The Catalina Ski Race will enjoy its 65th run on July 20, 2013!

As comically as it is sometimes portrayed, however, waterskiing is a rigorous form of sport, and even someone gliding across a lake is giving their all in the strength and skill departments.

But the zenith of waterskiing and athletically giving one's all merges every year in the Catalina Ski Race, which is often billed as "The World's Greatest Ski Race." It's the 65-year-old, 62-mile ski-off that's set to run -- er, ski -- again on Saturday, July 20.

The CSR is the premiere water ski race in the world, but the CSR is more than just a race.  With its rich 65 year history, quality of competition, and challenge of the open ocean, the CSR has earned its place on the world stage.

Water skiers from around the globe come to participate.  This race has notoriety because of the number of participants, and because it is the only open-ocean ski race regularly scheduled anywhere in the world.  It is an especially unique challenge to compete across 62 miles of ocean. It is highly coveted and followed around the ski racing world.

The 62 mile-long race to Avalon and back starts and finishes near the Queen Mary.  Spectators from around the globe can be found lining Queen Mary’s docks in effort to get the best view of the start and finish.

There are 19 different classes in which to participate; from novice to expert.  There are two different starting categories: Boats that are 21 feet long or smaller, and boats between 21 feet and 43 feet. The smaller boats start 7 minutes before the large boats.

The Maya Hotel is the host hotel and headquarters for the Race festivities.  With events and activities beginning the Friday before each race and wrapping up the Sunday after, The Maya Hotel is a fun place to visit to be a part of the excitement and energy.