The 2026 season of the Young Guns youth jet ski development program is set to be a transformative year under the continued leadership of Justin Smith. The program will be part of the Dales jet sport outlaw tour, Mid-America , Lake Havasu Series, and the new National Pro Watercross USA Tour, known as “The Road to Havasu,” which is a collaboration between Nautiwater Racing, East Coast Watercross, and Pro Watercross.

Justin Smith remains the head of youth jet ski development, and now partnering with Tanya Kennedy of Worx Racing and building on their success in organizing the IJSBA Junior National Championship and “Young Guns” events.

Smith is continuing with the Elite 16-17 age group to give top-tier youth racers a professional-level competitive environment without moving them into adult Pro classes prematurely.

: The program provides specialized “on-the-track” training for Slalom and Closed Course racing, featuring coaching from Top Pro World Champions.

The Young Guns program serves as a critical pipeline for athletes aged 8 to 17.

These “Racing Development” sessions offer participants multiple practice runs, timed laps, and instruction on official race starts using the light and horn system.

 All levels are welcome, with specific groupings for Ski Lites, Sport Spec, and Rec Lites to ensure age-appropriate competition.

Official dates for the 2026 Young Guns youth development program are coming soon.