Home > Culture > Features

Avoid Summer Heat On a Pair of Waterskies

Published: 04 Jan. 2003, 19:08

Water-skiing is no longer a sport enjoyed by a priveleged few. Even here in busy Seoul, there are some places one can see water-skiing being enjoyed on the northern banks of the Hangang River at Ttuksom and on the south shore near Panpo. Close to Seoul, there are over 100 places offering water-skiing in the areas of Yangsoori, Chongpyung, and Yangpyong in Kyonggi province. With sports advocates touting the sport's benefits to the body, a surge in the popularity of water-skiing is occuring.

At Mulsae Marina Resort in Namyangju, Kyonggi Province, people can, for 18,000 won, enjoy 15 minutes of water-skiing. Beginner instruction is also offered with all necessary equipment including wetsuits and lifejackets provided free-of-charge. Beginners are eased into the sport by first learning how to balance themselves on the water, holding onto a bar attached to the rear of a motorboat. With knees bent and arms at chest-level, the boat will move out onto the water. Then, by straightening the legs and leaning backward, head held high, you won't find yourself falling into the water.

Once mastering this starting position, the water is yours to conquer. But, with speeds of 50km per hour, a rest is recommended after a 15-minute session, especially for those new to the sport. Even accounting for individual skills, a day of water-skiing will see you floating on the water with ease.

For the more adventurous, slalom-style water-skiing awaits with water-skiers careening across the water. Kim Hee-jung, an office worker, said that at first, she was awkward on the water. But, later "I began to enjoy the speed and exhilaration," she enthused.

The sport is drawing the young and old alike, with whole families enjoying the sport together. Kwak Yong-deuk, a waterski instructor, said that, "Anyone can learn to waterski through a step-by-step approach."

by Choi Min-woo