2023 WSWC MALE SHOW SKI ATHLETE OF THE YEAR
Photo Credit: Taylor Nullmeyer
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada (WSWC) is proud to announce Darby Paddon as the recipient of the 2023 WSWC Male Show Ski Athlete of the Year Award!
Darby Paddon has been an integral part of the Show Ski Canada community since 2016, consistently demonstrating unparalleled skill and dedication to the sport. With an impressive track record and an unwavering passion for show skiing, Darby’s contributions have not gone unnoticed.
Darby is currently gearing up for his 5th Show Ski Worlds in March 2025. His versatility is unmatched, being able to do pyramids, barefoot, wakeboard, and his specialty, freestyle jump. Darby competed in the inaugural Canadian Freestyle Nationals this year where he clinched a well deserved 2nd place.
Darby is one of the top all around skiers and leaders on Team Canada. Beyond his individual achievements, Darby embodies the spirit of teamwork and sportsmanship, serving as a beacon of leadership both on and off the water. His willingness to mentor and support fellow athletes on the National Team and Development Team exemplifies his commitment to the growth and success of the show skiing community.
Darby’s passion, talent, and dedication have left a mark on the Canadian show skiing community, and Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada is proud to honour him as the 2023 WSWC Male Show Ski Athlete of the Year.
Congratulations Darby on this incredible achievement, we look forward to watching your continued success in the years to come.
2023 WSWC MALE JUNIOR WATER SKI ATHLETE OF THE YEAR
Photo Credit: Johnny Hayward Photography
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada (WSWC) is delighted to announce Charlie Ross as the recipient of the 2023 WSWC Male Junior Water Ski Athlete of the Year Award. This award recognizes Charlie’s exceptional talent, dedication, and outstanding achievements throughout the 2023 season. Charlie’s passion for the sport and unwavering commitment to excellence have set him apart as a true standout in the water skiing community.
Charlie’s season started off at the Jr. Masters, where he secured victories in both the Jr. Masters Slalom and the Jr. Masters Head-to-Head Slalom at Callaway Gardens. This achievement marked Charlie’s second consecutive Jr. Masters Slalom Championships, showcasing his dominance in the sport.
Charlie continued to shine on the international stage, representing Team Canada at the 2023 IWWF Under 21 World Waterski Championships. Charlie’s performance at the Worlds crowned him the U21 World Slalom Champion.
In addition to his international success, Charlie competed at the Canadian Nationals where he competed in both the Men’s Elite division and the Men’s Open division, finishing 2nd and 3rd respectively.
Charlie’s season finished off at the 2023 IWWF World Waterski Championships where he qualified and competed against the best in the world.
Charlie’s consistency showed by running into 10.25m/41off 25 times this season. He is currently ranked number one on the U21 World Ranking List. His consistency this season
Congratulations to Charlie Ross on this well deserved award!
2023 WSWC FEMALE JUNIOR WATER SKI ATHLETE OF THE YEAR
Photo Credit: Johnny Hayward Photography
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada (WSWC) is proud to celebrate the remarkable achievements of Megan Pelkey during the 2023 water ski season. Megan’s performance this year has been nothing short of extraordinary, earning her the title of the 2023 WSWC Female Junior Water Ski Athlete of the Year!
Megan’s 2023 season brought success at multiple events. Megan’s season started off by qualifying to compete in overall at the Jr. Masters. At this event, Megan placed 3rd in trick and jump and won overall, earning herself the title as Jr. Masters Girls Overall Champion. Megan’s next event was the U21 World Championships where she was part of Team Canada.
Mid-season, Megan competed at home at the Jr. Canadian Open where she stood on the podium in every event. This included two gold medals in trick and overall. Megan continued her success in Canada at the Western Canadian Championships where she won slalom, trick and overall. In addition, she placed 2nd in jump.
Megan’s winning streak continued in Canada at the Canadian national Championships where she swept the U17 Girls division. Megan was atop of the podium in slalom, trick, jump and overall!
To finish off the 2023 season, Megan made her debut at the World Championships, earning a wild card spot for Canada.
Throughout the season, Megan pushed her limits and skied to personal bests in both the trick and jump events. She continues to demonstrate growth and dedication to the sport.
