Dominik Hernler’s Historic Wakeboarding Feat in Kerala’s Backwaters
Renowned Austrian wakeboarder and Red Bull athlete Dominik Hernler has etched his name in history by executing an unprecedented feat in the serene backwaters of Alleppey, Kerala. In a breathtaking display of skill and courage, Hernler soared over 500 people aboard five iconic snake boats, showcasing his elite wakeboarding prowess against a backdrop of traditional Indian culture.
Hernler’s journey in Alleppey began with a daring challenge: to jump over two massive snake boats. With effortless precision and control, he cleared them with ease, leaving onlookers in awe. Undeterred, he raised the stakes by adding two more boats, successfully navigating over four snake boats with style and grace.
The ultimate test came with the addition of a fifth boat, bringing the total to nearly 500 people aboard the vessels. In a heart-stopping moment, Hernler executed a flawless jump over all five boats, capping off the stunt with a celebratory backflip into the waters of Alleppey. His daring feat not only showcased his exceptional talent but also brought international attention to the scenic and cultural richness of Kerala.
Beyond the snake boat jump, Hernler explored the backwaters further, wakeboarding along the rails of a traditional houseboat and navigating the narrow canals that wind through the town. His time in Alleppey was a blend of high-octane action and a deep appreciation for the local culture, making it a memorable experience for both the athlete and those who witnessed his incredible feats.
Alleppey, known as the “Venice of the East,” is nestled in Kerala’s backwaters, a region fondly called “God’s Own Country” for its lush landscapes and cultural richness. This picturesque setting, with its winding canals and serene waters, became God’s Own Playground as Hernler showcased his wakeboarding skills amidst Kerala’s enchanting beauty.
The Nehru Trophy Boat Race is a historic event in Kerala, where teams of nearly 100 rowers compete in iconic “Chundan Vallams” or snake boats, originally designed for warfare. With their beaked prows and sleek design, these boats are now central to Kerala’s racing tradition. Inspired by this dynamic setting, Hernler decided to push the limits of his sport.
Speaking about his experience wakeboarding on the backwaters of Alleppey, including pulling off a one-of-a-kind jump over five snake boats holding nearly 500 people, Red Bull Athlete Hernler was thrilled as he said, “My time in Kerala has been amazing. There are many experiences for me to take home. I enjoyed hanging out with the people here and of course, wakeboarding through the backwaters was great but my favorite was certainly jumping over the snake boats. We were questioning it when we set up for it, but I always want to do more. I am stoked I got to be here, I’m happy at how everything turned out and I’ve made many good memories from this trip.”
Dominik Hernler’s successful attempt is sure to inspire other athletes and highlight the unique charm of Alleppey, cementing its place as a destination where tradition meets adventure. The Red Bull athlete achieved this stunning feat and showcased his elite wakeboarding skills in the backwaters of Kerala over a week, in partnership with Volkswagen.
