OK, at some point (whether it be in their unit or in our multi-function CPU), mechanical signals (pressure or vacuum) are converted to analog electrical signals and are then digitized. Their box simply adjusts servo output based on the difference between speed (desired) and speed (indicated).
All we've got to do is hack in (or ask them to) and recreate this digital speed signal using an off-the shelf handlheld GPS unit outputting velocity 10 times a second.
Might not work perfectly on a river, but it would never clog. All GPS systems (even the tiny ones that fit on little circuit cards) output velocities, and most can output faster than once per second. GPS is extremely accurate in speed and would be the sweetest of sweet solutions.
All I know is that my S22 requires constant attention at wakeboard speeds and since the motor's not a torque powerhouse, cuts to the outside really slow the boat down. I don't mind throttling it constantly, but when my wife and other unitiated tow, it's an e-ticket ride.