Congratulations, Megan Pelkey, on an exceptional season and being named the 2023 WSWC Female Junior Water Ski Athlete of the year! We look forward to witnessing your continued success!
2023 WSWC MALE WATER SKI ATHLETE OF THE YEAR
Photo Credit: Johnny Hayward Photography
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada (WSWC) is pleased to announce Ryan Dodd as the recipient of the 2023 WSWC Male Water Ski Athlete of the Year Award!
Ryan’s exceptional 2023 season began with a win at the Moomba Masters event in Australia, setting the stage for what would be a season of success. From there, Ryan’s winning streak continued as he claimed the top spot on the podium at the Masters at Callaway Gardens.
As the season progressed, Ryan’s quest for excellence took him to California, where he once again took first place at the California Pro Am. However, it was the end of the season that brought Ryan even more success at the 2023 IWWF World Waterski Championships in Florida.
Ryan emerged victorious the final time during the 2023 season at the World Championships, marking his fifth consecutive victory and earning him the title of 5-time World Jump Champion. This incredible achievement is a testament to Ryan’s unwavering commitment to excellence and his unmatched talent on the water.
Join us in congratulating Ryan Dodd on this well-deserved award and celebrating his outstanding accomplishments this season. His remarkable achievements serve as an inspiration to athletes everywhere, and we are proud to honour him as the 2023 WSWC Male Water Ski Athlete of the Year.
2023 WSWC FEMALE WATER SKI ATHLETE OF THE YEAR
Photo Credit: Johnny Hayward Photography
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada (WSWC) is thrilled to announce Jaimee Bull as the recipient of the 2023 WSWC Female Water Ski Athlete of the Year!
Jaimee Bull’s remarkable achievements throughout the 2023 season have solidified her as one of the top athletes in the sport. Jaimee secured the title of Open World Women’s Slalom Champion for the second consecutive year and claimed the 2023 Waterski Pro Tour Champion title for the third consecutive year.
Throughout the 2023 season, Jaimee consistently showcased her skill on the water, standing on the podium at an impressive 11 professional events. Among these achievements, Jaimee clinched four top place finishes, second in four events, and achieved third place in three events.
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada extends congratulations to Jaimee Bull for her outstanding performance and achievements in the 2023 season. Her dedication, hard work, and passion for the sport serve as an inspiration to athletes across the world.
2023 WSWC FEMALE ADAPTIVE DEVELOPMENT ATHLETE OF THE YEAR
Photo Credit: Johnny Hayward Photography
It is with immense pleasure that Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada (WSWC) announces Alberta’s Kendra Erhardt as the recipient of the 2023 WSWC Female Adaptive Development Water Ski Athlete of the Year award. Kendra’s exceptional journey in competitive water skiing is captivating, showcasing unparalleled dedication, outstanding performance, and a relentless commitment to excellence in the sport.
In just two seasons, Kendra has risen to prominence, demonstrating remarkable skills and an unwavering passion for water skiing. Her relentless pursuit of self-improvement is evident through countless hours spent honing her abilities and pushing her own limits to achieve excellence.
Not only does Kendra excel on the water, but she also embodies the values of fair play and good sportsmanship. Her integrity and respect for her fellow athletes shine through in both national and international competitions, setting a positive example for all.
Kendra’s contributions extend beyond her individual achievements; she actively fosters a supportive environment within the water skiing community. Through her teamwork and camaraderie, she uplifts her fellow athletes, sharing knowledge and experiences to promote good sportsmanship and development.
As a member of the Canadian World Water Ski Team, Kendra’s dedication to her teammates is unparalleled. Her positive attitude and genuine support contribute significantly to the cohesion and success of the team.
Kendra Erhardt’s journey is one of continuous improvement and success, driven by her passion for the sport, outstanding sportsmanship, and unwavering team spirit. Honoring Kendra with this award not only celebrates her individual achievements but also serves as inspiration for others to follow in her footsteps.
Please join us in congratulating Kendra Erhardt on this well-deserved recognition as the 2023 WSWC Female Development Adaptive Athlete of the Year!
2023 WSWC MALE ADAPTIVE DEVELOPMENT ATHLETE OF THE YEAR
Photo Credit: Johnny Hayward Photography
With immense pride and enthusiasm, Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada (WSWC) is thrilled to announce Alberta’s Braeson Schacher as the recipient of the 2023 WSWC Male Adaptive Development Athlete of the Year. Braeson’s remarkable performance, unwavering dedication, and exceptional sportsmanship have truly set him apart as a beacon of excellence in the realm of adaptive water skiing.
