Volume 5, Issue 6 | November 2019

PADDLEACA | - - SUP - Raft - Rescue

Catching Up with Coaching Legend Alan Anderson

ACA Recognizes Experts

ACA Tailors Class for Alaska Instructors

Instructors of the Month TABLE of CONTENTS

ACA News Education 3 Mission Statement & Governance 24 ACA Pro School Spotlight 5 ACA Recognizes Achievements 25 Rally on the Rogue & the Micro-Society 12 Paddle Lands Second National Award 28 Lumpy Waters Symposium 13 Swiftwater Rescue Instructors Recognized 29 Instructors of the Month 16 ACA Partners 30 ACA Participates in Retailer Expo 33 Riverboarding: Where Soul Meets Body 35 Alaska and the ACA Stewardship 36 ACA Completes Special Paddlesports Report 18 Paddle Green Spotlight: Rio Rancho Cleanup 37 Old Town Canoe, New Tricks 19 The Great Willamette Cleanup 20 Another Successful Trashy Tuesday Universal 21 Oregon Senator Challengers Citizens 39 Equipment Review News Near You International 42 State Updates 59 Taking ACA SUP to Stockholm 60 ACA Holds Canoe Instructor Workshops in China Membership 61 IWHoF Announces 2019 Inductees 47 ACA Member Benefit 61 Sea Kayak Comic 49 ACA Outfitter Spotlight Paddling History Competition 62 Paddle eMagazine's Inaugural Issue 52 Olympic Hopes Regatta 55 Paddling's Pioneerin Spirit: Alan Anderson 57 Upcoming Races & Events

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | November 2019 | Page 2

NATIONAL STAFF BOARD OF DIRECTORS Beth Spilman - Interim Executive Director Executive Committee Marcel Bieg - Western States Outreach Director President - Robin Pope (NC) Emma Walther - Finance Manager Vice President - Lili Colby (MA) Kelsey Bracewell - SEI Manager Treasurer - Trey Knight (TN) Dave Burden - International Paddlesports Ambassador Secretary - Stanton Collings (GA) Amy Ellis - State Director/Membership Coordinator Marsh Jones (MN) Michelle Flynn - Membership Coordinator Kimberly Jenkins - Paddle eMagazine Editor Board Members LeighAnn Moore - Insurance Coordinator *Terms expire at the annual meeting of the year listed Carrie Schlemmer - Education & Grant Coordinator At-Large Directors COMPETITION DEPARTMENT • William Irving (North Carolina - 2019) Morgan House - High Performance & Competition Coordinator • Lili Colby (Massachusetts - 2019) Rafal Smolen - Slalom National Team Coach • Robin Pope (North Carolina - 2018) Zsolt Szadovszki - Sprint National Team Kayak Coach • Sam Fowlkes (North Carolina - 2020) Aaron Huston- Sprint National Team Canoe Coach Independent Directors • (Virginia - 2019) • Vacant (2019) • Bill Medlin (North Carolina - 2020) Cover photo National champion Cedric Bond and Gig Harbor Canoe and Affiliated Organizations Director Kayak Racing Team founder and coach Alan Anderson. • Vacant Jolin Bevin photos Property Management Committee • Bill Micks (Virginia - 2020)

Safety Education & Instruction Council • Trey Knight (Tennessee - 2019)

Competition Council • Marsh Jones (Minnesota - 2019)

Elite Athlete Directors • Slalom - Scott Mann (Virginia - 2019) • Sprint - Stanton Collins (Georgia - 2019) Follow us on... • Paracanoe - Nik Miller (Georgia - 2019)

Immediate Past President • Peter Sloan (North Carolina)

Liaison Members (non-voting) • Scott Andrews - Sugar Island (Maine)

Ex-Officio (non-voting) • Beth Spilman - ACA Interim Executive Director (Virginia) Page 3 | PADDLE | November 2019 www.americancanoe.org ACA Mission Statement Founded in 1880, the ACA is a national nonprofit organization serving the broader paddling public by providing education related to all aspects of paddling; stewardship support to help protect paddling environments; and sanctioning of programs and events to promote paddlesport competition, exploration and recreation.

SAFETY, EDUCATION & INSTRUCTION COUNCIL (SEIC) 2019-21 STATE DIRECTORS • Chair - Trey Knight (TN) AL - Available NE - Jordan Messerer • Vice Chair - Josh Hall (SC) AK - Levi Hogan NV - Jonathan Riezman • Secretary - John Traendly (GA) AZ - Andrew Huff NH - Paul Berry • Past Chair - Steve Hutton (SC) AR - Rob Moody NJ - Paul Serdiuk CA - Jamie Eubanks NM - Robert Levin Committee Chairs CO - Lynne Carpenter NY - Mike Cavanaugh • Universal Paddling - John McDonald (OH) CT - Available NC - Doug Stager • Coastal Kayak - John Browning (WI) DE - Chris Beckman ND - Matthew Sherrard • Intro to Paddling - Beth Weigandt (VA) DC - Meredith Waters OH - Christine Cancian • Prone - Adam Masters (NC) FL - Wayne Douchkoff OK - Clark Miller • - Elisha Lynn McArthur (CO) GA - Laura Clower OR - Salmon "Sam" Nor- • Canoe - Greg Wolfe (OH) HI - Available gaard-Stroich • River Kayak - Kyle Thomas (WA) ID - Zac Mason PA - Joel Johnston • Safety & Rescue - Sam Fowlkes (NC) IL - Jennifer Hahn PR - Omar Ramos • Stand Up Paddleboard - Vacant IN - Joyce Hayes RI - Mark Allio • Surf Kayak - Sean Morley (CA) IA - Jennifer Kammeyer SC - Jefferson Atkins • Surfski - Chuck Conley (VA) KS - Jay Jeffrey SD - Patrick Wellner • Touring Canoe - Molly Gurien (OH) KY - Gerry James TN - Andrea White LA - Available TX - Bruce Bodson Liaison Members ME - Available UT - Available • Boy Scouts of America - Rob Kolb (TX) MD - Paula Hubbard VT - Jake Taylor • USCG - Tom Dardis (DC) MA - Mike Morrison VI - Available • USCG Auxiliary - Don Goff (MD) MI - Michael Gray VA - SarahBeth Dinwiddie MN - Matthew Sherrard WA - Brent Roth MS - Kelly McGinnis WV - Meghan Roberts COMPETITION COUNCIL MO - Perry Whitaker WI - Luke Martz • Chair: Marsh Jones - Sprint MT - Byron "Lee" Beers WY - Available • Vice Chair: Vacant • Secretary: Risa Shimoda - Freestyle For information about the State Director Program, please contact Amy Ellis at the ACA National Office.

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | November 2019 | Page 4 ACA

Awards2019

Each year, the ACA recognizes numerous individuals and organizations who have provided invaluable assistance to association in undertaking its myriad strategic objectives. Following are the 2019 award recipients.

Page 5 | PADDLE | November 2019 www.americancanoe.org Excellence in Instruction

The prestigious Excellence in Instruction Award is presented to an ACA member for his or her outstanding contribution to paddlesports instruction.

Ashley Brown is one of only nine female ACA L5 AOWCK Instructors in the world. She builds up paddlers and instructors at the College of Charleston using the ACA models of progression as a backbone for the development of both paddling and environmental stewardship programs at the College. Students from academic majors as diverse as education to economics to biochemistry and physics have benefited from her passion. She is building a diverse field of future professionals who now have an ap- preciation for paddling and its place in the world. You’ll also find Ashley at many regional and national professional paddling summits and sympo- siums that bring value to the world of paddling and help reach those who haven’t yet discovered the joys and benefits of paddling. Ashley’s total com- mitment, incredible skill, contagious passion, and positive disposition make her a prime and deserving candidate for the ACA Excellence in Instruction Award. Congratulations, Ashley!

(Continued on page 7) www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | November 2019 | Page 6

Joe Pina Volunteer of the Year

Presented to one or more volunteers each year for extraordinary service at the local, regional or national level.

John Traendly is the current secretary of the Safety Education & Instruc- tion Council. He has stepped up in a significant way to donate an immense amount of time and expertise to create a custom course management sys- tem to better help the ACA and all Instructors, Trainers, and Educators. We are fortunate to have such a dedicated person willing not only to put so much time and energy to advance the organization using his incredi- bly valuable knowledge and skills but also to collaborate with and use the input of many other stakeholders. John asks for no recognition and turns down opportunities to be recognized or passes the credit on to others. This type of selflessness is a rarity and we are so fortunate to have someone of his caliber and nature be willing to serve. John is also the largest con- tributor to the development execution of the 2019 IT Conference event. We wouldn’t have been successful without him. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you John!

Page 7 | PADDLE | November 2019 www.americancanoe.org

J. Henry Rushton

Presented annually to an organization or other group for outstanding achievements in advancing paddlesport and the mission of the ACA.

The Boys & Girls Club of West San Gabriel provides paddlesports and instruction to underserved, inner-city youth. The Club brings youth from East Los Angeles and the San Gabriel Valley to the ocean and waterways where they use , SUPs, sailboats, and dragon . Youth come from five sites located in Monterey Park, La Puente, Baldwin Park and three public housing developments in the region. Many of the mem- bers are the most vulnerable youth in the city, subject to gang activities, unstable homes, and extreme poverty. The Boys & Girls Club of West San Gabriel Valley makes paddlesports available to these populations of at-risk youth who would not otherwise participate in these activities. Thank you, B&G Club of West San Gabriel Valley for making a difference in the lives of these young paddlers!

Green Paddle for Waterway Conservation

Presented annually to an individual or a group that has made an outstanding contribution to paddlesport by protecting America’s waterways.

In May 2019, the Canoe Cruisers Association made news around the world: After a two-year legal battle, they were successful in compelling the U.S. Coast Guard to provide reliable, predictable, and continuous access to the Potomac River waterways around the privately owned, members-on- ly Trump National Golf Club. Whenever the president was present at the property, access to a highly popular section of the river was closed with lit- tle to no warning. Their lawsuit and victory were covered in the Washing- ton Post, New York Times, AP, USA Today, Bloomberg, Stars and Stripes, Outside Magazine, Canoe & Kayak, and local papers in almost every state.

In addition to ongoing efforts to protect the Potomac and other local wa- terways, CCA members lead several river trips each week, conduct low- cost kayak and canoe classes, promote river safety training, and coordi- nate regular river cleanups and conservation events. It is also notable that CCA has hosted the annual Potomac Downriver Race since 1956, making it the nation’s second longest, continuously run river race. We are proud of you, CCA! (Continued on page 9) www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | November 2019 | Page 8 Sanctioned Event of the Year

Presented to the top ACA-sanctioned event as nominated by the paddling public.

