Patent ID: 6192819
Filing Date: 2001-02-27
Classification: B63B

Abstract:
A towing apparatus for improving aerial characteristics of a performance by a performer using a water sport implement, the towing apparatus comprising:a vessel behind which the performer is to be towed, the vessel having a bow, a stern, starboard and port side gunwales extending longitudinally therebetween, and an operator station positioned amidships between the starboard and port side gunwales;a first elongate vertical support rigidly attached to the starboard side gunwale of the vessel at a location generally outboard the operator station;a second elongate vertical support rigidly attached to the port side gunwale of the vessel at a location generally outboard the operator station and transversely opposing the first elongate support;a frame extending upwardly from and between the first and second elongate vertical supports to a height substantially above the level of the operator station, wherein a first proximal end of the frame is readily removable attached to each of the first and second elongate vertical supports, and a second proximal end of the frame is pivotally attached thereto for rigidly securing the frame in an operating position when the first proximal end is attached, while permitting the frame to be rotated about the second proximal end to a stored position on a deck of the vessel when the first proximal end is detached; anda tow rope connecting element at a distal end of the frame for attaching a tow rope thereto used in towing a performer from the frame while operating the vessel in a body of water.