WSWC CELEBRATES SUCCESS ACROSS TOWED WATER SPORTS IN CANADA DURING THE 2023 SEASON
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada (WSWC) is elated to share the remarkable achievements of Canadian athletes across towed water sports during the 2023 season. Athletes from Water Ski Canada, Wake Canada, Adaptive Water Ski Canada, Show Ski Canada, and Barefoot Canada showcased their unparalleled talent and dedication, earning accolades on the national and international stage.
Canadian water ski athletes excelled at the 21 Water Ski Pro Events held across the world, amassing an impressive 14 gold medals, 10 silver medals, and 17 bronze medals throughout the year. The 2023 IWWF World Water Ski Championships saw Canada securing four medals and a coveted spot on the Team Overall Podium. Notable achievements include Ryan Dodd of Olds, AB, winning Men’s Jump, Jaimee Bull of North Bay, ON, triumphing in Women’s Slalom, Stephen Neveu of Calgary, AB, securing 3rd place in Men’s Slalom, and Dorien Llewellyn of Innisfail, AB, achieving 3rd place in Men’s Overall.
The 2022 IWWF U17 World Water Ski Championships were held in January of 2023 this year. Team Canada placed 2nd in the Team Overall event and won four individual medals with three of them being gold. Alberta’s Megan Pelkey placed 3rd in Girls Trick and won Girls Overall. Quebec’s Hannah Stopnicki won Girls Trick and Quebec’s Nellie Allard won Girls Jump.
The 2023 IWWF U21 World Water Ski Championships were held in Mexico this year. Canada’s sole medal came from Ontario’s Charlie Ross who won gold in Men’s Slalom.
The 2023 Santiago Pan American Games further showcased WSWC’s success on the water, with Canadian athletes bringing home nine medals in various disciplines. Dorien Llewellyn’s outstanding performance included a victory in Men’s Overall, 2nd place in Men’s Trick and Men’s Jump. Paige Rini of Ontario secured 2nd place in Women’s Overall, 3rd in Women’s Slalom, and 3rd in Women’s Jump. Neilly Ross of Ontario achieved 2nd place in Women’s Trick and 2nd in Women’s Slalom. Wake Canada’s Hunter Smith of Vancouver, BC, claimed 2nd place in Men’s Wakeboard at the 2023 Santiago Pan American Games.
Bailey Rush of Gull Lake, AB, represented Wake Canada with distinction, dominating the 2023 Competitive Wake Surf Association (CWSA) World Championships. Bailey secured 1st place in Pro Female Skim and 1st in Pro Female Surf, marking a phenomenal year for Wake Canada on the global stage.
On the National stage, Wake Canada had the 2023 Wakeboard & Wakeskate Boat Nationals hosted by Wake BC and the 2023 Wakeboard & Wakeskate Wake Park Nationals hosted by Wake Ontario this summer.
The 2023 Wakeboard & Wakeskate Boat Nationals was host to over 60 riders who competed at Deas island Regional Park in Delta, BC. To learn more about the event and for results, CLICK HERE.
The 2023 Wakeboard & Wakeskate Wake Park Nationals featured over 80 riders who competed at Planet Bayou Wake Park in Dufferin County, ON. To learn more about the event and for results, CLICK HERE.
Adaptive Water Ski Canada made history at the 2023 IWWF World Disabled Water Ski Championships by earning Canada’s first-ever team medal at a Worlds, securing a remarkable 2nd place. Additionally, Blake Lamontagne of Wawota, SK, a member of the Adaptive Water Ski Canada team set a World Record in MP3 Men’s Tricks at the World Championships. Team Canada brought home six individual medals, including Ashley Baerg of Dalmeny, SK, achieving 3rd place in Seated Ladies Slalom, 2nd in Seated Ladies Jump, and 3rd in Seated Ladies Overall. Gord Tuck of Lake Cowichan, BC, secured 2nd place in Standing Men Slalom, Blake Lamontagne claimed 2nd place in Seated Men Tricks, and Phil Kerr of Ontario achieved 3rd place in Seated Men Jump.
Show Ski Canada celebrated a milestone by hosting their first-ever Freestyle Jump Nationals this season. This exciting addition to the calendar highlighted the organization’s commitment to innovation and growth within the sport. Furthermore, Show Ski Canada formed a strategic partnership with Splash Blast Canada, enhancing the spectator experience and bringing an extra dimension to the events.