TheCarolina Canoe Club was selected for recognition for their annu- al event, the Week of . The Carolina Canoe Club is a nonprof- it club devoted to promoting recreational paddling in the Carolinas and southeastern United States. Currently their 1,100+ members use , kayaks, and inflatables to frequent flat and rivers, lakes and coastal areas, engage in environmental stewardship initia- tives and host safety and skills training classes. Week of Rivers is the CCC's flagship annual whitewater paddling event. This year's Week of Rivers and the club's 50th Anniversary Celebration brought over 400 paddlers together from all over the country to participate in an event that captured the spirit of the greater paddling community: Education, Conservation, Community Service, Fellowship, and Friendly Compe- tition. We’re proud to call you one of our Paddle America Clubs, CCC!

Page 9 | PADDLE | November 2019 www.americancanoe.org President’s Award

Given by the President of the Board of Directors to individuals for outstanding service to the ACA on a national level.

We’d like to take the opportunity to recognize all ACA Instructor Train- ers & Educators as collective recipients of the 2019 President’s Award. Instructor Trainers & Educators are the gatekeepers of the ACA’s national and international education programs; creators of instructors; the front lines and resources for the general paddling public; advocates for paddling everywhere; and the true heart and life of the ACA. We love you forever, ITs and ITEs!

We’d also like to recognize 2019 President’s Award recipient, Sam Fowl- kes. Sam Fowlkes became a certified ACA instructor 40 years ago and soon stood out as a leader in the field. Over the years, his overarching goal has been to “make the world a better place to paddle.” To that end, Fowlkes has shaped curricula, helped develop programs, mentored instructors, and reached thousands of paddlers through his courses.

“Sam Fowlkes has been a mentor, friend, co-instructor for over 20 years. He has an undying devotion to paddlesports education, safety, new ideas and the tedious work of multiple ACA committees,” said Landmark Learn- ing Executive Director Justin S. Padgett, M.S., paramedic, WEMT. “Sam has an uncommon level of patience and persistence that has really helped all of us grow and strengthen the national pool of paddlesport educators across the U.S.,” Padgett added.

Sam exemplifies unwavering dedication towards providing the highest quality both in his personal paddlesports instruction as well as in the na- tional policies and curriculum he has helped develop. His years of commit- ment to the Safety Education & Instruction Council have helped shape the ACA’s National Paddlesports Instruction Program for years to come. (Continued on page 11) www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | November 2019 | Page 10 Haven’s Leadership Award The Havens Leadership Award rewards individuals whose practices and behaviors best serve the interests and success of USA paddlesports athletes.

Aaron Huston is the U.S. National Sprint Team Coach, as well as the high-performance coach for the Gig Harbor Canoe and Kayak Racing Team based in Washington. He has served the ACA in many major ways, most recently by bringing a group of 35 young sprint paddlers to the Olym- pic Hopes Regatta in Bratislava, Slovakia – a high quality international competition experience that helps athletes 17 and younger with Olympic dreams to set stepping stones to Jr. World Championships and beyond. He’s also played a big role in supporting ACA Sprint Athletes who have gained great success this year, such as 2019 Canoe Sprint World Champi- on, Nevin Harrison.

Several generations of Havens’ family competed in the Olympic Games and won medals for the American team in canoeing. During all of their Olympic careers, the ACA was the Olympic governing body for canoe- ing and was responsible for training and preparing canoeists competing on behalf of the United States. The Havens family instituted this award to reward individuals whose practices and behaviors best serve the interests and success of USA paddlesports athletes.

Page 11 | PADDLE | November 2019 www.americancanoe.org Magazine lands its second MarCom award

Paddle eMagazine has won a coveted MarCom Awards is an internation- MarCom Award, given annually by the al creative competition that recog- Association of Marketing and Com- nizes excellence in communica- munication Professionals. The ACA’s tion. Entries come from corporate bimonthly digital magazine won a marketing and communication gold award in the Digital Media | departments, advertising E-Communications | E-Magazine agencies, PR firms, design category. Paddle also won gold for shops, production compa- the same category last fall. nies and freelancers.

Managed by editor Kimber- One of the oldest, largest and ly Jenkins since 2016, Paddle most respected competitions in is the go-to source for news the creative industry, the MarCom in the world of paddlesports. Awards competition has grown to The magazine features article and perhaps the largest of its kind in the updates on stewardship, paddle- world with over 6,000 entries 20 from sport-related policy changes, com- countries this year. petition, education, adaptive, and events. For more information about the magazine, please visit www.american- canoe.org/Paddle.

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | November 2019 | Page 12 ACA swiftwater rescue instructors receive ACA Higgins and Langley Award for preparedness, teamwork

By Darron Laughland, President, White Mountain Swiftwater Rescue Team

ACA swiftwater rescue instructors a challenging mix of mud, Jake Risch and Darron Laugh- ice, and snow; and misty land were recently recognized, rain was falling. Across the along with volunteer members of river, the hiker was in his the North Conway, New Hamp- tent, wrapped in a sleep- shire-based Mountain Rescue Ser- ing bag, perched 15 feet vice, and members of the White above the river, which had Mountain Swiftwater Rescue Team, dropped some as the tem- for their participation in a rescue of perature cooled, but was a hypothermic stranded hiker. still bank full.

The North Con- MRS and WMSRT devel- way-based White oped a plan to establish a Mountain Swift Wa- tensioned highline and put ter Rescue Team the plan into motion. Op- (WMSRT) and erating at night by head- Mountain Rescue lamps, members of the Service (MRS) re- WMSRT established down- ceived a 2019 Higgins safety and ferried a and Langley Swiftwa- rope across the Class V riv- ter Rescue Incident “Any time we en- er with whitewater kayaks. Award at the Interna- counter conditions Immediately downstream from the tional Association of like we had today, scene the gradient increased sig- Water Rescue Profes- with raging white nificantly into a long set of ledge sionals conference in water, and no oth- slides with significant consequenc- South Bend, Indiana. er means to cross, es. The boats entered the water one On December 28, 2018, the two we call upon the White Moun- at a time, ferrying just below a large volunteer teams responded to a re- tain Swift Water Rescue Team and , using dynamic eddies on quest from New Hampshire Fish Mountain Rescue Services,” said either side of the drop. Once across and Game Conservation Officers Lieutenant Mark Ober of NH Fish the river, the paddlers hauled static to assist a hypothermic backpacker & Game. “These teams are trained, lines over, established an anchor for on the Kinsman trail. The individu- equipped, and always more than the system, and made contact with al had been cut off by rapidly rising willing to respond to these emer- the stranded hiker. waters on Cascade Brook. He had gency situations.” been hiking in deep, wet snow in Members of MRS set up a Tyrole- the rain for many hours and, with WMSRT team members arrived at an traverse rope system to send an egress cut off by high water, called the trailhead that night, hiking in additional rescuer across to prepare 911 for help. Once on scene, offi- with paddling gear and additional the hiker for evacuation. Once the cers determined that they would be equipment for setting up down- man was in a harness, he was sent unable to reach him and requested stream safety. The ground was cov- across the rope system, followed by MRS and the WMSRT assist. ered in wet snow and the trails were his gear and the MRS rescuer. Once Page 13 | PADDLE | November 2019 www.americancanoe.org D2 Franconia Incident looking upstream at boats ferrying line Images courtesy of WMSRT

the rescue was completed, the pad- demonstrate outstanding skill and federal, state, and local rescue agen- dlers removed the anchor, pulled preparedness in swiftwater rescue. cies and organizations primarily the lines back across the river, and on, but not limited to, the rivers of ferried their kayaks back. Conser- The Mountain Rescue Service pro- the White Mountain region; and to vation Officers walked the hiker vides specialized technical teams minimize the number of swiftwater out while the teams packed up gear, comprised of world-class guides and -related incidents in the cleared the scene and hiked out. and climbers who volunteer their White Mountain region through The WMSRT and MRS had trained time and expertise in the service of education, outreach, and advocacy. together for this specific type of res- hikers and climbers who need as- cue in October of 2018, including sistance, in and around the White More than 300 volunteers provided rope crossing techniques, building Mountains of New Hampshire. The nearly 5,000 hours of search and a tensioned line system (Tyrolean) team is ‘on call’ 24 hours per day, all rescue services in New Hampshire sending a patient in a litter across, seasons, with volunteers being mo- in 2018. When added up, the actual and using a midpoint haul system bilized for a full range of incidents: SAR hours, training, personal gear, to raise a victim up out of the water complicated multi-day and night- travel, and certification-compliance and bring them over to shore. time searches in the depth of win- completed by these volunteer res- ter throughout the White Moun- cuers, these volunteers contribute The Higgins and Langley Memorial tain National Forest; technical rope over $250,000 annually in sweat eq- Awards in Swiftwater Rescue hon- rescues on the region’s many rock uity to the NH outdoor community. or outstanding achievement in the cliffs; swift water rescue technical discipline of swiftwater assistance; and assisting lift evacu- Since its inception, the White and flood rescue. These awards are ations at area ski resorts. Mountain Swiftwater Rescue Team not heroism awards; they recognize has offered at least one ACA Level preparedness, teamwork, and a job The White Mountain Swiftwater IV Swiftwater Rescue course annu- performed under extreme condi- Rescue Team offers the specialized ally. Attendees have included the tions, where training is vital to the technical skills, training, knowl- local paddling community, em- success of rescue missions, and edge, and experience of the White ployees of local canoe liveries, river the safety of rescue personnel. The Mountain whitewater paddling (Continued on page 15) Swiftwater Rescue Incident Award community to support the search, recognizes actions that clearly rescue, and recovery operations of www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | November 2019 | Page 14 trip leaders and camp counselors, search dog teams, and other volun- to find a way to collaborate with raft guides, and volunteer and pro- teer search and rescue organiza- professional and agency rescuers fessional fire/rescue personnel. The tions. Jake and Darron, as swiftwa- responding to water related inci- team sponsored an advanced SWR ter rescue instructors, do outreach dents, and the ACA Swiftwater Res- course with ACA Instructor Mike for the team, working with other cue curriculum, instructors, and in- Mather, a workshop on search and volunteer teams developing safe structor trainers played a large part. body recovery with local Fish and river crossing techniques for access Game officers, technical rope train- and carry outs, and instruct camp The WMSRT receiving the Hig- ing with Mountain Rescue Service, trip leaders and programs, to devel- gins and Langley Award has deep and an orientation to helicop- op and encourage safer approaches roots in the ACA program, and the ters with Dartmouth Hitchcock’s to watersports. ACA continues to have a role, as DHART air ambulance. the team hosts future ACA SWR The ACA, through its instruction courses, and continues to advocate Members also participate in the program, has played an important for all paddlers to “take a swift- annual Search and Rescue Working role in the development and train- water rescue course” as they enter Group training day and have ing of the White Mountain Swift- the sport, and periodically after, to trained with the NH Army National water Rescue Team and its mem- brush up on the skills that really do Guard’s UH-60 (Blackhawk) teams, bers. Local paddlers saw a need to make a difference when they are local and regional fire departments, get more training as they worked called on.

