Grace Petzold, a member of the U.S. Water Ski Team, found her passion for water skiing at a young age and has since become an award-winning athlete. However, her true inspiration came from her mother, who is paralyzed from the waist down. Grace’s mom, Wendy, had never water skied before her injury but was able to experience the sport for the first time in 2015 thanks to a program offered by Grace’s team in Florida.
This experience led Grace to realize her desire to provide similar opportunities to individuals with disabilities. With the help of her parents, she founded Graceful Wakes, a non-profit organization that aims to increase accessibility to water skiing for those with physical and cognitive disabilities. Graceful Wakes offers free annual clinics in northern Wisconsin, providing adaptive equipment to participants of all abilities.
Grace’s upbringing with a mother with a disability helped instill in her a “giving back” mentality, leading her to create a positive impact in her community. She finds joy in witnessing the smiles of adaptive water skiers as they experience the sport for the first time.
Through Graceful Wakes, Grace hopes to continue spreading happiness and inclusivity through water skiing. Her dedication to providing opportunities for individuals with disabilities showcases her commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.
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Photo credit wisconsinlife.org