This year, Barefoot Canada sent five competitors on Team Canada to the 2023 IWWF World Open, Under 23 & Junior Barefoot Waterski Championships in Mulwala Australia. Canada also had two officials at the event. During the season, there were multiple events and clinics held throughout Canada. Two barefoot jump clinics were held this summer to continue the development of new jumpers.
WSWC extends heartfelt congratulations to all the athletes and sport disciplines for their outstanding achievements, exemplifying Canada’s dominance in towed water sports globally.
WAKE CANADA – 2024 SELECTION CRITERIA NOW AVAILABLE FOR ELITE (SENIOR) AND DEVELOPMENT TEAMS
Selection criteria is now available for the 2024 Wake Canada Elite (Senior) Team and 2024 Wake Canada Development Team
CLICK HERE for Elite (Senior) Criteria
CLICK HERE for Development Criteria
Should you have any questions, please contact Todd Spalding wakecanadateam@gmail.com
CELEBRATE EXCELLENCE IN WATER SKI AND WAKEBOARD CANADA: 2023 AWARDS
Award Information & Criteria
It’s that exciting time of the year again when we come together to celebrate the outstanding individuals who contribute to the success of Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada (WSWC). WSWC is thrilled to announce the commencement of the nomination period for the 2023 WSWC Awards.
Objectives of the Awards
- Honor the Best Representatives: Recognize individuals who epitomize excellence in their respective roles within our sport.
- Stimulate Pursuit of Excellence: Encourage athletes, coaches, officials, and volunteers to continually strive for greatness.
- Favor Visibility of Excellence: Showcase and promote outstanding achievements throughout the country.
- Create a Link with Sponsors and the Public: Strengthen the connection between excellence in our sport, our valued sponsors, and the broader public.
Award Categories for Public Nomination
- Steve Bush Coach of the Year
- Official of the Year
- Volunteer of the Year
Eligibility and Nominations
- Nominations are open to WSWC members, including individuals, clubs, schools, and provincial associations.
- Individual nominees must be WSWC members in good standing and Canadian citizens.
- Nominations for each award must be made by a WSWC member in good standing.
Nomination Process
Please complete the nomination form in full to ensure that your nominee is considered for these prestigious awards. CLICK HERE for the nomination form.
Athlete Awards Nomination Details
The 2023 WSWC Athlete Awards will be nominated by and selected through the dedicated efforts of the respective sport councils/committees. This ensures a thorough and comprehensive evaluation, reflecting the excellence and dedication of our athletes.
Contact Information
For any inquiries or assistance with the nomination process, please contact:
Email: taryn@wswc.ca
Deadline for Nominations
The deadline for submitting nominations is December 31, 2023.
Note: Nominations are treated with the utmost confidentiality and are only reviewed by Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada and Selection Committee members.
French Translation | Traduction en français
Information sur les prix et critères
C’est encore cette période excitante de l’année où nous nous réunissons pour célébrer les personnes exceptionnelles qui contribuent au succès de Ski nautique et planche Canada (SNPC). SNPC est ravi d’annoncer le début de la période de mise en candidature pour les Prix SNPC 2023.
Objectifs des prix
- Honorer les meilleurs représentants : Reconnaître les personnes qui incarnent l’excellence dans leurs rôles respectifs au sein de notre sport.
- Stimuler la poursuite de l’excellence : Encourager les athlètes, les entraîneurs, les officiels et les bénévoles à rechercher continuellement l’excellence.
- Favoriser la visibilité de l’excellence : Présenter et promouvoir les réalisations exceptionnelles dans tout le pays.
- Créer un lien avec les sponsors et le public : Renforcer le lien entre l’excellence dans notre sport, nos précieux sponsors et le grand public.
Catégories de prix pour les nominations publiques
- Entraîneur de l’année Steve Bush
- Officiel de l’année
- Bénévole de l’année
Éligibilité et nominations
- Les nominations sont ouvertes aux membres de SNPC, y compris les individus, les clubs, les écoles et les associations provinciales.
- Les candidats individuels doivent être membres en règle de SNPC et citoyens canadiens.
- Les nominations pour chaque prix doivent être proposées par un membre en règle de SNPC.
Procédure de nomination
Veuillez remplir le formulaire de nomination dans son intégralité afin que votre candidat soit pris en considération pour ces prix prestigieux. CLIQUEZ ICI pour obtenir le formulaire de nomination.
Détails de la nomination pour le Prix de l’Athlète
Les Prix de l’Athlète 2023 de SNPC seront nommés et sélectionnés par les efforts dévoués des conseils/comités sportifs respectifs. Cela garantit une évaluation approfondie et complète, reflétant l’excellence et le dévouement de nos athlètes.
