Rhys started water skiing with his family and really wanted to try barefoot skiing, which is where local skiing champ Pete O’Neil came in.
“I wanted to try barefooting, so Pete took me out and gave me some lessons and I have loved it ever since,” Rhys said.
“I have never competed at the world level, but I have competed in two national events.
“To qualify for the worlds I competed in local competitions and achieved scores high enough to qualify to compete at the championships in all three events – trick, slalom and jump.
“I ski backwards and do tumble turns; one foot holds and a few others. I have also started barefoot jumping recently.”
To be able to perform such tricks and not injure yourself, a lot of training goes into the sport with Rhys training multiple days a week when he can around his school schedule.
“I train mainly at the Max Kirwan Water Ski Park two to three times a week, mostly before school,” Rhys said.
“I’ve competed around Australia over my time in the sport; Mackay QLD, Dimboola, Echuca, Gunbower, Columbo Creek, Boggy Creek and Mulwala.
“My mum’s heart rate goes through the roof when she watches me ski. She holds her breath the whole time!
“I would love to ski in a World Championship at the Open level. I also want to ski in the Ski Show team at SeaWorld when I finish school.”
While the sport is vastly independent, there are many people who help competitors to get to their desired goals.
“I would like to thank the Victorian Barefoot Club and all the competitors for their support. It really is a great club to be a part of,” Rhys said.
“I also want to say a massive thanks to Pete O’Neil for all his coaching and support, and to my mum and dad for everything they do for me.
“I am super excited and can’t wait to be a part of the World Championships.”
For competition times click here
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