AVON PARK, FL (August 5, 2026) – Jet-ski racers from across the United States and beyond will descend on Avon Park August 14–16 as the LIQUI MOLY Pro Watercross National Tour returns to beautiful Lake Verona for its third consecutive year. The sixth stop of the national tour promises three days of high-speed racing, gravity-defying freestyle performances, and nationally televised competition in the City of Charm.
Now a part of the International Jet Sports Boating Association (IJSBA), Pro Watercross has grown into the country’s premier producer of watercross events. Competitors of all ages and skill levels will battle for national points in a variety of racing classes based on watercraft type, engine size, rider age, and experience. Racers from across the United States, along with international competitors, are expected to take to the waters of Lake Verona for one of the season’s most exciting events.
“We’re excited to welcome Pro Watercross back to Avon Park for its third year,” said Casey Hartt, an official from Highlands County’s Tourism Office. “This event has become one of our signature summer sporting events, attracting competitors and spectators from across the country and internationally, while showcasing the beauty of Lake Verona and generating more than $120,000 in economic impact for our local businesses.”
The race venue is located at Donaldson Park, 109 E. Main Street, Avon Park. Racer registration will take place Friday, August 14, from 11:00 am–5:00 p.m. To kick off the weekend, the public is invited to meet the racers during the Pro Watercross Racer Meet & Greet/Welcome Party from 5:00–10:00 p.m. at The Pour House, located in historic downtown Avon Park. Fans can mingle with professional racers, enjoy great food and drinks, and help welcome competitors to Avon Park before the racing begins.
Racing begins Saturday, August 15, from 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., with competition continuing Sunday, August 16, beginning at approximately 9:30 a.m.
No tickets are required, and admission is free, making Pro Watercross one of the area’s premier free spectator sporting events. Visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, spend the day along the shores of Lake Verona, and explore Avon Park’s historic downtown with its unique shops, local restaurants, and small-town charm.
One of the weekend’s biggest crowd favorites is the Freestyle Competition, where elite riders launch their personal watercraft high into the air while performing flips, spins, and gravity-defying tricks during two-minute routines judged on difficulty, creativity, and execution. These jaw-dropping performances are a must-see for spectators of all ages.
The excitement won’t end at the finish line. Highlights from the weekend will be featured in a nationally televised 30-minute special on CBS Sports Network (air date to be announced),
showcasing Avon Park, Lake Verona, and the top performances from the competition to audiences across the country.
The 2026 Pro Watercross National Tour stop in Avon Park/Lake Verona is presented in partnership with Visit Sebring/Highlands County Tourist Development Council (TDC), the City of Avon Park, Airstream Ventures, Avon Park Chamber of Commerce, and Pro Watercross. The nationally televised event continues to position the Sebring area, including Avon Park and Lake Placid, FL, as a premier destination for outdoor recreation, sports tourism, and freshwater water sports.
For event details, racer registration, and the complete competition schedule, visit www.ProWatercross.com or find the event page on Pro Watercross Facebook page for the most up to date information.
To discover lodging, dining, attractions, and additional events throughout the Avon Park area, visit www.VisitSebring.com.
