Chain Skiers win state championship

WAUPACA – The Waupaca Chain Skiers won their third Division 3 State Championship and first since 2016. The team thrilled a packed crowd with their “Chain Plantains” themed show which was also awarded Best Showmanship.
The Wisconsin State Water Ski Show State Championship was held July 16-19 at Red Sands Beach at Lake Wazeecha near Wisconsin Rapids. Twenty-four teams from across the state competed in the tournament. It is called the world’s largest and longest-running water ski show and it is sanctioned by USA Water Ski & Wake Sports and the Wisconsin Water Ski Federation.
Competition started on Thursday with individual events, including swivel, swivel pairs, freestyle jumping, team jumping, and doubles. Team competition went from Friday through Sunday as teams performed themed shows featuring pyramids, barefoot skiing, jump acts, swivel skiing, and ballet lines.
“This team has gone through a total rebuild since the pandemic era when we were unable to perform,” said John Sturm, Team President. “With the support of Waupaca area families, generous community donors, and a lot of team volunteers, we are now running a terrific team and one I hope the community is proud of. A state championship is only the beginning for us as we now advance to a bigger team division.”
Four years ago, Sturm hosted an apple cider fundraiser at his orchard. He explained that the solvency for the team was looking grim and he urged members to rally community support. They did, and Sturm described their victory comeback as rebuilding the team “brick-by-brick.”

The team will have more building to do as the bar has now been raised. According to Sturm, the team will advance into a bigger team division and will be competing with teams with more resources and advanced skills.
“This weekend was about more than competition—it’s about bringing people together,” said Katie Ness, Tournament Director. “Each year, thousands of spectators visit Wisconsin Rapids to celebrate the sport of show skiing while supporting local businesses and our community. The tournament generates an estimated $3.7 million economic impact and fills hotels throughout Wisconsin Rapids and the surrounding area.”

Watch the champs
The Chain Skiers perform on Saturdays at 6 p.m. at the Wisconsin Veterans Home at King. Shows are free to the public and family friendly.