Whitney McClintock bounces back to win open title at water ski nationals

August 21, 2010

ABBOTSFORD, B.C. – World champion Whitney McClintock of Cambridge, Ont., Stephen Collins of Toronto and Kevin Melnuk of Mississauga, Ont., were among the winners in the open category events on Saturday that concluded the 60th Canadian National Water Ski Championships.

In women’s slalom overcame, McClintock a bobble in Friday’s senior competition to take the open crown.

“Everything felt really good during my run,” said McClintock, 20, about her slalom performance. “I made sure I was aggressive. I’ve had a season where I haven’t skied as much as last year and it was really important for me to come here and get the victory with a satisfying performance.”

Collins meanwhile took his first career overall open title and added a victory in tricks. He was also second in jump and sixth in slalom.

“This was my big goal for the season,” said Collins, 20. “Even though I didn’t train as much as I would have liked I knew I had the ability to get the title. I was happy with all my events although I would have liked to have gone a little farther in jump.”

Melnuk took the open jump crown for the second straight year. He has also been busy this season running his water skiing school in Jerseyville, Illinois this summer.

“I didn’t get the distance I wanted but it’s great to repeat,” said Melnuk, 22. “I made some changes hoping I could go further but unfortunately I wasn’t able to carry enough speed on the turn.”

Breanne Wagner makes golden return to home lake at water ski nationals

Aug 20, 2010

ABBOTSFORD, B.C. – Breanne Wagner returned to a familiar setting and successfully defended her senior title in women’s slalom on Friday at the 60th Canadian water skiing championships being held at Albert Dyck Park.

“This is where I Iived as a teenager and really improved my skiing,” said Wagner, 26, who now resides in Surrey, B.C. “I was very happy with my performance. My season has been inconsistent this year and I really wanted to come here and get the victory.”

While Wagner is an established veteran in the sport, Taryn Grant of Winnipeg showed why she is an emerging star as she won the women’s junior slalom. The 15-year-old took the silver medal in jump earlier this month at the world junior championships.

“It went pretty well,” said Grant, who also won jump and was fourth in tricks here this week. “I didn’t have my best pass but I got through it.”

More than 125 athletes are battling for national titles in slalom, tricks, jump and overall at the senior and age group levels.

Waterski and Wakeboard Canada has also fully integrated adaptive water skiing for athletes with a disability at these national championships.

Competition ends this weekend.

Canada adds two more medals at barefoot water skiing world championships

August 15, 2010

BRANDENBURG, Germany – Caitlyn Rowland of Calgary earned her second and third medals at the world barefoot water skiing championships on Sunday while Becky Moynes of Belleville, Ont., also reached the podium.

The 17-year-old Rowland, competing in the junior division took the silver in women’s tricks and added the same colour medal for placing second overall. On Friday, she broke the Canadian record to earn the gold in slalom.

Meanwhile Moynes, 19, took the bronze in the open jump event soaring 10.8 metres in the final. Earlier she had set a personal best 11.7 metres in the preliminaries. Moynes was the first of five finalists to jump in the final.

‘’I didn’t think my distance would hold up for a medal,’’ said Moynes, a kinesiology student at Laurentien University in Sudbury, Ont. ‘’It’s pretty exciting. I just tried to follow my coach’s directions and do everything technically correct.’’

Canadian head coach Richard Gray was delighted with the performance of his team. On Friday, Don Schwartz of Whistler took gold in men’s senior tricks and Quebec’s Gordie Croteau was third in senior slalom.

‘’This was one of our best world championships ever,’’ said Gray. ‘’I knew we had a team that was capable of producing these kinds of results but to see it happen was incredible.’’

Canada wins two gold and a silver at world barefoot water skiing championships

August 13, 2010

BRANDENBURG, Germany – Don Schwartz of Whistler, B.C., won the gold medal in men’s tricks, Caitlin Rowland of Calgary was the winner in women’s slalom and Gordie Croteau of Sudbury, Ont., added a silver men’s slalom on Friday at the world barefoot water skiing championships.

The world titles were a first for Schwartz and Rowland.

“It’s pretty amazing,” said Schwartz, competing at his third worlds. “It makes me appreciate all the hard work and effort I’ve put in over the last few years. Consistency in my runs over the last three days was the key. I had new tricks this year, a few big moves and they really worked well for me.”

Rowland, 17, broke the Canadian record for the victory.

