Indiana Waterski is cranking out talent these days with great mentors like Nate Smith and Cale Burdick leading the charge. B’ster Detty, Indiana University Alumni and MCWSA All Star skier found that the road to nationals can also lead to the pros. B’ster had the opportunity to compete in the AWSA Water Ski Nationals, as well as the Pro Night Jump following the event.
Detty grew up on a ski lake, the same one as Cale Burdick, and with his family actively involved in the sport. This summer was full of work for Detty, but not many tournaments, so B’ster was excited for Indiana States. When it came time for jump, conditions were less than ideal, B’ster and Purdue skier Andrew Schmitt agreed it was best to pass. Andrew went first, then B’ster, who passed on the first two. But unable resist his favorite event, he went for the jump, and hit a screw on the ramp. His ski got shredded. B’ster knew he wouldn’t be able to get a new pair before Regionals, where he would need a score to continue to Nationals. Also sponsored by Silver Spray Sports, Indiana skier, coach and mentor, Nate Smith was there to save the day. He called up D3 skis and got a pair shipped to Detty. Detty flew to Minnesota where Midwest regionals was held, skied slalom and trick, and at least one pass in jump. He qualified for nationals. 
Arriving in San Marcos, Texas, USA Nationals was a huge event, but Detty had been many times in his long skiing career. This year, he was excited for his first Pro-Ski event. Detty was one of 13 skiers invited to compete in the Post-Nationals jump event. With a week of missed practice, and new skis, Detty was nervous, but excited.
Mentor Cale Burdick helped give advice to Detty, and Freddy Krueger as well offered some tips. They were spot on. “It was the coolest experience” said Detty, skiing against the best in the nation. Round One of the event was at dusk, but after cutting from 13 to 6 skiers, it was dark, with lights that lit up the ramp. Detty was slotted 5th going into round two, but was first off the dock, following Krueger’s prelim jump…no pressure.
Skiing in front an audience rounding 1500 people, B’ster placed 5th in his first pro event, and first ever night jump, even winning some money! Overall, it was an amazing opportunity, and B’ster is looking forward to his next pro event. Detty was hoping to ski in the Malibu Open, but it was cancelled Wednesday due to an algae bloom creating unsanitary lake conditions. He looks forward to participating next year. In the meantime, B’ster is working full time. He also wants to start coaching. Detty wants to grow waterskiing, and loves sharing his passion. He hopes to be a mentor like so many were for him.
B’ster wants to thank sponsors Silver Spray Sports and HO Skis for their support in skiing, and getting him to where he is today.
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