HUNTER SMITH WINS SILVER AT THE 2023 SANTIAGO PAN AMERICAN GAMES
Hunter Smith on the Men’s Wakeboard Podium at the 2023 Santiago Pan American Games
Photo by Express Media / Panam Sports
Canada’s own Hunter Smith shone brightly on the Pan Am stage, winning the silver medal in Men’s Wakeboard at the 2023 Santiago Pan American Games. Despite the high-pressure stakes, Smith, who was third to take to the water in the finals, delivered a stellar performance that left the audience and judges in awe.
With his run complete and four competitors yet to perform, the anticipation was palpable. Every trick from the remaining riders meant an agonizing wait for Smith. Ultimately, his top-tier performance secured him a spot on the podium, a testament to his relentless commitment to the sport.
Overwhelmed with emotion after the event, Smith reflected, “A lot of hard hours, a lot of work, a lot of dedication. I’ve been working really hard to get to the Games and to succeed in finals is just an unbelievable moment. I couldn’t be happier.”
Smith’s success doesn’t just belong to him; it’s a beacon of inspiration for the entire wakeboard community in Canada. To his fellow enthusiasts and future athletes, Smith shared a heartfelt message, “Let’s just keep our sport going and keep it strong. It may be cold for 8 months out of the year but we can still get on the lake in the summer and push ourselves to be better.”
Training in Canada, where the climate doesn’t always cooperate, has its challenges. Smith has had to travel extensively to find the right training partners and conditions. “It’s really hard to find people to wakeboard with. I’ve made a lot of great friends in Florida and California to go train with. They let me stay at their houses, they let me ride their boats, and they let me train as much as I can. To those people in the States, I really appreciate you guys.”
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada is immensely proud of Smith’s achievements and celebrates the dedication and passion he represents. This silver medal is not just a win for Smith but a testament to the determination of athletes and the incredible potential of wakeboarding in Canada.
About Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada:
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada (WSWC) is the national governing body for water skiing and wakeboarding in Canada. Dedicated to promoting these sports at every level, WSWC provides resources for athletes, coaches, and enthusiasts, fostering excellence and sportsmanship within a vibrant community passionate about the water.
BACK-TO-BACK GOLD FOR DORIEN LLEWELLYN AT THE 2023 SANTIAGO PAN AMERICAN GAMES
Dorien Llewellyn on the Men’s Overall Podium at the 2023 Santiago Pan American Games
Photo by Express Media / Panam Sports
In an awe-inspiring display of tenacity and skill, Canada’s Dorien Llewellyn secured Gold in the Men’s Overall category at the 2023 Santiago Pan American Games, adding to his golden legacy that began with his victory in Lima 2019.
Llewellyn’s performance in the Overall Finals highlighted his versatility and determination, starting with a strong show in the Slalom event where he scored 3@10.75m/39off. The competition intensified as he jumped 63.9 meters. But the true spectacle was during the Tricks segment. Facing a challenging 30-point deficit, Dorien unleashed a masterclass, scoring 11,000 points. This feat not only propelled him into the lead but sealed his gold victory with a decisive margin of 280 points.
This gold achievement adds a glowing finish to his already notable Pan American Games journey. Just the day before, Llewellyn earned Silver medals in both the Men’s Jump and Men’s Trick events.
Speaking on the overwhelming emotion and celebration after his last run, Llewellyn shared, “That’s kind of just been the built-up energy from the last four months… To end on that trick run was amazing… I’m also excited to regroup and focus on getting my foot 100% again.”
Remarking on the challenges he faced, he said, “It’s been a rollercoaster of emotions. After slalom, I knew I put myself in a really good spot. To have that moment where you celebrate and I turn around and my dad is celebrating in the boat, that’s amazing. To be able to share that history with him, it’s something that I don’t think a lot of people have and I’m truly grateful.”
Jaret Llewellyn, Dorien’s father and a 12-time Pan Am Games medalist, shared in the pride and reflected on the journey, “It was a rough season. Athletes are always shooting for the gold. We just didn’t even know if we were even going to be here so this is just an incredible way to end the season.” On his own experiences versus witnessing his son’s achievements, he expressed, “It was much easier skiing than going through this. It’s one of the best experiences.”
