That’s where Spinal Cord Injury Ontario (SCIO) steps in, turning the impossible into reality with our annual Adaptive Waterski event. Held on August 16th, this year’s event was no exception, offering participants a day filled with excitement, camaraderie, and newfound independence.
Hosted as a free “Try It Day” for SCIO members, the event welcomed a record 28 skiers, including national ski team members training for the upcoming championships. The overwhelming response forced organizers to close registration after a week, leading to a waitlist. Organizer Jake Thomas and his crew did their best to give as many people as possible the opportunity, and Peer Support Manager Rick Watters and several of the Peer Support team were on hand to assist and experience it themselves.
You don’t need any prior experience to give it a try. The equipment is adjustable, and we have experienced side skiers who ensure the safety of everyone in and on the water. It’s a worthwhile experience.
The event’s success is a testament to the incredible support from volunteers and community partners. “Jake and his amazing team of volunteers were outstanding, providing support both on and off the water,” Rick added. Paul Roberts, the owner of the lake, boat, and equipment, generously made his venue available to SCIO, and national waterski team members offered invaluable peer support. “It was a true team effort, and I’m deeply grateful to everyone involved,” said Rick.
Participants had nothing but praise for the experience, many expressing exhilaration and a renewed sense of freedom. “Being on top of the water was amazing,” one participant shared. “The thrill of doing something different, something I never thought I’d be able to do, was incredible.” Others echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of such events in making waterskiing accessible.
“With the help of our community partners, sponsors, and the dedicated staff and volunteers from SCIO, I’d love to see this event continue well into the future,” Rick said.
Jake, one of the event’s long-time organizers and a competitive waterskier both pre- and post-injury, explained, “When I first waterskied post-injury, it was amazing to be able to check my wheelchair at the dock and be free as a bird out on the water, just like I used to be. That freedom is something every newly injured person should experience to recognize that life is not over; it’s just different.”
Many first-time participants share this sentiment, often amazed by the feeling of liberation on the water. “Being in the water is a freeing, zero-gravity sensation,” Jake noted. One of the skiers at this year’s event sat in the water for 30 minutes after her turn, bobbing and floating around the lake.
The message is clear for those who have never tried waterskiing: “You don’t need any prior experience to give it a try. The equipment is adjustable, and we have experienced side skiers who ensure the safety of everyone in and on the water. It’s a worthwhile experience.”
Special thanks go out to Paul Roberts for the use of his boats and lake, as well as to Team Canada coaches Dave Wassill, Lisa Williams, and Rae-Lee Colcleugh, along with helpers Jeff Barnes, Nate Barnes, Kelly Picard, Christy Demmig, Bodie Dimmig, and Carrie Thomas.
“It’s been great to continue playing and working as I did before my spinal cord injury,” Jake reflected, a testament to the resilience and spirit that the Adaptive Waterski Day aims to inspire in all who participate.
Resources are available for those interested in waterskiing through Water Ski Wakeboard Ontario (wswo.ca).
Zina Atkinson | Fall/Winter 2024
