Waterskiing Squirrel Performed at Carolina Classic Fair
A famous trained squirrel took to a miniature pool to promote water safety at the regional event.
Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Reptiles
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Twiggy, a trained squirrel, performed her signature waterskiing routine at the Carolina Classic Fair in Winston-Salem. The act involves the squirrel riding a miniature set of skis pulled by a tiny electric boat.
Why it matters
The attraction serves a serious purpose by promoting water safety awareness for the National Safe Boating Council. This mission honors the memory of show founder Chuck Best, who died in a boating accident in 1997.
The waterskiing squirrel act was established in 1979 and is currently in its 12th iteration. The show utilizes a miniature electric boat to pull the squirrel on custom-built water skis.
The players
Twiggy
Twiggy is the twelfth iteration of a trained squirrel that performs a waterskiing routine to promote boating safety.
Lou Ann Best
Lou Ann Best is a co-founder of the waterskiing squirrel attraction who started the show with her husband in 1979.
National Safe Boating Council
This organization partners with the Twiggy act to raise awareness about boating safety.
Chuck Best
Chuck Best was the co-founder of the waterskiing squirrel show who passed away in 1997.
Carolina Classic Fair
The Carolina Classic Fair is a regional event held in Winston-Salem that hosts the waterskiing squirrel performance.
The details
Training for the act relies on a foundation of repetition, love, and affection to prepare the squirrel for the performance. During the show, the squirrel balances on her skis while being guided through a pool of water.
Timeline
1979 marked the year Chuck and Lou Ann Best started the waterskiing squirrel attraction.
1997 was the year Chuck Best died in a boating accident.
October 5, 2026, is the publication date of this report.
Culture Shift
The act follows a pattern set by the 1997 boating accident that killed Chuck Best, as the performance functions as a vehicle for water safety advocacy. By tying a niche novelty act to a specific safety campaign, the show bridges the gap between entertainment and public service.
Fair attendees can observe the boating safety tips promoted by the show during their visit to the grounds. The practical takeaway for local families is an increased awareness of safety protocols while enjoying water activities.
The takeaway
The show demonstrates how personal tragedy can be channeled into a long-term public service mission. Readers can implement these safety habits by always ensuring everyone on board a watercraft has a properly fitted life jacket.
Further reading
Learn more about local animal displays in the Reptiles section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WXII.
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