineup now comes standard with a dual screen configuration, with both screens being larger than the previous generation. This new setup features a sleek 15-inch panoramic center display and a massive 12-inch touchscreen off to the right side of the helm. Meanwhile, the XT lineup will feature the large 12-inch touchscreen (also on the right side of the helm) standard. A completely updated software interface powers these screens to make them more intuitive, immersive, and customizable.

Additionally, the all-new MasterCraft MyDrive will be standard on XT and X models. MyDrive is a rotary encoder that puts key controls at the driver’s fingertips, making on-the-fly changes easier. The hot keys and the rotary dial allow for effortless adjustments while keeping eyes focused on what’s ahead. Available on all 2025 MasterCraft models, standard telematics capabilities and the MasterCraft Connect App provide users with more connectivity with boat health diagnostics, tracking behind-the-boat activity, locating nearby fuel spots, and a remote battery switch.

MasterCraft XT23 touchscreen
The massive 12-inch touchscreen off to the right side of the helm on a 2025 MasterCraft XT23. Courtesy MasterCraft

Unrivaled Performance

All MasterCraft boats deliver unrivaled behind-the-boat performance. Available in all MasterCraft models except the ProStar, MasterCraft’s SurfStar system provides the best and most customizable waves for any rider at the touch of a button. Riders can quickly create the perfect wave to accommodate everyone’s riding style through the factory-tuned Rapid Surf interface. The Custom Surf interface offers complete control of speed, ballast, and surf device position for riders wanting even more customization.

For 2025, the NXT family continues to receive enhancements, delivering customers the best boat at an attainable price point. All NXT models will now come standard with NXT FasterFill Ballast. FasterFill comes with an extra ballast pump, resulting in fill times under 9 minutes, allowing for less waiting and more time riding. Also new for 2025, the NXT lineup now comes standard with underwater exhaust, substantially reducing noise in and behind the boat and improving air quality for riders by minimizing exhaust fumes.

Additionally, all NXT and XT models will now come with Ilmor’s all-new 5.3L GDI High Output engine, which utilizes the latest in automotive technology to deliver 380 HP, 407 lbs of torque, a 4-star emissions rating, improved efficiency, and approximately 15% less fuel consumption over the legacy 6.0L engine. For even more performance beyond the naturally aspirated 6.2L engine, the XT24 and XT25 have an optional upgrade to the 6.2L Supercharged Engine that produces 630HP and 665 ft-lb of torque, which has previously been available exclusively on the top-of-the-line X and XStar S models. Not only that, but all models will come with a new fresh-air intake, which means more power, better efficiency, and improved performance even on the hottest summer days. Finally, a new rudder position sensor has been added on all models except the NXT and ProStar for 2025, providing an enhanced driving experience. Also, stern thrusters are now optional on all XT models.

Superior Comfort, Quality and Reliability

Exemplifying superior design and build quality, MasterCraft designs all models to deliver a smooth, dry ride that surpasses industry standards for towboats by using the best materials to ensure an incredible, comfortable, on-water experience, even in rough conditions.

In addition to the dash and software upgrades to the helm, the captain’s seat on XT and X models has an all-new design for 2025 that offers unmatched ergonomics and comfort as well as beautiful, modernized aesthetics. A convenient storage cubby and phone holder have also been added behind the steering wheel. Along with improving aesthetics, this redesign allowed MasterCraft to maximize space between the top of the dashboard and the windshield header, providing a larger viewing window for the captain. In addition, NXT models receive an all-new transom walkover, as a non-slip Seadek across the back sunpad allows boaters to walk from the swimpad into the cockpit without stepping on upholstery.

For even more comfort onboard, optional CoolFeel upholstery stays up to 30% cooler than standard marine vinyl. This means there’s no reason to shy away from richer, dark colors complimenting each custom design. For 2025, new optional vinyl Bowmore replaces the current Odesssa and Genesis to provide a new look and texture. Additionally, new exciting gel coat options round out the MasterCraft palette and provide unmatched levels of customization for the consumer, including Stone, Sunset, Laguna Blue with a flake option, and Magnetic Blue with a flake option.

Every boat built directly reflects MasterCraft’s legacy, power, precision, and progression. MasterCraft aims to ensure that customers can rely on MasterCraft’s award-winning dealer network to deliver the best customer experience throughout the building, buying, and boating experience. Every MasterCraft comes standard with MasterCare, the industry’s best warranty on the water, featuring a 5-year, 500-hour comprehensive warranty with minimal exclusions. MasterCraft engines are backed with an unrivaled warranty—7 years or 1,000 hours.

