IN what can only be described as a remarkable swan song, Filipino Jet Ski champion Paul del Rosario bid farewell to his illustrious career with a dazzling performance at the 2023 SBT (Short Block Technologies) IJSBA Jetski World Finals in Lake Havasu City, Arizona, USA.
Del Rosario, a stalwart in the world of Jet Ski racing, demonstrated his mastery in the amateur ski modlites category, claiming the first-place finish for the Philippines. He also earned a well-deserved runner-up position in the demanding veterans (ages 35 to 45 years) ski gp class.
Del Rosario’s journey to secure these titles was no easy feat. He had to face intense competition and tackle six races in a single day, a grueling schedule that left him just short of clinching the world title in the Vet Ski GP category, settling for a silver medal.
Nevertheless, this marked a significant improvement from his fifth-place finish in the previous year.
Before his world championship triumph, Del Rosario had already conquered the Philippine Jet Ski scene, winning two national titles in the Open Ski class and the Expert Stock Ski Class. Furthermore, he was recognized as a Hall of Famer by the Jetski Association of the Philippines (JSAP) for his exceptional international achievements and contributions to the sport.
Del Rosario’s career was nothing short of extraordinary, earning him the title of Philippine Rider of the Year from JSAP nine times. He had come tantalizingly close to a world title on multiple occasions, only to be thwarted by mechanical issues. However, in 2022, at the age of 43, he secured his second world title, proving his mettle in the stand-up class.
His incredible achievements extended beyond national borders, with victories in various categories such as Expert Open Runabout, Am Ski Modlites, and Vet Ski GP, cementing his legacy as a true Jet Ski champion. Del Rosario was the only Filipino rider to excel in all three major types of Jet skiing–sport, ski, and runabout.
As he retired from competitive racing in 2023, Del Rosario left a lasting legacy of dedication, resilience, and passion for the sport. His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring Filipino Jet Ski racers, showing that with unwavering determination and the right support, they can achieve their dreams.
In his retirement, Del Rosario remains committed to Jet Ski racing in the Philippines. He plans to continue riding recreationally and support the development of future talents through JSAP. His message to the next generation is clear: the future of Jet Ski racing is bright, and with determination and support, they can achieve even more.