Open Air Demo Launches OR Show ``xpaddler``xOnce again, this summer’s Outdoor Retailer show in Salt Lake City, Utah, will be preceded by the Open Air Demo, offering a chance for paddlesport manufacturers to introduce their new products in an outdoor setting, an uncommon scenario once the show starts.
“It’s purified contact with the dealer,” says Waterstick Paddles Sales and Marketing Manager Mark Hall, adding that the demo day is a good way to launch into hectic show atmosphere. “Guys think hard all year round, and it’s all summed up in five days of frantic buying.”
Located at Little Dell Lake just a few minutes up Parley’s Canyon via I-80, the annual tradeshow prelude will be held Aug. 11 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The demo’s purpose is to give show attendees the opportunity to mix business and pleasure outside of the highly air-conditioned convention center.
Outdoor Retailer’s annual Open Air Demo allows attendees to test out the latest and greatest canoeing, kayaking, trail running, hiking, orienteering equipment and other outdoor gear. One day prior to the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market tradeshow (Aug 12-15, 2004), on Wednesday, August 11th from 9 am-4 pm, 50-plus exhibiting companies and 1,500 retailers are expected to participate in this annual pre-show event.
In addition to the traditional paddlesports such as canoeing and kayak companies, this year’s Open Air Demo will feature several new outdoor categories including a “Geocaching Area” with a GPS treasure hunt, a “Birding Area” that will focus on outdoor optics and the growing sport of bird-watching, and “Nordic Walking Trails” for testing out the latest products in trail running and hiking.
And when you need to take a break from outdoor related products and testing, stop by the new BBQ area where fire-grilled eats will be available--a new event sponsored by Thule. And then before you head down the hill back into SLC, attend the Outdoor Retailer sponsored Demo Happy Hour with great music and plenty of cold beer.

Open Air Demo Exhibitors:

AIRE Inc
Astral Bouyancy
Bell Canoe Works
Bending Branches
Bergans of Norway
Bic Sport North America
Brunton
Confluence Water Sports
Coyote Organics
DeLorme
Eagles Next Outfitters
Epic Kayaks
Esquif Canoes
Exel/Garmont USA
Feel Free Kayak
Go-Lite
Grate Mate Outdoors
Harbinger
Hobie Cat
Johnson Outdoors
Liquidlogic
Nike ACG
Nova Craft Canoe/Aquafusion Kayaks
Pentax
Prijon/WildWasser USA
Pyranha
Riot
Scansport
Sevylor
Souris River Canoes
Stearns
Swarovski Optik
Swix Sport USA
Tecnica
Thales Navigation
Thule Car Rack Systems
Trek-Tech
WaterMark
Waterstick Paddles
Werner Paddles

Exhibit Space Sold Out
With 925 brands exhibiting at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market (Aug. 12 to Aug. 15 in Salt Lake City, Utah), event organizers are reporting a 4 percent increase from last year. Like last year, this year’s show is sold out, with more than 850 companies planning to attend, along with an expected 5,000 retail buyers. The increase in brands and booths is due in part to adjustments within the main hall, and some reconfiguring of space in the Pavilion. “We’re receiving tremendous demand from manufacturers to exhibit at Summer Market, but we’ve literally run out of space,” says OR Show Director Peter Devin.
Attendee pre-registration was also higher compared to last year. With OR’s online registration growing in popularity for retailers, guides and distributors, many attendees are registering early and will receive their official badge and show handbook prior to departing for Salt Lake City. Of the 925 brands scheduled to exhibit, 94 companies are new to the show. Continuing the tradition started last year, all companies new to the Outdoor Retailer show will be highlighted on the floor with a “New Exhibitor” flag at their booth. In addition to the flags, OR will provide a comprehensive list of new exhibiting companies, with booth numbers, at the registration counter. Heading into its 23rd successful year, OR gathers over 850 outdoor related companies and approximately 5,000 retail buyers and decision makers on a semi-annual basis for both Fall/Winter and Spring/Summer markets.
``xEpAEZupppyCnbCpEnS``x1091740006``x(default)``x Outdoor Retailer Solicits Feedback Summer Market Location``xpaddler``xOR solicits feedback on future Summer Market dates and location
Earlier this week, Outdoor Retailer, in conjunction with the Outdoor Industry Association, sent an invitation to thousands of outdoor industry retailers and exhibitors to participate in an online survey. Survey questions were designed to gauge the event experience of retailers and exhibitors at past Summer Market tradeshows, learn about their business needs and garner valuable input for future show direction and planning.
An electronic invitation to take the online survey was sent to over 6,000 exhibitors and retailers who had attended the 2002 and 2003 OR Summer Market tradeshows. The survey will be administered and analyzed by an independent third party--Boulder Sports Research, Inc. As an incentive to participate, all survey respondents will qualify to win free lodging at the upcoming 2004 Summer Market tradeshow (Aug. 12-15) being held in Salt Lake City, Utah, at the Salt Palace Convention Center. On May 24th, one lucky survey participant will be randomly selected for three free nights of lodging at an affiliated Outdoor Retailer hotel in Salt Lake City.
Outdoor Retailer serves a growing industry and consistently seeks the ideal show dates and locations that best serve customers' expanding needs. "Outdoor Retailer is responsible, in concert with Outdoor Industry Association to constantly review the best options for the show--to serve all customers within the outdoor marketplace," says Peter Devin, Group Show Director for VNU Expositions. "Through extensive research, client contact, and discussions with city leadership our goal is to determine the future location of Outdoor Retailer within the next few months.”
Retailers and exhibitors who are interested in taking the survey should contact Outdoor Retailer by email at info@outdoorretailer.com. Results of the survey will be analyzed and announced to the outdoor industry in late summer. Info: (307) 733-1514, www.outdoorretailer.com.
``xEpluuypElEoagJgEkZ``x1084460181``x(default)``x Riot, Addison Split``xpaddler``x
Both Addison and Riot co-founder Jeff Rivest say the break-up was peaceful. “As our other divisions have grown exponentially and are now well managed, it was time to revisit our Riot whitewater marketing and design approach,” says Rivest. “Addison, who has been an outside contractual designer for the past two years, has had little input lately in the development of the company. The core philosophy of Riot is evolution. Our 2005 whitewater lineup, to be released shortly, has been designed without Corran’s involvement and reflect the evolution of our in-house-design R and D team over the past seven years. At this time the company and Corran both realize that an amicable split from the business relationship as shareholder/designer is best for both parties.”
Of the split with Riot, Addison says, “I wish Riot the best of luck. Most of the people there are my friends, including my ex partner-Jeff, and they all deserve to make a good living and be successful. But I just didn't want to be associated with the company anymore because it was no longer representative of my dreams and philosophy.”
In his new venture, Addison will be an employee, rather than a partner, of Drago Rossi, which is owned by Eurotank, parent company of Rainbow Kayaks. Addison says the company will introduce three high-end boats and one surf board in 2004. The boats, retailing between $1,200 and $1,300, will be available this summer and include two playboats, the 6’6” Fish, 6’11” Squashtail and the Mafia, a 7’10”creek boat. The new kayaks will be rotomolded in the Milan factory from a superlinear plastic called HDTP, which, according to Addison, is stiffer than the plastics used by most kayak manufacturers. Drago Rossi anticipates manufacturing around 2,000 kayaks in 2004, and double that in 2005, to be distributed in North America by Northwest River Supplies. i[Info: www.2imagine.net/dragorossi/opening.html]i

