Charles Ramsey was Barefoot Water Skiing. Make no mistake, our sport would not be where it is today if it hadn't been for this great man; a true pioneer of our Sport. He was a mentor to so many of us, and an inspiration for all to follow.
Charles had a full life. Born in Great Britain, and raised in South London, he served in the Royal Air Force and flew in the Battle of Britain during the 2nd World War. He met Rita his wife and went to live in her home country of Holland where they set up home and raised their family. Their son Ian, skied on the GB Barefoot Team for a number of years. After leaving the RAF, Charles flew 707's for KLM for 30 years before retiring. His passion was flying and Barefoot Water Skiing and the rest, as they say, is history.

The World Barefoot Rule Book began its life under the auspices of Charles Ramsey and his work in developing the Sport world-wide and particularly in Europe is legendary. We all remember the first barefoot jump measurement software that took over from the old Johnson master-board system of protractors and strings. Charles wrote that program. Charles served on the Dutch, European (EAME) and World Barefoot Councils for many, many years and was made an Honorary Member of the World Barefoot Council in 2004.

He was still barefoot skiing in to his 80's and not just on his feet. Charles was an avid snow skier and was still gliding down the mountains up until last year. He still flew too, taking the occasional glider flight when he had the time.

We all join together in sending our deepest sympathies to Charles Ramsey's family who are in our thoughts right now at this sad time.

Andy Harris
Chairman - Iwsf World Barefoot Council