World Kayak Event Coverage

Colorado has the unique ability to astonish you around every bend, unless of course you don’t like nature, the outdoors or people who are legitimately happy with their dispositions. So if any of that does not apply to you, then I am really confused as to why you are even reading this write up or visit this website. However, if you are trying to understand how those things can enrich your life, then I will work with you.

I have just arrived in Salida after a few days on the road doing some awesome playboating and visiting with long lost friends. First stop was Glenwood Springs where the Colorado river was running somewhere in the ballpark of 15,000 cfs. These waves were awesome! And I had my first shot at using a tow system to get onto a wave, sweet! The Barrel Springs rapids were some of the biggest I have ever seen in my life. Next stop was 2 hours north to Steamboat to visit a friend I had not seen since college where I was able to hop onto the C feature on the Yampa River. Once again, no shortage of water and a big, fast dynamic wave where big air blunts and McNasty’s were automatic. The smell however from the Sulfur springs was a bit noxious and little less than desirable, but bearable for such a world class feature.

Salida, much like the rest of Colorado, is yet another amazing display of young geology, quality people and bone chilling crystal clear water. I do have to admit; I find it rather humorous that there is a liquor store or bar on just about every corner. What can I say, these “Salidan’s” must now how to get down. This evening FIBArk (First In Boating the Arkansas) kicks off and this town is really about to show us how they can get down. This years festival is the 60th Anniversary and will take place over the next five days with music, art, sports and just all around debauchery.

This event encompasses so many different disciplines of paddle-sports that it will be extremely difficult to cover it all and compete at the same time. I will however have full results for every event; even some of those that you did not even know existed. Trust me, have you ever heard of paddle sword fighting, neither have I… and no it’s not an official event, but this author may try to make it official by the end of the festival.

The paddle events include raft, wildwater, slalom races as well as a boater X down class V Pine Creek. The Pine Creek Race in years past has humbled many distinguished paddlers at Pine Creek Hole. For those racing their first time this year, they will be comforted in knowing that said hole is not nearly as burly this year due to high water. We will see how we can take care of that however. FIBArk is also playing host to the 2008 Freestyle National Championships, where Stephen Wright and Emily Jackson will try to defend their titles against stiff competition. As usual EJ has his eyes set on the prize but after the major upset last week at TEVA, all eyes are on Dustin Urban. Others looking strong thus far are Devon Barker, Eleanor Perry, Andrew Holcombe, Bryan Kirk, Kelsey Thompson are all looking fluid and come go time, it is anyone’s game.

Once again I will do my best to provide up to the minute coverage as well as some eye candy for all the kiddies at home. Salida, unlike Vail is a bit more limited on resources but I have set my bearings pretty well and have the resources in place. Now all I have to do is figure out how to get that darn McNasty working in this hole!

Signing off from Salida,
Chris Wing