Add another casualty to the flooding on the Rock River. Rock Aqua Jays Board President Joel Shapiro says the water's still too high for Janesville to host the 2008 Division One National Water Ski Show Tournament. The event had been planned for this August, but the water is not expected to be back down to acceptable levels until just about that time.
Water levels aren't the only problems with hosting the event either. Shapiro says they are anticipating a significant amount of damage to the grounds, the dock, stage, and club house. The club house is still under nearly 30 inches of water.
The economic loss to Janesville is estimated at around $2 million. Shapiro says that's a big hit to businesses at a time where they really need it.
Shapiro says next year's tournament location has already been selected, but 2010 is still open. He says they will submit a bid to be considered as a host site again.
Shapiro says he's also disappointed because a delegation from the Chinese Water Skiing Federation was planning to attend the event and also visit the Tommy Bartlett Water Show on Lake Delton. The plans will now also have to be altered.
AUDIO: Steve Benton reports (MP3 1:47)