Contact
Pour toute demande de renseignements ou d’assistance concernant le processus de nomination, veuillez contacter :
Courriel : taryn@wswc.ca
Date limite pour les nominations
La date limite de dépôt des candidatures est fixée au 31 décembre 2023.
Note : Les mises en candidature sont traitées avec la plus grande confidentialité et ne sont examinées que par Ski nautique et planche Canada et les membres du comité de sélection.|
NOMINATION AND ELECTION PROCESS UPDATE
Nominations for the WSWC Sport Councils have closed, and the bios of the nominees are posted below. WSWC received 8 nominations for 8 positions (3 for Adaptive, 3 for Wake and 2 for Waterski). Since the Scrutineer received the same nominations as there were positions available, all nominees have been acclaimed, and no elections are required.
Please join us in welcoming the new Sport Council Members.
Adaptive Council
Erin Aubrey
Glenn Bowie
Ross Holden
Wake Council
Olivier Derome
Brennan Grange
Dary Znebel
Water Ski Council
Norm Lucas
Troy Perras
…
Les nominations pour les conseils sportifs de SNPC sont terminées, et les biographies des candidats sont affichées ci-dessous. SNPC a reçu 8 nominations pour 8 postes (3 pour le sport adapté, 3 pour le wake et 2 pour le ski nautique). Comme le scrutateur a reçu autant de candidatures qu’il y avait de postes à pourvoir, tous les candidats ont été élus par acclamation et aucune élection n’est nécessaire.
Veuillez vous joindre à nous pour accueillir les nouveaux membres du Conseil des sports.
Conseil du sport adapté
Erin Aubrey
Glenn Bowie
Ross Holden
Conseil Wake
Olivier Derome
Brennan Grange
Dary Znebel
Conseil du ski nautique
Norm Lucas
Troy Perras
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.
WSWC SPORT COUNCIL 2023 NOMINATION AND ELECTIONS PROCESS
ENGLISH
WSWC Sport Council 2023 Nomination and Elections Process
Nominations are now open for any interested person to apply for the Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada (WSWC) Sport Councils. WSWC recognizes the following five Sport Councils:
- Adaptive
- Barefoot (no election in 2023)
- Show Ski (no election in 2023)
- Wake Sports (Wakeboard, Wake Park, Wakesurf, Wakeskate)
- Water Ski
The Sport Councils of WSWC represent the stakeholders of each of the five identified sports. The role of the Sport Councils is to support and advance the growth and progression of their sports while staying true to their sport culture.
Developed in consultation with the Sport Councils, the Sport Council Terms of Reference, outlines the roles and responsibilities of the Sport Councils and provides an overarching framework for how the Sport Councils operate within WSWC, in an effort to increase transparency, accountability and engagement. A key component of implementation of the Sport Council Terms of Reference was the restructuring of the Sport Councils to include appointed and
elected positions.
The composition of the respective Sport Councils are as follows:
IMPORTANT DATES
- October 24th – Nominations Open
- October 31 st , 5pm EST – Nominations Close
- November 3rd – Nominees validated/Bios published on WSWC website
- November 6th , 12pm EST – Voting Opens
- November 13th , 5pm EST – Voting Closes
- November 14th , 12pm EST – Run off ballots if necessary
- November 15th (or November 22 nd if run off ballots required) – Newly Elected Members
announced on WSWC website, and through Social media - November 20th , 5pm EST – Run-off votes closes
NOMINATIONS & HOW IT WORKS
Nomination Guidelines & How to Vote
1. Nominees must be nominated by a current full individual or family member in good standing.
2. Nominations must be made directly to Sport Law.
To submit a nomination, please email the following information to Sport Law
(hello@sportlaw.ca), who are acting as the scrutineers in this election.
- Nominator’s name & email address
- Nominee’s name & email address
- Nominee’s response to
o Their Sport Council Name
o Why they want to run for this Sport Council
o What specific and/or special skills and experience do they have to offer the Sport
Council and its members that would contribute to the effective leadership and
governance of that Sport?
The Nomination process will be open from Oct 24 th to Oct 31 st , 5pm EST.
Eligibility Criteria
1. Nominees must be a current full individual or family member in good standing with
their Provincial Sport Organization.
2. Event members are not eligible for nomination.
3. Nominees must be a minimum of 18 years of age.
4. Nominees must have the capacity under law to contract.
Nominee Expectations
All nominees must:
- Be willing to serve on the WSWC Sport Council, if elected.
