BACK-TO-BACK GOLD FOR DORIEN LLEWELLYN AT THE 2023 SANTIAGO PAN AMERICAN GAMES

Dorien Llewellyn on the Men’s Overall Podium at the 2023 Santiago Pan American Games 

Photo by Express Media / Panam Sports 

In an awe-inspiring display of tenacity and skill, Canada’s Dorien Llewellyn secured Gold in the Men’s Overall category at the 2023 Santiago Pan American Games, adding to his golden legacy that began with his victory in Lima 2019.

Llewellyn’s performance in the Overall Finals highlighted his versatility and determination, starting with a strong show in the Slalom event where he scored 3@10.75m/39off. The competition intensified as he jumped 63.9 meters. But the true spectacle was during the Tricks segment. Facing a challenging 30-point deficit, Dorien unleashed a masterclass, scoring 11,000 points. This feat not only propelled him into the lead but sealed his gold victory with a decisive margin of 280 points.

This gold achievement adds a glowing finish to his already notable Pan American Games journey. Just the day before, Llewellyn earned Silver medals in both the Men’s Jump and Men’s Trick events.

Speaking on the overwhelming emotion and celebration after his last run, Llewellyn shared, “That’s kind of just been the built-up energy from the last four months… To end on that trick run was amazing… I’m also excited to regroup and focus on getting my foot 100% again.”

Remarking on the challenges he faced, he said, “It’s been a rollercoaster of emotions. After slalom, I knew I put myself in a really good spot. To have that moment where you celebrate and I turn around and my dad is celebrating in the boat, that’s amazing. To be able to share that history with him, it’s something that I don’t think a lot of people have and I’m truly grateful.”

Jaret Llewellyn, Dorien’s father and a 12-time Pan Am Games medalist, shared in the pride and reflected on the journey, “It was a rough season. Athletes are always shooting for the gold. We just didn’t even know if we were even going to be here so this is just an incredible way to end the season.” On his own experiences versus witnessing his son’s achievements, he expressed, “It was much easier skiing than going through this. It’s one of the best experiences.”

With two consecutive Overall Gold medals at the Pan Am Games, Dorien Llewellyn’s narrative is one of perseverance, resilience, and unparalleled skill, and stands as an inspiration for aspiring athletes everywhere.

About Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada:

Water Ski and Wakeboard Canada (WSWC) is the national governing body for water skiing and wakeboarding in Canada. Dedicated to promoting these sports at every level, WSWC provides resources for athletes, coaches, and enthusiasts, fostering excellence and sportsmanship within a vibrant community passionate about the water.