Powerhouse known as Huls

This is another sub-installment in the Watercross Season we will be following this summer. Please check the Category: Watercross 2017 Season to read the full series.

We sat down with Corey Huls, current Semi Pro Open Class leader, before Grantsburg and wanted to get the inside scoop on what is making this virtually brand new racer such a powerhouse of a competitor this year.

What initally pushed you to do watercross of all sports?

"Initally my brother went to Grantsburg with friends to watch the races. Eventually I started to go too; I watched for years and decided I wanted to try it." Corey stated that he and his friend Cory Kostreba modified an old winter sled and began practicing. When Corey modified his current sled, they began going to organized practices like B.I.R's. Corey debuted at Grantsburg's World Championships in 2016. This year, Corey is coming into Gratsburg leading the Semi Pro Open Class in points and his journey has really come full circle as a fresh face to the IWA.

Do you have an inspirational person or certain people in this sport that you really look up to?

Corey stated that specifically he admires Scott Martinson as a racer because Scott goes the extra mile every single race. Corey states he admires Scott's determination, strength, and intelligence to lead the sport in diversity and intuition.

Additionally, Corey admires the Vowles boys, Aaron and Adam, because of their kindness and helpfulness over the past year. He also likes to watch Ryan Keith race, because despite not knowing him personally, he feels like he can learn a lot from Ryan.

What's your team look like? Do you have any specific helpers or coaches?

"My family makes the majority of my team; mom and dad haven't missed a race yet. Then there is Ashley, my girlfriend, who helps hype me up or get me through the tough days. Cory Kostreba is my main pit-guy so he'd have to be on my team for sure."

What are your goals/aspirations for the sport?

Corey doesn't have a set time or idea of how long he would like to race but he did say, "I'll continue to race as long as I am having fun doing it. The moment it stops being fun is when I'm done." He also says that obviously winning at Grantsburg would be a cap on the seaon for sure; he goes on to say that despite leading the season in points thus far, he is well aware he will need to bring his A-Game at the remaining races of the season to keep his competitiors, like Nick Mattila, at bay.

Do you have any sponsors you would like to thank?

Corey stated that he would really like to thank Bahnn Motorsports, Unique Movers, and FXR Racing. He is also interested in picking up further sponsorships and expressed interests in dealership sponsorships.

How do you prepare for a race on the physical, mental, and mechanical levels?

According to Corey, all around you want to be as prepped as possible. Mechanically speaking, that means getting in the practices you need, showing up with a prepared sled, and having the essential items if something goes wrong so that you aren't scrambling to try and fix it. Mentally, it sort of works the same; you have to show up prepared for good and bad days. Physically, the sport takes a lot out of a person; you will notice your arms and shoulders being very sore by the end of the first few weekends. In addition to a strong upperbody you need a strong set of lungs to pace your breathing if you get hit with wakes or rough water while in the water after sinking.

Do you have any desire to expand in the sport? i.e. Drag Classes or Stock Classes?

Corey stated that he does have desire to expand in classes, but he won't do so until he has a sled to do both classes. He doesn't want to run two different sleds. We mentioned that if he wins at Grantsburg or wins as the overall season points winner, he is required to move up in the classes. This means that he has to move into the Pro Open Class. When we asked Corey about this, he stated "it is super intimidating to think that if I take the podium at Grantsburg or the season points that I'm going to be racing against some very fast racers next year."

What would you consider to be a successful season for you or your team as a whole?

A successful season for Corey would be winning at Grantsburg. His inital goal going into the 2017 season was to end in the Top 5 of season points standings; at this point, Corey has succeeded in that goal but we will see if he is continues to hold his lead.

Are there any events you like to watch paricularly besdies your own?

"Anything with an engine," Corey stated with a laugh. He also stated that his girlfriend Ashley races dirt track so he really enjoys going out and supporting her during his off-time from watercross.

Currently do you see anyone as a specific threat to you in the sport or how do you feel about the competition?

Corey was very humble with his answer as he stated, "Anyone in my class has the capability to win a final and put pressure on me, so everyone in the Semi Pro Open Class is competition."

With that question we ended our interview with Corey. We walked away with a better understanding of a very humble racer. Stay tuned to see if Corey hangs onto his lead this weekend at the 41st Annual Grantsburg World Championship. Also stay tuned to read all about another newcomer to the sport, later this week.