The Moomba Masters 2025 is set to welcome a stellar lineup of British talent as four top waterskiers and one wakeboarder prepare to take on one of the world’s most challenging competitions. The event, held on the demanding tidal waters of the Yarra River, marks the official start of the season for elite waterski and wakeboard athletes. With a reigning World Champion and a multiple world record holder among the British contingent, expectations are high for an impressive showing.
Freddie Winter’s Comeback to Competition
Leading the British charge is Freddie Winter (35) from Wandsworth, London, the current Men’s Slalom World Champion. Winter claimed victory in the Moomba Masters Slalom event in 2024, but this year presents an even greater challenge. The champion has been on the road to recovery after a serious leg injury sustained last June when he crashed into a dock during a competition in France. Following surgery and an extensive rehabilitation process, Winter only resumed on-water training in January.
Now, he is preparing to face one of the toughest courses in the sport, as the Moomba Masters is not held on a purpose-built ski lake, but rather on the often unpredictable waters of the Yarra River. Despite these challenges, Winter will be looking to reclaim his title and make a strong statement in his return to competitive action.
Joel Poland Aims for Overall Success
Joining Winter is Joel Poland (26) from Clapham, London, one of the most versatile waterskiers in the world. A seven-time Overall World Record holder, Poland did not compete at Moomba in 2024, but this year he will take part in all three major waterski events—slalom, tricks, and jump. With his ability to dominate across disciplines, Poland is widely regarded as the best overall skier in the sport and is a top contender for multiple medals.
Jack Critchley Seeks More Moomba Success
British jump specialist Jack Critchley (28) from Scunthorpe, Lincolnshire, will also be looking to improve on his past achievements at the Moomba Masters. Last year, he secured silver in the Men’s Jump event with a leap of 63.1 metres. He will also participate in the Sunday Night Jump, a thrilling contest where competitors launch off a 1.8-metre-high (6ft) ramp in the dark. Having finished third in the Night Jump last year, Critchley will be aiming for the top spot this time.
Sanchia Outram Represents Britain in Women’s Events
The only British female competitor at Moomba this year is Sanchia Outram (27) from Worksop, Nottinghamshire. As Great Britain’s best female three-event waterskier, she will compete in both slalom and jump, hoping to improve on her 11th place finish in the Overall category at the last World Championships.
Luca Kidd Eyes a Strong Wakeboarding Performance
Britain’s only wakeboarder at Moomba 2025 is Luca Kidd (23) from Weybridge, Surrey. A consistent performer at international events, Kidd reached the final last year and secured 6th place. With another year of training under his belt, he is determined to push further up the rankings.
A Key Event Ahead of the World Championships
The Moomba Masters is a vital season opener, providing an early measure of form ahead of a crucial year. The Waterski World Championships, held once every two years, are set to take place in Italy this August. For Winter, Poland, Critchley, and Outram, Moomba represents an opportunity to fine-tune their skills before heading into the sport’s biggest global event.
As these British athletes take on the world’s best, all eyes will be on Melbourne’s Yarra River, where the season’s first major showdown is about to begin.