Along with the boat, MasterCraft offers custom trailer options that are designed to fit the hull of the specific boat model to ensure the hull remains clean and secure in transit.

Having already begun shipping, the new features and enhancements for 2025 are now available at MasterCraft dealers around the U.S. For more information, visit MasterCraft.com and follow along on Instagram, YouTube, Twitter and Facebook.

About MasterCraft:

MasterCraft is a world-renowned innovator, designer, manufacturer, and marketer of premium performance sport boats. Founded in 1968, MasterCraft has cultivated its iconic brand image through a rich history of industry-leading innovation, and more than five decades after the original MasterCraft made its debut, the company’s goal remains the same – to continue building the world’s best ski, wakeboard, wakesurf, and luxury performance powerboats.

About MasterCraft Boat Holdings, Inc.:

Headquartered in Vonore, TN, MasterCraft Boat Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: MCFT) is a leading innovator, designer, manufacturer and marketer of premium recreational powerboats through its three wholly-owned brands, MasterCraft, Crest and Balise. Through these three brands, MasterCraft Boat Holdings has leading market share positions in two of the fastest-growing segments of the powerboat industry – performance sport boats and pontoon boats. For more information about MasterCraft Boat Holdings, please visit Investors.MasterCraft.com, MasterCraft.com, CrestPontoonBoats.com, and BalisePontoonBoats.com.

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PWT Stop 4: Teunissen Wins Fourth Overall PWT Title https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/pro-wakeboard-tour/pwt-stop-4-teunissen-wins-fourth-overall-pwt-title/ Fri, 23 Aug 2024 18:29:20 +0000 https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/?p=59016 Quality of riding hits new level at PWT 2024.

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Cory Teunissen wakeboarding
Teunissen, copping his fourth PWT title, was self-effacing and modest: “With the surgeries at the beginning of the year, I felt so far away from top form and I couldn’t prepare the way I wanted to. Battling through the ankle pain on every set throughout the year has been tough and I didn’t expect much out of the season.” Courtesy Team Nautique

Wakeboarding professionally is not easy. Having a long career adds its own set of challenges. But winning events and overall titles over a 10 year span where the field has become more and more elite makes this win for Cory Teunissen that much more special.

When asked about how many total victories this makes for him in his illustrious career, Teunissen joked, “My dad is such a geek about this stuff and just told me that this was my 38th pro win and my 13th PWT event win.” 

While one might expect so much longevity and success to manifest itself with ultimate confidence coming into the season, Teunissen’s outlook was not so self-assured. “With the surgeries at the beginning of the year, I felt so far away from top form and I couldn’t prepare the way I wanted to. Battling through the ankle pain on every set throughout the year has been tough and I didn’t expect much out of the season.”

Read Next: More PWT Action!

In a year with four, yes four,  separate winners on the PWT series, the sport has shown that the gap from the usual suspects and the rest of the field has closed dramatically. As a judge on the PWT in the late 20-teens it was more often the case that if Harley Clifford, Corey Teunissen or Nic Rapa didn’t end up on the top of the podium, something went awry in their respective runs. This year however, the phrase “the overall level of riding has gotten to such a crazy place” is more true than ever.

“The final was nuts, everyone landed a complete run with everything they wanted to do. I mean, Thomas (Herman) got last in the finals and he landed a double backroll to the flats, double toeside backroll and a KGB 720 off the double up!” shared Teunissen about his good friend and riding buddy. 

Pro Wakeboard Tour logo
This year’s PWT was packed with amazing action. Courtesy PWT

If Cory’s experience was ever going to serve him well, it was going into an event that he had to win if he wanted to take the overall PWT, but that didn’t stop him for pulling for his friends. “I wanted Shota to win almost as bad as I wanted it for myself.” His love of the sport and ability to battle through a rough set of physical challenges was rewarded with what he will file away as one of the most memorable wins of his career. “This one is one of the standouts for me. You always remember your first big wins, but having so much doubt and uncertainty throughout the year, this one means the most.”

Big congrats go to Camden Marsden who took the top spot at his first ever PWT event in the Jr. Pro division and Noah Bollard winning the overall title for the Jrs. Daniel Johnson earns the prestigious Rookie of the Year for the Pro division and will surely be one that will have the tour vets looking out for in the years to come.

