Mark "The Animal" Turner
Multi-time regional and national disabled champion, and co-world record holder.
Member of the 2001 US Disabled Water Ski Team
The majority of the waterskiing world takes for granted they are fortunate to participate in this sport we love so much without any physical disabilities. Often, we think we are invincible on the water, until suffering an injury that puts us out of commission temporarily. Temporarily is the key word here. We injure ourselves, we recuperate, we ski again.
It's not that simple for everyone. There is a whole other population out there who has permanent handicaps that hinder them from experiencing the thrill of a pull behind a boat. But over the years, technology has emerged and more and more disabled people are taking to the water. Not only are they able to ski, but they are also able to participate in tournaments. More and more sporting organizations are mainstreaming their events to cater to the able-bodied and disabled. For a collection of disabled waterski links please see the Waterskiing for the Disabled page.
History
The International Water Ski Federation (IWSF) first formed a commission for Water Skiing For The Disabled in Norway in 1986. The first world tournament was in England in 1987. Categories for the tournament include sit skiers, single leg amputees, skiers with an arm disability, vision impaired skiers, and others. They compete in the three events of slalom, trick, and jump. More history is available from IWSF including rules and records.
Waterskiing for the disabled has become easier over the years with the development of skis which are more similar to a board, or kneeboard, with a cushioned seat and pockets to put the feet. Though these boards are a step in the right direction to getting the disabled on the water, they are quite a bit more expensive than a normal kneeboard that can be picked up at the sports store. Some cost nearly a $1,000.
Manufacturers
There are a few manufacturers out there that make boards as described above, or boards or skis similar to them. One is the Wave Master Water Ski made by the Freedom Factory out of Winnsboro, Texas. This board has proven successful with beginners because of its size and stability.
Help Organizations & Businesses
There are several organizations and businesses available that cater to disabled water-skiers. The National Ability Center, in Park City Utah, falls into this category. Their goal is to provide the disabled and their families affordable, quality sports, and recreational experiences. They have a waterskiing program which includes waterskiing, kneeboarding, water rides, and a picnic.
For more information on disabled waterskiing, contact the Water Skiers with Disabilities Association, a division of the American Water Ski Association, at 799 Overlook Drive, Winter Haven, Florida 33884. Telephone - 813-324-4341.
Disabled Sports USA Far West - Nonprofit seeks to raise the quality of life for people with disabilities through whitewater rafting, waterskiing and recreational activities.
British Disabled Water Ski Association - Promotes and encourages water skiing for all types of disabled people.
Photo courtesy of Mark Turner.
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