Abstract: A towing release system provides an improved user-actuated quick-release towing device for use in water sports, and comprises a wire bail member for installation into the leading edge of a water sports implement such as a kneeboard, and a separate receiver element for installation on the towline near the towline handle. The wire bail member includes a bar portion releasably engageable into a complementary rearward-oriented slot portion on the bottom side of the receiver element. Thus, the water sports implement rider can initially ride through the water without having to bear the pulling force of the towline, and can later release the receiver element connection from the wire bail member by manually pulling rearward and upward on the towline handle, to continue his ride in the traditional manner.