About the Author Darron Laughland is a co-owner, along with Jake Risch, of the Sawyer River Group LLC that provides swiftwater rescue training. He also instructs swiftwater rescue with the NH Fire Academy, teaches and canoeing seasonally, and is a licensed Maine and New York raft guide.

Page 15 | PADDLE | November 2019 www.americancanoe.org PARTNERS We are grateful to these organizations and companies for their significant commitment to help us achieve our mission and goals.

Partnership Opportunities If you would like to align your business with the nation’s oldest paddlesports organization, please click here for partnership opportunities with the ACA. www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | November 2019 | Page 16 STEWARDSHIP & POLICY

Page 17 | PADDLE | November 2019 www.americancanoe.org as trash The bags. Rancho City Rio donatedof water, came outBrewery and donated grain to sacks reuse grew, entities several kicked inresources. Bravo Rio organized through aMeetup group. As planning the of Grande Rio the River inNew Mexico.event The was to outskirts the Corrales of Albuquerque on four miles The cleanupfrom ran the townRancho throughRio of to Great the Annual Albuquerque Fiesta. Balloon duringfact arecent cleanup effortscheduled just prior moving to parts come together. Iwas reminded of this ups motivation, take coordination, teamwork and many happen. This is notthecase, unfortunately. River clean together, pull out some shuttle boats, run and make it is this no bigthink just deal, get some passionate friends up from of banks the Grande Rio the River. One may Six hundred and twenty-seven pounds of trash cleaned www.americancanoe.org Paddle GreenSpotlight during RioRancho River Cleanup Volunteers remove and Grant Manager Article and photos by Marcel Bieg, Western States Outreach Director - while and Citywhile the provided of Corrales access to the gloves, additional trash and bags dumpster services ored to know many of and them appreciate efforts. their work to make world the abetter place, and Iam hon ofhealth everyone. It is people directly like who this on task the of cleaning ariver for enjoyment the and bage. Once again passionate kindhearted people took ange road barrel, fivetires, bagsand bagsupon of gar dumpsters. groupThe shopping collected carts, an or other volunteers shuttled garbage from access points to Twelve cleaned paddlers up waterway the several while to aid with efforts. effortsthe theand sentACA some GreenCleanup bags well. The Adobe WhitewaterClub membersjoined in ing role and members of Troop 220came out to help as rive by opening gates. Scout Boy Troop 444took alead 627 pounds trash of PADDLE |November 2019 |Page 18 - - - -

USCG photo The Great Willamette River Cleanup Article and photos by Marcel Bieg, Western States Outreach Director and Grant Manager

The Willamette River Keeper City and Milwaukie, just to organization hosts monthly Riv- name a few. er Cleanups along the 200-mile stretch of the Willamette River This year, over 800 participants Valley from Oakridge to Portland, came out to support the event. Oregon. Dozens of passionate That’s a12% increase in atten- volunteers come out to help dance over last year’s event. clean up their local section of These likeminded stewards the river. The ACA helps co- volunteered their time not only ordinate and take part in these to help their local communi- cleanups in the northern end of ties and those downstream but the rivers reach along with sev- also to do their part in keep- eral other sponsors and or- ing as much trash out of the ganizations. oceans, protecting hundreds of communities and wildlife Once a year, however, the around the globe. Nine out- entire valley is abuzz with fitters and/or ACA affiliate the annual Great Willamette organizations provided ca- River Cleanup event. Sched- noes, kayaks, and rafts for uled on the first Saturday free so that volunteers with- of October, the Great Wil- out their own craft could get lamette Cleanup is a river- on the water. Because of this, wide, community day-of-ac- more than half (55%) of the tion. Volunteers participate volunteers cleaned up from by canoe, kayak, SUP, raft, the seat of a canoe, kayak, motorboat, personal water- drift , raft or motorboat. craft, drift boat, bike as well as on foot to free the Willa- The 2020 event is scheduled mette River of trash for October 3, so do and debris, while im- your part if you live proving habitat and along the Willamette community spirit River. If not, reach out along the way. Clean- and find an organiza- up sites this year in- tion that does river cluded Oakridge, cleanups in your local Lowell, Springfield, community or even Eugene, Corvallis, start your own. The Salem, Portland and ACA can help you get surrounding areas started. Please visit including West Linn, www.americancanoe. Scappoose, Oregon org/Stewardship for more information.

Page 19 | PADDLE | November 2019 www.americancanoe.org September Trashy Tuesday recorded as success

Article and photos by Marcel Bieg, Western States Outreach Director and Grant Manager

It’s an act of love, and love is what month these dedicate individu- makes great people head out into als will come out again to make a the cold, heat, rain, mud, and wet change and show that we the peo- to do the right thing. Whether it is ple can come together and make donating time to help a friend or the world a better place. October’s neighbor, protest injustice or clean river cleanup is the biggest of the up the places they love, they are year in this area and is called “The there with hopes and hearts. In the Great Willamette River Cleanup.” Willamette Valley this is a month- Communities up and down the ly occurrence and it takes a lot of Willamette River love to motivate and get it done. It from Portland to takes amazing volunteers who care Eugene go out in enough to take action rather than force to clean up simply talk about change. trash from forests, trails and water in I have been involved in Willa- the hopes of mak- mette River Keepers Trashy Tues- ing a statement day cleanups for four years and, no for the future, all matter what, every month volun- with this mantra teers come out, rain or shine. The on their minds: dedication is just plain unbeliev- “We do care and able, but beyond that the courage we will make the to do the right thing for the health world a better of their local and global commu- place.” nities time after time is unfathom- able. They are continuously fight- ing a battle that just is not getting resolved. From torn tents, to wa- terlogged sleeping bags, to dan- gerous needles and broken glass, to soul-crushing scenes of poverty and mental illness in the wealthi- est country in the world, they push through the sludge because they believe in a better world, a healthi- er world and a world where every- thing and everyone is respected.

September’s Trash Tuesday can be recorded as another success. Hun- dreds of pounds of trash were col- lected and removed from the river and her banks. Smiles were had, friendships were built and next

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | November 2019 | Page 20 Senator Wyden challenges Oregonians to protect state’s rivers

October 2, 2019, marked the Wyden said he is proud Oregon letter to Oregonians seeking river 51st anniversary of the national now has 2,173 miles designated in nominations for new wild-and-sce- Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, and the Wild and Scenic Rivers system, nic river legislation he plans to in- on that day U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden, but that the total remains a small troduce. “Now is your chance, once who has protected more Wild and fraction of Oregon’s 110,994 miles again, to speak up for your favorite Scenic Rivers than any other mem- of rivers and . Adding more rivers and highlight the outstanding ber of Congress for his home state, Oregon river miles would mean bet- values that make each river worthy announced that he is taking nom- ter protections for drinking water, of protection.” inations from Oregonians through recreation, and the fish and wild- Jan. 20, 2020, for rivers in the state life that rely on the state’s incredible American Whitewater has made that deserve addition to the nation- waters. In addition to supporting it easy to weigh in and provides rec- al Wild and Scenic Rivers list. more Wild and Scenic Rivers, it is ommendations for segments of riv- important for paddlers to weigh in ers and in Oregon that Oregon is home to some of our and nominate specific rivers that are have been identified for their unique nation’s most amazing and sce- important to us as a community. paddling opportunities and values. nic rivers. From the Illinois to the Umpqua, the Owyhee to the San- “Whether you are a whitewater This is an incredible opportunity to tiam, the state boasts an impressive rafter, an angler or simply an Or- contribute to protecting Oregon’s diversity of majestic waterways that egonian who believes strongly in natural heritage. The nomination provide an abundance of opportu- protecting the river or stream that process will continue through Jan- nities for whitewater recreation. provides safe drinking water to uary 20, 2020. your community, I want to hear from you,” Wyden wrote in an open Speak up for Oregon’s rivers today! Oregon's South Santiam River

Page 21 | PADDLE | November 2019 www.americancanoe.org Stay up to date on ACA’s stewardship initiatives

Interested in the political process? Check out some of the local and regional policy letters the ACA has submitted on behalf of paddlers: www.americancanoe.org/PublicPolicy

Want to help your local waterway? Watch these videos from fellow paddlers at their Paddle Green Events: www.americancanoe.org/PGEvents

How much is there? Where does it come from? Help the ACA and NOAA ‘Track Trash’ and clean up your local waterway in the process! Learn how to participate: www.americancanoe.org/TrackTrash

How do the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace apply to river corridors? Learn more at: www.americancanoe.org/LNT

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | November 2019 | Page 22 EDUCATION

Page 23 | PADDLE | November 2019 www.americancanoe.org ACA PRO SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT

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For more breathtaking water fun, join them for a unique scenic sunrise or sunset kayak tour and take in the Boston skyline as you’ve never seen it before. There’s so much for you, your family and your friends to enjoy! Be sure to check out their value-packed Season Passes that make it even easier for you to enjoy your favorite boating activities all summer long!

ACA Pro Schools are some of the best organizations across the country to find top quality ACA-certified instruction. Plus, current ACA members receive discounts on certain Pro School instructional programs.

Please visit www.americancanoe.org/ProSchools to find a Pro School near you.

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | November 2019 | Page 24 Rally on the Rogue and the Micro-Society

Article and photos by Marcel Bieg, Western States Outreach Director and Grant Manager

in the foothills of Colorado and was influenced by I grew up adventure sports my whole life. From climbing and hiking to skiing and camping, these passions become the centerpiece that de- fined who I was as a young man. When I was 18, I purchased my first kayak and took a job as a rookie aft guide for the summers in between college. Paddlesports quickly took the center stage and all other activities fell to the background as I grew, diversifying from rivers onto the oceans in Alaska. As the years went on, all those adventure sports came back into my life but never to the level of paddlesports. I often find myself wondering what it is about paddling that has kept my interest for more than 25 years and shows no sign of stopping.

