Over 100 Competitors Set to Compete at the 2024 British National Waterski Championships
The stage is set for the 2024 British National Waterski Championships, the UK’s premier waterskiing event, which will take place at Hazelwood Ski World in Lincoln from 28 August to 1 September. This year’s competition is set to be a thrilling spectacle, drawing over 100 participants from across the country and showcasing the best of British waterskiing talent.
A Diverse Range of Events and Categories
Participants will compete in three main events: slalom, tricks, and jump, each highlighting different aspects of waterskiing skill and agility. The competition spans a wide range of age categories, from the Under-10s to the Over-75s, with an additional adaptive category designed for disabled skiers. For the first time, a Youth Festival will be held alongside the Championships, offering novice young skiers a valuable introduction to the world of competitive waterskiing.
Celebrating a Tradition of Excellence
The British National Waterski Championships are renowned for their inclusivity and competitive spirit. This year’s event will feature a mix of first-time competitors, seasoned veterans, members of the GB squad, and professional waterskiers, all vying for the prestigious title of British Champion. Among the standout participants is Alan Robertson, 78, from North Walsham, Norfolk, who continues to compete at the senior level in men’s slalom, demonstrating remarkable dedication and endurance.
Recent International Success Boosts Enthusiasm
Many competitors will arrive at the Nationals with fresh international accolades. The senior team recently returned from the Europe & Africa Over-35s Championships in Spain, where they achieved notable success with 11 medals, including five golds. Among the winners was Kelly Atkins from King’s Lynn, Norfolk, who earned a gold, a silver, and three bronze medals. She will be competing alongside her daughter, Summer Pollard, in the Under-17s category.
The GB Under-14s and Under-17s squads are currently competing in the Europe & Africa Junior Championships in Italy. After the event, they will head straight to Lincoln for the Nationals, bringing additional excitement and high-level competition to the Championships.
A Family Affair
The Championships are not only a competitive event but also a family affair, with many participants and officials connected by blood. The Hazelwood family, who own and operate Hazelwood Ski World, will play a significant role in the event. Rob Hazelwood, a professional waterskier, will compete in the Open category, while his uncles, Mike Hazelwood MBE, and Tim Hazelwood, along with Tim’s wife, Kate, will also take part. The Hazelwoods’ extended family, including Rob’s parents George and Flo, brother Ben, and their aunt and uncle Gill and Ady Asher, will all be involved as officials, further strengthening the family ties within the sport.
Event Details
The 2024 British National Waterski Championships will be held at Hazelwood Ski World, Moor Lane, Thorpe-on-the-Hill, Lincoln, LN6 9BW, from Wednesday 28 August to Sunday 1 September. The event promises to deliver a week of exhilarating competition and celebration for waterskiing enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels.
With its rich history and commitment to fostering new talent, the British National Waterski Championships continue to be a cornerstone of the UK’s waterskiing calendar. This year’s event is set to be a memorable occasion, showcasing the best of British waterskiing talent and providing an exciting platform for future champions.