Thrills Unlimited Adventurers Revel In Rush Of Water Sports Despite Disabilities

After a car accident that crushed his spine 20 years ago, Craig Clauson never imagined he would be able to move again, let alone water ski.

But there he was Saturday, perched for the first time on a chair attached to a ski, smiling as he rode the bumpy waves behind a speed boat.

“It was a rush,” Clauson said later, rolling his wheelchair along the shore. “It’s water skiing. I haven’t water skied in 20 years!”

The 43-year-old man from Post Falls was one of about 25 people who skied at Clear Lake for the annual Ski Fest. Sponsored by St. Luke’s Rehabilitation Institute, the event brought together more than 50 volunteers who helped disabled people experience the thrill of water sports.

“It’s really cool to see someone be able to accomplish that,” said volunteer Lauren Petres, pointing to a skier who stayed in his seat as he sped around the lake two-and-a-half times.

As boats pulled them at a speed of about 25 miles per hour, they were followed by people on personal watercraft who made sure they were safe if they fell off.

More experienced skiers such as Brad Trimble didn’t need the help. The 22-year-old Spokane Community College student has water skied for the past four years despite the spina bifida that crippled him at birth. On Saturday, he quickly circled the lake, amazing people on the shore and on pontoon boats.

“You’re flying out there,” he said, shortly after volunteering to swim to shore. “There’s no limitation.”

Ski Fest is the only opportunity for most disabled people to water ski, many participants say. The event, which takes place all weekend, shows how disabled people can play any sport thanks to equipment modification, said Jerry Martin of Cheney.

“I don’t feel limited at all,” said Martin, who broke his back 18 years ago and uses a wheelchair. “You can do just about anything you want to do.”

At Ski Fest, the confidence comes from the safety of the event, Clauson said. Volunteers don’t just give participants physical support, he said. They also help them emotionally by making them feel secure about the sport.

“This gives me life,” Clauson said. “I’m living life. I’m not in some room looking out a window and feeling sorry for myself.”

, DataTimes ILLUSTRATION: Color Photo