Silver medallist Italian Lanthaler Christian performs in the Men’s Standing Slalom final IWWF World Disabled Water Ski Championships at Max Kirwan Ski Park on the weekend. Photo credit to Members of The Finley & District Camera Club; Annette Stillard, Judy Hicks and Chris Filshie.
Photo credit to Members of The Finley & District Camera Club; Annette Stillard, Judy Hicks and Chris Filshie and Yarrawonga Chronicle photographer Les Garbutt.
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The Max Kirwan Ski Park came alive last week for the IWWF World Disabled Water Ski Championships, attracting some of the world’s most elite adaptive water skiers from Thursday, November 27, to Sunday, November 30.
The event saw world records broken and new stars of the sport emerge, as athletes pushed their bodies and minds to the limit in pursuit of glory.
“We witnessed world-class performances in slalom, trick, and jump events,” said Mulwala Water Ski Club Ski Coordinator Pete O’Neill.
“The Mulwala Water Ski Club is very proud to be part of the event. Although the conditions weren’t perfect, our site was excellent, and we look forward to welcoming the Three Event National Disabled Titles in April.
“Our local volunteers were amazing, and we were simply in awe of the skill of these athletes.
“Every competitor has an incredible story—extraordinary skill and sheer determination get them out there.”
Proudly hosted by the Mulwala Water Ski Club, the championships marked a major highlight on the international adaptive sports calendar. The IWWF’s decision to stage the event at Max Kirwan Ski Park, just minutes from town, was warmly welcomed by the local community.
This was the second time the World Disabled Water Ski Championships were held in Mulwala, the first being in 1995 when Australia finished third behind Great Britain and the USA.
A standout performance for Australia was Eira Dalzell, who won gold in both the Women's Standing Trick and Slalom events, silver in the Jump and was crowned the Overall Women’s Standing World Champion.
Aussie Jason Sleep picked up a silver medal in the Men’s Seated trick event and finished fourth in the Slalom
The event drew competitors from six countries: the USA, Canada, Norway, Italy, the Netherlands, and Australia.
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