“I’m pretty pumped about it,” said Rowland. “I’ve been able to be in Florida during the winter and that has really helped my training, I’m able to get out there everyday. Being on the podium and hearing the Canadian anthem played was the big highlight for me.”

For Croteau it was his 10th career world championship medal and he nearly didn’t make it to the podium. In the semis he won a tie breaking run by 0.1 points before finishing second in the final. The winner of the competition broke the world record for gold.

“You always want gold, but sometimes it doesn’t work out that way,” said Croteau, with two gold, three silver and five bronze in world championship competition in his career. “Going into these championships I had to deal with a few injuries which hampered things a little. But at the worlds you go out there and give it your all.”

More finals are set for Saturday.

WAKESTOCK - WORLD'S LARGEST WAKEBOARD FESTIVAL WRAPS WITH HUGE CROWDS & GREAT CANADIAN FINISHES!

Aug 11, 2010

Canada: Wakestock Weekend in Collingwood, presented by Monster Energy, rocked with some of the biggest Saturday afternoon crowds of it's storied 13 year history! Driven by it's unique festival format bringing together the world's top wakeboarders, skateboarders, and bands mixed with an action sports expo, bikinis and evening after-parties, Wakestock proved to as popular as ever in it's second year at the new Millennium Park venue, Collingwood, Canada. Band highlights included powerful performance by Public Enemy, Alexisonfire and Crash Kings!

While Sunday's weather was not as picture perfect as Saturday and more than a few "Wakestockers" were slow getting to the park after a big night out, by Sunday afternoon the spectator stands were full for the WWA World Series wakeboard finals. And it what an incredible finals to see stacked with the world's very best!

When the spray settled three new names had been added to the prestigious list of Wakestock Champions taking the coveted Wakestock belts and prize money: Bob Soven - Pro Wakeboard ; Grant Roberts - Pro Wakeskate; Melissa Marquardt - Pro Women!

While the water conditions for the finals weren't as perfect as for the qualifying rounds the day before, that didn't stop some of the best wakeboarders and wakeskaters in the world from stepping up their game. With a $25,000 prize purse, WWA World Series points and the coveted Wakestock belts on the line, there was still plenty of riding left to be done.

The action got under way with the Billabong Pro Women's Wakeboard finals early. Despite a morning rainsquall, the 8 women finals kept rolling and in the end it was American Melissa Marquardt walking away with the victory, followed by Canadians Erika Langman and Leslie Sparkes. "I'm looking forward to next year - the crowds at Wakestock are sick!" reflected Marquardt on her inaugural Wakestock experience.

Up next was the 6 man final for the Malibu Boats Pro Wakeskate Championships, presented by Monster Energy and Billabong. Leading the way into the final round were past Wakestock wakeskate champs Stuart Shinn and Brian Grubb. They were joined by last year's runner up, Grant Roberts, James Balzer, Yan Lecomte and Dan Brown. They had the best water conditions of the day allowing for some incredibly tech trick to be thrown down. Roberts laid down a big run that was highlighted by a wake-to-wake Front Bigspin for his last trick. In the end, it was Roberts walking away with his first ever pro win and the prestigious Wakestock belt!

"The weekend was rad," claimed Roberts. "It was a super good vibe, good music and good riding. It's sick to see so many people come out for a wake event. Definitely one of the most fun wake events of the year for sure. And I'm stoked to get my first pro win here."

Up next was the Billabong Pro Wakeboard Championship which saw a 16 man quarter-final cut down to an 8 man semi-final. While the wind picked up during the heats making for tough riding conditions, everyone still threw down solid runs. Advancing through were past Wakestock champs Aaron Rathy (defending), Phil Soven, Andrew Adkison, plus Trevor Hansen, Shawn Watson, Olivier Derome and Austin Hair.

The field was then cut in half for the 4 man final and it was comprised of the some of the biggest names in the sport: Phillip Soven, the WWA World Series overall points leader, Aaron Rathy, the defending Wakestock and World Champion, Bob Soven, the current points leader for the King of Wake and Andrew Adkison, a former two-time World Champ. Bob Soven was first off the dock and took advantage, as the wind seemed to drop a little for his ride. In the end, it was Bob who prevailed in the challenging conditions to earn his second ever, professional victory, just ahead of Aaron Rathy, Phil Soven (older brother) and Andrew Adkison.