``xEplFZZyuylKPDObKUx``x1083776468``x(default)``xAddison Joins Drago Rossi Kayaks

Riot Kayaks co-founder Corran Addison has sold his interest in the company and is designing boats for Drago Rossi, a new Italian kayak manufacturer. In April Addison announced the split with Riot, as well as the formation of Drago Rossi. Colorado Rafting Rebounds in 2003``xpaddler``xColorado Rafting Rebounds in 2003

Commercial rafting activity in Colorado saw a dramatic recovery in 2003 from the difficult 2002 season, with a statewide increase in participation of 45 percent. According to the Colorado River Outfitters Association (CROA), commercial river rafting user days increased from 319,562 in 2002 to 463,421 in 2003. "This is the largest single increase we've seen in user days in the last 15 years and we couldn't be happier," says Bruce Becker, chairman of CROA, which represents 45 commercial river outfitters around Colorado. "As the drought lessened in 2003 and Colorado began promoting itself again as a tourism destination, river outfitters and the communities they operate in saw significant economic increases."
The 2003 CROA report estimated that the economic impact of commercial rafting in Colorado was $116 million in 2003, a 48 percent increase from the $78.5 million in 2002. The highest amount in the last 15 years was $125.8 million, recorded in 2001. "We are looking to 2004 to be another successful year for our members and for the state," says Becker. "Snowpack levels are looking pretty good around Colorado, with all the river drainages above last year's numbers, and the big snow months of March and April are still to come.” Info: www.croa.org.
``xEpZlFFppkVCwPaBxPg``x1078330025``x(default)``xCommercial rafting activity in Colorado saw a dramatic recovery in 2003 from the difficult 2002 season, with a statewide increase in participation of 45 percent. Gerber Blades Buys CMG Equipment``xpaddler``xGerber Legendary Blades has acquired CMG Equipment, manufacturer and marketer of Light Emitting Diode (L.E.D.)-based portable outdoor lighting products. L.E.D. technology, with virtually indestructible bulbs that burn for over 100,000 hours and consume a fraction of the energy of their incandescent peers, is reshaping the portable lighting industry. CMG's innovative lights will form the foundation of a complete Gerber L.E.D. line, with additional products to be released later this year. CMG’s operations will be relocated from Chicago to Gerber's headquarters in Portland, Ore. "With the acquisition of CMG and the launch of our lighting line, Gerber is taking another step in our development as a world-class outdoor recreation company," says Gerber President Chad Vincent. "The L.E.D. lighting market is positioned for explosive growth, and the products, expertise and technology CMG brings to Gerber will help us capitalize on that opportunity." ``xEpZlFkAAukWPOMQGDK``x1078329942``x(default)``xGerber Legendary Blades has acquired CMG Equipment, manufacturer and marketer of Light Emitting Diode (L.E.D.)-based portable outdoor lighting products. Thule Acquires C&C Distributors``xpaddler``xThule, widely known to paddlers for its roof racks, is now in the trailer market, having acquired the recreational trailer manufacturer C&C Distributors, Inc. of Winslow, Maine. Makers of the popular SNOPRO and CARGOPRO trailer brands, will be consolidated into the Thule Group as part of the North American Car Accessories Division and renamed Thule Trailers Inc. "As a leading U.S. cargo and snowmobile trailer manufacturer, C&C adds a new growth segment to our operations,” says Thule Group CEO Anders Pettersson. "The acquisition fully supports our vision and mission to provide equipment that helps consumers transport their sporting gear by vehicle safely, easily and in style."
Thule has acquired 80 percent of the privately owned company for an undisclosed
amount and has the option to purchase the remaining shares over the next five years. Other than changing the name to Thule Trailers Inc., there will be no changes in management, personnel or operations at C&C Distributor's, and the SNOPRO and CARGOPRO brands will continue to be manufactured in the company's Jamestown, N.Y., and Winslow, Maine, facilities.
``xEpZlFkAlAplMBHwEGP``x1078329890``x(default)``xThule, widely known to paddlers for its roof racks, is now in the trailer market, having acquired the recreational trailer manufacturer C&C Distributors, Inc. of Winslow, Maine. Attendance Jumps at Winter OR``xpaddler``xAttendance Jumps at Winter OR

The Outdoor Retailer Winter Market and Trade Show wrapped up this year with the highest attendance since 2001, according to preliminary figures released by Outdoor Retailer. More than 14,050 people attended that show as opposed to 13,648 last year and 10,958 in 2002, when the show changed venues from Salt Lake City, Utah, to Anaheim, Calif., due to that year’s Winter Olympics.
Back in Salt Lake City for the last two years, the show is again one of the premiere venues for outdoor winter sports to showcase new products. Though it isn’t the highly prized venue for paddlesports business, many paddlesports representatives attend because it’s a valuable way to keep businesses in the same eddy. Glen MacPherson, Necky’s sales manager, says it’s important to keep Necky’s name in the scene. “There’s not that much going on in paddlesports at the show,” he says. “But I go for the exposure it gives us.”
Noting the buzz and good vibe at the show, MacPherson says the aisles were jammed with people perusing the new products, which this year again highlighted on soft shells. This year there were 715 exhibitors compared to 650 last year. While overall attendance was up, however, there were fewer retailers. Just 2,138 stores were represented while last year there were slightly more with 2,266. But there were still more buyers this year—4,524 compared to 4,376 in 2003. This year’s summer show is scheduled for Aug. 12-15 in Salt Lake.
``xEpZlFkAlklTwuGayyz``x1078329828``x(default)``xThe Outdoor Retailer Winter Market and Trade Show wrapped up this year with the highest attendance since 2001, according to preliminary figures released by Outdoor Retailer. NOC Instructor Manager Wins National Outdoor Book Award``xpaddler``xNOC Instructor Manager Wins National Outdoor Book Award

