The ProStar 197 is a MasterCraft defined not by the boat itself, but by everything else around it, namely behind it. Leaving a trail of wakes disguised as a Louisiana backwater bayou – soft and still – the 197 is the choice of champions and the recipient of records, acting at the tow point for current world champions Regina Jaquess, Nicholas LeForestier, Mandy Nightengale and Jimmy Siemers; it also holds the top tricks and slalom scores in the business, pulling world records within the last 12 months. It is the only boat ever designated by USA Water Ski record-capable in five events with a single engine, and continues to be the boat of choice for the world’s elite tournaments.

Its propensity to attract top scores is the same as its ability to draw skiers, starting with slalom wakes that shrivel up and disappear, post 30 miles per hour. The quicker the pace, the lighter they feel -- perfect for jumps at higher speeds. Setting the standard cruise control down near 20 offers up dual peaks that have produced ten shortboard flips in under 20 seconds.