On Board with Typhoon Tommy
The Freestyle Jet Skier is Defying Expectations
At 62 years old, Tommy “Typhoon” Nuttall is at the top of his game. Of course, Nuttall has been in the game for a while, and he’s not going anywhere anytime soon. Beginning in the early 1990s, Nuttall has been a pioneer in the freestyle jet ski world. He’s traveled across the country, performing in shows, competitions, and major events—from Detroit River Days to SeaWorld productions. Today, he’s riding and performing all the same, but he’s also inspiring.
As a full-time personal trainer and yoga teacher specializing in adaptive fitness and neurological challenges, Nuttall is helping people over the age of 50 stay strong and confident. He’s bridging the gap between action sports and healthy aging, proving that the best version of oneself truly has no age limit. He’s living proof. An All-American college wrestler, wrestling coach, track and field coach, skateboarder, hoverboarder, decent gymnast, and solid figure skater, Typhoon Tommy is just as his name says: a typhoon of excellence and the embodiment of the adage that “age doesn’t matter.”
We spoke to Nuttall to learn all about his career as a professional jet skier, as well as everything he does both on-and-off the ski. So listen up—Typhoon Tommy is just getting started.
The Wake Edit: How did you first get into jet skiing? Did you set off with the goal of doing it for a living?
Typhoon Tommy: I got into jet skiing in the late 80s almost by accident. I was already deep into wrestling and extreme sports, and the first time I stood on a jet ski I knew right away it was for me. I didn’t plan on doing it for a living, but once I entered my first competition in 1991 and then turned pro in 1993, it took off for me. Shows, competitions, SeaWorld, Baywatch style performances, and TV interviews followed. It was never a business plan. It was pure passion, and decades later I am still doing freestyle at 62 because I love it. I recently won the virtual freestyle championship
TWE: What is your favorite model to ride and favorite trick to do?
TT: I have ridden everything over the years. My favorites include stand up freestyle skis for flat water tricks, the Kawasaki 550 which is the ski I learned on, and the 1996 Sea Doo XP which is probably my favorite sit-down ski. For tricks I prefer technical ones. I like coming out backward, the spins, and the somersault off the engine cover. Those moves take timing, finesse, and nerve and that is what I enjoy most.
TWE: Where is your dream jet ski ride?
TT: I have ridden in many incredible places. The dream run for me is Lake Havasu at sunrise with flat water and no wind. That is perfection. The Detroit River is home for me. There is something special about doing freestyle with the skyline behind you. That place built my career.
TWE: Have you ever taken a big fall? How do you get over the fear of falling or wiping out?
TT: I have had very few falls in shows and went a long time without falling at all. There were a couple moments when I did get hurt. I once hit my head on the handlebar and sliced my eye. I also had a crash in Virginia Beach during a Bud jet Sports tour that felt like I broke my left wrist. Luckily, my hand bent back instead of breaking because I was well warmed up. That was the scariest one. As for fear I respect the danger and train for it. Good preparation and repetition remove fear. When you trust your skills and your body, you stay calm and focused. That is how I have stayed safe for decades of freestyle.
TWE: What do you do when you’re not on a jet ski?
TT: I coach and I teach. I am a full time personal trainer and yoga teacher. I specialize in adaptive fitness and neurological challenges such as Parkinson’s. I work with older adults, people with mobility issues, and athletes including high school wrestlers and high jumpers clearing seven feet. My fitness business is also what keeps me strong enough to keep doing freestyle at 62. Whether I am in the gym, on a mat, or on the water, my mission is the same. I help people move better, feel stronger, and live with purpose at any age. I also love paddle boarding and spending time in nature.
Follow Typhoon Tommy’s endeavors on Instagram.