- Have read and understood the WSWC Policy Acknowledgement Form, which must be
sign, if elected. - Have read, understood and agree to the terms as outlined in the WSWC Sport Council
Terms of Reference, which must be signed, if elected. - Complete Respect Group Maltreatment (Abuse & Harassment) training as requested,
if elected.
Notifications
- An email will be sent to eligible full individual and family members in the WSWC
membership platform on the opening day of Nominations, Oct 24th . - WSWC will publicly publish the names and skill/experience information of all eligible
Nominees, Nov 3rd through the WSWC website. Only eligible Nominees with fully
and properly completed Nomination info will have their name and background published.
Election Voting Process
- On November 6 th at approximately, 12PM EST confirmed eligible full individual and
family members will receive a ballot for their respective Sport Council (for the three
councils noted above), from invitations@mail.electionbuddy.com. The email will
include a link to the voting website, Election Buddy. - If you do not see the voting email in your inbox on November 1, please be sure to check
all folders within your email account (Junk/Spam/Other) to see if it ended up there first.
If you still cannot find the voting email and you wish to vote, please contact WSWC at
katie@wswc.ca. - Each ballot will include names of candidate running for that council and brief description of why they are running and their skills and experience.
- Eligible full individual and family members in the WSWC membership platform will be eligible for one vote for the Sport Council corresponding to the primary discipline identified by the member in their membership.
- The voting period will commence November 6 th at 12PM EST and close November 14th at 5pm EST.
- Sport Law will manage the Election Buddy platform and votes are tabulated by the system and reported by Sport Law. If there is a tie between candidates for any of the council ballots, that respective council will be issued a run-off vote on Nov 14th , and voting will close November 20 at 5PM EST.
- Sport Law will submit a scrutineer’s report to WSWC summarizing election results. Election results will then be published by WSWC November 15th (or after any run-off polls, November 22nd).
FRENCH
Processus de nomination et d’élection du Conseil du sport 2023 de SNPC
Les nominations sont maintenant ouvertes à toute personne intéressée à poser sa candidature aux conseils sportifs de Ski nautique et planche Canada (SNPC). SNPC reconnaît les cinq conseils sportifs suivants :
- Adaptatif
- Pieds nus (pas d’élection en 2023)
- Ski de spectacle (pas d’élection en 2023)
- Sports de vague (Wakeboard, Wake Park, Wakesurf, Wakeskate)
- Ski nautique
Les conseils sportifs de SNPC représentent les parties prenantes de chacun des cinq sports identifiés. Le rôle des conseils sportifs est de soutenir et de faire progresser la croissance et la progression de leurs sports tout en restant fidèle à leur culture sportive.
Élaboré en consultation avec les Conseils des sports, le mandat des Conseils des sports décrit les rôles et les responsabilités des Conseils des sports et fournit un cadre général pour le fonctionnement des Conseils des sports au sein de SNPC, dans le but d’accroître la transparence, la responsabilité et l’engagement. Un élément clé de la mise en œuvre du mandat des conseils sportifs a été la restructuration des conseils sportifs afin d’inclure des postes nommés et élus.
nommés et élus.
La composition des conseils sportifs respectifs est la suivante :
CLIQUEZ ICI pour la structure
DATES IMPORTANTES
- 24 octobre – Ouverture des nominations
- 31 octobre, 17h EST – Clôture des nominations
- 3 novembre – Validation des nominations/Bios publiés sur le site web de WSWC
- 6 novembre, 12pm EST – Ouverture du vote
- 13 novembre, 17 heures HNE – Clôture des votes
- 14 novembre, 12 h HNE – Dépouillement des bulletins de vote si nécessaire
- 15 novembre (ou 22 novembre si des bulletins de vote éliminés sont nécessaires) – Membres nouvellement élus annoncés sur le site web de WSWC et dans les médias sociaux.
- 20 novembre, 17h00 EST – Clôture des scrutins de ballottage
NOMINATIONS ET FONCTIONNEMENT
Directives pour les nominations et comment voter
1. Les candidats doivent être proposés par une personne ou un membre de sa famille en règle.
2. Les nominations doivent être adressées directement à l’Ordre des Avocats du Sport.
Pour soumettre une candidature, veuillez envoyer les informations suivantes par courrier électronique à Sport Law (hello@sportlaw.ca), qui joue le rôle de scrutateur dans cette élection.
- Nom et adresse électronique de l’auteur de la proposition
- Nom et adresse électronique du candidat
- Réponse du candidat à
o Le nom de son Conseil du sport
o La raison pour laquelle il souhaite se présenter à ce Conseil du sport
o Quelles compétences et expériences spécifiques et/ou particulières ont-ils à offrir au Conseil du sport et à ses membres ? Conseil du sport et à ses membres, qui contribueraient à la direction et à la gouvernance de ce sport ?
