At the end of an unassuming country road snaking along the entrance to Americana lies an oasis. Bright blue lakes, picturesque wooden cabins, dozens of collegiates from all over the world, flying through the air on waterskis. 

But long before there was Americana, or a top-ranking school district, or any of the amenities Zachary enjoys today, Jay and Anne Bennett put Zachary on the map. 

Bennett’s Waterski and Wakeboard School has been an economic driver for the city in multiple ways over the past 40+ years. The Bennetts, both title-holding skiers themselves, have used their expertise to coach hundreds of others to win championship titles in the sport, and have welcomed the public to the 63-acre compound for Night Jam every summer for years. 

But this year, Bennett’s almost had to pull the plug. Mastercraft, a longtime sponsor of the ski school and pro shop, pulled their sponsorship dollars due to budget cuts, effectively cutting the prize money to one third of what it once was. While many businesses in Zachary have rallied as sponsors to help make the event happen, the prize money still stands at $27,000, compared to up to $70k in previous years. 

Still, say the event’s organizers, the prize money hasn’t affected the participation from world-class athletes. Of course the money is a great perk, but it’s the roar of the crowd many thrill-seekers are after.

British Announcer Tony Lightfoot, a world-renowned announcer for pro tours including this one, says the athletes love the crowds and the noise. “The louder the better,” says Bennett. And if there’s one person that gets the crowds amped, it’s Freddy Krueger.

Professional waterski jumper Frederick August Krueger IV, aka Freddy Krueger, holds the world record in ski flying at 312 feet – that’s nearly the length of a football field! – and makes an appearance every summer at Bennett’s Ski School right here in Zachary for the annual Night Jam. 

“It’s not amateur hour,” Bennett says. It’s a world-class event with some of the biggest names in the sport, and the officiating guidelines are very stringent.

Belarusian professional water skier Hannah Straltsova holds many world records, but notably for the 192-foot distance ski jump, which was recorded at Night Jam last year. She’s won the event the past two years, and says the event is just as fun to participate in as it is to watch. 

The event is built around the jumping event in a festival-type atmosphere, explains Bennett. There are bands, food trucks, and general admission is just $20 per carload. “We don’t care if you bring a busload!” Bennett says. Just come on out and make some noise.

There’s also a VIP seating area with unlimited catered food and an open bar. At $100 per ticket, those seats sell out quickly. And, says Bennett, VIP tickets are a great way to entertain your client base or treat your employees to a night out. 

And, while becoming a major sponsor of the event is outside the realm of what most small businesses can do, there are numerous sponsorship levels available, and those interested can tap here for more info. 

But for the rest of us, with a limited marketing budget this year, Bennett is asking for the community’s help to promote the event. Share the recent podcast episode with Jay, Tony and Hannah, or share the event on social media. Promoting our city can lead to amazing economic benefits and a great way of life for all of us.

See ya there!