The name that first brought Russian water skiing to international attention was that of Natalia Roumiantseva. A member of the Russian national team for 25 years, Natalia skied in ten World Championships from 1979 to 1997.

 

Although Natalia competed in all three events in every World Tournament but one, her fame rested on her trick skiing, partly because of her dominance in the event which included five World records, and partly because of the unique way she practiced tricks in the winter: skiing while being towed in an indoor swimming pool.

 

Natalia was definitely the one to beat in tricks. She was World Champion in 1979, 1983 and 1987 and captured silver medals in 1981, 1989 and 1993. Her lowest result in tricks in a World Championship was eleventh in 1991, but Natalia regards that tournament as one of her most notable because she earned a silver medal in slalom. Becoming World Overall Champion in 1993 is an equally impressive achievement. All in all Natalia won eight World medals, including four golds.

 

In European Championships, Natalia earned 25 titles in all three events and overall as well as numerous Russian championships. She continues to be involved in organization of the sport in Russia, and her outstanding achievements earned her the title of Honored Athlete of the USSR and a Medal "Mark of Honor".

 

I am pleased to announce the induction into the International Hall of Fame of one of water skiing's most famous trick skiers and a World Overall Champion, Natalia Roumiantseva.