Apparently, Wayne Dickert’s pen is as mighty as his paddle. The instruction manager for the Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) and 1996 Olympian in C-1, Dickert recently won the National Outdoor Book Award (NOBA) for his book on basic canoeing. The award, given each year to outstanding books in nine categories, is the largest and most prestigious national award program for authors and publishers of outdoor books. The book, “Basic Canoeing: All the Skills and Tools You Need to Get Started,” was chosen by a panel that included educators, academics, book reviewers, authors, editors and outdoor columnists from throughout the country. Dickert and co-author Jon Rounds wrote the book for novice canoeists. “Basic Canoeing stands out with its clear writing, effective design and the liberal use of photographs and illustrations,” states a review from NOBA.
Says Dickert, “My hope is for novice canoeists to learn better technique earlier in their paddling so that they can ultimately have even more fun on the water.” Info: www.noc.com or www.isu.edu/outdoor/books/books03.htm.
``xEpZlFkAZZlbjkqHxoY``x1078329778``x(default)``xApparently, Wayne Dickert’s pen is as mighty as his paddle. The instruction manager for the Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) and 1996 Olympian in C-1, Dickert recently won the National Outdoor Book Award (NOBA) for his book on basic canoeing. ACA Hands Out Annual Awards``xpaddler``xACA Announces Annual Awards

On Nov. 1-2, the American Canoe Association (ACA) celebrated its Annual Awards Banquet in Alexandria, Va., to honor outstanding individuals, clubs and organizations that have dedicated their time and energy to the paddlesports community and the mission of the ACA.

Dusty Rhodes ACA Founder's Award – For lifetime dedication to the ACA and its ideals.
Marilyn Vogal - For her work on Sugar Island.

Joe Piña Award - For extraordinary service at the local or divisional level.
Scott Griefenberger/Eve Mancuso - For their work at the July ACA Board retreat at Camp Sebago.

ACA Green Paddle Award for Waterway Conservation - For outstanding contribution to paddlesport by protecting America's waterways.
The Wolfe Rive Conservancy - For protecting 7,297 acres of forests, fields and swamps along the Wolfe River (Memphis, TN).

Special Recognition - For a notable contribution to the paddlesports community.
Bill Ensor - For his work on Operation Paddle Safe.

ACA Stroke of Achievement Award - Recognizing one ACA-affiliated club for superior performance and program development.
The Carolina Canoe Club - In addition to its instruction and recreation program this club worked tirelessly in 2003 on several access issues including the Cheoah River. In addition, this is the primary club at the table for the North Carolina Boat Registration meetings.

Outstanding Instructor Award – For outstanding contribution to instruction.
Mike Aronoff - In addition to instruction, Mike works closely with the ACA to develop the organization's educational outreach programs.

Student Appreciation Award - For excellence in paddlesport instruction.
Sunny Pitcher - In addition to top-notch instruction, Sunny has introduced over 500 new members to the ACA.

ACA Sanctioned Event of the Year - Presented to the top ACA evenst as nominated by the paddling public.
The Ohio Adaptive Paddling Workshop program - For providing numerous individuals exposure to the joy of paddlesport and training various professionals in adaptive paddling.
The 33rd ICF Flatwater Racing World Championships - Hosted by the Lanier Canoe & Kayak Club, this event hosted 1,000 athletes from 60 countries with overwhelming success.

J. Henry Rushton Award - For outstanding achievements in advancing paddlesport and the mission of the ACA.
Texas Parks & Wildlife's Urban Program Division - For helping to put over 30,000 youths in kayaks since 1995.

President's Award - For outstanding service to the ACA on a national level.
Jeff Liebel - For using his skills as a management consultant to benefit the ACA and its strategic planning process.
Jim Mandle - For using his skills in market research to benefit the ACA and its strategic planning process.
Katherine Koelbel Mull - For her work on the Board of Directors towards conservation.
Kathy Schmiesing - For her 20 years of dedicated service at the ACA National Office.

Legends of Paddling - For legendary contributions to paddlesport. Recipients will be inducted into the ACA Hall of Fame.
Cliff Jacobson - For publishing 16 paddling-related books, numerous articles, being a well-known wilderness canoe guide and, for promoting Leave No Trace Ethics.

Recognition of Retiring Members of the ACA Board: Katherine Mull, Kent Ford, Chris Nielsen
``xEpZlFkAZkVVRYhSisy``x1078329725``x(default)``xOn Nov. 1-2, the American Canoe Association (ACA) celebrated its Annual Awards Banquet in Alexandria, Va., to honor outstanding individuals, clubs and organizations that have dedicated their time and energy to the paddlesports community and the mission of the ACA. Dagger Quits Canoes``xpaddler``xDagger Quits Canoes