"I had a great weekend; I partied and danced a lot and I had a great roommate, Mr. Shane Bonifay," claimed Bob. "The contest went awesome, it was pretty windy in the finals but it was still fun. Last year I made finals and probably got the worst water, but this year was the opposite and I got the best water. In the end it allowed me to do what I came here for: to win and to dance."

With his third place showing, Phil Soven also moved one step closer to locking down the overall WWA World Series title.

As Chuck D of Public Enemy proclaimed at the end of their incredible sunset Wakestock performance - "Long live Wakestock!" See you next year!

Wakestock is presented by Monster Energy in association with Coors Light, Billabong, Malibu Boats in partnership with Xcel, Virgin Mobile, Blackberry, Schick, Gordon Bay Marine, Town & Country Marine, 102.1 the Edge, Dose.ca, SBC Skateboard Magazine and SBC Wakeboard Magazine. And supported by Ronix, O'Brien, Liquid Force, CWB, Hyperlite, Slingshot, Roswell and Kicker Audio.

Wakestock™ is owned and produced by SBC Events Inc, an independent Canadian production company specializing in action sport & youth lifestyle marketing, in association with SBC Media Inc., publisher of Canada's leading action sports magazines and websites. "Wakestock™", "Wakestock World Series™", "Wakestock Festival™" and "Wakestock Action Sports & Music Festival™" are trademarks of SBC Media Inc. in Canada, the United States and/or other countries.

Canadian water skier Ryan Dodd wins jump event at Malibu Open

Aug 9, 2009

MILWAUKEE – Ryan Dodd of Olds, Alta., won the gold medal this weekend in the jump event at the Malibu Open water skiing competition while world champion Whitney McClintock of Cambridge, Ont., added a bronze in women’s slalom.

With no world championships or Pan Am Games in 2010, the Malibu Open was one of the biggest international events this season for Canada’s top international water skiers.

Dodd, the second to last jumper in the final, soared 222 feet for one of the biggest victories of his career. He upset world record holder Freddy Krueger of the U.S.

" This was a very special win for me for many reasons. I got married in January to my amazing wife Breanne, and we have been working very hard with our ski school this summer. We have been focusing on Junior Development, and bringing new skiers into the sport all summer long. I have also realized how awesome my job is, and how lucky I am to travel the world, and represent my country. Winning one of the biggest and most exciting events of the year helps me to further appreciate the amazing sport I participate in. Check out www.ryandodd.com for more info on me."

‘’You could see Ryan was really focused and confident going into the final,’’ said McClintock. ‘’He was under a lot of pressure to put out there and he delivered an amazing jump. It was very exciting.’’

In women’s slalom, April Coble Eller of the U.S., defeated compatriot Regina Jacques in the head to head final. McClintock, the big individual star at last year’s world championships in Calgary, rebounded from a bad start in her final run to snare the bronze.

‘’I was really pleased with how I fought in that last round,’’ said McClintock. ‘’It’s not the result I wanted but I can’t be disappointed with my consistency this season. I’m doing what I need to be in the battle for the medals every time out.’’

Winnipeg’s Taryn Grant wins silver medal at world junior water skiing championships

August 8, 2010

SAN GERVASIO, Italy – Fifteen-year-old Taryn Grant of Winnipeg won the silver medal on Sunday with a personal best leap in women’s jump at the world junior water skiing championships.

Lauren Morgan of the U.S., took the gold medal soaring 43.9 metres, Grant followed at 42.0 and Makayla Haw of the U.S., was third at 41.1. Valérie Grenier of St-Isidore, Que., 13, was 19th and Chantal Singer of Toronto was 23rd.

‘’It’s a like a dream,’’ said Grant, competing at her second junior worlds. ‘’I was hoping this could happen.’’

There were still five skiers to go after Grant landed her jump. ‘’When I was sure to get a medal I was really happy, and then silver was even better. The experience I’ve gained has really helped me.’’

Singer was the top Canadian in both slalom and tricks placing eighth in both events. Grenier was 15th in slalom and 18th in tricks and Grant 17th in slalom and 28th in tricks. Grant was 11th overall, Singer 13th and Grenier 14th.

Jaret Bull of North Bay, Ont., was the top Canadian in men’s competition placing fourth in slalom. Mitchell Novlan of Paradise Hill, Sask., was ninth in jump, 20th in tricks and 23rd overall.

‘’Jared was right there in the money,’’ said Canadian national team coach Steve Bush. ‘’I was really impressed with him. His technique is just as good as anybody’s. He clears a couple of more buoys and he gets the silver.’’

