North Santiam: OKCC playboating clinic

On Saturday, I tagged along with the OKCC playboating clinic, handpaddling from Niagara to Spencer's on the North Santiam, with flows around 1050cfs up top. EJ took some pictures:

helping portage Packsaddle dam

EJ's and my Astros at Packsaddle dam

The highlight of the day for me was getting 4 ends while spinning around in a series of whirlpools at one of the squirt spots. The awesome part, though, was watching everyone make progress. Thanks to Michael Williams and EJ Etherington for leading the trip. EJ's trip report is up on the Riot Team site.

grand finale OKCC pool session

Tonight marks the final OKCC pool session of the season at Clackamas Aquatic Center. Scott W. might be able to score a squirt boat from Joel M. for me to try out, which would be interesting, as I've never been in one on the water. Scott and I will help Luke get boats to the pool tonight. I helped some folks with rolls last month, and got quite a thrill out of seeing the joy they felt when they nailed it. I'll split my time between helping folks out and working on my own skills tonight. It's a fun time.

Update. What a great way to end the season of pool sessions! I was able to throw a half-dozen ends in a row. I can cartwheel reliably now...if I'm in a RAD 175, RAD 185, or a squirt boat. :)

Scott brought a Bigfoot (squirt boat), and I gave it a go. The wave machine was on already, so my first squirt experience was a wobbly one. Without the proper outfitting, I could only stand a few minutes, but I was able to cartwheel some and easily roll that (medieval torture device disguised as a) boat. I'm stoked to do more squirt boating, for sure. In the short term, I need to practice and get in shape for the upcoming Northwest Creek Comp, though.