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Pending world record at the Malibu Open behind the @malibuboats 5 @ 41!!!!

Jaquess Sets World Slalom Record at Malibu Open

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Jaquess sets pending world slalom record at Malibu Open

Pending world record at the Malibu Open behind the @malibuboats 5 @ 41!!!!

Pending world record at the Malibu Open behind the @malibuboats 5 @ 41!!!! (image: @regina_jaquess)

By Jack Burden

In a groundbreaking performance at the Malibu Open in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Regina Jaquess solidified her status as one of the greatest women’s slalomers of all time by setting a new pending world slalom record of 5 at 10.25 meters (41‘ off). The professional tournament, boasting over two decades of history, returned to LymanLand in Alabama, the home site of the University of Alabama Water Ski Team, for the second consecutive year.

In an interview following her record-breaking performance, Jaquess shared her elation and gratitude, saying, “Oh my gosh, I don’t even know what to say, I’m shaking. I think getting out of two this morning unlocked a little bit of mental pressure because it was my best score, I haven’t gotten a three since my ACL [surgery] so thank you Andrews Sports [Medicine] for getting me back together … This is unbelievable and to do it at the Malibu Open behind Malibu Boats … I got mental, I should have run it … it felt so amazing.”

Jaquess, who played a significant role in organizing this year’s Malibu Open, spoke about the challenges of both competing and running the event. Despite the demanding nature of organizing such a major event, she emphasized her love for it and how it allows Malibu Boats to stay connected with the sport of water skiing. She also acknowledged the mental preparation required to achieve peak performance while juggling event management responsibilities.

Throughout the qualifying rounds on Friday, exceptional performances were witnessed across all events. Notably, all six women ran the 11.25-meter line (38′ off) in at least one round, while eight men conquered the 10.75-meter line (39.5′ off). The jump event also witnessed a display of remarkable talent, with seven athletes achieving jump scores exceeding 220 feet (67 meters).

However, amidst the achievements, concern emerged regarding the participation of female athletes. Despite an impressive prize purse of $15,200 for women’s slalom, one of the largest in the sport, only six women participated in the tournament. The situation was even more concerning in women’s jump, where only four athletes entered, and one among them had a personal best below 40 meters. Water skiing has taken significant steps in recent years towards narrowing the gender pay gap and providing equal prize money for both men and women. Nevertheless, given the limited support from female participants, it may become challenging for organizers to maintain the current prize money structure or even include women’s events in the future.

Jaquess’ record was officially approved by the IWWF on October 27th, 2023.

Dorien Llewellyn "Feels good to be back"

Injury Update: Dorien Llewellyn Makes Return to Practice, Looks Sharp on His Slalom Ski

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Injury update: Dorien Llewellyn makes return to practice, looks sharp on his slalom ski

Feels good to be back (image: @dorienllewellyn)

By Jack Burden

Dorien Llewellyn made his return to training at Sunset Lakes over the weekend as he continues his recovery from an ankle injury that sidelined him since June of this year.

A twisted ankle during a jump crash at the LA Night Jam on June 10 left Llewellyn with two torn ligaments and bone fragments in his right foot. This injury forced him to miss the entire 2023 WWS Overall Tour and all subsequent jump events on the Waterski Pro Tour.

Instead of competing, Llewellyn spent the summer undergoing intensive rehab at the Red Bull Athlete Performance Center in Austria. Unfortunately, this injury was part of a series of setbacks he faced this year, which also caused him to miss the U.S. Masters earlier in the season.

Llewellyn, the current world trick champion and former world overall record holder, plays a crucial role on Team Canada’s squad for the upcoming World Championships, where they aim to secure their third consecutive team title. With only six skiers on the squad, having at least two world-class overall skiers is essential to ensure depth in all three events. Canada’s success over the past three decades has been built on skiers like the Llewellyns (Kreg, Jaret, and later Dorien) and the McClintocks (Judy and Whitney), who have excelled across all three events.