In the overall team standings, Canada was seventh.

Derome brothers on podium, Malinoski wins event at Pro Tour wakeboard stop

Jul 26, 2010

COLORADO, Springs – Olivier Derome and Raphael Derome, from Coteau-du-Lac, Que., won bronze medals in the pro and junior divisions respectively this past weekend at the fourth stop on the Pro Tour wakeboard circuit.

In men’s pro wakeboard, Bob Soven of the U.S., placed first, Andrew Adkinson, also of the U.S., was second and Olivier Derome took bronze. Rusty Malinoski of Humboldt, Sask., and Chad Sharpe of Cloverdale,, B.C., were eliminated in the quarterfinals.

It was the second straight stop Malinoski was eliminated in the quarters after finishing second at the opening two stops.

With one stop remaining, Philip Soven of the U.S., Bob Soven’s older brother, remains first overall at 345 points, Harley Clifford of the U.S., is second at 330 and Malinoski third at 246.

In the junior final, Daniel Powers of the U.S., was first, Nick Galotifore of the U.S., second and Raphael Derome, the winner last month in Kentucky, third.

‘’There’s a small disappointment at not winning again, but it was a very tight competition,’’ said Raphael Derome. ‘’It was very hard to differentiate the top three performances. I thought I could have won or at least been second. But I’m pleased that I’m starting to show some consistency on the circuit.’’

Malinoski came back later on to win the Double Up contest and the $1,000 first place prize.

The final stop on the circuit is August 14 in Knoxville, Tennessee.

New WSWC Funds Development Position Created, Call for Applications

Jun 29, 2010

One of the key initiatives emanating from the Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada Strategic Plan is the creation of a new full time position, Director of Development. The role of the position is to increase and diversify revenue streams towards enhancing membership and the level of programming provided to participants from beginner to pro. The Director of Development will design, lead and execute the organization’s fund development initiatives to ensure annual revenue targets are met. The successful candidate will be responsible for new and exciting national level fundraising opportunities in areas such as special events, annual giving, corporate sponsorship, foundation grants and new government sources.

Crawford Connect, a search firm, has been enlisted to manage the national recruitment process. The job advertisement in French and English is posted at: http://www.crawfordconnect.com/jobs.php. Applications are welcomed! The ad includes specific application instructions.

Investing in our future!

Elections Conducted for WSWC Board of Directors under New Structure

Jun 29, 2010

In keeping with the By-law amendments that were approved at the February 2010 Congress, WSWC recently implemented several additional organizational changes that had been outlined in the Strategic Plan. Designed to increase organizational effectiveness, the national Board role and composition has been transformed. Under the previous structure, an Executive Board of nine elected members operated more as a 'functional' Board, whereby each person was elected to a specific portfolio (i.e. high performance, sport development, finance) that brought with it accountability and operational work. With the new structure, a new Board of Directors takes on a governance role, providing oversight, approving business plans, budgets and policies, and holding senior management within the WSWC national office accountable for performance. The new Board structure includes three representative roles: Athlete, Wakeboard and Provincial Presidents' representatives, and 6 to 8 At Large members who, by ideal design collectively possess skill sets and experiences in keys areas that lay ahead for the organization. All Board members' terms of office will be for one year, from the end of Annual Congress to the next. At an Extraordinary Congress on June 1, the following individuals were elected to the new Board for the balance of the 2010 term (until the November 12-14 Congress):

Athlete Representative - Richard Gray
Wakeboard Representative - Sean Fleming
Provincial Association Presidents' Representative - Jo-Anne Moore
At Large Members - Glenn Bowie
Peter Person
Paul Melnuk
Todd Johnson
Matt Rini
Barb March-Burwell
Michael Collins

At an upcoming Board meeting, the Board of Directors will elect from amongst its members a Chair of the Board.

Canada’s Raphael Derome wins junior event on Pro Wakeboard Tour

Jun 20, 2010

ELIZABETHTOWN, Kentucky- Raphael Derome of Coteau-du-Lac, Que., won the gold medal in the junior men’s competition this weekend at the third stop on the Pro Tour wakeboard circuit.

Derome tabulated 91.5 points in the final to finish ahead of two Americans: Steel Lafferty in second at 90.75 and Nick Galotifore in third at 80. Derome also placed first in his semifinal and quarterfinal heats. In the final all four riders laid down some impressive runs, but Derome’s Heel 9 off the double up helped him rise above the competition.