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Three Choices for Wakeboard Bindings https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/gear/three-choices-for-wakeboard-bindings/ Wed, 03 Jul 2024 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/?p=58897 Examples of entry-level, intermediate and expert bindings for your consideration.

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Hyperlite wakeboard bindings
Riders have a wealth of choices for wakeboard bindings. Courtesy Hyperlite

Wakeboard bindings were once little more than a metal plate, minimal thickness of foam, and a rubbery strap to rein in your heel. Today there are a wide variety of supportive, boot-style binding choices on the market. Here are three aimed at beginner to expert riders.

Entry-Level: Hyperlite Remix

The Wrap: Designed to accommodate a variety of foot sizes yet still offer some degree of support, open-toe bindings such as the Remix are ideal when sharing a board among family and friends. Look for a molded EVA footbed, floating tongue, and dual lace zones that can open wide and then cinch down to separately secure your foot and ankle.

The Trap: Wide range of adjustability comes at the expense of individualized support and comfort. All but casual riders will likely be looking to upgrade to a more advanced binding.

Price: $249; scheels.com

Midrange: Hyperlite Team X

The Wrap: A traditional plate-style binding that retains great range of motion, closed-toe ­bindings such as the Team X offer midrange support while still remaining somewhat sharable for riders of roughly similar foot length and ability. An internal ankle harness locks down the heel. Heat-moldable liners dial in the comfort and provide a more ­customized fit.

The Trap: Minimal size ranges means no more widespread sharing on the boat. Pricing substantially higher than entry-level offerings.

Price: $425; hyperlite.com or $399; Scheels.com

Read Next: Watersports Favorites

High-End: System Lowback Binding/Freepress System Boots

The Wrap: A boot/binding setup similar to snowboarding, System components offer exceptional feel and control. Bindings minimize toe and heel lift and are adjustable on the fly. Heat-moldable boots provide greater comfort and allow riders to stand directly atop the board without plastic or other hard material underfoot.

The Trap: It’s a significant high-end investment that’s not really shareable. Freepress boots offer less flexibility.

Price: System Binding $235; Freepress Boots $400; hyperlite.com

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Thomas Herman’s Star Continues to Rise With First Pro Wakeboard Tour Win https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/pro-wakeboard-tour/thomas-hermans-star-continues-to-rise-with-first-pro-wakeboard-tour-win/ Mon, 01 Jul 2024 13:42:36 +0000 https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/?p=58887 Heralded as the Triple Flip Kid, the unstoppable Thomas Herman takes time to reflect on his success with Ben Greenwood.

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With a host of close friends and family on shore to witness the magic, Thomas Herman (@thomasherman)  makes his first trip to the top of a Supra Boats PWT podium stop 1 in Indianapolis. While making solid runs at earning podium spots over the recent years, his first time stepping on had him skipping a few steps and going straight to the summit.

“My goal this year was to make the top three a few times,” said Herman. Interesting that the only other top three finish was the unforgettable, historic top spot at the Red Bull Double or Nothing forever marking him as “the Triple Flip Kid”. He is now 2 for 2, but that hasn’t come without the grind.

Herman’s first pro season in 2021 earned him the Rookie of the Year status and yielded results that were respectable, but maybe not exceeding expectations. The following year he ended up 8th overall, then last year with a very solid 6th place overall finish with hard work being the ingredient Herman credits for the improvement. “I’ve just been working so hard and doing every boat event that there is,” Herman reflected. “It is really cool to hear that others are recognizing my hard work. Even riders who I don’t ride with much have said some really supportive things.”

Thomas Herman profile
“My goal this year was to make the top three a few times,” said Herman. He is now two for two. Courtesy Supra Boats

What would surely be a lifetime memory for Herman was magnified by many factors in that the venue was two hours from where he grew up in Fort Wayne, IN. Thomas’s supportive father, TK Herman,  posted a memory of standing on the same starting dock with his son in 2011 when Thomas was only 8 years of age. “This might be the only time I could have my whole family and all my close friends from home in the same spot at the same time, so to have all this happen was something super special,” said Herman.

Read Next: More PWT Stop 1 Results

One of the winningest PWT riders in history just happens to be a very close friend and roommate to Herman. “Cory (Teunissen) has all of his trophies and PWT guitars on his walls and he made some space for me. I had to borrow one of his guitars to even out the space but told him recently that I wanted to give it back to him.” He can now proudly fill out his trophy wall with a well deserved win.