Citing a downward trend in canoe sales, Dagger is no longer manufacturing whitewater or touring canoes. Instead, the Easley, S.C.-based company—founded in the 1980s to make whitewater canoes--will focus on producing whitewater, rec and touring kayaks. “This doesn’t mean we may not make canoes in the future, but we want to focus on our area of largest growth, which is kayaking in all categories,” says WaterMark's Mike Steck. “That’s where we see big growth opportunities and where we have a strong footing, and we want to put our best foot forward.”
There were a couple of reasons for the shift, but Steck says primarily that Dagger has seen canoe participation drop substantially below kayaking. Though canoeing nationwide continues in popularity, kayaking has become one of the fastest growing outdoor sports in the country, and Dagger has become well-known as a kayak manufacturer. By ceasing to build its nine-canoe line, Dagger will be able to focus all energy and finances on building kayaks. “We’re better off putting our efforts into this growing segment,” Steck says.
Another reason for the change, which did not affect staffing levels, is that the Royalex used in all of Dagger’s canoes came from one supplier. “With that situation, there were too many things that were out of our control,” Steck says, mentioning, for example, that Dagger would be in a predicament if that supplier ever stopped making Royalex.
Because Dagger started as a canoe company--its Ocoee model helped put whitewater canoeing on the map--the decision to quit canoes was an “emotional” one, Steck says. But the Ocoee will continue to please open boaters: Dagger has agreed to give Bell Canoe the license to manufacture and sell the Ocoee. Bell will also perform warrantee and repair for Dagger’s previous canoe customers. “It was a tough decision,” Steck says. “But at the end of the day it was clear and simple. This is something we feel good about. It’s a positive for us to focus on a market that’s growing and it will allow us to service our dealers better.”
``xEpZpupApyZvtCMBWVF``x1070409067``x(default)``xCiting a downward trend in canoe sales, Dagger is no longer manufacturing whitewater or touring canoes. Instead, the Easley, S.C.-based company—founded in the 1980s to make whitewater canoes--will focus on producing whitewater, rec and touring kayaks. Walden Sold to DeSantis, Hearn``xpaddler``xWalden Sold to DeSantis, Hearn
Staying family oriented is a priority for Ayer, Mass.’s Walden Sports. And the company’s new owners intend to keep it that way. Jeffrey DeSantis and his son-in-law, Bill Hearn, bought the company Oct. 10 from previous owners Hardigg Industries. As well as staying family friendly to dealers and customers, DeSantis and Hearn say they want to further Walden’s goals of being environmentally conscious and building high quality kayaks at affordable prices. “We see the future of producing boats that are more useful in the recreational market,” DeSantis says. “We want to bring upper-line technologies to the general public.”
DeSantis, an engineer by training, was most recently a business consultant in general management and manufacturing. Previously, he founded a medical equipment company and held senior management positions at General Electric Co. and Raytheon. Hearn, also an engineer, is a world-class paddler, competing C-1 and C-2 slalom for the U.S. National team between 1986 and 1995. Hearn’s family is famous in most paddling circles: His brother, Davey, and sister, Cathy, are both former Olympians and world champions in slalom C-1 and K-1, respectively.
``xEpZpupApEpuVMqPsMS``x1070409010``x(default)``xStaying family oriented is a priority for Ayer, Mass.’s Walden Sports. And the company’s new owners intend to keep it that way. Jeffrey DeSantis and his son-in-law, Bill Hearn, bought the company Oct. 10 from previous owners Hardigg Industries. Johnson Outdoors Restructures Rep Force``xpaddler``xJohnson Outdoors Restructures Rep Force
Johnson Outdoors—owners of Old Town Canoe, Necky, Ocean Kayak, Carlisle and ExtraSport—has launched a new framework for its sales reps to bring all four brands into one sales effort. The move was made, according to Johnson officials, to leverage collective strength to benefit dealers. Now instead of dealing with numerous sales reps who handle individual and, at time, competing brands, dealers will connect with one sales rep for the four Johnson brands. “This is going to allow us to better serve the customer regardless of their size and be able to channel our efforts by reducing their cost of dealing with numerous sales rep agencies,” says Cynthia Georgeson, director of communications for Johnson Outdoor. Necky was not included in the move because of its specialization within the paddlesports market, according to Georgeson.
The new framework includes 11 sales rep groups—down from 20—covering the entire country. All will carry Old Town, Ocean Kayak, ExtraSport and Carlisle. In a letter sent to all Johnson dealers, Mark Leopold, vice president of Johnson’s watercraft division, stated that the transition was meant to streamline and simplify the relationships between Johnson and the sales reps, saying the model “combines and leverages the synergies, efficiency and resources of a larger organization, with the flexibility and agility of a smaller company.”
``xEpZpuplAkEdCaCSkpG``x1070408921``x(default)``xJohnson Outdoors—owners of Old Town Canoe, Necky, Ocean Kayak, Carlisle and ExtraSport—has launched a new framework for its sales reps to bring all four brands into one sales effort. ExtraSport Restructures, Moves Facility``xpaddler``xExtraSport Restructures, Moves Facility

In a move meant to further develop the company, ExtraSport, as well as its sales, marketing and product development, integrated with Leisure Life Limited, located in Grand Rapids, Mich. ExtraSport’s facility in Miami, Fla., closed in the transition completed on Oct. 1. Anticipating the move, company president Sandy Spielmaker says ExtraSport, a company under the Johnson Outdoors brand, built product ahead of time to ensure adequate supply for the 2004 season. Orders placed with ExtraSport were not affected by the move. ExtraSport’s new address is 4855 Broadmoor, S.E., Grand Rapids, MI 49512. Call (616) 698-3000, fax (616) 698-2734, or visit www.extrasport.com.
``xEpZpuplllkjUdEnPyJ``x1070408882``x(default)``xIn a move meant to further develop the company, ExtraSport, as well as its sales, marketing and product development, integrated with Leisure Life Limited, located in Grand Rapids, Mich. ExtraSport’s facility in Miami, Fla., closed in the transition completed on Oct. 1. Reno Builds Jackpot for Paddlers``xpaddler``xReno Builds Jackpot for Paddlers
Though the Truckee River flows right through Reno, most people who visit the casino-laden city lift their arms for slot machines, not paddles. And while paddlers know of the Truckee as a sweet paddling river at its headwaters near Lake Tahoe, few think of Reno itself as a paddling destination. That may change with the new Truckee River Park, a whitewater park built on the river in the middle of the city. The $1.5 million facility, completed in November, is Nevada’s first and is expected to attract kayakers, rafters, canoeists and tubers, as well as river festivals and competitive events. "The building of this whitewater park represents a giant step forward for outdoor recreation and economic vitality in our state,” says Lt. Gov. Lorraine Hunt, chair of the Nevada Commission on Tourism (NCOT). "It will raise Washoe County’s profile as a choice and desirable outdoor recreation and mountain adventure destination and bring even more energy to the riverfront."
The 1,475-foot-long whitewater park includes rodeo features and a permanent kayak slalom racing course, pedestrian bridges to city streets, and pathways. Worn concrete walls were replaced along the kayak course with flat-topped boulders. The boat playground is only the first of many improvements envisioned for the 24-mile stretch of the Truckee in the Reno area. Though the park will be paid off by a statewide voter-approved bond issue, hoteliers Don Carano, president and CEO of the Eldorado Hotel-Casino, and Phil Satre, chairman of the board for Harrah’s Entertainment, and the city each loaned $500,000 so construction could begin in August.
``xEpyyAFuAFkZVRvsAsG``x1066934932``x(default)``xThough the Truckee River flows right through Reno, most people who visit the casino-laden city lift their arms for slot machines, not paddles. And while paddlers know of the Truckee as a sweet paddling river at its headwaters near Lake Tahoe, few think of Reno itself as a paddling destination. That may change with the new Truckee River Park, a whitewater park built on the river in the middle of the city. Confluence Makes History…Channel``xpaddler``xConfluence Makes History…Channel
Confluence Watersports will be the focus of an upcoming episode of the History Channel series “Hands-On History.” The show will profile the history and manufacturing process of kayaks and is scheduled to air at 5-5:30 p.m on Saturday, Nov. 15. The episode, filmed in Trinity, N.C., at Confluence’s headquarters, will lead viewers through the history of kayak construction to today's technologically advance methods. The show will also highlight the Confluence’s operation, including canoe assembly and composite construction. The show's host, Ron Hazelton of "Good Morning America,” helped make a roto-molded Wilderness Systems Pungo 140, from the prepping of the mold through the final assembly line. After completing the Pungo 140, Confluence staff took Hazelton out to Oak Hollow Lake for on water instruction, kayak history, and an explanation of the different types of kayaks. Hazelton also took his licks on the Mayo River in a Wave Sport Super EZ.
``xEpyyAFullZOgUpNAAJ``x1066934887``x(default)``xConfluence Watersports will be the focus of an upcoming episode of the History Channel series “Hands-On History.” The show will profile the history and manufacturing process of kayaks and is scheduled to air at 5-5:30 p.m on Saturday, Nov. 15. TAPS Symposium Rallies Interest``xpaddler``xTAPS Symposium Rallies Interest

