New watersport gives Chicagoans the chance to fly - Atlanta News, Weather, Traffic, and Sports | FOX 5

Part bird, part fish, part hovercraft -- FlyBoard is the hottest new sports experience nationwide, and the only one in the Midwest is right here in Chicago.

The FlyBoard is attached to a jet ski that directs water through a hose to the board you stand on. It can push you 22 feet in the air at a speed of 18 mph or it allows you to dive like a dolphin.

"It's dancing on water," said Jim Gentile of Windy City Diving and Jet Surf Chicago. "There are times you feel like you are not Superman, but Iron Man because you are actually strapped into this unit and you are flying it."

I got to try it out, but before I could fly, my balance was tested and I was given instruction on how to operate the FlyBoard. Everything depends on core balance and how you move your toes. Next up is the equipment.

You have to wear a wetsuit, life jacket and helmet. Suited up and strapped in, I'm ready to go! And just like Iron Man, I didn't quite get it on the first try either. But, practice makes perfect.

"It's not wake boarding, it's not snow boarding, it's not skiing. You are actually flying," said Hank Feine of Jet Surf Chicago.

The FlyBoard will officially debut at the new Venetian Nights at the 31st St. Harbor on Saturday. If you are interested in the FlyBoard experience, you must be over 18 and in good health and physical condition. The cost for 30 minutes is $175 dollars. Fly Board will be available on a limited basis at Burnham Harbor and select Chicago beaches. For more information check their web site JetSurfChicago.com