Don Thomson facts for kids

Don Thomson
Military service
Branch/service	United States Army,  United States Navy
Rank	Commander

Don Cameron Thomson (born October 14, 1941) is an American water skier. He is known for being a true pioneer in the exciting sport of barefoot skiing. Don helped make barefoot skiing more popular and introduced many cool new moves.

He pushed the limits of how long someone could barefoot ski, increasing the record from 5 minutes to over 30 minutes! Don also invented new tricks like doubles barefooting, where two people ski together. He also created "front to back" and "back to front" turns. Don even helped develop the "tumble turn" with another skier, Terry Vance.

Don was also a very skilled skier in other water ski events. He was a big supporter of new technology in water skiing. He also helped grow professional show skiing in both the United States and Japan. In 1962, he introduced backward barefooting to the famous Cypress Gardens water ski shows. He also played a key role in using strong, lightweight carbon fiber in ski designs. This helped improve both molded skis and the special fin used for slalom skiing.

Don Thomson: A Water Skiing Pioneer

Don Thomson made a huge impact on water skiing. He didn't just perform amazing tricks. He also helped invent new ways to ski and improve the equipment. His work made the sport more exciting and accessible for everyone.

Barefoot Skiing Innovations

Don Thomson was a true innovator in barefoot skiing. He showed that skiers could do much more than just stand on the water. His endurance records proved how much was possible. He inspired many other skiers to try new things.

• Longer Rides: Don extended barefoot endurance records. He went from just 5 minutes to over 30 minutes on the water.
• New Tricks: He introduced "doubles barefooting," where two skiers ride on the water without skis.
• Cool Turns: Don created "front to back" and "back to front" turns. These are tricky moves where the skier spins around.
• Tumble Turn: He helped develop the "tumble turn" with Terry Vance. This is a complex and exciting maneuver.

Improving Water Ski Technology

Don Thomson was also interested in making water skis better. He understood how important good equipment was for performance. His ideas helped shape modern water ski design.

• Carbon Fiber: He helped bring carbon fiber into ski making. This material is very strong and light. It made skis perform much better.
• Slalom Fin: Don was also involved in improving the fin on slalom skis. This fin helps skiers turn sharply and control their speed.

Show Skiing and Cypress Gardens

Don Thomson was a big part of professional show skiing. He helped entertain crowds with his incredible skills. His performances at Cypress Gardens were especially famous.

• Backward Barefooting: In 1962, Don introduced backward barefooting to show skiing. This was a thrilling new act for audiences.
• Cypress Gardens: He performed at Cypress Gardens, a famous water ski show park. His acts helped make the shows even more spectacular.

Don's Military Service and Skiing

Don Thomson also served his country as a Navy helicopter pilot. He flew helicopters during the Vietnam War. Even during his service, he found ways to share his love for water skiing.

Skiing in Unexpected Places

While serving, Don brought water skiing to his fellow soldiers. He taught them how to ski in unusual locations. This helped boost morale and provide a fun break.

• River Combat Zones: He taught soldiers to water ski in rivers. These were often in challenging areas.
• Behind Large Ships: Don also skied and taught others behind large LST vessels. These ships were in the Gulf of Thailand.

Recognition and Legacy

Don Thomson's contributions to water skiing have been widely recognized. He is celebrated for his pioneering spirit and innovations. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of skiers.

Water Ski Hall of Fame

Don Thomson is honored at the Water Ski Hall of Fame and Museum. A life-size photograph of him barefooting is on display there. This shows how important his work was to the sport.

• Award of Distinction: In 2012, Don received the Don-Thomson Award of Distinction. This special award recognizes his outstanding achievements.

Don Thomson's passion for water skiing helped shape the sport. He pushed boundaries, invented new tricks, and inspired countless others. His impact on barefoot skiing and water ski technology is still felt today.