Page 25 | PADDLE | November 2019 www.americancanoe.org For me the community in pad- in everyday society, ideally making We met on a foggy morning in Sep- dlesports is the defining trait. Of it healthier, success-oriented and tember, dropped the rafts into the course, the sport’s challenge, adven- empathetic for all its members. river, and loaded all the kayakers’ ture and ever-changing conditions gear on to the boats, packed coolers and venues make it fun, but the I was recently reminded about this with food and drink, and set up the support my fellow paddlers have idea on an out-of-the blue trip to shuttle that would deposit our vehi- given me, the social interactions wild and scenic section of the Rogue cles at the end of the run four days and the knowledge that anyone on River in Southern Oregon. An ac- later. It also turned out that I was the the water has my back, regardless of quaintance from New Mexico had only person on the trip to have ever whether they are lifelong friends or invited me to be a support rower for run this section and it was deemed newfound soon-to-be friends. This him and some friends who had nev- that I would lead the trip through idea has created what I call the mi- er been to the river. In turn, I could the main . As we embarked cro-society. have a few spots on the permit to onto the river, the fog burned off, fill with people I knew. It turned out the sun beamed down on the cool A micro-society is a community in that all the paddlers on the trip were clear water, and the nerves and ex- which any member can immediately either ACA instructors or had taken citement began to build. impact in a positive or negative way a substantial amount of ACA skills by the actions they take. This mi- courses over the years in a variety What happened over the next four cro-society, if properly adjusted and of disciplines and levels. Although days was nothing new and was the with the goal of success, can mir- most of us did not know each other, typical norm of paddling trips re- ror ideas and techniques on what it we all had a common love of pad- (Continued on page 27) would take to create positive change dling and the river.

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | November 2019 | Page 26 gardless of discipline. The group mediately took on a role and were debates, complained about the hu- began to bond, pitched in to get ready and standing by if we need- man world, and basked in the glory chores done, took on roles as pad- ed them, some setting up as safety, and unforgiving natural world we dlers, cooks, dishwashers, trash col- others approaching the rescue team were emerged in. lectors, toilet cleaners and human to be integrated into the group. waste managers, mechanics, engi- Every member became an import- neers, mathematicians, navigators As we traveled and camped, we ant, integral and aware part of the and the support staff that would aid saw immense beauty in the natural success of the trip. Many of us went in getting the whole group down setting, mountains, , cas- from strangers to friends and all saw the river in a safe and fun fashion. cading , and crystal-clear the greatness that could be achieved Several of the rapids pushed the side streams. We witnessed abun- when we all work toward a common skill levels of the paddlers and de- dant wildlife from sizable salmon goal and put our differences aside cisions were made as a group but to tiny fry along the banks, eagles, for the betterment of our group and left to each individual to initiate bears, dear, otters, turkey vultures, future generations who hopefully and follow as they saw fit. We left ospreys, and evidence of coyotes. will continue to have these experi- each camp better than we found it, We had sun, wind, warm and cold ences along this perfect river. picked up any trash along the way, temperatures, full moon and rain- greeted other paddlers with warm storms. We also saw the some less Our micro-society thrived and, as interactions, and overcame chal- desirable signs of humans, such always, taught me a great deal. The lenges together. as garbage in the woods, human experience allowed me to test the- waste where people chose not to ories and strategies where I would When we ran into trouble because a follow Leave No Trace principles, see immediately their results and kayaker swam or a raft got pinned, jet boats roaring up sections of the effect on the group. In turn, I have the team jumped into action do- river, and some unsafe behaviors taken several of these lessons home ing their part to support and find a from certain groups of users. We and integrated them into my every- solution. Passing paddle groups im- engaged in discussions and heated day life.

The moment we loaded up the rafts, said our goodbyes and drove in our separate directions, I was si- multaneously filled with a sense of sadness for the newfound friends I had made and achievement for the wonderful experience. I was excited to be reunited with my loved ones but dreaded the pace of everyday life and began to mentally plan for the next opportunity to leave that world behind and disappear into the nature to again become part of a micro-society.

Page 27 | PADDLE | November 2019 www.americancanoe.org 2019 Lumpy Waters Sea Kayak Symposium

Article and photos by Marcel Bieg, Western States Outreach Director and Grant Manager

I just returned from representing help make Lumpy Waters a pre- the venue is amazing; located in Pa- the ACA and Coaching for my miere instructional destination for cific City, Oregon, options for any sixth year at one of the West Coast’s dynamic ocean paddling. type of sea paddling are abundant. largest sea kayak symposia, Additionally, the the Lumpy Waters Sea Kayak event provides Symposium presented by Al- exceptional meals der Creek Canoe and Kayak. and evenings are The event has been running filled with manu- for over a decade, and this facturer demon- year marks the 11th success- strations, music, ful year. Lumpy is a three- food, drink and day celebration of sea kaya- unique and infor- king. With coaching aimed mative presenta- at advanced beginners, early tions. It truly is a weekend of learn- ing and fun.

The most challenging part about holding a paddling event along the Oregon Coast is what the ocean will do. The Oregon Coast is notoriously rugged with huge conditions, cold water and potential for torrential intermediates, and advanced-level Coaches offer a wide array of cours- storms. This year, however, was paddlers, Lumpy provides an un- es ranging from flat water progres- perfect – mostly sunny and calm paralleled opportunity to improve sion, to dynamic rolling to short with perfect conditions for learn- paddling skills on the beautiful boat and advanced rock ing. I recommend checking it out Oregon Coast. Top coaches come gardening. There literally is some- in 2020. from all over the world attend to thing for everyone. On top of that,

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | November 2019 | Page 28 July Instructor of the Month Elisha McArthur

“Paddling IS my life,” said Elisha playing on the river!” Elisha said for both paddle and oar. She chairs McArthur. “I have been in love with this is still true. the rafting committee, and as raft- rivers my entire life. I was lucky ing is a relatively new discipline to enough to have grown up paddling “I paddle for my heart, I paddle for the ACA, the committee has been and to have known my passion from my soul, I paddle because I NEED working on some big developments an early age. (I was 15 when I knew to. The river is both my work and for the rafting discipline, such as an I wanted to be a L5 curriculum, var- raft guide.) After 20 ious endorsements, years of guiding and and the potential of a teaching I am just as guide certification in passionate about it the future. today as I was in the very beginning, if As part of her endeav- not more so! or to share her passion for paddling, Elisha Professionally Eli- conducts women’s spe- sha guided full time cific paddling clinics. for 16 years before transitioning into “Teaching women’s full-time teaching. specific clinics is one In 2017 she and of the most fun and her husband, Alan rewarding things I Cammack, started have ever done in my their company, Can- life! And honestly it yon River Instruc- just kinda fell in my tion, in Salida, Colorado. This is a my play, and I feel so incredibly lap; I never set out to be a women’s paddle school that focuses primar- grateful that I have been able to specific instructor, as unfortunate- ily on teaching rafting skills and spend my life pursuing that passion ly, I never had much in the way of safety & rescue. with full force!” women mentors in my career, so it never occurred to me to be one.” As far as paddling in her personal Elisha is an ACA instructor in life, she said she once had a boss multiple disciplines, including L3 One day, early in the 2016 season, describe her as “The guide who Whitewater Canoe and L4 Swift- a handful of other girl guides at the doesn’t get burned out, any day she’s water Rescue. In the rafting disci- company she was working for at the not working on the river she’s out pline she is an L4 Instructor Trainer (Continued on page 32) Page 29 | PADDLE | November 2019 www.americancanoe.org August Instructor of the Month Steve Henkind

Steve Henkind loves being out experience with the Coast Guard on the water: in the middle of the but also from an unfortunate ex- ocean (serving as a navigator/in- perience when he saw a novice structor on the Coast Guard’s train- paddler (not wearing a life jacket) ing ship, USCGC EAGLE), sliding drown only a few feet away. Steve on frozen water (he is also a ski in- enjoys teaching at all levels, but his structor) and, especially, paddling. two favorite subjects are A) Safety and Rescues – “I am pretty good As a teenager, Steve canoed exten- at helping people to become much sively on Lake Champlain. In col- lege, he was on the Crew Team (still a blade in the water). About seven years ago, after a too long hiatus from regular paddling, he looked Center. He got hooked on across the lake that he lived on and whitewater, as well. realized that he should get a boat. He rapidly outgrew a used recre- Steve noted that “one of ational kayak that he had purchased the best ways to improve on Craig’s List and got himself a your own skills is to teach “real” sea kayak. His “infectious” others.” As a result, he has love of kayaking spread to his part- spent extensive time de- ner, Jacqueline, and she ended up veloping his teaching cre- also getting a boat. dentials and is currently certified as an instructor Steve is a big proponent of profes- in multiple domains: L4 sional instruction (“practice makes Open Water Coastal Kay- permanent, not perfect”) so he at- ak, L3 River Kayak, L1 Canoe, and safer on the water and actually en- tended numerous sea kayak class- L1 SUP. He also recently became an joy, as opposed to fearing, rescues” es, and symposia, up and down the L2 IT in Coastal Kayak. Mentors and B) Navigation – “I have been East Coast, in order to improve his along this road included Michael teaching navigation for a long time skills. As a physician consultant, Shugg, Dale Williams, and Tosh and have found ways to make the he travels extensively, and one of Arwood. subject interesting and comprehen- his engagements was in Asheville, sible. My focus is on developing the North Carolina … conveniently “I am a safety fanatic,” Steve noted. ability for folks to think like a pro- very close to Nantahala Outdoor This stems, in large part, from his fessional navigator.”

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | November 2019 | Page 30 ACA takes bigger role in Paddle Sports Retailer expo

2019 marks the third year for the In its first year the PSR was held in much more. With OKC being easy annual Paddle Sports Retail (PSR) Madison, Wisconsin, at the same to reach and relatively affordable to show. The PSR was created to pro- venue as Canoecopia, which is held travel to and its location near the vide a paddle market specific show in early spring. middle of the continental U.S., it on dates which did not conflict is a good location to continue with with summer paddlesports events On its second year the PSR moved the event. and sales. It uses the tag line “For to Oklahoma City, which offers a Paddlers By Paddlers” and the unique venue in its newly construct- Since PSR’s inauguration, the ACA show planners have done just that. ed Boat House District. This district has taken part in the event with in- consists of Olympic Training facil- creasing vigor. From having a sim- ities, a closed ple booth in year 1, to organizing whitewater several presentations in the Non- course along profit Education Lounge in year 2, with multiple to now providing the majority of flat-water ven- the presentations in the nonprofit ues, and several lounge while helping organize the other amenities entire educational schedule and including BMX taking on the roles as safety boaters pump tracks, a for the Jr. Sprint Knock Out Races ropes courses, series held in between the flatwater restaurants and and whitewater demo events.