With two consecutive Overall Gold medals at the Pan Am Games, Dorien Llewellyn’s narrative is one of perseverance, resilience, and unparalleled skill, and stands as an inspiration for aspiring athletes everywhere.
About Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada:
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada (WSWC) is the national governing body for water skiing and wakeboarding in Canada. Dedicated to promoting these sports at every level, WSWC provides resources for athletes, coaches, and enthusiasts, fostering excellence and sportsmanship within a vibrant community passionate about the water.
PAIGE RINI BRINGS HOME ANOTHER MEDAL AT THE 2023 SANTIAGO PAN AMERICAN GAMES
Paige Rini on the Women’s Overall Podium at the 2023 Santiago Pan American Games
Photo by Express Media / Panam Sports
Paige Rini has once again made the nation proud by securing a silver medal in the Women’s Overall Finals at the 2023 Santiago Pan American Championships.
The multi-disciplinary event saw Rini fiercely compete in all three categories – slalom, jump, and tricks, vying for the Overall Title. She initiated her medal quest with an admirable score of 2@10.75m/39off in the slalom. Transitioning seamlessly, Paige then made a commendable leap of 46.5m in the jump event and rounded off the day with a tricks score of 8890 points.
Entering the tricks discipline, Paige was behind by 216 points but managed to narrow down the gap to a mere 10 points, winning the silver medal and exemplifying the tight competition at this elite level.
This achievement is particularly notable as it marks Paige’s third medal at the 2023 Santiago Pan American Games, having previously secured bronze in both the Women’s Slalom and Women’s Jump events.
After the event, an elated yet reflective Paige shared, “It felt awesome, I was really close to that Gold which was a little bit frustrating but I’m just really thankful to be here and be representing Team Canada.” Discussing the nail-biting closeness of the competition, she mentioned, “It just comes down to those tiny little maneuvers, those seconds, those meters, it means everything for overall. I fell short a little bit but I’m still really proud of myself for everything I overcame.” On her overall haul at this edition of the Pan American Games, she expressed, “It feels awesome. Last Pan Am Games I had three bronze and my goal was to bring home either a silver or a gold and I met that goal.”
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada applauds Paige Rini for her unparalleled commitment, skill, and determination.
About Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada:
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada (WSWC) is the national governing body for water skiing and wakeboarding in Canada. Dedicated to promoting these sports at every level, WSWC provides resources for athletes, coaches, and enthusiasts, fostering excellence and sportsmanship within a vibrant community passionate about the water.
6 MEDAL DAY FOR WSWC AT THE 2023 SANTIAGO PAN AMERICAN GAMES
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada: Day 3 Recap – 2023 Santiago Pan American Games
Morning Highlights:
The day kicked off with Neilly Ross and Paige Rini competing in the Women’s Slalom Finals. Neilly gleamed with a silver-worthy score of 3@10.75m/39off. Not far behind, Rini made Canada proud by clinching bronze with a score of 1@10.75m/39off.
Paige Rini: A Day of Bronzes:
Paige Rini wasn’t done after the morning’s triumph. She returned to the scene in the Women’s Jump Finals, where she soared to an impressive 47.3m, adding another bronze medal to her collection. Later in the Women’s Trick Finals, Paige put up a valiant fight, finishing in 6th place. Be sure to keep an eye out for her tomorrow, as she’s set to compete in the Women’s Overall Finals competing in all three events; Slalom, Tricks, and Jump.
Neilly Ross’s Silver Streak Continues:
Today was undeniably Neilly Ross’s day at the Pan American Games. After her spectacular performance in the Women’s Slalom Finals, she switched gears to dominate the Women’s Tricks Finals. Her passion and expertise rewarded her by scoring 10,870 points and earning herself another silver medal.
Dorien Llewellyn: Dual Silver Success:
Dorien Llewellyn had fans on the edge of their seats. First, in the Men’s Jump Finals, he leaped a near-gold 64.5 meters, missing the top spot by a mere 0.2 meters. Then, he showcased his versatility in the Men’s Tricks Finals, scoring 10,690 points and earning himself another silver medal. All eyes will be on him in tomorrow’s Men’s Overall Finals.
Canada’s Wakeboard Star:
Ashley Leugner, representing the maple leaf, took on the Women’s Wakeboard Finals and achieved a commendable 5th place.