Jr. Pro rider Shion Takaiwa has been turning heads for over a year and the Japan native took the win with technical, unique tricks. On the wakesurf side, Jett Lambert continues his dominance with his ability to make the hardest maneuvers and combos look effortless. His board and body control are second to none and early signs are pointing to another overall PWT title.

The next Pro Wakeboard Tour stop heads to Park City, UT on the crisp waters of the Jordanelle Reservoir.

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2024 Centurion Fe22 https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/boats/2024-centurion-fe22/ Tue, 28 May 2024 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/?p=58806 The Centurion Fe22 offers full-on wakesurfing performance and numerous amenities in a more affordable package.

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Centurion’s all-new Fe22 was designed and developed to be more affordable while still ­offering the wakesurfing and wakeboarding performance for which Centurion has become famous.

Centurion markets the Fe22 with a Surf Ready package that offers a lot of performance technologies and creature comforts, with an advertised price of $139,995. This consists of Centurion’s QuickSurf Pro system, Ramfill 2 ballast system (plus extra ballast, for a total of 4,350 pounds), a Roswell Battle Advance tower with board racks and Bimini top, and more. The Fe22’s angular style lines and signature badging give it a look that fits right in with its Centurion siblings. It also inherits the acclaimed Opti-V Hull—a deep-V-shaped design that creates added water displacement and a smoother, more comfortable ride in windblown chop.

Centurion Fe22 on the water
Centurion’s Opti-V hull is a deep-V that helps create wakes and waves while providing a smoother ride when running in rough water. Garrett Cortese

What makes the Fe22 unique as a price-point model in the ­Centurion line is that you don’t immediately see it or feel it upon stepping inside, and you definitely don’t notice it when it comes to the wakesurfing performance. While many other entry-level boats can feel like stripped-down versions of preexisting models or molds (and they often are), the Fe22 does not. Like other Centurion models, it features a comfortable, sturdy Spradling vinyl interior with plenty of padding both in the seats and bolsters. The only knock might be the lack of a reversible rear seat for better watching the action on the water. It’s common in many V-drives at all price points but is by no means a deal-breaker for the Fe22. Flooring throughout is GatorStep, and even the storage areas underneath the seats are Rhino-lined, giving this boat a nice, finished feel, even in the unseen areas. The ­22-footer is rated for 13 passengers and has a listed dry weight of 5,100 pounds, so add in some friends and the 4,350 pounds of ballast, and you’re ready to create serious wakes and waves for riders of all levels.

The Fe22 wakeboarding
The Fe22 is capable of serving mellow waves for new riders or steeper, “lippier” ones preferred by advanced riders. Courtesy Centurion Boats

The QuickSurf Pro, Ramfill and ballast systems are all easily controlled from the large touchscreen at the helm. While other ­Centurion models feature dual side-by-side touchscreens, the Fe22 is limited to the single, but it doesn’t take away from any functionality or aesthetics. QuickSurf Pro features port and starboard plates mounted at the transom for surfing either side (and quickly being able to switch on the fly), while the center-mounted plate helps adjust the characteristics of the wakes and waves. The ability to fine-tune waves through ballast and plate adjustments means the Fe22 is capable of serving ­mellow waves for new riders or steeper, “lippier” ones preferred by advanced riders. At 22 feet, the Fe22 is easier to displace than its bigger Centurion siblings, and with all that ballast, it quickly kicks out pro-level wakes and waves.

The captain is treated to a swiveling ­Cobra Racing seat that is as comfortable as it is stylish. To the left of the steering wheel there is a stereo head unit and a wireless phone-charger cradle. Behind the steering wheel are dual paddle-shifter controls, which control the center wake plate and the speed control for on-the-fly adjustments. An all-new windshield designed to flow with the lines of the Fe22 wraps the cockpit in style. In the floor of the walk-through is a convenient built-in cooler, and above is a hatch to a trash bin integrated into the storage behind the OB seat. The Roswell tower integrates seamlessly with the boat, and comes in white or black colorways, with side panels that can be upgraded to a custom color of your choosing. With the Surf Ready package, the tower is equipped with two WetSounds speakers, which complement the seven additional speakers (including a subwoofer) throughout the interior.

