Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada (WSWC) is honored to announce the induction of Donald (Don) and Christine (Chris) Llewellyn into the WSWC Hall of Fame on Wednesday, August 6, 2025. The ceremony will take place at Shalom Park in Edmonton, Alberta, in the Banquet Center, following the completion of the day’s competition at the 2025 Canadian Water Ski Championships. This Hall of Fame induction recognizes Don and Chris for their monumental contributions to the sport of water skiing, which have spanned more than four decades.

Since 1979, Don and Chris have been integral to the growth and development of water skiing in Alberta and beyond. Their journey began when Don discovered a neglected slough on the north end of Innisfail and transformed it into the foundation for what would become a world-class water skiing facility. Through significant personal effort, the couple cleaned up the area, built a boat launch, and developed Innisfail Lake into a record-capable competition lake and recreation facility. Their vision and tireless work paved the way for many tournaments, including 12 Provincial Championships, the 1981 Alberta Summer Games, the 1983 Western Canadian Championships, and the 1985 Canadian National Championships.

Beyond infrastructure development, Don and Chris played a pivotal role in bringing professional coaches to Alberta and hosting national training camps for aspiring athletes. They even welcomed skiers into their home, creating a warm and supportive environment for the sport to flourish.

The Llewellyns’ passion for water skiing extends to their dedication to creating opportunities for elite competition. In 1992, they co-conceptualized and helped organize the International Water Ski Classic, an event that brought together the top overall skiers from around the world. Held at Shalom Park and televised by the CBC, the event showcased the best of the sport and attracted international attention to water skiing in Canada.

While Don has since passed away, his legacy alongside Chris’ continues to inspire the water ski community. Together, they were instrumental in forming Water Ski Alberta, which later became Water Ski and Wakeboard Alberta, playing a crucial role in the sport’s growth and success. Through their unwavering dedication, they mentored and supported many athletes, leaving an enduring impact on the sport.

This induction into the WSWC Hall of Fame is a fitting recognition of Don and Chris Llewellyn’s legacy as true builders of the sport. We invite all attendees of the 2025 Canadian Water Ski Championships, as well as the broader water ski community, to join us in celebrating their remarkable contributions. The Llewellyns’ vision, commitment, and selflessness have shaped the sport in ways that will be felt for generations to come.

Photo by Johnny Hayward Photography

Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada (WSWC) is proud to announce the induction of Jaret Llewellyn into the WSWC Hall of Fame on Wednesday, August 6, 2025. The ceremony will take place at Shalom Park in Edmonton, Alberta, in the Banquet Center, following the completion of that day’s competition at the 2025 Canadian Water Ski Championships. While the championship event will continue throughout the week, this special Hall of Fame induction will be a moment to honour Jaret’s legacy as one of Canada’s greatest water skiers.

Hailing from Innisfail, Alberta, Jaret Llewellyn’s remarkable career spans nearly three decades. He has amassed 117 Pro Tour victories, broken 11 world records, secured 9 world championship titles, and earned 10 Pan Am Games medals. His 26 medals at the Pan Am Championships, including 22 golds, and five World Cup jump championships highlight his dominance in the sport.

Jaret’s impact goes beyond his competitive success. At the 2003 Pan Am Games in Santo Domingo, he proudly served as Canada’s Opening Ceremony flag bearer, further cementing his legacy as a national icon.

Jaret’s journey to success began at a young age when he started water skiing at six years old. Initially hesitant due to a fear of sharks, he overcame that fear after a challenge was issued to all the kids who had never skied before at a party at his parents’ cabin. Competing at age 9 and representing Canada by 14, he went on to turn pro at 18, foregoing a career in ice hockey to pursue his passion for water skiing. His dedication to the sport and his country has made him one of the most influential athletes in water skiing history.

Jaret’s dedication to water skiing goes far beyond his competition success. As a Co-Founder of WorldWaterSkiers (WWS), a non-profit foundation aimed at uniting the sport of water skiing, Jaret has played a pivotal role in growing the global water ski community. Since 2021, he has also spearheaded the WWS Overall Tour, further enhancing the sport’s visibility and fostering connections among athletes worldwide.

The Hall of Fame ceremony at Shalom Park will be a memorable moment during the 2025 Canadian Water Ski Championships. We invite all members of the water ski community to join us as we honour Jaret’s incredible legacy. His induction into the Hall of Fame as an Athlete serves as a recognition of a career built on excellence, dedication, and a deep love for the sport of water skiing.