Nearly 1,500 paddlesport enthusiasts attended the Trade Association of Paddlesports’ (TAPS) 20th Annual West Coast Sea Kayak Symposium held Sept.19-21, in Port Townsend, Wash., with registered attendees from as far away as Sweden. Despite what many manufacturers and retailers perceive as a sluggish paddlesports economy, TAPS Executive Director Chris Mitchell says the show proves the high potential for an industry-wide turn-around. Clear blue skies and warm temperatures encouraged participants to crowd the beach, trying their skills at the newest kayaks, canoes and recreational boats. For Mitchell, the highlight of the event was the consistent growth in consumer interest. “Our organization is focused on marketing to new and non-paddlers, and on retaining them as customers,” he says. “This event is the barometer for consumer interest, which is still growing, despite the negative business climate.”
Show exhibits included Jon Bowermaster's presentation of his expeditions to the South Pacific and Vietnam, knot tying instruction, and planning an international expedition. With a roster of 64 exhibitors displaying the latest in sea kayaks and paddling gear, Mitchell says that every year TAPS turns many manufacturers away. He believes that part of the cause for weakening sales in paddlesports is due to overproduction, and success or failure of the vast array of niche marketers will pan out in the next few years, leaving the market open to core merchandise and proven technology. “It all comes down to marketing, and the industry will recover because the customer is increasingly enthusiastic about paddling,” he says.
--Alison McMillen
``xEpyyAFuZAycOVkBSSn``x1066934796``x(default)``xNearly 1,500 paddlesport enthusiasts attended the Trade Association of Paddlesports’ (TAPS) 20th Annual West Coast Sea Kayak Symposium held Sept.19-21, in Port Townsend, Wash., with registered attendees from as far away as Sweden. Despite what many manufacturers and retailers perceive as a sluggish paddlesports economy, TAPS Executive Director Chris Mitchell says the show proves the high potential for an industry-wide turn-around. First Annual Whitewater Symposium a Success``xpaddler``xFirst Annual Whitewater Symposium a Success
Next year’s event slated for NOC in October

