Honours at the annual meeting of the British Waterski and Wakeboard
Thursday, January 12th, 2012
At this years annual meeting of British Water Ski and Wakeboard, chairman Trevor Leagas was elected to the Advisory Council of British Water Ski and Wakeboard and is congratulated by our Company Secretary Aubrey Sheena.
Honours at the annual meeting of British Water Ski and Wakeboard
Thursday, January 12th, 2012
At this years annual meeting of British Water Ski and Wakeboard, president Lord Colin Moynihan presented a World Champion award to Claire Ellis. Congratulations Claire!
Honours at this year’s annual meeting of British Water Ski and Wakeboard
Thursday, January 12th, 2012
At this years annual meeting of British Water Ski and Wakeboard, president Lord Colin Moynihan presented honorary membership to David Musgrove
“WOW!”
Tuesday, October 11th, 2011
Independence Homes have given us a rave review after coming down for our free open day at Heron Lake. All 5 participants did really well and we hope to see them out on the water again soon.
You can read their story and see photos of the day here.
If you’re feeling inspired, why not give the office a call and book in for next season?
We’d love to hear from you.
Open Day 2nd September
Tuesday, August 23rd, 2011
A reminder of the next open day at Heron lake is 2nd September
Full info in this flyer – click here
Spread the word and see you there!
Fantastic experience for youngsters thanks to “BA Youth Courses”
Tuesday, May 31st, 2011
The May course saw 6 kids aged 11-14 and with a range of disabilities experiencing water sking for the first time. Nathan, a paraplegic aged 13 who came with his dad and sister, described the course in his feedback as “igzillerating!!”. Joe who is autistic and was a little unsettled at the beginning of the weekend – could hadly be persuaded to get out of the water by the end of it. Despite his weak grip, Marcus who has Cerebal Palsy, was able to ski using the delga harness and with support from buddy skiers. Brothers, Andrew and Peter, who are both partially sighted were able to ski unsupported by the end of the course. Charlie was lucky to have a role model with a similar disability and he made huge progress – definitely a potential champion of the future. Parents and siblings had a chance to try skiing too and everyone had a great time on the banana boat at the end of the course.
- Marcus preparing for his first time in the water
- Joe on the water with Sarah and Brian
- Nathan skiing independently
- Charlie getting some tips from fellow one-handed skier, Paul
- Peter getting ready to stand up with Clare and Kirsty
- Sarah loving every minute!
- Family fun on the banana at the end of the course
Huge thanks to all the volunteers and to British Airways for the sponsorship which made this course possible. We’re looking forward to the next 2!
It’s Rude to Stare
Friday, May 13th, 2011
Photographer Hayley Morris recently spent a day at Heron lake BDWSA, have a look at her great photos from the day, here on the BDWSA Flickr photostream.
Hayley Morris studied at Arts University College Bournemouth before attending University College Falmouth, focussing on documentary subjects. ‘Kids Having Kids, 2008’ was one of her most successful works. In her final year at Falmouth she was involved in a serious road traffic accident, leaving her disabled and inevitably changing her perspective on life and through a lens. She now works with those with disabilities, showing how one may suffer prejudice by their limitations. In her series ‘It’s Rude to Stare, 2011’ she focuses on those that are successful within sport, her subject at the forefront of the image and the disability secondary.
“Often we define people by what we see, my intention is to communicate aspects and achievements about my subjects. There is more to our identity than disability.”
You can find out more about Hayley and her photography on her website.
Thanks Hayley!
We are saddened to announce the death of Jack Harding M.B.E.
Sunday, May 8th, 2011
Members of B.D.W.S.A were saddened to hear that Jack Harding M.B.E. died most unexpectedly on Wednesday 27 April 2011.
Although Jack had reached 83 years of a very full life he was a man who kept very fit and those of us who had enjoyed his company recently at Heron Lake were devastated to hear that he had died so suddenly. The sympathy of all water skiers and especially those very many who he taught to ski, goes out to Pat and his family.
Jack had several careers but when he first joined B.D.W.S.A about 22 years ago he was head of the engineering department at Kingston College. He also had a small ski school in Spain which he visited during the summer. He was awarded the M.B.E. for services to education.
As a special constable with the Metropolitan police Jack enjoyed his service on Police launches on the river Thames.
His instructing skills where much valued in those early days when our charity was growing and developing at Heron lake. One of his projects for Kingston College students was to build a small bridge at the Northern end of Heron Lake which is still there for use by those walkers who take the path all around the lake. Jack instructed on and off the water using seated skis and the triple bar as well as a being ski boat driver. In later years his experience was greatly appreciated for training new instructors and helpers each spring at Heron lake.
People will most remember his cheery nature always welcoming newcomers to Heron lake and always able to give sound considered advice about either the technical side or the administration of the Association.
Jack is going to be greatly missed as a wise, and gentle man who had a lifetime of enormous experience that he passed on to all of us.
All are invited to Jack’s funeral with details below.
Tuesday 17th May @ 10.30
Honor Oak Crematorium,
Brenchley Gardens,
Forest Hill
SE23 3RD
Tel 020 7639 3121
Pat has requested no flowers but members may wish to send donations in lieu to
The B.D.W.S.A. Hon. Treasurer
Tony Edge National Centre
Heron Lake
Hythe End
Wraysbury
TW19 6HW
Yorkshire and Central region prepare for a busy summer!
Friday, May 6th, 2011
Yorkshire and Central region have announced a busy summer schedule of courses and events at centres around the region…..