Le processus de nomination sera ouvert du 24 au 31 octobre, à 17 heures (heure de l’Est).
Critères d’éligibilité
1. Les candidats doivent être des membres à part entière ou des membres de leur famille en règle avec leur organisme provincial de sport.
leur organisme provincial de sport.
2. Les membres d’un événement ne sont pas admissibles à une mise en candidature.
3. Les candidats doivent être âgés d’au moins 18 ans.
4. Les candidats doivent avoir la capacité juridique de contracter.
Attentes des candidats
Tous les candidats doivent
- Être prêts à siéger au Conseil du sport de SNPC, s’ils sont élus.
- Avoir lu et compris le formulaire de reconnaissance de la politique de SNPC, qui doit être signé par le candidat, s’il est élu. signer, s’il est élu.
- Avoir lu, compris et accepté les conditions énoncées dans le mandat du Conseil du sport de SNPC, qui doit être signé qui doivent être signés si le candidat est élu.
- Suivre la formation Respect Group Maltreatment (Abuse and Harassment) comme demandé,
s’il est élu.
Notifications
-
- Un courriel sera envoyé aux membres individuels et familiaux éligibles de la plateforme d’adhésion de SNPC le jour de l’ouverture de la période de candidature. le jour de l’ouverture des nominations, le 24 octobre.
- WSWC publiera les noms et les informations sur les compétences et l’expérience de tous les candidats éligibles le 3 novembre par le biais du site web de WSWC. 3 novembre sur le site web de WSWC. Seuls les candidats éligibles ayant rempli dûment remplies verront leur nom et leur expérience publiés.
Processus de vote
-
- Le 6 novembre, vers 12 heures (heure de l’Est), les personnes et les familles confirmées éligibles recevront un bulletin de vote pour leur choix. membres de leur famille recevront un bulletin de vote pour leur conseil sportif respectif (pour les trois conseils susmentionnés), à partir de invitations@mail.electionbuddy.com. Le courriel comprendra. Le courriel comprendra un lien vers le site web de vote, Election Buddy.
- Si vous ne voyez pas le courriel de vote dans votre boîte de réception le 1er novembre, veuillez vérifier tous les dossiers de votre compte de messagerie (courrier indésirable/spam/autre) pour voir s’il n’y est pas arrivé en premier.
Si vous ne trouvez toujours pas l’e-mail de vote et que vous souhaitez voter, veuillez contacter WSWC à l’adresse suivante katie@wswc.ca. - Chaque bulletin de vote comprendra les noms des candidats qui se présentent pour ce conseil et une brève description des raisons pour lesquelles ils se présentent, ainsi que de leurs compétences et de leur expérience.
- Les membres individuels et familiaux éligibles de la plateforme d’adhésion de SNPC auront droit à un vote pour le Conseil du sport correspondant à la discipline principale identifiée par le membre dans son adhésion.
- La période de vote débutera le 6 novembre à 12 heures (heure de l’Est) et se terminera le 14 novembre à 17 heures (heure de l’Est).
- Sport Law gérera la plateforme Election Buddy et les votes seront comptabilisés par le système et rapportés par Sport Law. S’il y a égalité entre les candidats pour l’un ou l’autre des bulletins de vote du conseil, ce conseil respectif fera l’objet d’un deuxième tour de scrutin le 14 novembre, et le vote se terminera le 20 novembre à 17 heures (HNE).
- Sport Law soumettra à WSWC un rapport du scrutateur résumant les résultats de l’élection. Les résultats de l’élection seront ensuite publiés par WSWC le 15 novembre (ou le 22 novembre après un éventuel second tour de scrutin).
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
CANADA’S ASHLEY LEUGNER SET TO COMPETE IN THE WOMEN’S WAKEBOARD LCQ AT THE 2023 SANTIAGO PAN AMERICAN GAMES
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada’s Ashley Leugner showcased her incredible talent today in the Women’s Wakeboard Qualifiers at the 2023 Santiago Pan American Games. Placing third in her heat, Leugner narrowly missed the chance to proceed directly to the finals.
With undeterred spirit, Ashley will be back in the waters for the Last Chance Qualifiers (LCQ) on October 22, 2023, with hopes of securing her position in the Women’s Wakeboard Finals.