In contrast, the U.S. has faced challenges in the team competition despite having some of the most dominant specialists in the sport, including Freddy Krueger, Nate Smith, Anna Gay, and Erika Lang. While they have an all time great in Regina Jaquess on the women’s side, the U.S. has not claimed a medal in men’s overall since Jimmy Siemers won his last world title in 2005.

Canada received encouraging signs as Llewellyn tackled the slalom course at close to 100 percent in training just four weeks before the World Championships. To defend their title, they will rely on him returning to near-full fitness by the start of the event.

Ankle Woes Pause Waterski Pro Cole McCormick's Season

Injury Update: Ankle Woes Pause Rising Star Cole McCormick’s Season

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Injury update: Ankle woes pause rising star Cole McCormick’s season

Ankle Woes Pause Waterski Pro Cole McCormick's Season

Image: @johnnyofdeepcove

By Jack Burden

Canadian slalom skier Cole McCormick, among the top-10 finishers in the first two seasons of the Waterski Pro Tour, finds himself on the sidelines this spring due to a bone bruise on the top of his talus bone in his right ankle joint – his back foot for slalom. The injury has compelled him to take a hiatus from skiing for approximately seven weeks to facilitate the healing process.

Expressing his frustration with the situation, McCormick shared, “Injuries suck. Not skiing for almost 7 weeks during one of the busiest parts of the ski season sucks. Watching the Masters qualifiers from shore, thinking to myself ‘I should be there’ or ‘I could have done that’ sucks. Missing out on the Masters this year stings a little extra.”

McCormick, who grew up idolizing waterski legends and now competes against some of them, highlighted the emotional weight of not being able to contribute to the inspiration of aspiring skiers this year. Reflecting on the missed opportunity to compete against the world’s best, he noted, “I grew up watching waterski legends and even some of the very friends I now ski against set records and win titles in some of the most challenging conditions. They would always inspire me at the beginning of my ski season and give me something to strive towards as a Junior coming up the ranks. So not being able to be a part of someone else’s inspiration this year and missing out on competing against the best in the world definitely feels pretty bad…”

Despite the setback, McCormick remains optimistic and determined, stating, “BUT I can promise… I WILL BE BACK! One positive of this whole experience: it’s made me beyond motivated to come back stronger and better than before…” The setback may be a temporary pause, but McCormick’s resolve to return stronger indicates that his journey in the world of professional water skiing is far from over.

World Record Approved! 11,360 points

Lang Breaks World Trick Record as Masters Invitations are Finalized

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Erika Lang sets a pending world record as Master’s invitations are finalized

World Record Approved! 11,360 points

Image: Nautique

By Jack Burden

Erika Lang has surpassed her own world trick record during the Masters Qualifying Series Event hosted at Sunset Lakes in Groveland, Florida. Lang achieved a score of 11,360 points, surpassing her previous record of 11,260 points set in October 2019.

This marks the sixth time the Arizona native has broken the world trick record since her initial record in 2013 at 17 years old. She has now broken the world trick record more times than any other female, surpassing both Natalia Rumjantseva and Anna Maria Carrasco, who each achieved it five times. As the second woman to trick 10,000 points and the first and only to exceed 11,000 points, she has elevated women’s tricking to new heights over the last decade.

The final Masters Qualifying Series Events, featuring several top water skiers looking to qualify for the 2023 Masters, provided a low-pressure environment for Lang. Already qualified as the defending Masters champion, she seized the opportunity to chase a record.

In the Women’s Trick event over the weekend, Paige Rini, Kennedy Hansen, Aliaksandra Danisheuskaya, and Regina Jaquess secured their spots for the Masters. In Men’s Trick, Pablo Font, Edoardo Marenzi, and Tanguy Dailland secured their places. Font, the cousin of world record holder Pato, achieved a score of 11,060 points to qualify, marking his second time over 11,000.

Agustina Varas, Regina Jaquess, Kennedy Hansen, and Paige Rini qualified in the Women’s Jump event. Meanwhile, Jack Critchley, Louis Duplan-Fribourg, and Rodrigo Miranda qualified in the Men’s Jump event with distances of 67.5 meters (221 feet), 67.4 meters (221 feet), and 64 meters (210 feet) respectively.