What’s Next:
The end for Water Ski and Wakeboard at the 2023 Santiago Pan American Games approaches! Tomorrow will see the Women’s Overall Finals, Men’s Overall Finals, and Men’s Wakeboard Finals. Paige Rini and Dorien Llewellyn, are set for the Overall Finals. Meanwhile, Hunter Smith will aim to dazzle in the Wakeboard Finals.
Join us and be part of the excitement! Don’t miss a moment and follow the live webcast and real-time results.
Livestream: https://www.panamsportschannel.org/main
Schedule and Results: https://results-santiago2023.org/#/discipline/WSK/schedule/daily
WSWC CELEBRATES DORIEN LLEWELLYN’S TWO SILVER MEDALS AT THE 2023 SANTIAGO PAN AM GAMES
Dorien Llewellyn Jumping in the Men’s Jump Finals on October 23, 2023 at the 2023 Santiago Pan American Games.
Photo by Express Media / Panam Sports
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada proudly congratulates Dorien Llewellyn on his outstanding performance at the 2023 Santiago Pan American Games. In a thrilling display of skill and determination, Dorien secured two silver medals in Men’s Jump and Tricks.
In the highly competitive Men’s Jump Finals, Llewellyn delivered an extraordinary performance, leaping 64.5 meters, merely 0.2 meters short of claiming the gold medal. Addressing his incredible feat, he said, “It was a good day. Obviously getting medals at all is awesome and to get two in the two finals I was in is great.”
Reflecting on his silver in the jump event, Llewellyn stated, “I’d be lying if I said the silver in Jump wasn’t a little disappointing, especially to come that close. You’re talking about .2 meters; it’s tough.” He also acknowledged the challenges he faced following a significant foot injury, remarking, “I hold myself to a high standard and I feel like coming back from this injury with my foot, I’m just not where I was before, and it’s tough when you feel like you’re a little bit stuck in a cage.” In a gracious nod to his competitors, he added, “At the end of the day, Milo went out and crushed a jump, and I couldn’t match that. So congrats to him.”
Llewellyn’s exceptional day continued with the Men’s Trick Finals, where he achieved a remarkable 10,690 points. “To back it up with another silver in trick was great,” he remarked. “I was sitting in fourth going into the finals, and I went out and stood up. The name of the game is to always stand up and let everyone else make mistakes. The two guys made a couple of mistakes, and that’s just the game.”
Although he hasn’t yet secured the gold, Llewellyn remains resilient and focused. Looking ahead to the Men’s Overall Finals, slated for tomorrow, October 24, 2023, he expressed his determination, saying, “I haven’t gotten that medal yet that’s the right color, but the overall final tomorrow, so I’ll try to step it up.”
Dorien also discussed the emotional and physical challenges of returning to the jump event following a major injury, explaining, “Today was probably the first jump set where I came into it, and I was super pumped. It’s tough to go out there knowing that you had a serious injury in jump.” He further emphasized, “It’s improvements mentally and physically on the water.”
As he anticipates the upcoming finals, Llewellyn exudes confidence, stating, “I feel good. Everything I did today was an improvement on the first round, so if I just keep that momentum going, then I feel really good about where I am.” He highlighted the importance of consistency, sharing, “At the end of the day, same thing as what I did in the trick finals. You’ve got to go out there; you’ve got to put a score down. Other people might make mistakes, you try to limit your own and just see what happens.”
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada is proud to support Dorien Llewellyn in his quest for excellence, and we invite fans to join us in cheering him on as he embarks on the Men’s Overall Finals, where he will compete in Slalom, Trick, and Jump. It’s sure to be another remarkable day on the water.
About Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada:
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada (WSWC) is the national governing body for water skiing and wakeboarding in Canada. Dedicated to promoting these sports at every level, WSWC provides resources for athletes, coaches, and enthusiasts, fostering excellence and sportsmanship within a vibrant community passionate about the water.
WSWC CELEBRATES PAIGE RINI’S DOUBLE BRONZE AT THE 2023 SANTIAGO PAN AM GAMES
Paige Rini of Canada competes in theWomen’s Water Ski Slalom Finals during the Santiago 2023 Pan American Games on Monday, October 23, 2023.
