Episode 48 - Powerboat Talk with Chuck Stearns and Mike Avila Water Ski Racing Legends
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Chuck Stearns and Mike Avila are two of the most successful competitors in water ski racing history. Stearns, often regarded as the greatest water skier of all time, won National and World Championships in tournament skiing. He claimed his first Catalina Ski Race victory in 1955 at the age of 16. Stearns dominated the international ocean water ski race, winning an unprecedented 11th Catalina title in 1982 at the age of 44. He also set multiple world speed records, including a remarkable 122.11 m.p.h. run in 1969 at Long Beach Marine Stadium.
Mike Avila began his water ski racing career by winning his first race in 1968 at the age of 10. Throughout the 1980s, he became one of the most dominant skiers, claiming the most wins in ski racing history with 149 victories, including 27 national championships. Avila was a key member of six US world teams and continues to compete today as a boat driver, finishing first overall in the 2023 Catalina Ski Race.
Both Stearns and Avila are lifelong friends and esteemed members of the Water Skiing Hall of Fame. Stearns was inducted in 1982 as part of the inaugural class, while Avila was inducted in 2002 as the first speed skiing-only member. This year, Stearns will join Avila as a passenger in his boat for the Catalina Ski Race on July 13.
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