The Women’s Slalom event saw Jaimee Bull, Neilly Ross, and Brie Carter qualify, each running 11.25 meters (38’ off) to punch their tickets. In Men’s Slalom, there was a five-way tie with 3 buoys at 10.25 meters (41’ off), requiring a runoff for the last four spots. Ultimately, Thomas Degasperi, Adam Sedlmajer, Sacha Descuns, and Jonathan Travers secured their qualification.

These athletes will join the previously qualified participants who earned their spots at the first two Masters Qualifying Events or through winning either the 2022 Masters, 2022 Botaski Pro Am, 2022 California ProAm, or 2023 Moomba Masters.

All eyes now turn to the 63rd Masters Waterski and Wakeboard Tournament, taking place Memorial Day Weekend from Friday, May 26, to Sunday, May 28.

Update: Lang’s world record was officially ratified by the IWWF on June 23, 2023.

Controversial slalom skier Frederick Winter on the start dock at the Masters

Winter Banned from the Masters for Unsportsmanlike Conduct

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Winter Banned from the Masters for Unsportsmanlike Conduct

The Nautique Masters Water Ski & Wakeboard Tournament

Image: Masters Water Ski & Wakeboard Tournament

By Jack Burden

The Masters water ski tournament, one of the most prestigious events in the sport, has been embroiled in controversy after a top skier and former champion, Freddie Winter, was banned from competing this year. The decision has sparked intense debate among fans, athletes, and experts with opinions divided on the severity of the punishment and whether it was justified.

Winter’s suspension stems from an incident involving alleged unsportsmanlike conduct and intimidation of officials during the 2022 Masters. On his 10.75m (39.5′ off) pass, Winter was given a score of 5 by the tower judges and 6 by the boat judge. The boat camera did not track the skier as he approached six ball, so no video review was available. After his score was confirmed, Winter protested the judging decision and was seen discussing the outcome with chief judge, Felipe Leal, which is when the alleged misconduct is said to have taken place.

Neither Winter nor the Masters organization have commented publicly on the specifics of the alleged misconduct. However, Winter recently spoke on the TWBC podcast about the ban, which includes the 2023 Masters and both Masters Qualifying Series Events.

Critics argue that the ban on Winter for the following year is excessive and disproportionate to the offense committed. They question whether the decision was influenced by sponsorship considerations, suggesting that if Winter had been sponsored by Nautique, the tournament organizer, a different outcome might have occurred. The alleged link between sponsorship and the ban has raised concerns about the integrity of the competition.

Supporters of Winter point out that his passion and intensity on the water bring excitement and entertainment to the sport, comparing it to the fiery personalities of tennis legends John McEnroe and Jimmy Connors. One could argue that such passion attracts more viewers and should be celebrated rather than punished.

However, it is crucial for athletes to recognize the responsibility they hold as role models for children. Unsportsmanlike conduct can set a negative example for impressionable young minds. It is also important to remember that the judges who officiate these competitions are volunteers, dedicating their time and expertise to ensure fairness and accuracy. In other sports, it is common for athletes to face suspensions for unsportsmanlike behavior. Such disciplinary actions not only serve as a reminder of the importance of respectful conduct but also contribute to fostering a positive and inclusive sporting environment.

The controversy surrounding Winter’s ban has touched on broader trends in the sport, including the changing face of the Masters event and the declining interest among younger generations. Some fans have expressed their disappointment, questioning whether they will watch the event this year. They argue that the absence of one of the top skiers in the world diminishes the quality and prestige of the competition.

As the controversy continues to unfold, the Masters tournament faces the challenge of restoring confidence in their brand as one of the most prestigious events in the sport.

See below for footage of Winter reacting to the judges’ call.

Update (3/26/2024): The original version of this article alleged that Winter left “the pavilion at Robin Lake under the supervision of Callaway Gardens security.” We have not been able to substantiate this claim and therefore have removed it.

