The Ski Boat Drivers Award (SBDA) is a voluntary scheme run by British Water Ski (BWS).

RSWSC is an approved training and test centre for members and the club is keen to see as many boat drivers as possible holding this award to ensure safe skiing on the Camel Estuary and protect our sport from undue criticism.

The aim is to instruct and test candidates in basic boat handling skills and the driving of boats for water skiing. Candidates will undergo a short course of instruction followed by a written test of 30 multiple choice questions and a practical test on the water. The course syllabus is detailed in the SBDA Candidates Manual which can be seen on the BWS website

Successful candidates will receive a laminated SBDA certificate which is valid indefinitely and, if they wish, may apply for an International Certificate of Competence (ICC) valid for coastal waters in Europe. If an additional written test is taken at the same time as the SBDA test an ICC valid for inland as well as coastal waters may be applied for. The ICC certificate is valid for 5 years when it can be renewed without further test.

Courses will be run for candidates who meet the following criteria. Dates to follow soon.

• Age over 16 years
• Member of RSWSC (rare exceptions may be possible)
• Member of BWS (can join at time of test at discounted club rate)
• Have basic boat handling skills
• Have some experience of towing skiers (desirable but not essential)

Drivers who feel they have not got the appropriate boat handling or towing skills can apply for a pre-SBDA training with one of our experienced drivers.

Costs

SBDA – £9.00

SBDA + ICC – £16

RSWSC admin – £20

BWS membership – £35 single, £60 family

To register or receive further information please contact:

Adam Duncan – tel: 07976 573738, or e-mail “alduncan42@btinternet.com”