Malibu Boats Partners with Performance Ski & Surf Gravel Tour for 2026 Season

The Performance Ski & Surf Gravel Tour, founded in 1999 by watersports legends Herb O’Brien and Bill Porter, has been a cornerstone of grassroots wake sports for over two decades. The tour emphasizes the importance of community and competition in fostering the sport, bringing together riders of all ages and skill levels.

Chris Loomis, Director of Dealer Development at Malibu Boats, expressed the company's enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “Grassroots tournaments are the foundation of wake sports. The Gravel Tour represents progression, family involvement, and authentic competition. We’re proud to have the M230 towing riders this season.”

For the 2026 season, the Malibu M230 will be the official towboat for the Gravel Tour, providing unparalleled performance and consistency for competitors across wakeboard, wakesurf, wakeskate, and foil divisions. This state-of-the-art vessel is designed to meet the demands of competitive athletes, ensuring that participants have the best possible experience on the water.

Liquid Planet Marine, the premier Malibu Boats dealership in Central Florida, joins the partnership as the Preferred Dealer of Performance Ski & Surf. Pete Grinnell, President of Liquid Planet Marine, shared his excitement about this collaboration, emphasizing the community aspect of the Gravel Tour. “We’re proud to support an event that strengthens the wake sports community,” he stated.

Over the years, the Gravel Tour has been a launching pad for many aspiring athletes, providing them with the opportunity to compete and develop their skills. Notable riders such as Dallas Friday, JD Webb, and Adam Errington have all participated in grassroots events before reaching the pinnacle of the sport. The tour also boasts a rich history of Malibu legends, including Brian Grubb and Phil Soven, who have made their mark in the wake sports arena.

Bill Porter, the Owner of Performance Ski & Surf and Founder of the Gravel Tour, shared his passion for the event, saying, “My favorite thing about the Gravel Tour is bringing riders of all ages together with their families and watching them grow.” He emphasized the importance of the friendships formed during the tour, which extend beyond the competition itself.

Bec Gange, a member of the Axis Wake Pro Team, echoed the sentiments about grassroots events, highlighting their critical role in athlete development. “These contests build confidence in young riders. They learn how to structure a run, read water conditions, and communicate with judges and drivers. That experience carries with them for years,” she noted.

The 2026 Performance Ski & Surf Gravel Tour, towed by Malibu Boats, will take place at Lake David in Groveland, Florida. This picturesque location will serve as the backdrop for an exciting season of competition, camaraderie, and community spirit.

For more information on event details and registration, participants can visit www.graveltour.com and follow @MalibuBoats, @LiquidPlanetMarine, and @PerformanceSkiAndSurf on Instagram.

Malibu Boats, Inc. is a renowned manufacturer in the recreational marine market, designing, engineering, and marketing a portfolio of powerboat brands. Headquartered in Loudon, Tennessee, Malibu Boats continues to lead the industry with innovation and dedication to performance and quality.