Page 31 | PADDLE | November 2019 www.americancanoe.org Elisha McArthur (continued from page 29)

time asked Eli- women espe- sha if she would cially feel they take them out are so far out- and help them side of their with flip & re- comfort zone, At this year's event, held Aug. 25- covery drills. pushing bound- 29, the ACA offered eight of the 12 aries and facing educational sessions. Each session “Of course, I fears. But it’s was well attended and exposed said ‘Yes!’ That just a different attendees not only to the ACA day changed world when you but also to market trends, emerg- my life. I had have a group of ing and historic safety issues, new no idea that it all women en- sports entering the paddlesports was going to be couraging and scene and more. The ACA’s presen- such a supportive and empowering cheering each other on, overcom- tations at this year’s event included: environment, such a safe space!,” ing those fears and pushing those • Kids on the Water: What she recalled. “It was an incredibly boundaries within that mental/ shops need to know powerful experience to be able to emotional safe space, and without • Recreational Paddling Statis- hold that space for other women, to judgment, discovering that they tics and Trends: www.ameri- provide that environment for them CAN do all of those things that cancanoe.org/Statistics that I never had. I can’t even imag- seem so hard, so scary, or even un- • Engaging Community to In- ine what it would have been like to attainable! I am humbly awed to be crease Adventure Recreation have something like that when I able to teach women’s clinics, and • Managing Conflicts in Multi was a young guide... I am just so in- my heart overflows with joy & grat- Use Waterways credibly grateful that life has put me itude at the conclusion of each and • , Boarding and in a position to be able to offer that every one,” she said. SUP: What your shop needs kind of support, encouragement, to know and empowerment- to everyone! Elisha also teaches a lot of children’s • Product Trends in Surf and But especially to women. clinics. SUP • Whitewater Rafting: Making “It’s hard to describe the kind of “As a mom myself, I am concerned it More Accessible growth that happens in those wom- with kids having some river safety • ACA Paddlesports Facilitator en’s clinics, not just for each student knowledge, and so CRI offers a va- Training: www.americanca- (and the students growth is always riety of free and reduced-price kids noe.org/PSF exponential!), but also for me as an river safety programs in addition to instructor, as a friend, as a mother, our regular ‘family safety clinics.’ The ACA will likely provide sup- as just as a human being.” Teaching kids can be a little more port, education, safety and expe- challenging than teaching adults at rience at the 2020 PSR in OKC to Her favorite of the all women’s times, but fortunately my 11-year- continue the growth and accessi- courses she teaches are Swiftwater old daughter helps me teach those bility of paddle sports. We hope Rescue courses, whether one-day clinics, and having a kid ambassa- the event will continue to grow safety basics or full three-day SWR. dor in the water with them, help- and bring in more manufacturers, ing them and encouraging them is buyers and ACA members into “Simply because SWR is so intim- huge!” the future. idating to a lot of people, I think

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | November 2019 | Page 32 Riverboarding: Where Soul Meets Body

By Charles Evans, Rescue Boarder, Ridge and Valley INC

Riverboarding is a soul sport. Riv- dard surfboards by the absence of board with handles and rigid bot- erboarding is not only about per- ventral fins. These were document- tom which is what most modern sonal progression, unparalleled ed by explorers as early as 1778. freestyle and rescue style river- stream accessibility, and rescue Fast forward to 1971 and meet surf- boards are modeled after today. tech; Riverboarding also stands for ing legend Tom Morey. He shaped Carlson Riverboards are the most why we are attracted to the water the world’s first Boogie Board and widely recognized as they are often as a whole. This entails descending by 1977 he was producing over utilized as a standard tool in rescue whitewater rapids with a foam, in- 80,000 bodyboards a year. scenarios, plus they rock a killer flatable or plastic bodyboard with lime green bottom. In 1986 Ged swim flippers acting as your pad- Riverboarding, or a version, is ru- Hay began using an ocean body- dle. It exposes us to an immersive mored to have originated by the board in New Zealand and inspired world as we descend into the mod- late 1970s by the French, where the sport where it is most nationally ern growth of the sport. As we see raft guides would run rivers with recognized and commercially prac- progression and define our lines, strapped together PFDs. After tri- ticed by licensed outfitters. Today there is a constant reminder of the al and error, they then began to we see slow growth rates as media natural connection inside us as we develop a plastic sub shell which coverage and social influences as- experience the draw of whitewater is evident as inspiration in some sist in gaining market share. as close as we can get – submerged modern-day hydrospeed models in the magic. of riverboards. As boogie boarding After finding home on and off the exploded on the market, the land- river when I was 16, I immersed We can’t talk about riverboarding locked watermen began to look at myself in our local paddling culture without first mentioning the birth their rivers for inspiration. and communities. Eventually I be- of . Bodyboarding came a raft guide in Harpers Ferry, was first enjoyed by Indigenous In 1980 Robert Carlson began run- West Virginia, in 2011. Polynesians on a Hawaiian surf- ning rivers in California on his board called an ALAI (AH-LA-ee) ocean body board and eventually After guiding on slower days, I which is differentiated from stan- developed his own custom foam would go to staircase rapid, an al- most mile long shelf rapid on the Shenandoah, and swim its entire length. I would do this in nothing but my Astral Greenjacket and hel- met. A gut full of passion and curi- osity led me down the class 2+ rap- ids whilst I would bang and bounce my shins and knees off of the boul- ders. I was addicted. I then spent the next two years trying rafts, kayaks, duckies, squirt boats, stand up paddleboards and even a fiber- glass surfboard. As an avid surfer, skateboarder and snowboarder, I still was seeking a board experience

Page 33 | PADDLE | November 2019 www.americancanoe.org that I could apply to the companied with most river in a similar freestyle of the weight up front, fashion. Riverboarding is a riverboarder can plow where I found my style. through hydraulics that would typically stop and In 2013 I rode my first overturn a larger vessel. riverboard, an inflatable There is also an increased rescue board with fab- kinesthetic awareness of ric handles and some- the user as there is less what terrible agility. I equipment to dissociate then tried various other them from the hydrology. brands of riverboard, each having a different Riverboarding also river function. This was presents an exceptional a staple for my low water method of sustainability guided trips, as I would due to the increasing re- bring a board with me search and development and allow guests to surf standing yard. In September of 2017, I trav- of ecoboards. These boards are waves at along our whitewater eled with Earth Veins and Boarders utilizing materials such as hemp, route. At times, the guest would without Borders to participate in a mushrooms, bamboo, cork, and want to stay and riverboard instead first ever, Riverboarding Initiation reclaimed materials from mass of continuing down river. The ex- Tour. On this tour we descend- production projects. A lot of hy- perience a riverboard offers in an ed the Upper Yough, the Upper drospeed athletes are even crafting unparalleled water adventure. Gauley and Kanawha Falls to name their own boards, reducing waste. a few of the most recognizable. We This parallels the implied lifestyle In 2017, I met Tom Patterson and were out to prove to the world that of a paddler as an Environmental learned that after years of Research Riverboarding was just as accessi- Steward; protecting the resources and Development, his team and ble as all of the whitewater sports we value for our livelihood. company Earth Veins, had created out there, if not more. their own riverboard. This board Riverboarding has reinvigorated was more than capable of handling When it comes to safety, river- the soul of paddlesports for me, everything from waterfalls to big boarding is one of the safest ves- taking on a minimalist approach waves, flat water to class V. I re- sels to paddle with. After proper to the water. Passion is exempli- ceived my first Earth Veins board training and education of the same fied through the riverboarder as in 2017 and progression was ex- paramount prerequisites to any we make our own equipment, face plosive. I immediately ordered ten paddling experience, the learning frigid waters without dry suits to more. This board type allowed me curve of a riverboard is much easier catch perfect condition and even to run rapids I had only felt com- to obtain. A body board is already a forget the shuttle leaving us to fortable with in a raft prior. I went household name as most are famil- hike back from take-out to put-in. from running class II-III as my iar with attempting the sport when We dive head first into it all, most consistent, regular runs to running they would go to the ocean, giving of the time walking alone on the the class IV-V that are in my back- a sense of comfortability. This ac- shoreline. Join us!

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | November 2019 | Page 34 Alaska and the ACA Article and photos by Marcel Bieg, Western States Outreach Director and Grant Manager

Anyone who has traveled to Alaska vices and universities to increase several years but needed someone knows that it is not an easy place to the ACA’s foothold in the great who could provide both courses. reach. It either requires a plane ride, northern state. But travel to Alas- He had participants to fill each class long ocean voyage or multiple days ka has been seemingly futile; each and Instructor Candidates came of driving to get from the U.S.-Can- time I tried, my efforts would be out from Alaska Pacific University ada border to the Alaska-Cana- rendered ineffective. and a variety of local outfitters and da border. And from there, it still paddling schools. Additionally, two takes a long day to get to any large It appears that year 4 is the charm. current ACA instructors in Alas- population center. In many ways it One of the organizations I have ka are working toward becoming is an island and comes with all the been working with is Turnagain ACA ITs – one in SWR and one in challenges associated to getting to Kayak and Coffee House located on WWK, a key ingredient in growing an island in some far-off sea. the banks of Turnagain Arm, about the ACA in Alaska. two hours outside of Anchorage. As the Western States Outreach Di- Turnagain Kayak is owned by ACA To provide an efficient option we rector for the ACA I tried to visit Coastal Kayak IT and ACA State melded the courses into a hybrid and support events, education and Director Levi Hogan. Levi has been format. Under this format, the first clubs in all the Western states and wanting to get two days where have been successful in these ef- the ACA up taught in one forts, less visiting the great state of to offer ICWs big group and Alaska. For the last four years I have in both Swift covered all the worked with a variety of organiza- Water Res- aspects of ACA tions including the Coast Guard, cue and River policy, Educa- commercial businesses, guide ser- Kayaking for tional Models, Teaching Styles, Educational Theory, Group and Risk Man- agement, Paddling Basics and Res- cue. Then the group split, and the following three days focused on SWR specifics, followed by thee days of River Kayak discipline, each culminating with the ICE. All in all, the format worked great and the ACA gained 11 new Instructors, one new IT in River Kayaking and another IT began their journeys in earning their IT status in SWR.