Patricio Font set a pending world trick record

Font Sets New Pending World Trick Record

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Font Sets New Pending World Trick Record

Patricio Font set a pending world trick record

Image: @neilly.ross

By Jack Burden

Patricio Font has surpassed his own world trick record during the Masters Qualifying Series Event hosted at the Drew Ross Ski Academy in Orlando, Florida. Font achieved a score of 12,690 points, beating his previous record of 12,590 points set in October 2022.

Font’s accomplishment highlights the ever-evolving nature of trick skiing as athletes continue to push boundaries. Before Font broke the record last year, it had been the longest-standing record in three-event waterskiing, remaining unbroken since 2011.

The first of the three Masters Qualifying Series Events, attracting top-tier skiing talent looking to qualify for the 2023 Masters, provided the ideal platform for Font, already qualified as the defending Masters champion, to chase a big score. With his characteristic speed, Font showcased his diverse repertoire of tricks on his way to the world record mark.

We now await the official confirmation of Font’s new record, which will need to be reviewed by a panel of judges appointed by the IWWF tournament council for approval.

Meanwhile in the junior men’s division, Martin Labra set a pending under 17 world trick record of 12,310 points. Notably his toe run exceeded Font’s record run by 5,400 points to 5,130, a sign there may still be room to extend the record by Font.

Also in Men’s Trick over the weekend, Adam Pickos and Louis Duplan-Fribourg secured their spots to the Masters. Pickos achieved a score of 11,870 points, while Duplan-Fribourg followed with 11,300 points, achieving qualification with a 5th place finish because Jake Abelson and Mattias Gonzalez are competing in the Junior Masters. In Women’s Trick, Neilly Ross and Giannina Bonnemann Mechler also secured their places with scores of 10,290 and 9,930.

Taylor Garcia and Conley Pinette qualified in the Men’s Jump event with distances of 67.9 meters (223 feet) and 65.9 meters (216 feet). Hanna Straltsova and Aliaksandra Danisheuskaya, who are both skiing under the USA banner to avoid IWWF restrictions on Russian and Belarusian competitors, secured their spots with 57.1 meters (187 feet) and 52.1 meters (171 feet). Giannina Bonnemann Mechler and Valentina Gonzalez also qualified with their top four finishes.

The Men’s Slalom event saw Will Asher, Dane Mechler, and Robert Pigozzi qualify. Asher completed 5 buoys at 10.25 meters (41′ off), while Mechler achieved 4 buoys at the same line length. In Women’s Slalom, Allie Nicholson top scored with 3.5 buoys at 10.75 meters (39.5′ off). Paige Rini and Luisa Jaramillo also secured their qualification with 2 buoys at the same line length.

These athletes will join the previously qualified participants who earned their spots through winning either the 2022 Masters, 2022 Botaski Pro Am, 2022 California ProAm, or 2023 Moomba Masters.

With a total of eight spots available in each event, all eyes now turn to the second qualifying event at Sunset Lakes. The upcoming competition will determine the remaining spots in men’s trick (3), women’s trick (4), men’s jump (3), women’s jump (4), men’s slalom (4), and women’s slalom (3).

Update: Font’s world record was officially ratified by the IWWF on June 7, 2023.

Sedlmajer received a 15-month ban

Sedlmajer Receives 15-Month Ban Following Positive Doping Test

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Sedlmajer Receives 15-Month Ban Following Positive Doping Test

Sedlmajer received a 15-month ban

The two-time world overall champion received the ban for taking a common blood pressure medication. (Image: @adamdeslmajer)

By Jack Burden

In a recent development, Adam Sedlmajer disclosed that his sample collected during in-competition doping control at the World Championships last year tested positive for Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ), a common medication used to treat high blood pressure. Sedlmajer, who had been taking HCTZ for the past three years under a prescription from his family doctor, revealed that he has been struggling with high blood pressure for most of his adolescent life, due to family history.

While HCTZ is a widely used and FDA-approved medication for hypertension treatment, it is classified as a S5 Diuretic and Masking agent by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). This classification arises from its property of causing increased urine production, making it potentially susceptible to abuse by athletes attempting to flush their systems of performance-enhancing drugs. Consequently, WADA does not grant therapeutic exemptions for such substances.