Photo by Leah Hennel / COC
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada proudly celebrates Paige Rini as she continues to add more medals to her impressive tally at the 2023 Santiago Pan American Games.
Earlier this morning, Rini delivered a strong performance in the Women’s Slalom, securing a bronze medal with a score of 1@10.75m/39off. Not one to rest on her accomplishments, Rini then showcased in the Women’s Jump Finals, where she clinched another bronze medal with an impressive 47.3m jump.
In the Women’s Trick Finals today, Rini displayed commendable effort, finishing 6th. Fans and supporters can look forward to tomorrow, October 24, 2023, when Rini will compete in the Women’s Overall Finals in Slalom, Trick, and Jump. The day promises intense competition, with Rini geared up to deliver exceptional performances in all three events.
This marks Rini’s second appearance at the Pan Am Games. Recalling her prior achievements, she secured three bronze medals in Lima 2019.
Reflecting on her jump performance today, Rini stated, “The conditions were awesome, and I was just happy to be on the podium in jump.” With a determined spirit, she added, “I came into this event wanting as many medals as possible. Overall is my strongest, so that’s tomorrow, and I’m really excited. I get to start over a new day in all three events, so we’ll see how it goes.”
Expressing her pride in representing Canada, Rini remarked, “It feels like an honour just to be a part of this team and to represent Canada in water skiing.” She also shared her delight at contributing to the Panam Sports medal tally, saying, “To be a part of the medal count for Panam Sports in general is really cool for me.” Reflecting on her inspirations, Rini noted, “I’m inspired by all the older skiers and athletes that I have followed.”
As Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada, we are immensely proud of Rini’s achievements and her dedication to the sport. We eagerly await her performance tomorrow and wish her the best of luck.
About Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada:
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada (WSWC) is the national governing body for water skiing and wakeboarding in Canada. Dedicated to promoting these sports at every level, WSWC provides resources for athletes, coaches, and enthusiasts, fostering excellence and sportsmanship within a vibrant community passionate about the water.
WSWC CELEBRATE’S NEILLY ROSS’ DUAL SILVER MEDALS AT THE 2023 SANTIAGO PAN AM GAMES
Neilly Ross of Canada competes in the Women’s Water Ski Slalom Finals during the Santiago 2023 Pan American Games on Monday, October 23, 2023.
Photo by Leah Hennel / COC
Neilly Ross continued to make her mark at the 2023 Santiago Pan American Games today, clinching not one, but two silver medals to add to Canada’s proud tally.
Opening her account for the day, Ross competed in the Women’s Slalom event, with a remarkable score of 3@10.75m/39off, securing her first silver. She was joined on the podium with fellow Canadian Team Member Paige Rini who won bronze. Ross then went on to compete in the Women’s Tricks Finals. Her tactical yet ambitious execution earned her a score of 10,870 points, culminating in her second silver for the day.
Reflecting on her performance, Ross shared, “My goal was to come here and try to get on the podium twice, I did that so I’m walking away accomplishing my goal. I wanted to go for the gold in tricks, I had a run that could do it. I was a little bit slow but I’m still very proud to be representing Canada with the silver medal.”
Ross delved into the intricacies of the tricks event, adding, “It’s tough because in tricks it’s so much strategy based off of what other people do. I went with a very high scoring run and it’s pretty risky because if one trick is out of time, you lose a lot of points. We went for it, I still got a really high score, it could have been a little bit higher but we went for it.”
The camaraderie between Ross and fellow skier Paige Rini was palpable as they championed the Canadian spirit. Speaking about their shared journey and the future, Ross mentioned, “Paige and I have talked about it, we’ve known each other literally since before we were born. We’ve talked about our lives and how long we’ll be skiing for. She’s one of my best friends and we want to keep doing it for as long as we can. Definitely, there’s a new generation coming into the sport.”
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada is immensely proud of Ross’s accomplishments and commends her unwavering dedication to the sport. We look forward to more inspiring performances from her and the entire Canadian.
About Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada:
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada (WSWC) is the national governing body for water skiing and wakeboarding in Canada. Dedicated to promoting these sports at every level, WSWC provides resources for athletes, coaches, and enthusiasts, fostering excellence and sportsmanship within a vibrant community passionate about the water.