Alaska is an unbelievably beautiful state and the scale of everything is breathtaking. Unfortunately, the weather at the end of September

Page 35 | PADDLE | November 2019 www.americancanoe.org can be rather unpredictable and ACA completes special paddlsports analysis project the class endured freezing tempera- tures, icy water, rain and sleet while In 2018, the ACA received funding from the U.S. Coast Guard’s Office the peaks surrounding us were of Boating Safety for a grant titled Paddlesports Statistical Analysis: caped in fresh snow and the trees Participation, Demographics and Accidents. To complete the grant the prepared for winter by dressing in ACA partnered with the Outdoor Industry Association to collect the leaves of gold, red and orange. But required data. This information was recently published and is avail- the Instructor Candidates’ passion able on the ACA website at www.americancanoe.org/page/Statistics. trumped all else and they success- fully pushed through, day after day Additionally, the ACA is required to present the grant findings at to achieve their goals. several events throughout the U.S. The ACA presented this infor- mation at Paddlesports Retailer in August and at the annual con- If you ever have the chance to visit ference of the National Association of State Boating Law Adminis- Alaska, do it. If you have the chance trators in October. to paddle while there, regardless of discipline, you should feel very privileged. I have been so lucky to live part of my life in Alaska and visit three separate times to pad- dle. Each time I left with a deeper respect of the wild adventure this state holds.

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | November 2019 | Page 36 Midwest Canoe Symposium 2019 Old Town Canoe, New Tricks By John & Barb Kersey

We aren’t exactly new to ca- rience in freestyle noeing. We’ve been success- techniques. Satur- fully navigating streams, day afternoon was rivers and lakes for about 40 also a time to try years and can competently out different boats. get to where we want to go. We were able to try On a windy afternoon in out other paddlers’ mid-August, at the USCA boats and John National Canoe Races in Diller, founder of Warren, Pennsylvania, we Savage River Ca- were treated to some exhi- noes, had brought bitions of freestyle canoe- several boats for all ing. Now that looked inter- to use as well. esting, and worth exploring further! We discovered a John & Barb Kersey, in their 1916 Old Town Ideal model canoe During the com- symposium was coming up munal meals we in Ohio first weekend of September cross wedge – oh, so much new were able to discuss the days’ les- so we signed up for some lessons – terminology…. So much to think sons with others and get tips on Building Blocks of FreeStyle, to be about. By the end of our first lesson techniques. By Saturday afternoon, exact. we were looking for a special dictio- the terminology was becoming nary with terminology spelled out. more familiar and we were com- We arrived at Camp Butler on a fortable asking questions with our sunny Friday afternoon and were Back at camp we had a communal tablemates. Saturday evening we warmly greeted by Elaine and Bob dinner where we sat with all the were back at the lake for some ex- Mravetz. Our first class was to be- other paddlers and instructors and hibitions of freestyle paddling to gin at 1:30 with Lynn and Ron. We discussed the day’s events. A com- music. Our instructors made each were their only students and they mon question directed to us new- move so graceful it looked like they got right down to business. They bies was “Do you have any ques- were dancing with the boat. assessed our abilities and began tions?” It was fairly apparent to us showing us some moves. Each new that we didn’t know enough to even Sunday came all too soon with move was followed by practice time ask a question. Evening saw us at a our final class and packing up af- and questions. community sing and then off to our ter lunch. Everyone was extreme- tent for some well-deserved rest. ly welcoming and willing to share We found it interesting that the bow their knowledge and expertise. We paddler has a much more expanded Saturday started with a warm had a great time and learned much. role in freestyling. The biggest chal- breakfast, then two new instruc- We will be back to share good times lenge for the bow paddler in our tors for the morning class. We were with this hospitable group of peo- previous experience was looking treated to plenty of practice time, ple. We look forward to fitting in for obstacles under the water and a filling lunch, and then back to one of the other symposia into our giving plenty of warning. This is not the water for our afternoon class. schedule, too. the case with freestyle. We learned Each class session gave us different the side-slip, axle, wedge, post, perspectives from paddlers expe-

Page 37 | PADDLE | November 2019 www.americancanoe.org UNIVERSAL

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | November 2019 | Page 38 PRODUCT REVIEW Physical therapists have new way to keep clients active: Adaptive Padding

By Cathy Webster, Physical Therapist Images by Drew Bressel, Bezel Photography

As a physical therapist I am always seeking therapies, equipment and opportunities that will improve my clients’ physical and emotional well-being. I also happen to be an avid kayaker, so it was doubly exciting when a few years ago I learned about a new supported kayak paddle that would allow individuals with weakness, pain, paralysis or limited function to paddle independently, in an ener- gy-efficient manner.

The paddle, called Versa, is manu- factured by Angle Oar, and it has changed the lives of several of my clients. The paddle is supported on a base mount that is attached to the both blades are angled downward of lifting the paddle above shoul- cockpit of the kayak. It rests upon a to the 30-degree position. This al- der height on one side in order to pivot and can be used straight; how- lows the kayaker to rest their arms make the blade come into contact ever, the real benefit comes when comfortably at their sides instead with the water on the other side.

High-level quadriplegics with minimal shoulder strength and even the slightest amount of teno- desis are able to kayak. Versa can be used by paddlers where one side of the body is impaired, for example, from a Cerebrolvascu- lar Accident (CVA), brain injury or cerebral palsy. In these cases, the uninvolved arm can paddle and maneuver the kayak smooth- ly and with little effort, or both arms can be used, offering range of motion and strength-building opportunities for the weaker side.

Page 39 | PADDLE | November 2019 www.americancanoe.org Because the wrists and hands are support, Hoyer lift) to ensure the • Multiple Sclerosis in a neutral position with elbows paddler’s safety, so working with • Spinal Cord Injury down (very much like holding knowledgeable instructors or phys- • Balance and coordination a steering wheel at the 10 and 2 ical therapists who have training in problems o’clock positions), the effort re- adaptive paddling is important. quired to paddle is minimal, re- Adaptive paddling programs like sulting in less stress and strain to I have used the Versa Paddle for mine are springing up all over the all upper extremity joints. As the three seasons as part of an adap- world, and they provide a mean- kayaker becomes more familiar tive kayaking program I man- ingful way to help clients build with the paddle’s functionality, age. During that time, I’ve seen strength, endurance and coordi- their strength and coordination in- strength, range of motion (ROM), nation. More importantly, though, crease, and Versa can be adjusted and balance improvements among the Versa Paddle has provided peo- into a straight paddle. The paddle my clients, as well as reduction in ple who would never have imag- is still supported, or it can be to- hypertonicity. Examples of diagno- ined being able to kayak again the tally unsupported, providing flexi- ses of kayakers who have used the opportunity to be out on the water bility for different paddlers’ needs. Versa paddle include: and exploring, improving not only their physical well-being, but their It’s important to note that in many • Post-surgical shoulder, upper emotional and spiritual well-be- cases, the paddler and kayak may extremity (UE) fractures ing, and allowing patients to feel need other adaptations besides the • Arthritis of the neck, back, whole in a world where they often paddle itself (e.g., outriggers, trunk shoulders and hands feel broken. • CVA

About the Author Cathy Webster is a registered physical therapist at The RehabGYM and the Adaptive Kayaking Program Director with the Northeast Disabled Athletic Association, a nonprofit whose mission is to encourage and make available recreational and competitive sport to disabled Vermonters. For more information and volunteer opportunities for the upcoming season, contact Cathy at [email protected].

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | November 2019 | Page 40 NEWS NEAR YOU

Page 41 | PADDLE | November 2019 www.americancanoe.org State Updates

California

The California Women’s kayaks, there were mini Watersport Collective Shredders, a golden drag- hosted a Community Cel- on, and a rainbow Pega- ebration Sept. 14-15 in sus. The competition was Placerville, California. The sponsored in part through goal was to draw aware- a generous donation from ness to and benefit their the ACA California Exec- Community Outreach utive Council. The racers Project. Sarita Kay wrote: all performed admirably, and safety’s only concern The day started with a was for the non-compet- fun downriver race on ing tubers floating aim- the Class III Chile lessly into rocks. section of the South Fork American Riv- The Collective plans to er, beginning at the hold this event again, so Nugget and ending mark your calendars for at First Threat wave. the Second Community The racers were even- Celebration September ly divided between women and men, with a girl 12-13, 2020! and boy each under the age of 18. From there they paddled to Marshall Gold Discovery State Histor- For more information about Cali Collective, please visit ic Park (whose name belies its place in California their website at cwwcollective.com and follow them on history), where the Class II race began. Participants Facebook and Instagram. ranged in age from 4 to 62, aboard a plethora of crafts—in addition to whitewater and inflatable Jamie Eubanks, [email protected]

Indiana

Executive Council tries freestyle

Several members of the Indiana Executive Council tried their hand at freestyle in a team-building weekend. The group spent time with two of the best freestyle canoe- L-r: Joyce Hayes, John Gates, Toni Harris, ists, Marc Ornstein and Molly Gurien at Lake Summit Daniel Bendy, Roger Youmans in New Castle, Indiana. Marc graciously introduced axels, christies, posts, wedges, and slide slips as the group fell in love with freestyle solo canoeing.

Marc Ornstein (Continued on page 43)

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | November 2019 | Page 42 Paddle America Club Stewardship continues

As part of an ongoing mission to keep the East Branch of the Little Calumet River open for paddling, some of Northwest Indiana Paddle Association members volunteer river clearing crew cleared several tree falls on the river on September 5, 2019, keeping an eight mile stretch clear from Brummit Road in Chesterton through The National Park to Howe Road (Dunes Learning Center area) in Porter.

Eva Moran, fall voyageur

Education and Youth Development

A big thank-you to all the ACA Certified Instruc- tors and the Indiana Youth Director, Daniel Bendy, for his dedication to Youth Education. Recently the Voyageur Program relaunched it’s Youth Leadership Program. The first class launched September 6-8 and 20-22, 2019. In anticipation for high advetures, the Voyageur Youth Leadership Program, under the BSA, Crossroads of America Council is dedicated to teach- ing basic canoe skills in preparation for Boundry Wa- L-r: Rich Zimnawoda, David Klein, Jason Tharp, ter Canoe Area trips. Kevin Murray, Stylianos Shepard, Dennis Williams. Rob Albrecht-Mallinger photo

Valuable volunteers Hoosier Canoe & Kayak Club members continue Part 2 clean up of Raccoon Creek. Nine paddlers share in hard Lake Summit, New Castle, Indiana, hosted both moon- work and great memories of mud, fun, and teamwork light and sunrise paddles August 17-18, 2019. Volun- while celebrating Labor Day. The cleanup preps the teers were used as safety boats for both paddles. The creek for the upcoming annual Covered Bridge Festi- volunteers also assisted with the park’s annual Paddle val weekend paddle in October. What club dedication! Experience Day. During the experience day, park vis- itors are encouraged to stop by the livery and experi- ence a canoe and/or kayak paddle at no cost. Congrat- ulations to the park and the volunteers for providing a safe and fun day on the water.

