Surfing isn’t typically associated with Alberta, but one group is trying to change that as the sport grows in popularity.
The Alberta River Surfing Association (Alberta RSA) held its annual Mountain Wave Classic on the Kananaskis River at Canoe Meadows on Saturday.
Dimitra Galiatsatos was one of around 30 people who took part in the surfing skill competition.
She started surfing a few years ago after seeing people riding a wave in Calgary and hasn’t stopped since.
“I love the nature. i love the water I love the sun and then people. It’s always a good time; You never have a bad day when you’re on the river,” Galiatsatos said.
The event has been running since 2006 and every year more surfers come to show off their skills.
“I moved from Vancouver. I was concerned that if I moved inland I would be surfing less and now I’m surfing a lot more than before and it’s been so exciting,” said Jenna Henderson, Board Member, Alberta RSA.
Demand is expected to increase once Alberta RSA and the Alberta Whitewater Association install a new adjustable wave for surfers and kayakers just a few feet from where the current wave is located.
“It’s a turning point for the sport and for the region. We’re going to have more serious competition here and be able to attract athletes from all over the world,” said Alberta RSA Board Member David Rousseau.
Members of the Alberta River Surfing Association enjoy a wave on the Kananaskis River in Canoe Meadows on Saturday, August 27, 2022 (CTV News Calgary/Nicole Di Donato).
Rousseau adds that the new wave will allow for more difficulty for competitions like the Mountain Wave Classic.
“The wave we have now is fantastic, but it’s nothing compared to the new one. We are talking about a 12 meter wide wave. The one we have right now is about ten feet long so you can only imagine the amount of tricks and the flow and styles of the surfers. That will only increase.”
So far over $232,000 has been raised to build the world class wave. The goal is for completion by early 2024.
Alberta RSA also has other projects in the works. It wants to create River Wave Parks along the Bow River in Calgary and Cochrane.
It also wants to build a new wave in Harvie Passage – a popular spot for beginners.
“River surfing is something that people will talk about when they think of Alberta, and when they think of Canada, too,” Rousseau said.
Those who are already involved in the sport hope the new projects will encourage more people to try it.
Members of the Alberta River Surfing Association enjoy a wave on the Kananaskis River in Canoe Meadows on Saturday, August 27, 2022 (CTV News Calgary/Nicole Di Donato).
“We are a super hospitable community. We love helping beginners, so whether you want to be in the water or not, there’s always a friendly face up for a great chat or helping you out in the water,” said Henderson.
Galiatsatos added, “I think everyone should try this at least once in their life.”
For more information on beginner sports and safety tips, visit the Alberta RSA website.
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