The 2026 BC Wakesurf Provincial Championships brought more than 50 athletes to Lake Koocanusa on August 15, with Fernie and East Kootenay riders earning several podium finishes.
Fernie’s Caroline Villeneuve finished third in the Pro Women’s Skim division, while Oliver Pogubila placed third in Outlaw Men’s.
The championships were held at Koocanusa Village and featured Junior, Amateur, Masters and Pro divisions, drawing competitors from across British Columbia and Alberta.
“What a fantastic event this year,” said Waterski and Wake Sport BC Wake Surf Committee member Loree Duczek. “We had the top pro riders in Canada attending and a huge number of first-time competitors across all the divisions.”
East Kootenay athletes were well represented on the podium.
Koocanusa-based Emily Agate finished second in Pro Women’s Surf, while Cranbrook brothers Dagen and Ryder Duczek took first and second respectively in Pro Men’s. Calgary’s Kerry Williams finished third.
Cranbrook’s Hudson Tily placed second in Grom Boys, while Isaac Hockley of Moyie won Masters Men’s Skim ahead of Invermere’s Keith Weber.
Competitors were given two one-minute passes between designated buoys. The event also included beach activities, food, live announcing and demonstration boats from title sponsor SWS Marine Group.
Duczek thanked the sponsors, volunteers, families and spectators who helped support the championships, including people watching from shore and boats along the course.
Local riders will next compete at the Alberta Wakesurf Provincials on August 29, followed by the Canadian Nationals on August 30 at Gleniffer Lake, Alberta.
