So much depends on the beginners. Without them, the future of towed watersports may be at risk due to declining participation. It takes a commitment of time and money to pursue wakeboarding, and other towed watersports. Think: Boats, tow vehicles, gear. But who would make such a commitment without having tried first? Take a new person out and share the stoke! Not to mention, it’s just plain a nice thing to do.
Sunday, July 19th, 2026 is the main day to introduce somebody new to the stoke of getting up on the water, but there will be lots of activities and participation during the week before, too!
The #PassTheHandle project is an incredible awareness-driven concept drawn up by legendary wakeboarders Shaun Murray and Zane Schwenk, encouraging all towed water sport enthusiasts to get out on the water and extend their arm to people in need of an awesome activity.
More Beginner Events: MasterCraft, World Wake Association to Relaunch Rider Experience Tour 2026
The Idea
The concept is simple: Find a friend who has never been wakeboarding, wakesurfing, tubing, kneeboarding, water skiing, barefooting or any of the many fun activities you can do behind a boat, and help them experience the thrill for the first time!
Take them out, teach them how to ride, and introduce them to the same fun lifestyle of being on the water that we enjoy. Our goal is to truly engage those already involved to “share the stoke” and teach as many people as they can to ride.
Looking Ahead
Every year, the WSIA works to make Pass The Handle bigger and better than previous years, with new companies, pro athletes, celebrities and fans involved each time.
Do More: Click here to learn how you can hold your own Pass The Handle event!
