A Sunshine Coast man is proving age is no barrier to elite sport, with the 75-year-old set to represent Australia at the World Water Ski Championships in Canada this month.
Maroochydore’s Fred Douglas began water skiing at 18 but did not start competing until he was 65, progressing from national events to multiple international championships.
He and his wife Jeanette relocated from regional Victoria to the Sunshine Coast in 2023 and now train at Oz Ski School in Coolum.
Mr Douglas has previously represented Australia at world championships in Chile in 2018, France in 2022 and Spain in 2024. The upcoming event in Canada from July 19-26 will be his fourth international appearance.
“Representing your country is the pinnacle, and to do so at my age more so,” Mr Douglas said.
“It is only your mind which stops you, if you let it.”
He said the Australian team brought a strong sense of camaraderie to international competition.
“Australia has a reputation of being the most fun, and this year the host country Canada has requested that the Aussies have their tent next to them,” he said.
Mr Douglas holds the Queensland record for over-70s slalom water skiing and credits consistent training and discipline for his success.
“I exercise twice a day, every day, for between 15 minutes and 45 minutes in a floor and weight-based session,” he said.
Do you have an opinion to share? Submit a Letter to the Editor at Sunshine Coast News via news@sunshinecoastnews.com.au. You must include your name and suburb.
His training now includes coaching from Rich Habermann and former world champion Emma Sheers at Oz Ski School.
“My skiing as a result of their personal coaching has contributed to me being able to ski at the Worlds. It is an honour for me to be coached by them,” he said.
Mr Douglas said the move to the Coast has improved his training and lifestyle, allowing more flexibility than when he relied on river conditions and shared crew arrangements in Victoria.
Looking ahead to Canada, he remains focused on performance and encouragement for others.
“It is never too late,” he said.
“The desire to be the best I can for my age keeps me going.”
