World Kayak Event Coverage

I sat next to Andrew Holcombe this morning after the conclusion of the Downriver Sprint on Gore Creek not realizing he had just finished. He looked surprisingly fresh and dry considering he just sprinted 3 miles downstream through class II-III. “It’s 20 minutes of absolute pain,” Holcombe said. “I will be just happy to place, especially with racers like Jeff Calhoun who specialize in downriver racing.” Holcombe as well as a number of professional and amateur racers participated in this mornings Gore Creek Kayak Sprint on yet another gorgeous Vail morning. I had imagined that it would be a nice leisurely paddle, “not if you want to win,” Holcombe said. A variety of boats were used ranging in lengths, I even saw some that were racing in playboats.

The Freestyle Semi-Finals commenced at 11:00AM with the remaining 5 women competitors duking it out. It came as know surprise throughout both heats that Emily would secure the top spot going into the finals. Her first ride was less than impressive compared to her typical style, but fortunately it was best out of two format. Tanya Faux and Ruth Gordon rounded out the remaining field both nailing must make moves as well. Both Ruth and Tanya both knew they would really have to turn up the heat to compete with Emily in the Finals.

The men’s Semi-Finals was a nail biter, as everyone had rough first rides but really pulled it out on their second. Stephen Wright was the most consistent taking the top of the field with 138 points, with Dustin Urban, a new crowd favorite, nipping at his heels with 136 points. Junior competitor Jason Craig, pulled out one hell of a ride with 121 points taking third, and Nick Troutman and EJ taking 4th and 5th respectively.

It was disappointing to see Andrew Holcombe and Bryan Kirk miss the cut for the finals, as they are hands down some of the most entertaining and quality paddlers in the sport. Unfortunately they lacked the consistency and amplitude that these other athletes displayed. Andrew looked great in his second ride looking as if he would pull it out near the end but was barely edged out by EJ. Some honorable mentions include Kelsey Thompson who looked smooth as silk effortlessly hitting phonix monkeys and mcnasty’s. The finals will sure to be entertaining and not lacking drama as competitors will have three rides, top ride takes it all, $2000!

Video and Photos to follow this evening…

Live from Vail,

Chris Wing