ADRENALINE RUSH
Orlando Watersports Complex supplies fast-paced fun with wakeboarding adventures
Now three months into Florida’s oppressively hot endless summer, I’ve sought out every opportunity to get on the water — through paddleboarding, swimming in springs and now even wakeboarding.
I’ve water skied and snowboarded, but this was my first try at this type of water-based recreation. The venue: Orlando Watersports Complex near State Road 528, which has provided a space for Central Florida riders for more than two decades.
In addition to the cable park — a primary draw for visitors — wakeboarders and water skiers can train while being towed by a top-of-the-line Nautique boat (made here in Orlando).
But the park has broadened its appeal beyond seasoned water sports enthusiasts, seeking to bring in families with an Aquapark, tubing, a dockside grill and lessons for children.
“Especially when people head to Disney, they look on 528 and say, ‘What is that?’ ” said instructor Nathan Simmons. “What’s going to grow our sport is getting beginners here, getting new people into it.”
Simmons, my instructor and coach, knew my snowboarding background might benefit me in my wakeboarding attempt but had to show me the basics first.
We started on a two-tower private cable meant for teaching beginner wakeboarding skills, like how to stand up and turn. With an adjustable speed, the system made it easy to practice the essentials. This 15-minute lesson is a part of the “Get Up Guarantee” program offered by OWC, which includes equipment and a four-hour cable pass, a popular package for first-timers.
After a few minutes and some sage advice from Simmons, it was time to hit the bigger cable. OWC offers a standard cable for riders just starting out and a faster advanced cable with more sudden turns.
Sitting on the dock with the board strapped to my feet, handle in hand, Simmons encouraged me to focus on getting upright on the water and not to worry about the turns. In the section I tried, there are five points where the cable changes directions, which can be tricky to master for first-time riders.
As soon as I felt the handle propel me forward, I was on the water. Without a second thought, I carved into the turns and felt a little shaky as the tension shifted in the bends. But I survived almost an entire lap before getting a face full of water.
I was immediately eager to get back out there and try again. Simmons joined me on a rope attached close enough that he could hold my life jacket and call out directions. I fought the fatigue in my arms and legs and focused on having the time of my life.
The water turned to butter beneath me, my legs the knife as I glided effortlessly across the surface. Except it did take quite a bit of strength and grip to hold myself in the position, which would later turn my arms into jelly. Make no mistake — wakeboarding is a blast, but also a heck of a workout.
After a few more laps to get the adrenaline pumping extra hard, I was ready to try a jump. My first attempt saw a successful takeoff but an unsuccessful landing. The second try yielded slightly better results but still found me going for a swim. However, the smile never left my face.
If I had the time and money to add another hobby to my already extensive list, wakeboarding might be up there. But even spending one day at Orlando Watersports Complex proved exciting, physical and a complete blast through and through.
IF YOU GO
Orlando Watersports Complex is open 10 a.m.-8 p.m. daily at 8615 Florida Rock Road in Orlando. The “Get Up Guarantee” package for first-time riders is $79. Aquapark sessions start at $29 for a one-hour pass. Birthday parties and private sessions are available as well. For more information, visit orlandowatersports.com.
Send me an email: pconnolly@orlandosentinel. com.