Braeson’s achievements are nothing short of extraordinary. As the top male team score contributor at the World Championships, he has amassed a staggering 2407 points, representing an impressive 22.5% of Canada’s total team score. His consistent excellence has not only propelled him to the forefront of national competitions but has also resonated on the international stage, showcasing his exceptional skill and talent as an athlete.
However, beyond the numbers, Braeson embodies the true spirit of sportsmanship and fair play. His conduct both on and off the water reflects a genuine love for the sport and a profound respect for his fellow competitors. Despite his remarkable success, Braeson remains humble, gracious, and always ready to celebrate the achievements of others, creating an inspiring environment for all involved in adaptive water skiing.
Braeson’s commitment to training is commendable. He consistently demonstrates an unyielding dedication to fitness and skill development, continually pushing the boundaries of his own capabilities. His tireless efforts not only elevate his personal performance but also serve as a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes within the adaptive water skiing community.
Remarkably, this marks only Braeson’s second season competing in Adaptive Water Skiing, further underscoring the depth of his talent and dedication to the sport.
Braeson Schacher is more than just an exceptional athlete; he is a role model who embodies the values of excellence, sportsmanship, and commitment. His outstanding achievements on the national and international stage, coupled with his positive attitude and unwavering dedication to training, make him the perfect choice for the title of 2023 WSWC Male Adaptive Development Athlete of the Year.
Congratulations, Braeson, on this well-deserved honor!
2023 WSWC FEMALE ADAPTIVE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR
Photo Credit: Johnny Hayward Photography
It is with immense pride and honor that we announce Saskatchewan’s Ashley Baerg as the 2023 WSWC Female Adaptive Water Ski Athlete of the Year. Ashley’s journey in the sport is a testament to her resilience, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
After a brief hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic, Ashley rekindled her passion for water skiing and embarked on a remarkable journey of skill refinement and athletic achievement. Her training began in April at our High-Performance Camp in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she honed her abilities on the water. Continuing her rigorous pursuit of success, Ashley further trained in her hometown of Saskatoon at the Saskatoon Water Ski Club, enhancing her skills in preparation for the Canadian Nationals.
Ashley’s dedication to her craft was evident as she joined the High-Performance week-long camp in Lacombe, AB, leading up to Nationals, where she competed in all three events. She solidified her position as a key member of the World Championships Team in Sacramento, California, participating in the pre-worlds camp at Lakeside Ranch and showcasing her skills in a local tournament at Bell Aqua Lake.
At the pinnacle of her achievements, Ashley emerged as Canada’s top female team score contributor at the Worlds, contributing a remarkable 2,411.85 points, representing 22.54% of Canada’s total team score. Her stellar performance included securing the bronze in Slalom, a 5th-place finish in tricks, and an impressive 2nd place in Jump. Additionally, she attained the 2nd position in overall points in the seated women category, solidifying her status as a leading figure in adaptive water skiing.
Beyond her athletic prowess, Ashley serves as an exemplary role model, embodying the values of the Adaptive Water Ski Team through her sportsmanship and fair play. Her dedication to excellence and unwavering commitment to the sport make her a beacon of inspiration for women in sports everywhere.
We are incredibly proud to have Ashley representing Canada in adaptive water skiing. Her contributions to the sport are truly commendable, and we have no doubt that she will continue to leave a positive impact on the water skiing community for years to come.
Congratulations, Ashley, on this well-deserved honor!
2023 WSWC MALE ADAPTIVE ATHLETE OF THE YEAR
Photo Credit: Johnny Hayward Photography
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada is thrilled to announce Saskatchewan’s Blake Lamontagne as the recipient of the 2023 Adaptive Male Athlete of the Year award. Blake’s exceptional dedication, resilience, and passion for fitness truly embody the spirit of a true sportsman.
Throughout the winter of 2023, Blake demonstrated unparalleled commitment to his craft, undertaking rigorous training in the gym to achieve unprecedented levels of strength and endurance. His efforts culminated in an outstanding performance at the AWSC High-Performance Camp in Baton Rouge, Louisiana in April.
