1 August 2006

The Eastern Region has a new pair of mixed doubles champs: Shelly D'Aleo & Mike Viens! It took 3 years to knock off the reigning Eastern Regional champs, Joanna Donato & some old Gary dude, but thanks to the expertise, grace, and intelligence of last year's champ and current 3rd in the nation Joanna (and a couple words of wisdom from that Gary character), Shelly & Mike were able to make a good combination out of Mike's skiing abilities, unrealistic strength and Shelly's neverending flexibility. They will be making their second trip out to Nationals, in only as many years skiing together, to compete on Friday, August 11th in Janesville, Wisconsin.  They look forward to bettering their finish in last year's competition. In order to do so, Shelly plans to spend hours each day for the next 2 weeks relaxing herself at Joanna's Waterski Nationals Preparation classes, where she will practice calming herself and relaxing, thus allowing her to stay as tight as possible out on the water. If she completes each class, it is predicted the couple could finish in the top 6 competitors in the nation.

As for last year's champs, this year's runners up, they'll be taking this year off from nationals. It appears Joanna consumed a bit too much ice cream and chocolate and has landed herself a spot in the chubby (a.k.a "full size") department - opposite to her old partner Gary who landed himself a spot in the skinny and weak department this summer. He seems to blame his weakness on some "tax deduction" or something. The future of this amazing couple is still to be determined. Hopefully after an intense diet and exercise program for Joanna and a rigorous strength and conditioning program for Gary, the two will be back again next year, so watch out!

Stay tuned to the Holland Aqua Riders News for more updates. Ski ya later!

Written by: HAR Chief Journalist.