Read Next: Centurion Ri265

Centurion Fe22 wireless phone charger
To the left of the steering wheel there is a stereo head unit and a wireless phone-charger cradle. Courtesy Centurion Boats

For power, a 6L 409 hp PCM Crusader comes standard, and provides plenty of giddy-up to get on plane, especially when the QuickLaunch system is engaged, which utilizes the surf plates to assist with planing while making bow rise almost nonexistent. Accessing the swim platform is both easy and convenient, thanks to a transom walk-through and a step pad built into the rear bench. This keeps foot traffic off the upholstery—always a plus. At the transom, a large rear locker conveniently stows several boards and all the requisite gear, but it also is upgradable to hold additional ballast.

Centurion Fe22 passenger console compartment
There are stereo controls and a breaker panel in the glove box. Courtesy Centurion Boats

In terms of shopping, buyers will want to look at the Moomba Craz ($116,300 well-equipped), a fellow 22-footer with a lot of similar specs and options, including 4,500 pounds of ballast and a 70-gallon tank. The Craz also offers a passenger rating of 16.

As buyers in the watersports market have become inundated with bigger boats with price tags to match, it’s refreshing for Centurion to create the Fe22 with the sole purpose of making it more affordable relative to the market while still delivering great performance. This model not only does that, but top to bottom, it also is a good-looking, well-built, comfortable and really fun boat. For buyers who don’t need every bell and whistle, or who don’t need anything more than 22 feet, the Fe22 should make the shortlist. 

Centurion Fe22 cooler
In the floor of the walk-through is a convenient built-in cooler. Courtesy Centurion Boats

How We Tested

  • Engine: PCM Crusader 6L 409 hp
  • Drive/Prop: V-drive/Acme 2829 16.5″ x 15″ 4-blade nibral
  • Gear Ratio: 1.72:1 Fuel Load: 70 gal. Crew Weight: 350 lb.

High Points

  • Comfort—the Fe22 feels much bigger than other similarly sized boats, plus the interior materials are top-notch.
  • Ease of use—the onboard systems make getting out and riding a breeze.
  • As part of the Surf Ready package, the Champ sound system, with its nine speakers, sounds great everywhere in the boat.

Low Points

  • The Fe22 lacks customizable seating often found in many other V-drive wakeboats.

Pricing and Specs

Price:$139,995 (MSRP, as tested)
LOA:22’0″
Beam:8’6″
Draft:3’0″
Displacement:5,100 lb.
Transom Deadrise:20 degrees
Bridge Clearance:NA
Ballast:4,350 lb. (with Surf Ready package; 5,150 lb. optional)
Seat/Weight Capacity:13/NA
Fuel Capacity:70 gal.
Max Horsepower/Torque:450/450 ft.-lb.
Available Power:6.0L Crusader Challenger engines to 450 hp/ft.-lb.
Centurion Fe22 performance chart
Centurion Fe22 Certified Test Results Boating Magazine

Centurion Boats – Merced, California; centurionboats.com

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On Board With: Alexa Score https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/news/on-board-with-alexa-score/ Wed, 22 May 2024 20:35:38 +0000 https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/?p=58835 Alexa Score is a former competitive wakeboarder who's helping other childhood cancer victims through Surf to Save Lives.

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Alexa Score wakesurfing
Alexa Score found healing and passion in competitive wakeboarding and being on the water. Courtesy MasterCraft

A former competitive wakeboarder, Alexa Score is one of the busiest people you’ll ever meet. From her work as a producer and on-camera talent for three outdoor shows as well as working for the Minnesota Vikings and appearing in Zac Brown Band videos, she is living her best life—especially when you consider she has been battling chronic myeloid leukemia since the age of 16. We caught up with her about her life on the water and her efforts to help other childhood cancer victims through the Surf to Save Lives event benefitting St. Jude’s Children’s Research hospital.

You grew up on Green Lake in Minnesota. How did you get involved in watersports and wakeboarding?

My family wasn’t really involved in watersports, but I got involved in the Little Crow Ski Team when I was nine. I was a swivel skier and even stood on the top of a 42-person pyramid. I have the bumps and bruises to prove it.

I got started wakeboarding when my older sister came home from college and started doing it on the lake with her friends. I started realizing I could be competitive when I won the women’s amateur national title at the WWA Nationals in 2011 when I’d really only competed a couple of times.

Alexa Score on the dock
Alexa enjoys taking friends and family wakeboarding and wakesurfing. Courtesy MasterCraft

You were first diagnosed with leukemia at age 16. How did that change your life in general and your passion for wakeboarding?

