A 17-year-old Penticton athlete recently shined on the world stage, winning seven medals at the 2024 Pan American Water Ski Championships in Bogota, Colombia.

Kate Pinsonneault, a local Grade 12 student, was one of 20 Canadians to throw on the skis and compete in South America from Oct. 6 to 12.

Pinsonneault's strong showing in Columbia included the capturing of two gold medals, as she claimed top spot in the U21 overall and U17 jump events.

"I have tremendous pride in representing Penticton and Canada all over the world," Pinsonneault said in an email. "Having such a great place to grow up has made me proud to call it my home and I'm thankful for the opportunities it has given to me."

Pinsonneault's winnings at the Pan Am event also include:

• Silver medal - U21 jump

• Bronze medal - U21 slalom

• U17 silver medal (team event)

• U21 bronze medal (team event)

• Team Canada bronze medal

The Columbia-hosted championships served as one of the year's premier events for Canadian water skiers. The nation was guided by coaches Cole Grant, Matt Rini and Kyle Hunter.

Pinsonneault was one of only two British Columbians to wear the red and white maple leaf at the event.

She says there was a moment of uncertainty, however, when she was forced to nurse a sore ankle one day before her medal-winning performance in the U21 slalom race.

"When I came back to the dock (after the U21 race) my coach was standing there in tears of pride for me," the Penticton teen recalled, adding that moments later, she found out she reached the podium.

 "These moments were the perfect way end to my season. I felt so proud and grateful for not only myself, but for what my coach and family have helped me accomplish."

Pinsonneault's 2024 season is done, but the Penticton teen will be back in action next year in Georgia for the Jr. Masters, the U21 World Championships in Calgary and potentially, the Jr. Pan American Games.

The Grade 12 student says she wants to water ski at the collegiate level, and one day win a world championship.

While reflecting on her recent achievements, Pinsonneault also thanked her father.

"Without Skaha Lake and my dad spending countless hours driving for me, I wouldn’t be where I am today, and I am forever grateful for that."