It’s awesome,” said Derome. “You work hard, plan out your run and to see it all pay off just feels great.”

Derome’s win now places him fourth overall in the standings with 213 points. Galotifore remains the Tour leader with 280 points.

In the men’s pro final, Harley Clifford was the victor with 90.00 points, Philip Soven of the U.S., was second at 85.83 and his brother Bob Soven third at 82.67. Kyle Rattray of Guelph, Ont., took fourth spot at 78.33.

Chad Sharpe of Cloverdale, B.C., was eliminated in the semifinal and Rusty Malinoski of Humboldt, Sask., runner-up at the opening two events was ousted in the quartefinals.

The fourth of six stops on the circuit is July 24 in Colorado Springs.

Canada’s Rusty Malinoski takes silver at Pro Wakeboard Tour

Jun 14, 2010

FORT WORTH, Texas – Rusty Malinoski of Humboldt, Sask., won his second silver medal this season on Pro Tour wakeboard circuit this weekend while Olivier Derome of Coteau-du-Lac, Que., was edged out for the bronze and placed fourth.

Philip Soven of the U.S., a two-time season champion, earned the gold with 81.67 points, Malinoski, also second at the season opening stop last month, followed at 73.33 equalling his best score of the day. Danny Harf of the U.S., was third at 67.50 and Derome followed at 63.33.

Malinoski, the 2008 world champion, won both his quarterfinal and semifinal heats to advance to the final six. In the final he successfully landed his biggest trick, a 1080 (three full rotations in the air), but fell on his handle pass attempting a switch toe 900 (a two and half rotation spin).

"It went well and I’m feeling really confident and consistent,” said Malinoski, the first rider to land the 1080 last year. “To land another 1080 makes it a successful weekend, I haven’t missed it this season. The switch toe 900 has also been a consistent move for me this season. It’s a hard road to get to the finals and it’s pretty awesome to be there every week. I’m just going to stick to the game plan and go for it next week.”

Derome equalled his career best performance on the Tour.

“It was long weekend for me going through the qualifications and playoff rounds leading up to the final,” said Derome, who was fourth at the same stop last season. “The highlight for me was not falling in the three playoff rounds (quarterfinals, semis and final).”

Kyle Rattray of Guelph, Ont., was eliminated in the quarterfinals.

Sudden Passing of Renowned Canadian Coach, John McCammon

Jun 11, 2010

Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada and Water Ski and Wakeboard British Columbia are saddened to relay news of the sudden passing of John McCammon. John died of an apparent heart attack on June 9th at his Florida residence.

John was recognized as one of Canada's top water ski coaches, and one of the strongest supporters and builders of water ski's national coaching certification program. Over the years he had served as National Development Team Coach, BC Provincial Team coach, and ran a longtime ski school through which he helped guide many athletes towards achieving their skiing goals. Most recently he was a member of the BC Executive Board and co-chair of the organizing committee for the 2010 Canadian Water Ski Championships. His passion for athlete development was reflected in his countless contributions to authoring many pieces of the organization's coach manuals, delivering coaching courses and helping create a pathway for participants through development of a national long term athlete development model.

His pride and joy, though, was his daughter, Maddison (Maddie), who tragically but seemingly consistent with the deep bond they shared, was on the scene and who helped initiate resuscitation attempts. Not surprisingly, Maddie has grown a similar passion for the sport, and at the age of 17 has already risen to status on Canada's Development Water Ski Team.

The BC and extended Canadian water ski community extends its deepest condolences to Maddie and the McCammon family.

Further information on arrangements and a pending Trust Fund for Maddie will be communicated once known.

Golden performance for Canada’s Whitney McClintock at Masters water skiing tournament

May 30, 2010

Canadian star Jaret Llewellyn suffers knee injury

PINE MOUNTAIN, Georgia – World champion Whitney McClintock of Cambridge, Ont., won the gold medal Sunday in the women’s tricks event and added a bronze in slalom at the Masters water skiing tournament.

There was some bad news for the Canadian team however as nine-time world champion Jaret Llewellyn of Innisfail, Alta., suffered a serious knee injury upon landing a jump in Saturday’s preliminary round.

In women’s tricks, McClintock totalled 8,340 points for the victory. Clementine Lucine of France was second at 7,250 and Mandy Nightingale of the U.S., third at 6,890.