There was a period of nine months where I struggled to get out of bed or do basic things like just walk down the stairs. Then when I turned 17, when I started feeling better, I graduated early from high school and said, “I’m moving to Orlando and nobody can stop me.” I found healing and passion in competitive wakeboarding and being on the water. I didn’t know how long I had to live and with my prognosis. I was literally riding the wave.

Are you now in remission?

I’m not in remission. I still take an oral chemo medication every day and see an oncologist every three months. I’m very fortunate—there are a lot of people under the same circumstances who can’t work and struggle on a daily basis.

What is your involvement with Surf to Save Lives?

I’ve been partnered with MasterCraft for three years now and this our second year doing the Surf to Save Lives event. From May 22 to October 1, all you have to do to participate is download the MasterCraft Connect app—it doesn’t matter what kind of boat you have. When you’re on the water participating in any kind of towed watersport—tubing, kneeboarding, waterskiing, wakeboarding, surfing—for every minute you log on the app, MasterCraft will donate $1 to St. Jude’s [up to $75,000.] All you have to do is log in while doing something you love.

I attribute a lot of my success to the first pediatric doctor I had. The drug I’ve been taking since I was 17 to stay alive was new back then. Now, thanks to research, there are five drugs to help people like me. St. Jude’s is on the cutting edge of care and research to help kids who have cancer.

Surf to Save Lives
The Surf to Save Lives event helps push forward the care and research for kids who have cancer. Courtesy MasterCraft

You no longer compete, but do you still get out on the water?

Watersports was my first passion and still is my number one passion. When I’m home in Minnesota during the season, I spend every free minute on the water (I just got my new MasterCraft XT24 yesterday) taking friends and family wakeboarding and wakesurfing. I also still swivel ski and foil. It’s all about having fun on the water and creating memories.

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2024 MasterCraft XT25 https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/boats/2024-mastercraft-xt25/ Tue, 21 May 2024 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/?p=58803 The XT25 is ready for loads of fun in comfort and style for your whole crew.

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The XT line of boats from MasterCraft is one of the builder’s most popular, largely because of the many customization choices. Now MasterCraft brings back the biggest: the 25-foot XT25. Boasting room for 18, a robust 92-gallon fuel tank, and the comfort and performance for which ­MasterCraft is acclaimed, the XT25 is a must-see for buyers seeking a big V-drive watersports boat.

MasterCraft XT25 on the lake
The XT25 offers comfort for all. Tom King

As mentioned, the XT line can be tweaked and adjusted to accommodate a variety of budgets and preferences. Add on nearly every option, and an XT25 comes close to the specs found in the higher-level X series. Conversely, keep the options trimmed back, and buyers can still get signature MasterCraft styling and performance while keeping the overall cost of acquisition lower. One of the biggest of those options, physically and visually, is the tower. MasterCraft offers three: the Z6, Z8 and Z10. 

The Z6—standard on all models—comes with clamping board racks and now also offers the option to upgrade to power board racks. 

The Z8 tower—an upgrade on XStar S, X and XT models—comes with options for black or silver tower legs; black, titanium or silver tubes; and silver or black clamping board racks. It also features patent-pending Hydro-Lock technology, making it one of the easiest manual towers to operate that we’ve tested.

Our test model featured the powered Z10 tower, which quickly and easily lowered at the push of a button. Clamping board racks are standard, and the oversize Bimini shade features wakesurf- and foil-board storage both above and below. Customize the Z8 and Z10 with colored inlays to add a unique look to your boat

MasterCraft XT25 bow seating
The XT25 is roomy and comfortable. Tom King

Of course, the calling card of the XT25 is its size. With 3,200 pounds of ballast and room for 18 family and friends, the XT25 stands large and ready for you and your whole crew to have loads of fun on the water. MasterCraft’s SurfStar system, along with its included factory presets—which now include settings for beginner and advanced wake-foil riding—can have you up and riding in no time. The built-in Rapid Surf software allows for quick, intuitive adjustments to the wakesurf waves, where riders can choose from seven different settings between mellow and steep. An intuitive diagram of a wave on the display at the helm makes it even easier to ­understand how changes you make to the ­settings will affect the characteristics of the wave. It’s easy to transition from a brand-new rider to a pro, all with a couple of finger taps on the display. Riders will be stoked to find a large, clean wave that offers a great transition and tons of push; once a perfect wave is dialed in, the rider can save all the settings to their own custom preset.  