Reflecting on today’s performance, Ashley stated, “The day went pretty good. I wasn’t super happy with the way it finished out for me but I did land some stuff that I didn’t land yesterday, which was positive for me. I just ended up having a repeat trick and an unfortunate fall and didn’t make it through but I get a second chance tomorrow.” When asked about her goal for the LCQ, she responded determinedly, “That is the goal. Get through finals tomorrow in LCQ.”
Leveraging her vast experience, Leugner remains confident, “I’ve been in this position before. I’ve been to many contests and I’m relying on past contest experience. Which I think I have a lot more than some of the girls here so I think that will help me out a lot.”
The Pan Am Games is not just a competition, but an experience. Ashley expressed her gratitude and excitement for being a part of this event, “I’m just trying to really take in the whole experience here. Reconnecting with people I used to wakeboard with back in the day. Just being here with Team Canada and the whole multi-sport event is amazing.” She also candidly shared her feelings on her journey so far, “I’ve been putting a lot of pressure on myself but I just have to remember that I’m here and that was the goal.”
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada is proud of Ashley’s dedication and perseverance. Fans and supporters are encouraged to cheer her on in tomorrow’s LCQ.
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.
CANADA’S HUNTER SMITH EARNS POSITION IN THE MEN’S WAKEBOARD FINALS AT THE 2023 SANTIAGO PAN AMERICAN GAMES
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada (WSWC) is elated to announce that Canada’s own Hunter Smith has clinched his spot in the Men’s Wakeboard Finals of the 2023 Santiago Pan American Games. Demonstrating exceptional talent and skill, Smith secured his position by achieving a score of 70.22, placing second in his heat during the qualification round.
Reflecting on his qualification run, an exhilarated Hunter Smith shared, “I was just trying to stay calm and stay positive and ride to the best of my abilities.” His dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence are evident as he added, “I don’t know if excited is a big enough word but I’m really excited to get to finals. I’ve been pushing really hard this year and last year to be at the Pan American Games. Not only to get to the Pan American Games but get to finals.”
With the finals on the horizon, Smith is already setting his sights on delivering his best performance. “Now I just have one more step left of having a finals run and hopefully put down a good run and hopefully get on the podium.” He further acknowledged the intense competition and the need for a flawless run, stating, “To get a shot to be on the podium, it will take consistent riding, making sure I stand my whole pass. Normally in the finals, if you fall once, you’re normally going to be out.”
The entire nation eagerly anticipates the Men’s Wakeboard Finals, scheduled for Tuesday, October 24, 2023. WSWC invites Canadians from coast to coast to tune in and support Hunter Smith as he represents the Maple Leaf and goes for gold.
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 AND THE COC ANNOUNCE CANADA’S WATER SKI AND WAKEBOARD TEAM SELECTED TO COMPETE AT THE SANTIAGO 2023 PAN AMERICAN GAMES
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada and the Canadian Olympic Committee have announced Canada’s water ski and wakeboard team selected to compete at the Santiago 2023 Pan American Games.
The Team Canada water ski and wakeboard team for the Santiago 2023 Pan American Games is:
Athletes:
Water Ski
Dorien Llewellyn (Innisfail, Alta.)
Whitney McClintock Rini (Cambridge, Ont.)
Paige Rini (Winter Garden, Florida)
Neilly Ross (Orlando, Florida)
Wakeboard
Ashley Leugner (Fort Qu’Appelle, Sask.)
Hunter Smith (North Vancouver, B.C.)
Canada qualified the maximum of four water skiers and two wakeboarders thanks to performances at the 2022 IWWF Pan American Championships for the two disciplines. Canada finished third in the overall open team classification for water ski.
Dorien Llewellyn, who is coached by his father, 12-time Pan Am Games medalist Jaret Llewellyn, will make his second appearance at the Pan American Games. At Lima 2019, Llewellyn won gold in the men’s overall water ski event, a silver in tricks and a bronze in jump. At the most recent IWWF World Waterski Championships in 2021, Llewellyn won gold in men’s tricks and silver in men’s overall.
“I am incredibly excited and grateful to have the opportunity to represent Canada at the Pan Am Games for a second time,” said Llewellyn. “Not only does water skiing have a golden history at these Games, but my family does as well, with my father winning 12 Pan Am Games medals himself. The chance to build upon the legacy that we have created together is one that I will continue to cherish every time I am a part of the Canadian team at any level of competition.”