Drawing key players from all aspects of the whitewater industry, including instructors, manufacturers, retailers, outfitters, media, club members and association heads, the first annual Whitewater Symposium, held at Charlemont, Mass.’s Zoar Outdoor Center Oct. 3-5, was billed a success. Its purpose, as defined by organizer Bruce Lessels, was to advance the sport by bringing together industry experts and giving them the opportunity to exchange ideas about trends in equipment, instruction and technique, both in on-water and classroom settings. “It offered on-water technical instruction, dryland seminars and roundtable discussions with some of the people who are changing the sport of kayaking,” says Lessels. “I think everyone got a lot out of it.”
With presenters including Charlie Walbridge, Scott Shipley, Joe Pulliam, Phil and Mary DeRiemer, Wayne Dickert, Gordon Black, Kent Ford, Ken Whiting, Eric Jackson, Risa Shimoda, Anna Levesque, Sam Drevo, Eugene Buchanan and Scott Lindgren, the event began Thursday evening with a State of the Whitewater Industry panel discussion moderated by Ford. As well as such on-water offerings as how to teach draw strokes, freestyle strokes and rescue scenarios, other presentations included seminars on Whitewater Parks, Boat Designs for Teaching, the Image of Whitewater in the Media, Standardizing Instruction, Creating Market Growth, How to be a River Steward and Teaching Women’s Clinics, among others.
“Who Are the Boaters?” presented by Watermark’s Joe Pulliam compiled data from the Outdoor Industry Association (OIA), Leisure Trends, National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and private Watermark sources. Results show that kayaking—in all its forms--was the fastest-growing human-powered activity from 2001-2003, increasing to a total population of 10.2 million. Breaking it down into whitewater, the survey shows participants (those who go at least one time per year) increased from 1.2 million in 2001 to 1.8 million in 2002, while enthusiast growth (those going five or more times a year) remained the same at 200,000.
Sales numbers, however, show a declining market. According to NMMA, the number of whitewater kayaks sold (in the first six months of each year, excluding second-hand sales) has decreased by 50 percent since 2001, dropping from 12,502 to 8,558 in 2002 and to 6,216 in 2003. The general consensus was that the industry has to go after the youth market, river running is reemerging and everyone needs to start working toward the common goal of growth. “People aren’t abandoning the playboat scene, but it’s not the driving force,” says Pulliam, adding that he feels the industry is more inclined to share information now than it was 10 years ago. “We need to be less focused on who’s getting the customer and more on are we getting them at all.” Adds co-organizer Karen Lessels: “We need to become more market driven and less manufacturer driven.”
--Next year’s whitewater symposium will held mid-October, 2004, at the Nantahala Outdoor Center in Bryson City, N.C. Contact organizer Wayne Dickert at (828) 488-2175 or visit www.wwsymposium.com.
``xEpyyAFuZFZCTPHHFyq``x1066934737``x(default)``xDrawing key players from all aspects of the whitewater industry, including instructors, manufacturers, retailers, outfitters, media, club members and association heads, the first annual Whitewater Symposium, held at Charlemont, Mass.’s Zoar Outdoor Center Oct. 3-5, was billed a success. Its purpose, as defined by organizer Bruce Lessels, was to advance the sport by bringing together industry experts and giving them the opportunity to exchange ideas about trends in equipment, instruction and technique, both in on-water and classroom settings. ¡Que Bueno! WaterMark``xpaddler``x¡Que Bueno! WaterMark
Other than as an interesting stop-off to sea kayaking sojourns in Baja, Tijuana, Mexico, doesn’t have much to do with paddlesports. But WaterMark is trying to change that. Earlier this year, WaterMark—parent company of nine paddlesports brands—earned an ISO 14001 certification at its facility in Tijuana. Having an ISO (International Standards Organization) certification means that WaterMark has been recognized by a network of 147 countries that set standards for business, governments and consumers. The ISO 14001 certification recognizes that WaterMark minimizes harmful effects on the environment caused by its activities, and continually improves its environmental performance. “As long-time believers in environmentally friendly workplace practices, WaterMark has always maintained an aggressive stance on meeting or exceeding environmental manufacturing standards,” says WaterMark CEO Jim Clark.
``xEpyyAFuyZEplpyYzKd``x1066934671``x(default)``xOther than as an interesting stop-off to sea kayaking sojourns in Baja, Tijuana, Mexico, doesn’t have much to do with paddlesports. But WaterMark is trying to change that. Earlier this year, WaterMark—parent company of nine paddlesports brands—earned an ISO 14001 certification at its facility in Tijuana. Riot Receives Accolades``xpaddler``xVoodoo Technology, parent corporation of Riot Kayaks, has made some changes over the last year. While gearing up for changes, Riot was honored by Outside]i with Gear of the Year for whitewater kayaks. This recognition followed closely after Riot received the product innovation award from the Canadian Plastic Industry Association. In a move to continue this success, the company has expanded its production capabilities and is bringing new technologies to the table to produce touring kayaks. Riot is also revamping its marketing strategy to focus on its reputation for innovation rather than its one-time, bad-boy image.
On the production side, Riot executives are launching two new boat lines to take advantage of the recognition they have received for kayak innovations. Dealers who carry Riot whitewater boats will now be able to carry Riot Control, a line of six recreational kayaks, and Riot Adventure, a line of 11 touring kayaks. With the addition of Riot Control and Riot Adventure, the Riot brand now has 33 boats, up from 11 last year. The Riot brand will continue to be managed by parent company Voodoo Technology, as will sister companies Sun and Azul, which are sold in non-specialty outlets. Guy Fortin, Voodoo’s executive vice president of marketing, says Riot Control and Adventure give a dealer already carrying whitewater boats the chance to sell Riot’s innovation throughout three paddling disciplines. “So they have something really special to sell,” he says. “All 33 models are available for shipment to dealer Sept. 1.”
On the commercial side, Fortin says the company's aggressive and sometimes controversial marketing, such as bringing strippers into its OR booth, was not always appreciated by more traditional retailers. “The former strategy targeted to Riot core whitewater consumers required a strong message to differentiate itself from the pack,” he says. “The very successful effect of that consumer campaign backfired in some segments of the trade.” Now the company will be focusing on its innovations for marketing strategies, while keeping the core of whitewater at the foundation of Riot.
``xEpykykuFypimQLHImx``x1062624360``x(default)``xVoodoo Technology, parent corporation of Riot Kayaks, has made some changes over the last year. While gearing up for changes, Riot was honored by Outside]i with Gear of the Year for whitewater kayaks. This recognition followed closely after Riot received the product innovation award from the Canadian Plastic Industry Association. In a move to continue this success, the company has expanded its production capabilities and is bringing new technologies to the table to produce touring kayaks. Riot is also revamping its marketing strategy to focus on its reputation for innovation rather than its one-time, bad-boy image. Curry Launches Astral Buoyancy``xpaddler``xWhen Philip Curry sold Lotus Designs to Patagonia, part of the agreement was that he would have to abide by a three-year no compete clause. So he moved to Idaho from North Carolina to boat and think about what he would do at the end of those three years. That period ended in April, and he launched Astral Buoyancy, a new manufacturer of lifejackets. “Three years went by and Patagonia hadn’t followed his ideas and direction, which was to get away from PVC,” says cohort Mark Mickey.
So with that, Curry, 31, floated the business with an eye toward simple-yet-functional lifejackets that do not use PVC foam for flotation. PVC cannot be recycled and it produces harmful chlorofluorocarbons into the environment during production. Mickey says he and Curry have done research that proves there are other materials out there that provide flotation while protecting the environment. One such material is a tree fiber in India—known as kapok--that can be harvested without harming the trees, Mickey says, adding that the material is biodegradable. “The whole purpose is to get out there, so you shouldn’t be destroying it at the same time,” Mickey says.
For 2004, the company will offer nine models of PFDs, from a techy, advanced whitewater model called the Aquavest to a touring vest called the Tempo, which utilizes hand-warmers in a front pocket. Astral Buoyancy currently has four employees and a few part-timers as needed. Asheville, N.C.’s Stahlsac, makers of adventure and marine luggage, does contract sewing and temporarily housed the Astral operations before it moved to nearby Woodfin. Mickey says he expects the company to grow and to make a splash at OR and to influence the eco-friendly future of the outdoor industry. “Philip has been a great influence in the whitewater industry, and PFDs is what he knows best,” Mickey says. “We’re going to try to push the industry to live up to new environmental standards.” Info: (828) 255-2638, www.astralbuoyancy.com.
``xEpykykuklkkkVbSVKs``x1062624282``x(default)``xWhen Philip Curry sold Lotus Designs to Patagonia, part of the agreement was that he would have to abide by a three-year no compete clause. So he moved to Idaho from North Carolina to boat and think about what he would do at the end of those three years. That period ended in April, and he launched Astral Buoyancy, a new manufacturer of lifejackets. Sevylor Sold to National Ventures``xpaddler``xAny time a company is sold to a new owner, there’s always the possibility that staffing changes will sweep through the business. But that wasn’t the case when Sevylor was sold in June by parent company Zodiac SA to National Ventures. “It won’t affect our operation here in the United States and Canada,” says President and CEO Conny Klimenko. “Our entire management team, all our reps, and all our employees will remain the same.”
Sevylor will continue to concentrate on designing, developing, manufacturing and supplying inflatable products for the leisure industry in supported and unsupported PVC. The new parent company, National Ventures, has been the principal investor in Sevylor since 1973. “I personally am looking forward to new challenges, opportunities, and new freedom a privately held corporation will offer us,” Klimenko adds. “Sevylor will be vertically integrated and we again will have a PVC factory as a parent.”
``xEpykykukEyXLubUBME``x1062624216``x(default)``xAny time a company is sold to a new owner, there’s always the possibility that staffing changes will sweep through the business. But that wasn’t the case when Sevylor was sold in June by parent company Zodiac SA to National Ventures. Outdoor Business Flexes Political Muscle``xpaddler``xBy flexing its political muscle in May, the outdoor industry has helped further the goals of wilderness protection in Utah, where conservationists and local lawmakers have battled for more than 30 years over how to manage vast tracts of pristine lands and waterways.
After Utah Gov. Mike Leavitt sealed a back-room deal with Interior Secretary Gale Norton to remove 6 million acres from wilderness consideration, Utah business leaders and the Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) threatened to remove the Outdoor Retailer Market and Trade Show from Salt Lake City. In a May 9 letter addressed to Leavitt, OIA President Frank Hugelmeyer states, “As far as we’re concerned, anyone who deserves the largest outdoor tradeshow in the world needs to not only be a public lands steward, but also a public lands champion.”
The summer and winter OR tradeshows contribute $24 million annually to Utah’s economy. So with the threat of yanking OR from Utah, business leaders hit the governor where it counts--in the pocketbook--and he responded. “The governor is talking wilderness,” says Riley Cutler, a partner of the paddling and outdoor shop Wasatch Touring--one of the businesses involved in the discussions. “We’re trying to get him to find a way to re-protect the areas that were taken out of protection picture. He can get people to do that.”
In the Leavitt-Norton deal, Muddy Creek, a popular river for runoff-happy boaters in central Utah’s San Rafael Swell, and portions surrounding the San Juan River were removed from wilderness consideration by Leavitt and Norton. Now, Leavitt has told industry leaders that he will work with them to determine how lands in Utah will be protected. “Because his office wants to work with us, it seems to me that things are going well because there’s talk of compromise,” Cutler says. “We’re moving in the right direction. It’s too bad that there had to be the threats and that this acreage became unprotected, but if you ultimately get wilderness areas protected then maybe it’s a good thing.”
Cutler says using business to promote wilderness can speed up the protection process. “We don’t want to put this off until the governor’s next election,” he says. “We’re in the business of outdoor recreation. And the reason the show is in Salt Lake is because people like to come here and recreate and play as well as go to the show. That’s why the show is not in Las Vegas.”
The OR show is contracted and confirmed to be held in Salt Lake City through summer 2004. But Peter Devin, group show director, noted in a letter sent this summer to all OR members, customers and exhibitors that the actions by Leavitt have caused his company to pause to consider other potential host cities. “If the industry and the OIA recommend to us that we should look at other locations or venues for the shows to be held, then we will absolutely consider that recommendation,” Devin wrote. “It is important to note, however, that no decision about moving the show will be made without exhaustive research and planning with our entire customer base, the OIA, and the infrastructure and make-up of any future potential host city and state.”
``xEpykykuEkZJADJGPEB``x1062624127``x(default)``xBy flexing its political muscle in May, the outdoor industry has helped further the goals of wilderness protection in Utah, where conservationists and local lawmakers have battled for more than 30 years over how to manage vast tracts of pristine lands and waterways. Lotus Designs to Host Events during Outdoor Retailer Tradeshow``xpaddler``xLotus Designs to Host Events during Outdoor Retailer Tradeshow:

Lotus Designs is hosting two events during the upcoming Outdoor Retail Tradeshow. The first event is a fundraiser for the U.S. Freestyle Kayak Team. Lotus Designs will be auctioning off PFD’s worn by members of the U.S. Freestyle Kayak Team at the paddle tank during the tradeshow. Beginning on Thursday August 14th at 3:00 p.m. they will auction off two-time world champion Eric Jackson’s PFD. On Friday, August 15th at 4:30 p.m. Tanya Shuman’s PFD will be up for grabs and on Saturday, August 16th at 2:30 p.m. bidding will be open on current world champions Brooke Winger and Jay Kincaid’s PFDs. All proceeds from the auctions will go to support the men and women of the U.S. Freestyle Kayak Team.

On Saturday August 16th Lotus Designs will also be hosting a screening of the documentary “Riversense.” The Kate Geis film shares the stories of whitewater kayakers William Nealy, TR Yon, BJ and Katie Johnson and Dunbar Hardy and their adventures in the whitewater community. The screening will begin at 5:30 at the Wyndham Hotel (across from the west entrance to the Salt Palace) and will include complimentary hors d’oevures and a cash bar. Stop by the Lotus Designs booth for a free invitation and donations benefiting American Whitewater are encouraged.

Don’t forget to stop by and pick up a Lotus Design’s postcard at the booth. Fill out the information on the back and enter it into a drawing to win a Lotus Designs Homestretch Dry Top. For more information check out www.lotusdesigns.com.








