Wednesday, April 20, 2016

Northwest Creeking Competition

Well we finally made it to the west coast, and then drove north until we made it to Washington State. Our first stop was the North West Creeking competition. I have heard a lot about this event, though I had never been before. I arrived on Friday morning and it was pretty empty, I had to search to even find another kayaker to paddle the river with. Though by the evening the whole park was starting to fill in.

Saturday morning was a shocking surprise when I woke up to find a couple hundred car, trailer, tents and people that had swarmed and taken over the whole park. Registration started in the morning and even with the announced low water there were still at least 90 competitors for the Lower Lewis Race. 

I ended racing in the short and long boat classes, and had a blast on the amazing river and tight little gorge. The run itself was a blast, but adding the excitement of the race made it even more fun. After an exhausting 10 minute race my arms felt like jello, though my hard work payed off with a win in both classes. 

Though the real show began in the evening as the party kicked off with an amazing BBQ stake/chicken dinner. It didn’t take long for the Ninkasi kegs to start flowing and the music pumping. It was an amazing event and I can’t wait to head back next year!

Here is my winning short boat lap from the race. 




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