Despite facing adversity due to injury during the spring, Blake’s determination remained unyielding. He temporarily paused his workouts and on-water training, returning promptly as soon as physically able.
Blake showcased his remarkable skills at both the Canadian Western Championships in British Columbia and the Canadian National Championships in Alberta, setting personal bests in trick. His relentless pursuit of excellence led him to an intensive training regimen in preparation for the World Championships in August.
At the World Championships, Blake exhibited unparalleled preparation and motivation, ultimately shattering a world record. His exceptional performance in trick earned him a remarkable score of 1440 points, breaking the MP3 Trick record and securing the 1st position among all MP3 competitors at the World Championships and 2nd among seated men. Moreover, Blake significantly contributed to Canada’s overall team success by earning valuable points in both the Slalom and the Jump events, accounting for 17.3% of the team’s total score points, which is the second highest among Canadian Team members. His instrumental role played a pivotal part in Canada securing a historic silver team medal for the first time in its history.
Blake Lamontagne’s outstanding achievements, coupled with his resilience and sportsmanship, make him a worthy recipient of the 2023 Adaptive Male Athlete of the Year award. His contributions to the sport of adaptive water skiing and his historic accomplishments at the World Championships underscore his unwavering dedication to excellence.
Congratulations, Blake, on this well-deserved honor!
2022 WSWC GROM GIRL’S WAKE PARK RIDER OF THE YEAR – AYDEN SWAN
Congratulations to Ontario’s Ayden Swan @ayden_swan, Wake Canada’s Grom Girl’s Wake Park Rider Of The Year (2022)!
Ayden grabbed the Super Grom Girls (age 10-13) title at the Wake Park Nationals and first in Grom Girls at the Wake Park Provincials in 2022.
Ayden rides out of @planetbayou and @therailyard.ca wake parks with coaching from some of Canada’s best including @lesliesparkes, @brennangrange, @sydneymchugh and @jordanshapes. She also looks to @danikbrown, @katherineshirriff and @copycatsclub / @sinafux as inspirational influences.
Ayden’s current goals for her wakeboarding progression are Tantrums, 540s and improving her Front Boards. She loves to ride in the summer with @sisterhoodsessions and her @womenofwake.wow friends!
In the winter Ayden is an up-and-coming snowboarder competing in Ontario slopestyle park events and training at @mtstlouismoonstone. She took 1st place in Women’s Slopestyle at the Provincials and is a member of the Ontario Snowboard Team.
Look for Ayden stepping up her game at this summer’s @wakeontario Series and the 2023 Wake Park Nationals. – Steve Jarrett
Content Credit: @caseofwake
2022 WSWC GROM BOY’S WAKE PARK RIDER OF THE YEAR – CONNOR GILBERT
Congratulations to Canadian Development Team rider Connor Gilbert @connor_a_gilbert, Wake Canada’s Grom Boy’s Wake Park Rider Of The Year (2022)!
Connor grabbed the Junior Boys title at both the Canadian National and the Ontario Provincial Wake Park Championships in 2022. He also snagged first in Amateur Wakeskate at the Provincials.
Connor rides out of @bluestonewakepark with coaching from some of Canada’s best including @liam_brearley and @andyokegb. He also frequents @planetbayou and @therailyard.ca wake parks.
In the winter Connor is an up-and-coming snowboarder competing in Ontario park and slopestyle events, training at @mtstlouismoonstone and @beavervalley.snowparks. He took 3rd in Junior (13 & Under) at the 2022 Slopestyle Provincials.
When he’s not busy boarding Connor enjoys painting, illustrating and playing the piano.
Look for Connor stepping up his game at this summer’s @wakeontario Series and Wake Park Nationals. – Steve Jarrett
Connor is sponsored by @boardinghouse.ca.
Content Credit: @jessejarrett_ #planetbayou @brennangrange #bluestonewakepark
2022 WSWC WOMEN’S WAKESURF RIDER OF THE YEAR – BAILEY RUSH
Congratulations to Canadian Elite Team rider Bailey Rush @baileyrushsurf, Wake Canada’s Women’s Wakesurfer Of The Year (2022)!