MasterCraft XT25 helm
Built-in Rapid Surf software allows for quick, intuitive adjustments to the wakesurf waves. Tom King

All the space aboard the XT25 leaves plenty of room for passengers and gear. Storage is ample throughout, including some cool, new webbed baskets that hang in the bays on each side of the engine—great for letting wet ropes and life jackets drip down and not get in the boat. ­MasterCraft’s upholstery is tops for comfort, with plush padding and solid stitching. The ­convertible rear bench is one of the easiest to operate in the segment—simply pull up from the top with an integrated handle and allow the bench to flip into place. The attention to detail continues with the scalloped seatbacks at the rear of the wraparound area, which add comfort and a high-end look. Opt for the CoolFeel interior, and upholstery temperatures stay lower, even on hot summer days, thanks to the high-tech vinyl used in the upholstery. In the lounge area, cellphone-holder trays are purposely placed above the inset cup holders to keep them out of the sun—and the trays can be optioned with wireless-charging capabilities. At the transom, comfy seat pads above the swim platform are standard, and flip-up backrests can be added to make it a great lounge area. The swim platform itself can also be optioned with a flip-down step, to make for much easier boarding.

MasterCraft XT25 board racks
Board access from the tower is easy. Tom King

Every system on board the XT25 is quickly and easily controlled from the helm, whether you opt for the dual-screen setup—featuring an 11-inch touchscreen to the captain’s right and a 12-inch display above the steering wheel—or go with the standard 7-inch touchscreen. One nice touch from MasterCraft is that even with the large touchscreen, there are still soft-touch analog switches to the side for added convenience and redundancy if ever needed.

MasterCraft XT25 aft seating
Optional CoolFeel vinyl keeps upholstery temperatures down on the hottest of days. Tom King

Shop the XT25 against the Malibu 25 LSV ($207,232 starting MSRP), which has a much different look than the lines of the MasterCraft, but is a fellow 25-footer with room for 18 and lots of options.

Overall, the return of the XT25 to the ­MasterCraft line is a great option for buyers who like the look of a traditional bow, want as much room and comfort as possible, and prefer ­customizing their boat through a variety of optional upgrades. Of course, the killer endless waves and fun times on the water come ­standard.

How We Tested

  • Engine: Ilmor 6.2L GDI 430 hp/470 lb.-ft. torque
  • Drive/Prop: V-drive/Acme 16.5″ x 17″ 4-blade nibral
  • Gear Ratio: 2:1 Fuel Load: 88 gal. Crew Weight: 370 lb.

High Points

  • The XT25 is equipped with telematics, so owners can monitor the boat’s vitals and location through the MasterCraft Connect app, as well as remotely switch off the battery.
  • Optional dual-screen display makes navigating the XT25’s functions a breeze.
  • Klipsch audio throughout, along with four speakers on the tower, provide killer audio experience.

Low Points

  • Rear-facing bench doesn’t offer multiple positions like several competitors do.

Pricing and Specs

MSRP:$191,900 (MSRP, well-equipped)
LOA:25’1″
Beam:8’6″
Draft:2’8″
Displacement:5,950 lb.
Transom Deadrise:NA
Bridge Clearance:NA
Ballast:3,200 lb. (with SurfStar)
Fuel Capacity:92 gal.
Max Horsepower/Torque:430 hp/479 lb.-ft.
Available Power:Ilmor gasoline V-drive inboards to 430 hp/479 lb.-ft. torque
MasterCraft XT25 performance data
MasterCraft XT25 Certified Test Results Wakeboarding

MasterCraft Boats – Vonore, Tennessee; mastercraft.com

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melin Announces Official Partnership With MasterCraft Boat Company https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/news/melin-announces-official-partnership-with-mastercraft-boat-company/ Mon, 20 May 2024 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/?p=58815 MasterCraft is now the official towboat of melin and melin is the official headwear of MasterCraft.

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melin MasterCraft hats
MasterCraft is the official towboat of melin and melin is the official headwear of MasterCraft. Courtesy MasterCraft

melin, the creators of the world’s most premium headwear, has announced a partnership with MasterCraft Boat Company, the best-selling towboat brand in the world. With this agreement, melin is the official headwear of MasterCraft and MasterCraft is the official towboat of melin. This partnership unites melin’s dedication to creating the most innovative and water-friendly headwear with MasterCraft’s legacy as the world-renowned innovator, designer and manufacturer of premium performance wake boats. With a shared commitment to pushing boundaries and elevating experiences, melin and MasterCraft will look to redefine the standards of luxury on the water.

