Parks Canada has issued a warning against skiing over the Rideau Canal following a viral video showing a member of a stunt group attempting the dangerous leap. The video, part of a 22-minute production by The Jetskis, captures 21-year-old Tai How skiing through trees near Parliament Hill in Ottawa, then launching off a snow ramp to jump a 9.7-meter gap across the canal. The risky move resulted in a hard landing with both skis falling into the lock below. Parks Canada emphasized that unauthorized activities like ski jumping are not permitted at the Rideau Canal National Historic Site, and increased enforcement measures are in place, with potential fines for violations.
How, speaking from Nelson, B.C., where he now resides and enjoys freeride skiing, explained that he attempted the stunt last February while visiting Ottawa from Montreal. Although he broke his skis during the jump and hurt his thumb, he expressed confidence in the stunt, believing it was meant for him. However, Parks Canada officials expressed concerns about potential copycat attempts following the video’s social media attention, emphasizing the risks and potential fines for trespassing on the historic site.
Authorities, including Benjamin Gales from Parks Canada and Marc-Antoine Deschamps from the Ottawa Paramedic Service, warned against the dangerous nature of such stunts, highlighting the risks of severe injuries and the complexity of potential rescue operations. Despite the warnings, How defended his actions, acknowledging the risks but emphasizing the importance of pushing boundaries in extreme sports while also advocating for caution.