Fred Hardwick

I left Cobb County in 1971 and went to UGA. Started Water Ski Shows, Inc in 1973. First Big Contract was to start a Water Ski Show Program for Sea World. Hired Nancy to ski at Sea World and married her later that year. Together, we produced ski and stunt shows on every continent of the world except Anartica. "Smoky and the Bandit" expanded our businesses to include movie stunt work. Crashed a lot of boats. Started Stunt Shows for Universal Studios. T2 3D, Water World, etc. Met Dolly Parton in mid 80's and became partners in the family entertainment business. Dixie Stampede & Pirates Voyage Dinner Attractions continue to be huge hits. Spend my summers now in our home on Lake Douglas in the Smoky Mountains of East TN and winters either on the boat in the Bahamas or the FL house in Sailfish Point on Hutchison Island. Family has always been into racing. Ryan was two time IJSBA National and World Champion racing PWC. Wife Nancy was National Champion of the Pro Challenge Truck series. Spent alot of time around race tracks following those two. Got into flying early to get around to the businesses and races. Now have over 3,500 hours piloting family plane and helicopter. Knees wore out from years of jumping over water ski ramps so I got into Sky Skiing on a hydro foil. I am usually flipping on it every summer day to stay in shape. Never quit racing personally either. I have 4 dirt bikes and race somewhere each month in the AMA A Vets Class. Also enjoy Sport Fishing Tournaments on our 62' Paul Spencer called Showtime!

I was an average student. Spent more time water skiing than in school activities. National Champion in 1966 and 1971.