“I will never forget when the Mastercraft X Star changed the game years ago and ever since I saw that pickle-fork front end I knew we eventually had to have one. My whole life, my favorite moments are always spent on the water with family and friends and this partnership with MasterCraft is such an honor and testament to our aligned passions,” said Brian McDonell, Co-Founder and President of melin. “We are so grateful for this opportunity and look forward to amplifying the fun, premium experiences and technical evolution of being out on the water together.”

As a part of this collaboration, melin will be towing their athletes and ambassadors behind their custom MasterCraft X24, offering world-class wakes and waves paired with premium comfort and finishes. Additionally, melin and MasterCraft have worked together to craft an elevated HYDRO Collection of collaborative headwear that will be available exclusively at MasterCraft boat dealers along with an ultra-limited hat for MasterCraft boat owners only. melin’s HYDRO Collection is built for the water, making it the perfect companion for anyone spending a day on the lake, river or ocean.

“We are excited to partner with melin to deliver premium, top-quality MasterCraft headwear to our customers and owners,” said Krista Schipner, Vice President of Marketing for MasterCraft. “As industry leaders, MasterCraft and melin share several core values and each strive to provide a product with premium quality, unparalleled comfort, and industry-leading performance, making this partnership a perfect match.”

The addition of MasterCraft Boat Company comes at an exciting time of melin’s growing list of partnerships and collaborations. Currently the official headwear of Aspen Skiing Company, Mammoth Mountain and June Mountain, along with recent collaborations with iconic brands such as Tito’s Handmade Vodka and Traeger Grills.  

About melin

melin is dedicated to crafting the world’s highest quality headwear. With a focus on materials, overlooked details, craftsmanship, and innovation, melin sets itself apart by delivering headwear that outperforms and redefines industry standards. melin is committed to elevating the headwear experience and providing enthusiasts with the perfect blend of performance and style for any adventure.

About MasterCraft

MasterCraft is a world-renowned innovator, designer, manufacturer, and marketer of premium performance sport boats. Founded in 1968, MasterCraft has cultivated its iconic brand image through a rich history of industry-leading innovation, and more than five decades after the original MasterCraft made its debut, the company’s goal remains the same – to continue building the world’s best ski, wakeboard, wake surf, and luxury performance powerboats.

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Thomas Herman Awarded Wakeboarding’s 2023 Trick of the Year https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/news/thomas-herman-awarded-wakeboardings-2023-trick-of-the-year/ Wed, 17 Jan 2024 14:56:00 +0000 https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/?p=58375 Herman's triple backroll propelled him into the history books.

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Editor’s Note: For a variety of reasons, we did not produce Wake Awards this year. We are making plans for next year. However, Thomas Herman’s amazing feat demanded attention. We thank Ben Greenwood, the Boarding School, Parks Bonifay, and all who helped honor Thomas. Please enjoy the video.

Video: Jake Snider Films

The official Wake Awards Trick of the Year is a distinction that can be earned in a singular moment. Of course, the work put in to create that moment can take endless hours of attempts and a lifetime of dedication to build to that event. For the 2023 season, were there to be a Wake Awards, there was little to no question that Thomas Herman’s triple backroll would be the unanimous Trick of the Year award winner. Wakeboarding, though not running Wake Awards for 2023, banded together with the local Orlando crew of Thomas Herman’s friends, riders, and industry folks to honor Thomas in his unforgettable accomplishment. Check out how the celebration went down.

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2024 Watersports Buyers Guide – Yamaha Boats https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/2024-yamaha-boats-wsbbg/ Fri, 05 Jan 2024 17:36:31 +0000 https://www.wakeboardingmag.com/?page_id=58301 2024 Yamaha Boats Yamaha’s Wake Series boats are designed for wakesurfing, built for entertaining your family and friends. Yamaha’s Wake Series is designed for wakesurfing, and built for entertaining your family and friends. From the Connext touchscreen you can fill the ballast tanks, set acceleration, select top-speed rider profiles and more. New DRiVE technology makes […]

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2024 Yamaha Boats

Yamaha’s Wake Series boats are designed for wakesurfing, built for entertaining your family and friends.
Yamaha 255XD wakesurfing

Yamaha’s Wake Series is designed for wakesurfing, and built for entertaining your family and friends. From the Connext touchscreen you can fill the ballast tanks, set acceleration, select top-speed rider profiles and more. New DRiVE technology makes docking easy with its paddle controls on the wheel.

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