The GoPro Games, coming June 6-9 in Vail, Colo., draws “pros and Joes” alongside each other to compete in everything from biking and climbing events to running and, yes, paddling. With over a $100,000 purse, it draws some of the outdoor world’s best in spectator-friendly events the whole family can watch. Throw in top-notch concerts, demos, activities and Colorado sunshine, and you have a weekend to remember.
Of the paddling persuasion? Following is a roundup of events you can either compete in or put on your spectating radar.
STEEP CREEK CHAMPIONSHIP
THURSDAY, JUNE 6: 10 AM
LOCATION: HOMESTAKE CREEK
Dropping a whopping 480-feet per mile, Homestake Creek is a paddling gem that was once known only to Vail Valley locals. Now the sport’s best come to race it in one of the country’s top extreme kayak events.
KAYAK FREESTYLE
QUALIFIER: THURSDAY, JUNE 6, 3:30 PM
SEMI-FINALS: FRIDAY, JUNE 7, 2 PM
FINALS: SATURDAY, JUNE 8, 4 PM.
LOCATION: VAIL VILLAGE
Watch this for thrills and spills as freestyle’s best battle it out in the heart of Vail Village.
8-BALL SPRINT
QUALIFIER: SUNDAY, JUNE 9, 9 AM
LOCATION: GORE CREEK/VAIL VILLAGE
DOWNRIVER KAYAK SPRINT
SATURDAY, JUNE 8, 8:30 AM
LOCATION: VAIL VILLAGE
DOWNRIVER KAYAK SPRINT
THURSDAY, JUNE 6, 10:30 AM
LOCATION: GORE CREEK/VAIL VILLAGE
Super SUP-ers put their speed and skills to the test in this race down Gore Creek against the creek and the clock.
SUP SURF CROSS
SUNDAY, JUNE 9, 12 PM
LOCATION: GORE CREEK/VAIL VILLAGE
Bonus: Croakies Kids Sup Challenge!
June 6,7,8, 1 pm, Adventure Village
The Croakies Kids SUP Pool will be stocked with floating sunglasses and other floating “debris.” This challenge will test your kids to see how quickly they can clear the pool, while staying upright on their paddle board. Don’t miss this fun opportunity to get your kids out on the water for some laughs, a good test of balance, and some great prizes from our friends at Croakies.
Info: www.mountaingames.com