Joyce Hayes, [email protected]

Page 43 | PADDLE | November 2019 www.americancanoe.org Nebraska OLLI at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and UNL waiting list was created for those wishing to learn to Outdoor Adventures are put- paddle. ting paddlers age 50 & older on the water through Intro & Now in 2019, OLLI offers five Exploration Kayaking Classes. kayak classes each spring, summer, and fall term, OLLI, the Oscher Lifelong taught by Newell Decker and Learning Institute, has all UNL Outdoor Adventure kinds of educational & rec- Staff. Usually three introduc- reational programs for peo- tory classes and one each Lake ple over 50 years old at 325 Exploration and River Explo- colleges and universities ration. All fill as soon as regis- throughout the nation. The tration opens and waiting lists OLLI motto is, “Curiosity are formed for cancellations. Never Retires.” Look to see if OLLI programs In June 2011, UNL Outdoor are offered near you, spread Adventure Asst Director Jor- the word and get involved dan Messerer collaborated paddling or teaching. with T. Newell Decker, Emer- itus Professor of Audiology, a Additionally in Nebraska, the lifelong paddler and sailor to popular West Maple St river offer through OLLI at UNL a access point on the Elkhorn single Intro to Recreational Kayaking Class. The class River, which had been closed due to spring flood dam- filled immediately when registration opened, and a age, is now open!

Puerto Rico

On Sept. 21, 2019, the ACA-PR joined efforts with local ACA instructors in the International Coastal Cleanup Day. Together, we removed hundreds of pounds of trash from two coastal waterways in Ponce and Cabo Rojo PR using the ACA green bags.

The International Coastal Cleanup began more than 30 years ago, when communities rallied together with the common goal of collecting and documenting the trash littering their coastline.

The cleanup has grown immensely and now volunteers from states and territories throughout the U.S. and more than 100 countries come together each year and participate in a cleanup event near them. (Continued on Omar Ramos, [email protected] page 45)

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | November 2019 | Page 44 Vermont

The switch to fall weather in Vermont has been pret- ty quick with some occasional warm weather days still popping up. The water temperatures are beginning to drop as the days get shorter and cooler. This is the shoulder season for paddling as people begin to start preparing for the winter. Outfitters and guides are beginning to wind down their paddling operations, so keep that in mind if you are needing paddle craft, equipment, or instruction/guiding. L-r: Luke Martz, state director; Jeff Mazanec, public policy liaison; Pete Spence, stewardship director; Scott Thomson, I would like to take a moment to highlight two organi- treasurer/secretary; Ken Braband, education director. zations that have been involved in providing paddle op- portunities this year, Vermont Adaptive and the Ver- mont Youth Conservation Corps (VYCC). Vermont Wisconsin Adaptive provides a great opportunity for individuals The newly elected ACA Wisconsin Executive Council with disabilities to have access to equipment and in- met September 12 in Madison to plan initiatives for the struction by qualified staff to pursue paddlesports. The coming year. Expect to hear more soon from your Wis- VYCC conducts conservation work across the state of consin executive council. Vermont, and this year one of the projects involved removing invasive species in Vermont waterways by canoe and kayak.

The ACA section in Vermont is looking to increase its collaboration and presence with paddling groups and events. Please contact vtstatedirector@americancanoe. net to pass along ideas and contacts. Hope to see you out on the water! State Director Program

As the nation's oldest and largest paddlesports non-profit, the ACA has built a strong reputation on making the world a better place to paddle through numerous Education, Stewardship, Ex- ploration, and Competition initiatives.

As a national organization, it can be difficult to know all the paddling issues in every state. To that end, the ACA State Directors have volunteered to bridge the gap between paddlers on the ground and the ACA.

For more information, please visit www.ameri- cancanoe.org/State_Directors.

Page 45 | PADDLE | November 2019 www.americancanoe.org Steve Henkind, Chile 2017

MEMBERSHIP

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | May 2019 | Page 46 ACA MEMBER BENEFIT

• The warmest, most advanced change robe in the world • Ideal for , surfing, triathalons, , , paddling, and outdoor lifestyles • ACA members receive 15% discount and free shipping

dryrobe® is the original outdoor, waterproof and windproof changing robe. The company was founded in 2010 by Gideon Bright, a North Devon, UK-based surfer with over 30 years' experience in the water.

The dryrobe® has received high praise since its launch and has become a very familiar sight on the back of the best athletes from all over the world.

Its unique design and fit allows you to change with ease outdoors, while staying covered up and fully protected from the elements.

It has become an essential companion for open water swim training, , obstacle course racing, and virtually all outdoor sports have embraced the benefits of the dryrobe.

For more information on member benefits, please visit www.americancanoe.org/Benefits.

Page 47 | PADDLE | November 2019 www.americancanoe.org Make your events easier with online waivers!

If you are an event organizer and interested in using our online waivers as part of your online registration process, please email the Insurance Coordinator for more details.

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | November 2019 | Page 48 ACA OUTFITTER, LIVERY & GUIDE SPOTLIGHT

Since 2005, Virginia Outside has made their our mission to introduce thousands of kids to the wonders of the outdoors. Whether biking, kayak- ing, , or hiking, it’s all about having fun!

Everyone who works at Virginia Outside believes that being introduced to the outdoors is a gift. For their staff- ers as well as countless others, those outdoor experienc- es steered the direction of their lives, and they recognize that life wouldn’t be the same if someone hadn’t taken the time to introduce them to the outdoor pursuits they cherish. For these reasons, they established an organi- zation through which to pass on their passions for the out- doors to the next generation.

Find an ACA outfitter near you using the convenient search tool on our website!

Page 49 | PADDLE | November 2019 www.americancanoe.org Give the Gift of an ACA Membership

Give your paddling friend or family member an ACA Gift Membership so they can support safe, enjoyable paddling and protection of America’s recreational waterways.

The ACA is the nation’s oldest paddlesports organization. Thanks to the support of our members, we have been making the world a better place to paddle since 1880!

As an ACA member, your gift recipient will enjoy the following benefits: • Subaru VIP Program • Stewardship support • Public Policy representation • Free premium digital magazine subscription from Rapid Media • Upgrade to a print subscription from Rapid Media at an exclusive ACA member rate • Reduced admission to thousands of ACA sanctioned events and races each year • Pro Deals for certified instructors • Bimonthly Paddle eMagazine featuring local, regional, and national paddlesport issues • Members-only discounts • Discounts on ACA merchandise • And more!

It’s easy to give an ACA Gift Membership using our safe and secureonline form. Or, if you prefer, you can make your gift by mail or phone:

ACA | Canoe - Kayak - SUP - Raft - Rescue After purchasing your gift Attn: Membership Department / Gift Membership membership, you will receive 503 Sophia Street, Suite 100 a confirmation email Fredericksburg, VA 22401 with a downloadable gift (540) 907-4460 ext 109 announcement (PDF file) to give to the receiver.

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | November 2019 | Page 50 COMPETITION

Ayako Albrecht photo

Page 51 | PADDLE | November 2019 www.americancanoe.org Olympic Hopes Regatta 2019: Team USA’s best year yet

By Stephanie Schlitz

Team USA’s ju- are not only get- nior sprint canoe ting onto the and kayak athletes podium, they’re joined competitors benefitting from from 36 countries international rac- around the world ing experience, for a week of train- positive team- ing and racing at work, and inter- the annual Olym- cultural exposure. pic Hopes Regatta (OHR) in Bratisla- Parent Di- va, Slovakia this ana Majumdar September. (Rivertown), The 2019 OHR Team who traveled to While the 1000-, Ayako Albrecht photo Bratislava, found 500-, and 200-me- it impressive to ter races are always see “kids who fiercely contest- hugged my mom, it really hit me. were competing ed, drawing athletes from Europe, At that moment, I thought of all fiercely against each other just few North America, South America, the times I had worked so hard – weeks ago [at Nationals] come Asia, and Australia, Team USA had during practice, staying after prac- together and become one team, an outstanding showing, qualifying tice to work on technique – and supporting each other, cheering for seventeen finals and medaling had pushed myself harder than I (Continued on page 53) in three events. ever thought I could during training and Coach Aaron Huston with athletes Elena Wolga- According to Kenny Kasperbau- racing. I thought mot and Kali Wilding. Photo courtesy Wolgamot. er, assistant coach, “This year’s of all the mental OHR team was the best-perform- and physical chal- ing in U.S. history. Last year, the lenges I had to get U.S. qualified for eight finals. This through. It was so year’s team qualified for more than worth it to earn double that count, making this the that medal.” capstone of an outstanding year for USA Canoe and Kayak.” With a phenome- nal coaching staff For Emma Albrecht (Gig Harbor), and dedicated sup- C1 200m bronze medalist, medal- port from clubs ing at OHR was indescribable. across the U.S., America’s up-and- “After I got off the podium and coming paddlers

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | November 2019 | Page 52 Ashby Bodine congratulates Jonas Ecker following Ecker's bronze medal winning race. Stephanie Schlitz photo

each other on, and representing different countries, all while push- Championships as well as OHR,” their country together.” ing himself athletically. OHR was a finished Kasperbauer. “These -re truly amazing experience!” sults prove that the foundation for “Seeing friendships develop and canoe and kayak is growing year connections made with kids across “The sprint program is developing by year, and Team USA has a lot to borders and language barriers, and and gaining traction, as evident in look forward to!” seeing the flags of so many coun- the exceptional team performanc- tries fly above the spectator stands es at Junior/U23 and Senior World was wonderful,” she added. Left: Coach Harper assists silver And parent Lisa Galvan (Gig Har- medalist Zoe Hein. Albrecht photo bor), who also attended, comment- Below: Athletes at play at Bratislava ed, “for a 15-year-old to compete in Castle. Wolgamot photo an international regatta is awesome! Right: Bronze medalist Emma Albrecht. My son got to represent his canoe Schlitz photo club, his community, his school, and our family in a unique way that most will never get to experience. At the same time, he learned about different cultures and languages by meeting other athletes and seeing

Page 53 | PADDLE | November 2019 www.americancanoe.org What are athletes saying?