“Anytime you get over 8,000 points you can’t be upset with that,” said McClintock, also the under-21 world champ last year. “I skied the way I know how to. I did one trick at a time and I was consistent and focused the whole time. When my score appeared I knew it was good but beatable by Clem but she fell on her last pass.”

In women’s slalom, Regina Jacquess led the U.S., to a 1-2 finish with McClintock earning the bronze.

There were two more podium performances for Canada.

In men’s wakeboard, Rusty Malinoski of Humboldt, Sask., finished in between the Soven brothers of the U.S. Philip Soven took the gold with 80.00 points, Malinoski followed closely at 78.53 and Bob Soven was third at 71.67.

“I felt I should have won but two of the three judges didn’t agree,” said Malinoski, the 2008 world champion. “I was really hopeful to get my first win this season. It’s a bit disappointing not to have a victory so far but right now I’m pleased with the consistency, it’s better than not being in the final at all.”

Finally in jump, Freddy Krueger collected another gold for the U.S., soaring 70.2 metres with Thomas Asher of Britain second at 69.5 and Ryan Dodd of Olds, Alta., third at 68.6.

“I was right in there I just needed two more feet on my third jump to get first,” said Dodd. “I just tried to make a couple of adjustments and I just lost it at the last second. I hate it when I feel I can do it and I don’t.”

Llewellyn led after the preliminaries clearing 220 feet on Saturday. However doctors told him that he had torn his ACL on his left knee and could be out of action for as long as six months.

“When I landed the right ski just kept on going and the left one stopped,” said Llewellyn, 39. “Coming off the ramp I was happy with the set up and I unfortunaly I landed on a little wave. I was excited about this season and eager to show everybody I was ready.

“My hope is to get back before the end of season.”

Dodd was also fourth in tricks.

NEW - Wakesports Canada E-Zine!

May 28, 2010

Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada, the national sport governing body for towed water sports, would like to invite its members and all water sport enthusiasts to view the first issue of WakeSports Canada E-Zine - The Official E-Magazine of Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada.

By going on-line we're able to give readers an amazing line-up of news, visually appealing images and videos, event info, how-to's from respected experts, cool stuff and human interest stories. It's truly inspiring to learn how many great Canadian stories are out there, just waiting to be told. This E-Zine will be created and circulated four times per year (future issues in July, September and November) featuring the most recent, up to date results, biographies, interviews and training tips from Canada's best all just a click away!

If you are not receiving this directly from Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada or know of others who want to join in on this informative, entertaining and interactive E-Zine, all that's needed is to send us email addresses to info@waterski-wakeboard.ca and express interest in receiving WakeSports Canada E-Zine. Or visit HERE to sign yourself up!

To read the first issue, selected articles or cover to cover, please click HERE.

Once you've read the first issue please take the time to let us know what you thought of the first issue of WakeSports Canada E-Zine by filling out our short (2 minutes!) on-line survey! Please visit the following link to complete the survey: in English ou en francais.

We look forward to hearing from you and to sharing information about the wonderful world of water skiing, wakeboarding and towed water sports in a timely and environmentally friendly manner!

Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada Announces the 2010 Canadian Wakeboard Championships

May 12, 2010

Ottawa, Ontario (May 11, 2010) -- Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada (WSWC) is pleased to announce details for its 2010 Canadian Wakeboard Championships. The 14th edition of the Championships will be held from August 26 to 29, 2010 at renowned Shalom Park in Leduc (just outside Edmonton), Alberta.

The national titles that will be contested by an estimated 100+ riders include Pro and Open Men and Women, Wakeskate, Sliders and all wakeboard age categories as outlined in the WSWC Wakeboard Rule Book.

WSWC's Wakeboard Committee will be serving as the Organizing Committee for this year's event. Shawn Gratzfeld, Chair of the Wakeboard Committee and now the Organizing Committee is excited to be the driving force behind the 2010 Canadian Wakeboard Championships. "This gives us a chance to unite our Wakeboard Committee and deliver a quality National Championships that will showcase our Canadian wakeboarding talent."

Riders will be pleased to know that Correct Craft, manufacturer of the renowned line of Nautiques competition towboats, has come on board as a presenting sponsor. Competitors at the Canadian Wakeboard Championships will ride exclusively behind the legendary Super Air Nautique that creates the industry's best wake.