Nine-time IWWF world champion Whitney McClintock Rini will make her fifth appearance at the Pan American Games. In her previous four appearances (Rio 2007, Guadalajara 2011, Toronto 2015 and Lima 2019), she won a total of 14 medals, including five gold. At Santiago 2023, the twenty-year Canadian National Water Ski team veteran will return to the Laguna Los Morros venue where she has competed at numerous times throughout her career, including at the 2013 World Waterski Championships where she won a silver medal in both the women’s slalom and women’s overall.
Paige Rini, who won three bronze medals at Lima 2019 in the women’s slalom, tricks and overall events, will make her second appearance at the Pan Am Games. She finished the 2023 World Water Skiers Overall Tour with a bronze medal for her efforts throughout the season and looks to continue her podium performances at Santiago 2023.
Llewellyn, McClintock Rini and Rini will lend their significant Pan Am Games experience to teammates making their Pan Am debuts – Neilly Ross, Ashley Leugner and Hunter Smith. Ross is the 2017 IWWF world champion in women’s tricks and the 2017 IWWF Female Water Skier of the Year.
“I am beyond excited to be representing Canada at the 2023 Pan American Games in Santiago, Chile,” said Ross. “It has been a dream of mine to compete in this competition across sports for many years, especially in the footsteps of my dad who was able to win several Pan American Games Championships. I can’t wait!”
Ashley Leugner is one of Canada’s most decorated wakeboarders: a 7-time National Champion, World Championship Silver Medalist, Bronze World Cup finisher and many top ten finishes on the world circuit.
“Representing Canada at an event as prestigious as the Pan Am Games is a dream come true!” said Leugner. “It took a long time for women’s wakeboarding to be included in the Games and if I wasn’t able to represent Canada at least once, I would feel like I had unfinished business. I’m very grateful for the opportunity as I’m sure this experience will be one to remember for a lifetime!”
Hunter Smith rose up through the ranks of Wake Canada and Wake BC events winning his first national title at age 9. Smith is Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada’s 2022 Wakeboard Boat Rider Of The Year.
“I’m excited and honoured to represent Canada at the Pan Am Games.” said Smith. “This is something I have been working towards for 14 years! Since I first stepped on a wakeboard at age 7, I fell in love with the sport. It has given me so many great friends and awesome life experiences.”
Water ski and wakeboard have been on the Pan American Games program since Mar del Plata 1995, where Jaret Llewellyn won the inaugural gold medal in men’s jump and men’s tricks in water ski. Since then, Canada has won a total of 56 Pan American Games medals in water ski and wakeboard, the highest total of any country.
Water ski and wakeboard will take place October 21 to 24 (Days 1 to 4) at the Laguna Los Morros in the San Bernardo district of Santiago.
“As the Chef de Mission, I am proud to extend a warm welcome to these water ski and wakeboard athletes to the Canadian team on our way to the Pan American Games,” said Christine Girard, Team Canada’s Santiago 2023 Chef de Mission. “In a competition where the waves of Olympic recognition have not yet reached, our team composed of Pan American Games medallists and rookies promises to showcase skill and passion. Let’s make history and ride the tides of success at the 2023 Pan Am Games!”
Team Canada’s water ski and wakeboard team coaches and support staff for the Santiago 2023 Pan American Games are:
Kyle Hunter (Paris, Ont.) – Team Leader
Jaret Llewellyn (Innisfail, Alta.) – Water ski coach
Matt Rini (Kingston, Ont.) – Water ski coach
Drew Ross (Belleville, Ont.) – Water ski coach
Dary Znebel (Mississauga, Ont.) – Wakeboard coach
Prior to being named to Team Canada, all nominations are subject to approval by the Canadian Olympic Committee’s Team Selection Committee following its receipt of nominations by all National Sport Organisations.
The latest Team Canada Santiago 2023 roster can be found here.
Watch the Santiago 2023 Pan American Games Broadcast Channel here.
Follow the Live Results here.
2023 WAKEBOARD, WAKESKATE & WAKE PARK NATIONALS: ONTARIO RESULTS
For the results, CLICK HERE
@WakeOntario hosted 2023 Wakeboard and Wake Park Nationals in partnership with @PlanetBayou Wake Park in Dufferin County, ON. From August 26-27 over 80 riders competed at Bayou Wake Park taking advantage of beautiful summer weather conditions!
The Men and Women Open ranks featured a super stacked line-up of riders competing at a world class level. Fresh off their 5th place tie at the WWA Wake Park Worlds, Dary Znebel and Riley Dillon scored the number 1 and 2 spots respectively in the Open Men qualifying rounds. But it was Riley who prevailed in the finals, edging out Dary by .4 points. Not far behind were Jordan Sullivan in 3rd and Connor Gilbert in 4th.