“Absolutely unbelievable.” ~ Jonas Ecker (Bellingham), K1 500m bronze medalist

“Surreal.” ~ Zoe Hein (San Diego), C1 200m silver medalist

“I enjoyed watching the competition, both international competitors and my teammates, in order to gauge the amount work I’ll have to put in to be at that level or better next year.” ~ Philip Majumdar (Rivertown)

“This was one of the biggest and best races I’ve ever been to. I got to experience and learn new things every minute I was there!” ~ Kitsy Nipper (San Diego)

“Really fun! But also a reality check… Time to get back to training.” ~ Jackson Plymale (Gig Harbor)

“An incredible experience!” ~ Becca Schuette (Washington)

“So amazing!! I learned so much about racing and met some pretty awesome people.” ~ Helen Schuette (Washington)

“The most amazing experience of my life.” ~ Ethan Vasquez (Gig Harbor)

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | November 2019 | Page 54 Paddling’s Pioneering Spirit: Alan Anderson

By Stephanie Schlitz

In 2003, when Gig Har- “The question I got bor Canoe and Kayak asked most that year was Racing Team (GH- “What’s a Gig Harbor?” CKRT) founder and laughed Cedric. coach Alan Anderson and 11-year-old Ced- Absolutely no one knew ric Bond met for the who they were, but it first time at Skansie didn’t matter. Alan’s Dock, neither could goal wasn’t to make a have known that a long name for the team that history already existed year. Or even to win. It between them. Decades was to learn. earlier, Cedric’s father, Douglas, had raced Al- At the end of that first an’s soap box derby car regatta, Alan saw one while young Alan, too of his athletes sitting sick to race for himself, off on her own, crying watched bitterly from a over their losses. He sat hospital bed. down beside her and put his arm around her. Cedric’s father lost “We’re going to get bet- that race, but Cedric ter,” he assured her. And has more than made they did. up for it, becoming a mutli-time national A year later in 2005, champion and one of when the all-bantam Alan’s earliest and most National champion Cedric Bond and GHCKRT founder and team raced at their sec- decorated kayakers, ulti- coach Alan Anderson. Jolin Bevin photos ond Sprint Nationals in mately blazing a (water-) , they “won every trail that’s enabled hundreds of But it didn’t start out that way. In single race they entered. K4, C4, Gig Harbor youth to paddle in 2004, when Alan, Cedric, and a male, female – everything,” recount- his wake. handful of other GHCKRT pad- ed Alan. “That was a memorable dlers traveled to Georgia for their regatta,” he smiled. “And Cedric be- Under Alan’s leadership, GH- very first Sprint Nationals, “We got came known then as a champion.” CKRT has gone on to win seven crushed,” recalled Alan. Sprint National Championship From that point on, the team grew. team titles, and Gig Harbor ath- In the beginning, “As a bunch of 11- “It was fun to climb that mountain,” letes have qualified to compete for and 12-year-olds, we were just ex- Alan recalled. “From being at the Team USA at Junior and Senior cited to be on the water. We hadn’t very bottom, to getting to the top. It World Championships, the Pan yet figured out there were goals we was a journey, but eventually there American Games, and Olympic could shoot for. There were no old- came a time when if athletes were Hopes Regattas across Europe and er paddlers on the team to look up lined up in a race against a Gig Har- the Americas. to, no one to chase,” added Cedric. bor paddler, it made them nervous

Page 55 | PADDLE | November 2019 www.americancanoe.org because we were “He was right,” prepared. But not Cedric acknowl- in the beginning.” edged. “You’re not going to win if you A long-time do your best. In competitive ath- order to win, you Coach Alan with Cedric and GHCKRT. lete and former have to do better and marathon part of every single practice was a than you think you can do. You kayak master champion, Alan speech or a story thematically tied have to push beyond your abilities. knew a lot about racing when he to that day’s workout.” And that’s the only way you can do founded GHCKRT. But his success your best. as a coach, according to Cedric, “I had a story prepared for every sin- stemmed ultimately from humility gle workout,” Alan nodded, enjoying “Alan shaped athletes who could and a desire to learn. the memory, illustrating to me in pursue through adversity – through that moment why my own son con- the last 200 meters of a 1000m race “Alan is a very humble coach,” ob- tinues to be so inspired by him. – who could push past themselves served Cedric. “He was always ask- and get into that special place, that ing the other coaches questions, “Alan told us stories about his ad- zone, the edge.” always talking to people from oth- venture racing days. He’d tell us er sports. He knew his own limits, stories that got our minds in the When I asked Cedric to draw a and he knew that for us to succeed game. Then we’d go out on the wa- connection between his experience he needed to talk to other people, ter, and we were so motivated. We kayaking with Alan and his own that doing so was beneficial for were always racing against our- success today as an attorney, hus- each of us, and still today it’s reap- selves. It was a constant battle to go band, and father, he had a lot to say. ing dividends.” faster, to win.” (Continued on page 57)

“How,” I asked. “The stories and teaching us about the mental game have always been “He brought in a physical therapist one of his strongest coaching and a weight trainer, a Hungarian points,” added Cedric. paddler and a New Zealand expert. They brought in an incredible com- When Cedric was 15 and Alan petitive drive and love of the game, so asked him how he thought he’d do I learned the art of being a compet- at Sprint National Team Trials that itor – the soul of it,” Cedric replied. year, Cedric answered dutifully, “I’m going to try my best.” “You were just 11 or 12,” I respond- ed. “How did you know, even if But Alan wasn’t satisfied. “That’s only in retrospect, that you were not good enough,” he urged. “When Cedric introduces Alan to his son. being taught the ‘art of being a it gets down to the last 50 meters, Schlitz photo competitor’?” and you’re neck in neck with the paddler next to you, you must have Bringing in other people was only already committed that you will part of it, Cedric clarified. “The first win. Trying doesn’t count.”

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | November 2019 | Page 56 Ready, Set, Mark Your Calendars!

Don’t miss these Schlitz photo upcoming races... (Click race name for more info)

March 28, 2020 Race for the Cookies! “Kayaking really shaped who I am,” but end up winning down the Bothell, Washington he told me. “Because it gave me a road. Just as in paddling, I was level of confidence and the ability competing against myself. You to know that I could do something can’t compete against others until August 27-30, 2020 if I set my mind to it. If I committed you can compete against yourself 2020 ICF Canoe Marathon my thoughts, my waking and sleep- – and defeat yourself, and de- World Championships ing, and everything in between to feat what you think is your best, Baerum, Norway achieving a goal, I could do it. pushing past what you think are your limitations.” “That was huge for me when I ap- plied to law school. When I took By that point in our conversation, the entrance exam the first time, I dozens of kids had gathered on the got a median score. I studied more, dock. They were warming up and and I took it again. But I got exactly hauling boats onto the water for the same score. So I pushed myself. practice. Alan joined them while I took a prep course. I worked hard- Cedric suited up to paddle for the er. And I took it a third time. This first time in years. After that, they time, I did very well. I was accepted were out on the water again, as if to lots of schools and was offered nothing had changed. But things partial and even full scholarships.” have changed. Today, everyone knows who they are. “Kayaking contributed because I knew I could get beaten twice

About the Author Stephanie Schlitz, parent of kayaker Ashby Bodine, spoke with Alan Anderson and Cedric Bond at Gig Harbor’s Skansie Park in July 2019. Special thanks to photographer Jolin Bevin for meeting them on site.

Page 57 | PADDLE | November 2019 www.americancanoe.org INTERNATIONAL www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | November 2019 | Page 58 Taking the ACA SUP Course to the Stockholm archipelago

By Ge Wu, ACA Instructor and Zhejiang University Teacher

Consisting of some 30,000 islands, the Stockholm archipela- go is the largest archipelago in Sweden, and the second larg- est in the Baltic Sea. Vaxholm is one of the most prominent and popular islands in the archipelago. At the end of August, I had the opportunity to visit the Skargardens Kanotcenter Kayaks & Outdoor located on Vaxholm and teach an ACA SUP course.

During the full day course, three participants and I ex- changed not only SUP skills but also cultural knowledge from one another’s country, and new friendships were forged. It was such a great pleasure to paddle with these lo- cal SUP enthusiasts and have them show me the local histo- ry and landscape.

Page 59 | PADDLE | November 2019 www.americancanoe.org ACA holds first Canoe Instructor Certification Workshops in China

By Christopher Stec, ACA Canoe ITE

In conjunction with ACA SUP Instructor Trainer Jackie Lo of Enigma Watersports, the first two ACA Canoe Instructor Certification Workshops were held in China at the Zhouji Watersports Center just west of Shanghai in mid-October.

Special thanks to multi-discipline ACA In- structors Freeman and Scott from Zhouji for hosting these two inaugural ACA Canoe In- structor Certification Workshops at their kay- ak club on Dianshan Lake.

As China’s recreational paddlesports market continues to grow in the kayak and SUP disci- plines, many paddlesports clubs across China are beginning to consider adding canoeing to their offerings.

Instructor Candidates from Bejing to Hong Kong flew in to participate in these two ACA Level 2: Essentials of Canoe Touring Instruc- tor Certification Workshops. Mentored by ACA Canoe ITE Chris Stec, Jackie Lo is now in the process of submitting paperwork to be- come the first ACA Canoe Instructor Trainer in China.

Special thanks to ACA Canoe Instructor Trainer Ivan Bartha. He taught the initial ACA Canoeing skills courses in China back in July 2016 at Zhenjiang University in Hangzho.

Congratulations to all of the new ACA Level 1: Introduction to Canoe and Level 2: Essen- tials of Canoe Touring Instructors in China!

To learn more, please visit www.americanca- noe.org/China.

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | November 2019 | Page 60 ACA honors IWHoF inductees with video, fundraiser

The International Whitewater Hall of Fame (IWHOF) recognizes and hon- ors individuals who have made significant contributions to whitewater re- lated activities. To date, 47 honorees have been inducted into the Hall of Fame since the first class was inducted in 2005.

As announced in the previous issue of Paddle, the 2019 Inductees have been selected! Click here for the official press release, and check out the induction video, at left. • Advocate – Joe Pulliam • Advocate – Chris Hawkesworth • Pioneers – Christa & Hermann Kerchkoff

Please consider donating to the 2019 Inductee Fundraiser. Any level of donation will help honor individuals who have opened access, advanced safety and technology, and educated/advocated for safe, yet adventurous, paddlesports which benefits ALL! Thanks in advance for your contribution to this cause that means so much to us! Watch the induction video, at left.

Sea Kayak Comics

This iIllustration was created by Thor F. Jensen, a world-record holding explorer and member of the Adventurers’ Club of Denmark.

Thor describes the background to his illustration: “I love sea kayak- ing and a have done a lot of blog- ging and a couple of award-win- ning documentary films about the sport. On a 38-day expedition around Denmark, back in 2014, I started to upload small drawings to Facebook. It was such an easy way to share the joys of paddling with a wide audience. Now I am working on a comic book with sea kayaking jokes.”

You can see more of Thor’s graphical work at https://thorstore.dk.

Page 61 | PADDLE | November 2019 www.americancanoe.org Paddling History

The first issue ofPaddle eMagazine was released on March 1, 2015.

Each issue, we’ll bring you an interesting paddling photo from the ACA archives. We hope you enjoy these little glimpses of paddling history.

www.americancanoe.org PADDLEPADDLE | November | May 20192018 | PagePage 62 Making the World a Better Place to Paddle! Since 1880.

www.americancanoe.org