Rope tricks: Elite water skiers on show at Lake Wiritoa
The best water skiers from around the country will be vying for national glory this week as the Nautique NZ Water Ski Nationals kicks off at Whanganui’s Lake Wiritoa.
More than 100 competitors will compete in three different events — slalom, jump and trick.
After spending yesterday familiarising themselves with the lake and conditions, the preliminary rounds begin around 1pm today. Racing continues through the week until Sunday morning.
Wanganui Water Ski Club president Iain Bill was excited to see what competitors had up their sleeves after 2020‘s event was cancelled.
“We were right at the sharp end when we had to pull the pin,” Bill said.
“The nationals circulate to five different sites around the country and it was our turn last year. Obviously, we had to cancel it and we elected to run it again this year instead of letting it go to the next region.”
All the sponsors who were on board for 2020 had returned for this year’s event, ensuring the event could run seamlessly.
“It’s been really encouraging. The support has been amazing. We really appreciate the support we have from the business community.”
Weather conditions were uncertain at the moment and Bill said they could have a drastic effect on the events.
“We try not to drop any events out as we go through the week. The weather definitely plays a part in how people adapt and ski.” Due to the cancellation last year, there were a number of skiers who had not been to a nationals.
“There are a lot of newbies and a lot of new experiences for quite a few people. We have a good bunch of younger people who are progressing well and are good for the future of our sport.”
He encouraged locals to watch some of the action throughout the week, with Saturday and Sunday being the premier open men’s and women’s finals.
“We have a huge variety of ages, from sub juniors which is under-10s, all the way up to Bryan Murray from Christchurch who is over 80.”