Burlington water skiing siblings claim national titles en route to 2026 Pan American Games

National titles on Browns Lake

Kate Nelson, 13, captured her third national title the week of Aug. 17, 2026, and her brother Jacob Nelson, 16, earned his first, according to a TMJ4 News report dated Aug. 18, 2026. The Burlington, Wisconsin, siblings grew up skiing on Browns Lake and compete in three-event water skiing, which combines slalom, trick and jump disciplines.

Training regimen across state lines

The Nelsons train three or four times a day, including trips as far as Illinois to find suitable water. Jacob said the family drives about an hour in the morning to reach the nearest lake offering slalom and jump training, while a Florida ski school helped redirect their focus toward competitive three-event skiing.

Family roots in the sport

Their father, Aaron Nelson, previously competed in show skiing across Southeast Wisconsin before performing professionally in Holland, Germany and China. Their mother, Adriane Nelson, said Kate was on skis at 18 months, using wooden skis with a PVC handle. Aaron said the family quickly committed to the children's competitive path after the Florida experience.

Geographic and academic sacrifices

Competing nationally and internationally from Wisconsin presents logistical challenges most rivals do not face. To maintain training, the Nelsons split time in Florida and chose to be homeschooled, a structure the family said is necessary to keep pace with elite competitors.

International experience and team selection

Kate previously competed at Worlds, her first international tournament, which she described as beneficial for meeting peers from other countries. Both siblings have already been named to Team USA for the 2026 Pan American Games, where they will compete together in the fall. Jacob called it uncommon to see siblings, particularly of different genders, represent the same country in the same sport.

Outlook toward the Pan American Games

The 2026 Pan American Games this fall will mark the siblings' first joint appearance as Team USA teammates. Kate said she welcomes the additional pressure of representing her country, while Jacob said simply competing for the United States carries its own significance.