Despite searching the WADA website for the drug’s status and not finding it listed as a prohibited medication at the time, Sedlmajer acknowledged full responsibility for the outcome. He emphasized that he conducted due diligence and verified the drug’s authorization under WADA rules, though the website has since been updated with relevant information.

Following months of communications, appeals, and hearings, Sedlmajer’s results from the 2021 World Championships have been annulled, and he has received a 15-month ban until April 2023. In light of the situation, he invites individuals to familiarize themselves with the drug or reach out to him for further discussion.

Sedlmajer’s case sheds light on the complexities of anti-doping regulations, emphasizing the importance of athletes remaining vigilant and informed about the substances they are using, even when medically prescribed. As he navigates this challenging period, the waterskiing community stands in support, hoping to see him back on the water soon.

Read Sedlmajer’s full statement below:

Jacinta Carroll 200 Foot Jump

Jacinta Carroll Speaks Out on Nautique Sponsorship Controversy

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Jacinta Carroll speaks out on Nautique sponsorship controversy

Jacinta Carroll 200 Foot Jump

Carroll became the first woman to jump 200 feet at the 2021 MasterCraft Pro. (Image: @jacintacarroll)

By Jack Burden

Last year, Jacinta Carroll etched her name in history by achieving a remarkable milestone – becoming the first woman to jump 200 feet. However, this triumph comes with a bittersweet tale of dreams realized and unexpected setbacks, including being dropped by her major sponsor, Nautique Boats.

The journey to the 200-foot mark wasn’t just a physical feat for Jacinta; it was a deeply personal goal that had its roots in a poignant moment with her coach and mentor Ray Stokes, who was in the advanced stages of a terminal illness. Ray’s words, urging her not to change who she was and to break the barrier of a 200-foot jump, became the driving force behind Jacinta’s aspirations. A hand-drawn poster in her childhood bedroom, asking if she would be the first female to jump 200 feet, served as a constant reminder of this goal.

However, the path to this historic achievement was laden with challenges. Breaking a record demands the convergence of multiple critical factors— the boat, the driver, the site, the conditions, and the athlete’s performance. It’s a delicate dance of precision where all five variables must align perfectly to achieve the extraordinary.

Record-breaking opportunities proved elusive for Jacinta, potentially hindered by the prioritization of the men’s event in terms of the best drivers and conditions. The struggle intensified as she balanced her full-time job with her passion for water skiing, making it difficult to align all the necessary factors for a perfect jump.

Amid the Covid pandemic, international travel posed significant hurdles for the Australian athlete. During her limited stay in the U.S. for the 2021 World Championships, Carroll participated in six tournaments, including two within a single weekend, in her relentless pursuit of breaking the record.

The breakthrough moment unfolded at the Mastercraft Pro, her final tournament of the trip. Despite falling just short of the world record in the finals of the pro event, Carroll approached the officials, presenting her case for a bonus round. Jacinta’s plea was heard, and she seized the moment, achieving a jump of 202 feet – a distance mirroring the first male to accomplish this feat in 1983.

However, the triumph turned into bitterness when Jacinta disclosed that Nautique, her primary sponsor, opted not to renew her contract. This news was delivered to her while she was undergoing a two-week quarantine in isolation upon her return to Australia.

In an emotional recounting of the experience, Jacinta conveyed her disappointment at the absence of congratulations for her historic achievement. Instead, her major sponsor inquired if she regretted her decision to break the record behind a MasterCraft. Feeling disrespected, she questioned whether the situation would be the same if she were a male world record holder, pondering, “Is this just an easy way to get me off the books?”

“I tried and tried, and I just couldn’t get the five stars to align,” lamented Jacinta. “And at the end of the day, in 50 years, I’m not going to look back, I’m not going to regret [breaking the record]. Hell, I don’t even regret it now!”

As Jacinta contemplates her future in the sport, uncertain about competing on the worldwide stage again, her story sheds light on the challenges female athletes face. Not just in their pursuit of excellence but also in navigating the complexities of sponsorship and recognition within the industry.