Water-ski open chance for sport connections, development

A water-skier on the lake at Shalom Ski Park next to the North Saskatchewan River in southwest Edmonton on July 13, 2026. (Brandon Lynch/CTV News Edmonton)

Water-skiers from around the world are in Edmonton for the next three days competing in an international tournament.

The river valley’s Shalom Ski Park is hosting the Canadian Open Water Ski Championships through Wednesday, featuring competition in three different age categories.

American Wesley Corey says, for him, water-ski competition is more than just showing up for sport itself; it’s also about camaraderie.

“Coming up here, I get to see people who I maybe see once or twice a year, so it’s exciting to sit around and catch up with everyone,” Corey told CTV News Edmonton on Monday.

The open features two rounds of preliminary races Monday and Tuesday in competitive water-skiing’s three disciplines – slalom, trick and jump – followed by Wednesday’s finals. More than $15,000 in prize money is up for grabs.

Admission is free for spectators at the venue in the city’s southwest, located next to the Rabbit Hill ski resort.

Ken Nelson, the owner of Shalom Park, says the “pro-am” aspect of the event “creates opportunities” for young amateurs learning and competing alongside elite veterans.

“Events like this inspire young competitors and help grow the sport for years to come,” Nelson said in a media release.

With files from CTV News Edmonton’s Brandon Lynch