Annual Try It – Adapted Water Ski Day Returns to Guelph, Celebrating Accessible Recreation Across Ontario
TORONTO, ON – July 21, 2026 – Spinal Cord Injury Ontario (SCIO) is inviting individuals living with spinal cord injuries and their families to experience the excitement of adapted water skiing at its annual Try It – Adapted Water Ski Day on Tuesday, August 5, 2026, in Puslinch, just outside Guelph.
The event offers participants the opportunity to try adapted water skiing in a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment. Using specialized adaptive equipment and expert instruction, participants can discover the excitement of being on the water while building confidence, connecting with others, and enjoying the many benefits of accessible recreation.
Part of SCIO’s annual adapted water-skiing program, the Guelph event is complemented by a second Try It – Adapted Water Ski Day in Ottawa, expanding opportunities for individuals and families across Ontario to experience adaptive sport and recreation.
This year’s Guelph event will also welcome Paralympic gold medallist Jon Thurston, who will meet participants, share his experiences as an elite adaptive athlete, and celebrate the positive impact that accessible sport and recreation can have in bringing people together.
Hosted in partnership with Jake Thomas, alongside his sister Carrie Thomas and their family, as well as a dedicated team of volunteers, community partners, and sponsors, the event demonstrates what can be achieved when accessibility, inclusion, and community come together.” At Spinal Cord Injury Ontario, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to participate in sport and recreation,” said Michael Richardson, Chief Executive Officer of SCIO. “Try It – Adapted Water Ski Day is about building confidence, creating connections, and showing what’s possible when barriers are removed. We’re proud to work alongside dedicated volunteers, partners, and champions like Jake Thomas and John Thurston, whose passion continues to inspire others to discover the possibilities of adaptive sport.”
For many years, Jake Thomas has been instrumental in growing SCIO’s adapted water skiing program, helping create welcoming experiences where participants can try something new, connect with others, and enjoy the excitement of adapted water skiing.
“Sport has an incredible way of bringing people together and showing what’s possible,” said Jake Thomas. “Adapted water skiing gives people the opportunity to experience the excitement of being on the water in a supportive environment. Seeing people encourage one another, building confidence, and enjoy the experience together is what makes these events so special.”
SCIO extends its sincere appreciation to Jake Thomas, Jon Thurston, the dedicated volunteers, community partners, and generous sponsors whose continued support has helped make adapted water skiing a signature SCIO recreation program.
Event Details
Try It – Adapted Water Ski Day – Guelph
Date: Tuesday, August 5, 2026
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Location: Puslinch, Ontario (near Guelph)
For more information:
About Spinal Cord Injury Ontario
For 80 years, Spinal Cord Injury Ontario (SCIO) has been helping people with spinal cord injuries and other physical disabilities live with independence, dignity, and full community participation. Through peer support, advocacy, education, system navigation, and community programs, SCIO works to remove barriers and create a more accessible and inclusive Ontario.
Media Contact
Amanda Davis
Director, Marketing & Communications
Spinal Cord Injury Ontario
Email: adavis@sciontario.org
Website: www.sciontario.org
