At approximately 1630 PM on 8/6/11  (IA5930AR) and (IA6864BE) were operating Yamaha Wave runners on Saylorville Lake, near Party Cove.  Operator1 was heading towards the beach area at Party Cove, going 15 mph while Operator2 was following going approximately 25 mph.  Operator1 turned to his right and slowed down, while Operator2 let off his throttle, attempted to turn his craft but was going too fast and was too close.  Operator2 struck Operator1 on the right front side of his jet ski, throwing Operator1 off his jet ski.  Operator1's jet ski sustained approximately $2000.00+ worth of fiberglass damage to the front right foot well section, a broken right mirror and damage to the storage compartment.  Operator2 had fiberglass damage to the front nose of the jet ski and to the rear left side of the rear outer foot well area, estimated at $500.00+.  

Both operators were wearing life jackets and had proper safety equipment and registrations.  

Officer cited Operator2 for negligent operation of a vessel since he struck Operator1 from behind as he was following him to the beach.  The incident happened due to operating too close to each other, violating the speed and distance laws on the water.

Johnston                      