Canyon Lakers flock to major ski event

Canyon Lake ski fans crowded the viewing areas to watch elite skiers in the jumping competition at the Canyon Lake May Open last week. The Canyon Lake Ski Club held its annual May Open 3-Event Tournament, the first American Water Ski Association-sanctioned event in Canyon Lake since 2019 (due to COVID-19 restrictions).

Nick Rozow, Men 2 Slalom skier, poses with Jacob Kerber, Boys 1 Slalom skier at the Canyon Lake May Open.

The May Open is known as the season opener for both 3-Event and Grassroots skiers. Many local skiers participated in slalom, trick, and jump while also driving competitors, judging from the boats and towers, scoring from the pavilion and helping run the safety boat/protocols.

Several other AWSA-rated officials were on site to volunteer in these required roles, while some of the younger participants were dock starters handing off ropes and offering up encouragement for each skier.

“We are really happy with the turnout of competitors and especially the Canyon Lake community that came out both Saturday and Sunday to cheer on our skiers,” John Jacobson, Canyon Lake Ski Club president, said. “What a crowd we had watching jump!”

Julia Kerber, Girls 1 Slalom skier, prepares for her run at the AWSA-sanctioned tournament in Canyon Lake. Photos by Debbie Sacks

The next two Canyon Lake ski club tournaments will be held in October for slalom skiing.

“The community is encouraged to participate, spectate, and cheer on skiers,” John said. “For more information about the club or how to become a member, see the website at: canyonlakeskiclub.com.”