ABOUT
Elizabeth montavon
Professional Athlete
Elizabeth Montavon is a name synonymous with excellence and innovation in the world of professional water skiing. As a third-generation pro skier, Elizabeth's journey on the water is marked not only by her impressive list of titles but also by her unwavering commitment to the growth and betterment of the water ski community.
As a 9-time National Champion, 3-time All-American, US National Team member, US Team of the Year award recipient, US Open Champion, Pan Am Champion, and Waterski Pro Tour Stop Champion, she has ascended to the top echelons of the sport. Her inclusion in Palm Beach Illustrated's 2022 "30 Under 30" is a testament to her influence and achievements in the sport and beyond.
Advocacy and Influence
Elizabeth finds fulfillment in empowering others in niche or underserved sports. As the Director of Athlete Marketing & Social Media at Parity, she enhances visibility and financial opportunities for professional women athletes, advocating for equity and autonomy in the sports industry.
Elizabeth's dedication has earned her the 2024 SurveyMonkey Curiosity Award, recognizing her innovation, impact, leadership, and diverse perspective. She effectively uses her athletic achievements and social media expertise to drive impactful storytelling at Parity, building awareness of the brand and its athletes.
At Parity, Elizabeth successfully juggles her roles, overseeing all athlete marketing channels while training as a professional water skier. She played a key role in Parity Week, a major activation celebrating women's sports, and leads initiatives that leverage athlete feedback to strive for excellence.
Personal Life and Entrepreneurial Ventures
Off the water, Elizabeth's life is just as dynamic and inspiring. Together with her husband Stevie Island, also a pro water skier, she co-founded the lifestyle brand Ski or Die. Their brand embodies a mantra born from a relentless pursuit of excellence in water skiing, advocating for strength, tenacity, and fearlessness. Ski or Die has quickly become a collective dedicated to the spirit of never settling, of skiing against all odds, whether in calm or stormy waters. Ski or Die is not just a statement but a way of life for those who dare to chase one more buoy, one more point, and one more foot in their skiing endeavors. In addition to their brand, Elizabeth and Stevie bring their experience and opinions to the airwaves through their podcast, where they dive into their experiences on the pro tour, tackle hot topics in professional water skiing, and share insights into effective cross-training and the mindset required for winning. Their show is a game-changer, offering a unique perspective that reshapes how competitive water skiing is viewed and experienced.
Living in Florida with her husband and their dogs, Elizabeth Montavon is not just an athlete; she's a visionary, constantly pushing the boundaries of what's possible in both her professional and entrepreneurial endeavors.