The talented 23 year old Gull Lake, Alberta based athlete is among the world’s best in both “surf” and “skim” style wakesurfing! In 2022 Bailey took 2nd in Women’s Pro Surf and 5th in Women’s Pro Skim at the @Centurionboats Wakesurf World Championship. At the 2022 Canadian Nationals, Bailey scored 1st in Pro Surf and 2nd in Pro Skim.
For 2023 Bailey plans to attend a selection of the top pro wakesurf contests, as well as the World Championships. In the summer months, when she’s not training and competing, Bailey coaches at her Gull Lake, Alberta wakesurf school @wakesurfalberta.
Also an accomplished figure skater, Bailey just recently completed her Bachelor of Education and Bachelor of Kinesiology degrees at the University of Alberta. – Caro Villeneuve
Bailey is sponsored by @phase5wakesurfers
2022 WSWC MEN’S WAKESURF RIDER OF THE YEAR – RYDER DUCZEK
Congratulations to Canadian Elite Team rider Ryder Duczek @ryder.duczek, Wake Canada’s Men’s Wakesurfer Of The Year (2022)!
Ryder has been collecting titles since he was in the Junior division: 2017 Junior World Champ, 2018 Amateur World Vice-Champ and 2020 Outlaw World Champ. Ryder has been progressing exponentially over the past six years, and now competes as one of Canada’s top pro wakesurfers in “skim” style.
The 18 year old, Cranbrook, BC athlete is the 2022 Men’s Pro Canadian Wakesurf Champion, his third consecutive national pro title. Ryder also took gold in wakesurf and wakeskate at the 2022 BC Summer Games.
Ryder surfs and trains with his younger brother @dagenduczek, a member of the Canadian Development Team. Influential coaches that have helped Ryder include @carowakesurf and @isaac_hockley. During the winter Ryder plays Tier 2 Rep hockey. – Caro Villeneuve
Ryder is sponsored by @phase5wakesurfers and @swsmarinegroup
2022 WSWC WOMEN’S WAKE BOAT RIDER OF THE YEAR – CALLIE ZELLENRATH
Congratulations to Canadian Elite Team rider Callie Zellenrath @callie.zellenrath, Wake Canada’s Women Wakeboard Boat Rider Of The Year (2022)!
The 17 year Toronto-Muskoka, Ontario based athlete is the 2022 Open Women’s Wakeboard Boat National Champion and was a semi-finalist at the 2022 Pan American Wakeboard Boat Championship in Brazil, winning Canada it’s women’s “country spot” for this November’s Pan Am Games.
Callie is also an accomplished wake park rider scoring second in Open Women at the 2022 Wake Park Nationals and 4th in 2021. She has progressed through the Wake Canada Development Team program since 2019, the year she took 1st in Wake Park and 6th in Wake Boat at the @thewwa Worlds, Girls 13 & Under.
Combining a determined focus and strong work ethic with a fun-loving approach to riding, Callie trains in the summers with coach @daryznebel and more recently @erikalangman. For 2023 Callie has her sights set on the opportunity to represent Canada at Pan Am Games in Chile. – Steve Jarrett
2022 WSWC MEN’S WAKE BOAT RIDER OF THE YEAR – HUNTER SMITH
Congratulations to 21 year old pro wakeboarder and Canadian Elite Team rider Hunter Smith @wake_hunter , Wake Canada’s Wakeboard Boat Rider Of The Year (2022)!
The North Vancouver, BC native has grown up through the ranks of Wake Canada and Wake BC events winning his first national title at age 9. His twin brother @jordansmith.wake finished 3rd that same year.
With a healthy sibling rivalry and active wake family support from parents Rick and Wendy, Hunter won several more age group titles as he progressed. He qualified for the National Development Team in 2017 and then the Elite Team in 2021 when he finished 10th in Men’s Pro at @thewwa World Championship.
Most recently Hunter scored first in Men’s 1 at the 2023 @malibuboats Rider Experience USA South in Alabama and 3rd at Wake The Canyon in Texas.
While Hunter has been focused on climbing the Boat rider ranks in recent years, he’s is also a talented Wake Park rider. When he’s not training and competing around the world, Hunter has also been developing his coaching resume sharing his passion and skills with the next gen of the @wakebc Wakeboard Team the past years. – Steve Jarrett
Hunter is sponsored by @ripcurl_canada @ronixwakeboards @boardroomshop and @cove_watersports.
Video: @emmett_sparling