The 2010 Canadian Wakeboard Championships will take place at the well-tested purpose built site, Shalom Park, which is guaranteed to offer superb riding conditions. The venue has previously played host to the Canadian Wakeboard Championships, in 2006 and the very first such nationals in 1997, as well as to multiple national and international events, including a world championship, three international competitions, no less than 12 different national championships in water ski, barefoot wakeboard and adaptive, and 115 WSWC sanctioned competitions.

The 2010 nationals offer a superb combination -- great organizers, great riding conditions, Canada's most talented riders pulled by the best boats. Don't miss out on the event of the summer, make your plans now!

Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada is the national organization for towed water sports in Canada, with more than 31,000 registered members, and a legacy of success at the international level, including 122 total medals in world water ski and wakeboard championships including 47 world championship gold medals and 27 Pan Am Games medals. # # #

For more information about Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada visit www.waterski-wakeboard.ca, or contact:
Andrew Jarvis
Events/Marketing Director
Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada
(613) 526-0685 x109
Email: andrew@waterski-wakeboard.ca

Canadian Ryan Dodd narrowly edged out for bronze at Moomba Masters

Mar 8, 2010

MELBOURNE, Australia – Ryan Dodd of Olds, Alta., came within three centimetres of a bronze medal in men’s jump on Monday at the 50th Moomba Masters water skiing competition but settled for fourth place for Canada’s best result of the competition.

Two British skiers upset world record holder Freddy Krueger of the U.S., for gold and silver in jump. Damien Sharman won a jump-off for the gold over his compatriot Thomas Asher soaring 66.5 metres for the gold. Asher went 63.5 metres and took the silver.

The British pair had tied for first in regulation at 64.7 metres with Krueger third at 64.1 just ahead of Dodd, last year’s bronze medallist, in fourth at 63.8. Dodd was third in the semifinal behind Krueger and Sharman. In the semi, Krueger leaped a tournament best 69.3 metres.

Canadian start Jaret Llewellyn did not travel to Australia due to an arm injury. Llewellyn was the defending champion and is nicknamed the King of the Moomba for his consistent success at this event.

Dodd was also eighth in tricks on Monday.

In women’s slalom, Breanne Dodd of Olds, Alta., and Jenna Mielzynski of Belfountain, Ont., were eliminated in the semifinals ranking 10th and 12th respectively. Mielzynski was also 12th in tricks qualifying and did not advance.

In junior competition, Matthew Weninger of Saskatoon was fourth in jump and 13th in slalom.

Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada names Hall of Fame inductees

February 22, 2010

OTTAWA – Waterski and Wakeboard Canada announced its five inductees into its Hall of Fame this past weekend. They are the late Greg Athans of Kelowna, B.C., Lisa Long of Clarksburg, Ont., and her late father Wally Sokolowski, Louis Simard of Montreal and Rob Bocock of Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue, Que.

Athans came from one of Canada’s most successful sporting families. His father George was an Olympic diver, his mother a world record holding synchronized swimmer while his brothers George Jr., and Gary were on the national water skiing and alpine skiing teams respectively. Greg Athans won 15 national water skiing titles and was also a star in freestyle skiing. He was the first athlete to win gold at both a summer and winter Canada Games.

“It’s a really nice reminder of all his success,” said George Athans Jr. “We’re all involved in sport because we enjoyed it but it’s always nice to be recognized for your achievements. Greg had the single-minded ability to pursue his goals and to achieve whatever he wanted regardless of the obstacles. It was amazing to see and he leaves quite a legacy.”

Lisa Long (formerly Sokolowski) was one of Canada’s top water skiers in the late 1970’s and early 1980’s. She was a national team member from 1978 to 1982 and compiled numerous record performances. The overall champion at the 1975 Canada Games she also won nine national titles and held Canadian juvenile records in slalom and tricks.

“I’m surprised but very honoured,” said Long. “The sport really formed who I am. It gave me so many wonderful experiences at a young age. I met wonderful people and travelled extensively. I always carried those experiences with me.”

Louis Simard is currently president of the Federation quebecoise de ski nautique. Over his 40+ years in the sport he has been involved in all aspects including founding clubs, organizing national championships and judging. He is still a record breaking competitor recently setting national marks for his age group in barefoot water skiing for slalom and endurance.

“It’s a great honour and accomplishment to be inducted,” said Simard. “There are numerous highlights for me. The sport allowed me to meet people from around the world who shared the same passion for water skiing as I did. I was able to witness some great athletic performances throughout the years especially by our Canadian athletes through my involvement in the sport.’’

