U.S. Freestyle Kayak Team hopefuls will converge in Glenwood Springs, Colorado May 30-31 to compete for the top honor in U.S. freestyle paddling—a spot on the US. Team. Competitors from all over the U.S. will perform carefully choreographed 60-second rides to prove to judges that they’ve got what it takes to compete against the world’s best at the world championships in Thun, Switzerland this August. Among those competing will likely be current world champions Eric Jackson, Emily Jackson and Evan Garcia. All three have spots on the 2009 team by default, but are still expected to show up to trials.
The competition will be held at Glenwood’s whitewater park, a section of the Colorado River re-engineered during the winter of 2007-2008 to create consistent play features for both competition and recreation. Salida, Golden and Buena Vista all have parks of their own and all host freestyle competitions, but Glenwood is the first city in Colorado to host the national team qualifier.
In addition to the freestyle competition, river enthusiasts and spectators can check out the 7th annual Yaggata Regatta, a rafting flotilla and costume contest, live music, kids activities, food vendors and plenty of micro-brews. Definitely not a weekend to miss in Glenwood!
Video of the park at low water
Video of the park at high water