ConstantLearner

I just got back from a dream vacation on the Ottawa river with EJ. I didn’t really know what I was getting into, but it turned out to be the best experience I’ve ever had on a river. Every day, from 9am to 4pm, we were on the river learning about river running techniques, strokes and concepts, and playboating, from the best kayaking instructor (and practitioner) in the world.

The rapids on the Ottawa were the biggest I had ever seen, and when I first saw them, I couldn’t believe that we were actually going to run them. EJ had us run the easiest lines initially and each day we ran it differently. This was a real confidence builder. By the end of the week I was a lot more comfortable going through the big whitewater and this, in turn, made it even more enjoyable. My only regret was not running a rapid called Dragon’s Tongue on the last day. I think EJ was a bit disappointed with me too, but at the time, I just didn’t have the guts to do it. I’ll just have to redeem myself next time!

One of most memorable moments of the trip was catching a wave called Waikiki on day three. I think I tried getting on the wave about twenty times and I was only successful twice. The water level was at 4.5 ft and you had to ferry out perfectly and paddle like crazy to establish a surf. This was by far the largest wave I had ever surfed on. The ride was extremely fast (for me) and dynamic. When I’d go down the face of the wave my boat would bounce way up in the air. I stayed in a front surf for about 40sec, carving from side to side a few times, and then finally pulled off, under control. It was awesome.

The Ottawa is the place to be in the Summer. I had the opportunity to meet many of the best kayakers in the world, we had wonderful weather, and the folks in my group were especially friendly and supportive. I would highly recommend a trip to the Ottawa to anyone interested in kayaking or rafting. Wilderness Tours is a great outfit and they know how to show you a good time.