Likewise in the Open Women, fresh off representing Canada at the WWA Worlds, Coti Scaglia and Kelsey Chiappa battled closely in the finals, with Coti edging out Kelsey by .4 points. Sydney McHugh and Kori Gorra followed close behind in a very tight Women’s finals, finishing 3rd and 4th respectively!
Fresh off his 3rd place Wakeskate finish at WWA Worlds, Jordan Sullivan was flawless scoring the Open Wakeskate win ahead of Shaine Edward in 2nd and Riley Dillon in 3rd.
Shout out to all of the event supporters: Province of Ontario, Stz Life, Northline Sports, Follow, O’Brien and Clancy.
Huge thanks to the big volunteer crew who helped with the event, especially Brennan Grange, Steve Jarrett, Dary Znebel, Sydney McHugh, Andy Oke, Leslie Sparkes, Derek Brown, Braedan Bobenko, Jesse Jarrett, Riley Dillon, Marcus Ellis and Christian Primrose!
WSWC BOARD OF DIRECTORS: NOMINATE TODAY!! – DEADLINE: September 17th
NEW Deadline: September 17th, 2023
Join the Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada Board of Directors
Have you ever thought about how you can contribute to the growth of towed water sports in Canada? If yes, WSWC has an opportunity for you!
WSWC is inviting all interested persons to apply for nomination to the WSWC Board of Directors. Nominations will be accepted thru to September 12, 2023 and the election will take place at the WSWC Annual General Meeting on September 27th, 2023 at 9pm ET by webinar.
There are four (4) at-large director positions up for election and a director’s term is for two (2) years.
To learn more about WSWC, the role of Directors and how to nominate, please see:
-About WSWC: CLICK HERE
-WSWC Board Roles and Responsibilities: CLICK HERE
-Nominations Application: CLICK HERE
-Electoral Policy: CLICK HERE
-Women on Boards: A Guide to Getting Involved (CAAWS): CLICK HERE
For more information, please contact:
Krista Jansen
Krista@wswc.ca
RESULTS FROM THE 2023 ALBERTA WAKE SURF PROVINCIALS AT STAFFORD LAKE
Alberta Tour Champions:
Junior Male- Bennett Bateman
Junior Female-Morgan Eberhardt
Amateur Female-Sloan Becker
Amateur Male-Max Chugg
Outlaw Female Skim-Morgan Bateman
Outlaw Female Surf-Hayden Becker
Outlaw Male -Peter Kennedy
Masters Female-Jamie Chugg
Masters Male- Brad Cowley
Stafford Lake Results:
Junior Male
1.Greyson Hantke
2.Asher Synder
3.Jagr Mcintyre
Junior Female
1.Katie Percshon
2.Morgan Eberhardt
3.Braelyn Kelly
Amateur Male
1.Max Chugg
2.Evan Saad
3.Emmitt Pollitt
Amateur Female
1.Sloan Becker
2.Katie Simmons
3.Carly Reitenbach
Outlaw Male
1.Kerry Williams
2.Peter Kennedy
Outlaw Female Skim
1.Morgan Bateman
2. Hayden Becker
3. Alecia Kenyon
Outlaw Female Surf
1.Hayden Becker
2.Hailey Tost
3.Paige Humphrey
Masters Male
1.Ashley Chugg
2. Brad Cowley’
3.Tyler Tost
Masters Female
1.Jamie Chugg
2.Jody Cowley
3.Jo Williams
If you have any questions regarding the event or results, please contact Christie
BOARD OF DIRECTORS NOMINATIONS NOW OPEN
Deadline: September 12, 2023
Join the Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada Board of Directors
Have you ever thought about how you can contribute to the growth of towed water sports in Canada? If yes, WSWC has an opportunity for you!
WSWC is inviting all interested persons to apply for nomination to the WSWC Board of Directors. Nominations will be accepted thru to September 12, 2023 and the election will take place at the WSWC Annual General Meeting on September 27th, 2023 at 9pm ET by webinar.
There are four (4) at-large director positions up for election and a director’s term is for two (2) years.
To learn more about WSWC, the role of Directors and how to nominate, please see:
-About WSWC: CLICK HERE
-WSWC Board Roles and Responsibilities: CLICK HERE
-Nominations Application: CLICK HERE
-Electoral Policy: CLICK HERE
-Women on Boards: A Guide to Getting Involved (CAAWS): CLICK HERE
For more information, please contact:
Krista Jansen
Krista@wswc.ca
SASKATCHEWAN CABLE PARK – COMING SOON
