Camp Cup Challenge 2008 a HUGE success

Camp Cup Challenge 2008 was held on July 21st at the Nantahala River. This event, started back in the early 90’s, is a great way for young paddlers to get together and have a great day on the river. This year, we had over 85 participants from 9 different camps, which is pretty impressive considering that this was the first year in over five years that the Camp Cup has been held. Participants were able to compete in two events, either whitewater slalom or downriver, and had one run in the morning and another in the afternoon. The slalom course was held on the practice course (using the NOC wave), and the downriver race started at the big cement beach and ran through Nantahala Falls.

The event gathered support from local businesses and whitewater educators with both Endless Rivers and the Nantahala Outdoor Center helping to make the event a success. Local NBC affiliates attended the event and interviewed participants. Everyone left at the end of the day knowing a little more about whitewater slalom and having meet a ton of other kids their age interested in paddling.

The participating camps included: Camps Green Cove and Mondamin, Merri-Woode, High Rocks, Camp Carolina, Chosatonga, Kahdaela, Camp Illahee, and Wayfarer. The event was made possible by generous sponsors. Much thanks to the ACA Dixie Division who provided lunch for all participants and volunteers, Ovett Brother Adventure Gear who provided water, a dry bag for all participants, and tons of raffle gear. Endless River Adventures who provided raffle prizes and elite coaching. Keen Footwear, the Alzar School, and Wayne Dickert, Camp Green Cove, and Camp Merri-Woode all provided raffle prizes. A special thanks to Olympic Gold Medalist Joe Jacobi who provided coaching and support to the participants.

You can read other blog entries at Endless River Adventures site: http://www.endlessriveradventures.com/blog2/ and at Joe Jacobi’s: http://www.JoeJacobi.com