River Varner: Jet Ski Queen And Business Mogul

Making Waves: River Varner's Rise to Fame

River Varner has become a force to be reckoned with in the world of jet ski racing. Last weekend, she clinched victory in the Ski GP Women’s class at the IHRA Pro Watercraft Series opener in St. Petersburg, Florida, leaving her closest competitor, Emy Garcia, a staggering 173 points behind. At just 24 years old, Varner calls Lake Havasu City, Arizona home and has already amassed an impressive 249,000 Instagram followers who have followed her journey to the top.

“I am making a living doing what I love most with the help of sponsors, social media, and my own brand. I never pictured it would be from jet ski racing but this sport has taken me to countries all over the world.”

Her story is one of passion, heritage, and strategic branding. With a father who was a professional drag boat racer, Varner's love for speed runs in her veins. Her racing debut in 2019 caught the eye of Christophe Girello from GoFast US, who has been her steadfast supporter ever since. Together, they've conquered circuits in seven countries, with Varner capturing four national titles along the way.

Charting International Waters

In July 2024, Varner made an indelible mark on the international scene at the WGP#1 Poland Grand Prix. Racing on a borrowed ski in the Pro Women Ski Modified class, she not only competed but dominated, earning the title of Champion of the Poland Grand Prix. Her prowess took her to Vietnam and Italy, where she ranked 10th overall in the 2024 UIM-ABP Aquabike World Championship Ski Ladies GP1 standings.

As an influencer and business owner, Varner's professional presence extends beyond the race track. Her Instagram, with its 249,000 followers, offers a behind-the-scenes look into her high-speed lifestyle, engaging fans with authentic content that keeps them coming back for more.

Building a Brand: Busy Livin

Varner's entrepreneurial spirit shines through her clothing line, Busy Livin, which she launched via ridenvibez.com. Originally a form of self-expression, it has evolved into a significant revenue stream. The brand's all-American-made range of tops, hoodies, accessories, and prints attracts the same adventurous community that follows her racing career.

OnlyFans – A New Kind of Sponsorship

OnlyFans doesn't just appear on Varner’s jet ski; it’s her title sponsor. Part of the platform’s Athlete Programme, this partnership offers athletes in niche sports financial support and audience access that mainstream sponsorships often lack. Despite facing some resistance in other motorsports, Varner's collaboration with OnlyFans has thrived without issue in the IHRA and UIM circuits. Other notable sponsors backing Varner include Ethika, Jetpilot, and Fast Powersports.

What's Next: The 2026 IHRA Pro Watercraft Series

Looking ahead, Varner will continue her race for the championship as the IHRA Pro Watercraft Series resumes on April 10 at the New Orleans Powerboat Grand Prix. With five rounds remaining, the season finale at Lake Havasu, her home turf, promises an exciting climax to the series. Racing on familiar waters, Varner is poised to finish the season with a splash.