Rob Bocock made his mark in numerous facets of the sport. As a competitor he won 12 national titles between 1963 and 1993 and was a national team and world championship team member. He was also the first Canadian to earn more than 2,000 points for a tricks routine. As an administrator he was director of the Canadian Water Ski Association, a national team coach and Water Ski Canada’s chief boat driver in the 1970’s at which time he also became involved in distributing and supplying boats.

“It’s nice to be recognized after being involved in the sport for so man years,’’ said Bocock. ‘’I enjoyed my competitive career and then I became interested in the mechanical and driving side of it with the boats. It required a lot of time commitment and long hours on the road but it was fun.’’

Wally Sokolowski, Lisa’s father, played a key role in the development of water skiing in the 1940’s and 1950’s. He was the Ontario Water Ski Association’s executive director from 1971 to 1995, operated clubs in Welland and Claireville and built jumps and designed slalom courses across the province.

“He was a great man and contributed so much to water skiing,” said his daughter Lisa. “What I remember most is his total commitment to seeing water skiing evolve. He wanted it to stay strong and his passion for the sport was infectious. To be inducted at the same time as him is really special.”

McClintock, Llewellyn, Rathy, Leugner named Waterski and Wakeboard Canada’s athletes of the year

February 22, 2010

OTTAWA- World champions Whitney McClintock of Cambridge, Ont., and Aaron Rathy of Nanaimo, B.C., as well as Jaret Llewellyn of Innisfail, Alta., and Ashley Leugner of Regina were named Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada’s athletes of the year for 2009.

McClintock was named the Female Water Skier of the Year. She won the overall title, gold in slalom and tricks and helped Canada to team gold at the world championships in Calgary this past August. A few weeks later, she took the overall crown, gold in tricks and slalom and silver in jump at the under-21 worlds in Mexico. She was named the International Water Skiing Federation’s female athlete of the year a few weeks ago.

“I ate, slept and breathed water skiing in 2009,” said McClintock, 22. “I learned that hard work really pays off and that anything is possible. You can never give up. That extra dedication to training is what made the difference,”

Llewellyn received Male Water Skier of the Year honours. The 39-year-old legend continued to maintain himself among the top in his sport earning a silver in jump and third overall at the Calgary worlds. In addition he captured a handful of medals of several major international events including victories at the Ukraine Open and Moomba Masters in Australia.

“I have to credit a lot of my success to the Canadian program,” said Llewellyn, who would like to compete up until the 2015 Pan Am Games in Toronto. “The off-water training program in particular has kept me going this long. Our sports science program is probably among the best in the world.”

Rathy took the Male Wakeboarder of the Year. He won the gold medal at the World Wakeboard Association’s world championships and topped the standings on the King of Wake circuit with two victories, two second place finishes and a third on the five-stop tour.

Leugner capped a solid season with a silver at the International Water Ski Federation’s world championships and was named the Female Wakeboarder of the Year.

Nicole Blackmore of Aldergrove, B.C., was named the Barefooter of the Year earning her third consecutive national barefoot water skiing title while Pete Andrews of Saskatoon was named the Adaptive Athlete of the Year. He won gold in jump and placed third overall at the Adaptive World Championships.

“It’s pretty exciting to win the award,” said Blackmore, 19, a science student at the University of Calgary. “The success is just going to push me even more. The turning point for me was having so much success at nationals.”

Andrews won Canada’s first ever gold medal at the disabled world water skiing championships in September.

‘’It’s very gratifying to achieve your goal,’’ said Andrews, who works as an exercise therapist. ‘’It was a great team effort with my coach and all the others who supported me.’’

At the junior level, Taryn Grant of Winnipeg was named the Junior Water Skier of the Year (national champion and ninth at junior worlds) , Mark McMorris of Regina the Junior Wakeboarder of the Year (national champion) and Caitlyn Rowland of Calgary the Junior Barefooter of the Year (third at junior worlds, open world team member).

Also honoured were Matt Rini and Steve Bush as Coaches of the Year for leading Canada to the team gold and six medals at the world water skiing championships.

Russ Dickson was named Official of the Year for his work at the Calgary worlds and numerous other events. Mike Collombin of Calgary received the Volunteer of the Year Award for his contribution to the organization of the Calgary worlds over the past three years.

Paul Melnuk received the President’s Award for his outstanding leadership and contributions to water skiing.