``xEpVAuAVkEEEtLllQNv``x1059495211``x(default)``xLotus Designs is hosting two events during the upcoming Outdoor Retail Tradeshow. A PFD Auction to raise money for the U.S. Freestyle Kayak Team and a screening of the film "Riversense." Hobie Cat Signs Hank Parker``xpaddler``xHobie Cat Signs Hank Parker
Hobie Cat Company recently landed a big one in sponsoring professional fisherman Hank Parker. Not coincidentally, the company released their new fishing sit-on-top this season, the Hobie Mirage Outback Fisherman, a Hank Parker Edition. Parker, widely regarded as one of America’s best bass anglers, is now the celebrity spokesman for Hobie’s entry into the fishing boat market. The Mirage Outback Fisherman is the only sit-on-top on the market that is pedal-driven.
Dubbed “the rod-‘n-reel answer to Michael Jordan” in popularity and talent, Parker is a seasoned competitor in bass fishing tournaments who hosts his own weekly show on TNN called the “Hank Parker Outdoor Magazine Show.” As expected, he will be integrated into the company’s advertising, promotions and tradeshow activities. Parker will also do hands-on work with Hobie’s engineers and product development for future products. Says Hobie’s director of marketing, Dan Mangus, “Anybody acquainted with Hank knows that he wouldn’t endorse any product unless it could pass his rigorous real-life tests. We’re looking forward to having Hank on our team.”
--Peter Koch
``xEpVZyZlVFpVcLcPykI``x1057678530``x(default)``xHobie Cat Company recently landed a big one in sponsoring professional fisherman Hank Parker. Not coincidentally, the company released their new fishing sit-on-top this season, the Hobie Mirage Outback Fisherman, a Hank Parker Edition. Utah BLM Employee Named River Manager of the Year``xpaddler``xUtah BLM Employee Named River Manager of the Year
By protecting watershed from degradation, increasing volunteer and interagency cooperation, the BLM’s Dennis Willis of Price, Utah, has been recognized as “River Manager of the Year” from the River Management Society (RMS). Willis also served as president for the RMS Southwestern Chapter. “The leadership Dennis has demonstrated while managing the Green, Price and San Rafael rivers is exemplary of the BLM’s dedication to manage resources through innovative partnerships, interagency collaboration and conservation,” says Utah BLM State Director Sally Wisely. “The health of these canyons, tributaries and corridors is a direct result of his work.”
From helping college students produce an interpretive dance of the Green River, to hosting groups of juvenile delinquents on river trips, Willis found unique ways to educate people on the values of rivers while also protecting the resources. “These waterways have a way of changing people’s lives,” says Willis, the BLM’s outdoor recreation planner and supervisory range manager in Price. “When we teach more people about the resources in these rivers, we will have more partners to help us protect and manage them properly.”
Willis’ efforts also include the formation of an interagency management agreement with the Utah State Division of Fire and Forestry for Labyrinth Canyon. This created more management consistency throughout Green River. He also enhanced public access to Desolation/Gray Canyon by replacing and updating the quarters and contact station at the launch site. More space for staff has extended the season for recreational use. “Rivers are special and unique places,” says Willis. “As you look at the expansion of colonial America and the West, waterways played an integral role. From ancient cultures to modern day people, rivers have influenced our way of life in innumerable ways.”
``xEpVZyZlulusWFoHeuJ``x1057678484``x(default)``xBy protecting watershed from degradation, increasing volunteer and interagency cooperation, the BLM’s Dennis Willis of Price, Utah, has been recognized as “River Manager of the Year” from the River Management Society (RMS). Pelican Floats RamXcel``xpaddler``xPelican Floats RamXcel

Pelican International has launched two new touring canoes this summer built with a new material called RamXcel, which takes the inherent advantages of rugged and time-tested RamX and incorporates a rigid, closed-cell core. The core is permanently fused between two layers of RamX, allowing Pelican to offer upper-end canoes at mid-range prices, according to company president Christian Elie. “When it comes to innovation, quality and value, Pelican has established itself as the leader in the small boat business. With the advent of RamXcel, this tradition continues.”
By using RamXcel, RamX is enhanced to provide high quality exterior and interior finishes and flotation. It also increases the hull’s rigidity and impact resistance, as well as providing greater insulation from cold water and noise. The two RamXcel touring canoes, available in a 14-foot-6-inch model and a 16-foot model with base prices starting at $449 and $549, respectively, are available in both the Pelican and Coleman brands. Info: www.pelican-intl.com.
``xEpVZyZluFyPYnyDvkp``x1057678436``x(default)``xPelican International has launched two new touring canoes this summer built with a new material called RamXcel, which takes the inherent advantages of rugged and time-tested RamX and incorporates a rigid, closed-cell core. OIA Survey Shows Paddling on the Rise``xpaddler``xOIA Survey Shows Paddling on the Rise

Paddlesports have continued to be a popular activity for many Americans, despite a struggling economy, adverse weather conditions and the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, according to a survey from the Outdoor Industry Association. According to the 2001-2002 survey (the most recent results available), canoeing had the greatest participation levels among paddlesports with 10.8 percent of Americans participating. The highest participation levels were in the northeast and the north central regions. New Hampshire, with 37 percent of its residents using a canoe for primary recreation, had the highest level of participation in the country.
Rafting was the second most popular with 5.7 percent of the nation participating each year. Wyoming had the highest participation rate for rafting at 18.2 percent, with Montana, Idaho and Colorado following closely. The Western region of the U.S. had the highest rafting participation levels per capita than any other region with 8.2 percent of the population participating.
Sea kayaking is the most popular form of kayaking in the U.S. with 2.7 percent of Americans participating. Vermont reported the highest level of participation at 10 percent with New Hampshire following closely with a 9.3 percent participation rate.
Recreational kayaking, or the use of sit-on-tops, is also a popular among Americans, showing a 2.1-percent participation rate. New Hampshire and Delaware have the highest rec boating participation rates in the nation with 16 percent and 8 percent, respectively.
The survey also reported that 1.3 percent of the population participates in whitewater kayaking. Once again Vermont had the highest participation level per capita with 10 percent of residents participating. In the Western region (including Washington, Oregon, California, Nevada, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, Utah, Arizona and New Mexico) nearly 2 percent participate in whitewater kayaking compared to 2.4 percent in the Northeast.
The survey also tracked merchandise sales, an area that also showed steady growth. The survey response indicated that Californians spend an estimated $1.7 billion annually on merchandise and Texans an estimated $1.2 billion. The report points out that this data was based on the estimated amount consumers spent and that the results are not intended to exactly mirror retail sales.
--Maegan Lokteff
``xEpVZyZlFFZBoOEdRJI``x1057678337``x(default)``xPaddlesports have continued to be a popular activity for many Americans, despite a struggling economy, adverse weather conditions and the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, according to a survey from the Outdoor Industry Association. According to the 2001-2002 survey (the most recent results available), canoeing had the greatest participation levels among paddlesports with 10.8 percent of Americans participating. Balance Bar, Octagon Launch Corporate Race Series``xpaddler``xThink you and your co-workers are cutthroat enough to excel out of the cubicle? If so, then check out the Balance Bar Adventure Race Series Corporate Program, developed by Balance Bar and Octagon to instill team building, trust, compassion, communication and success among companies. The series includes sprint and 24-hour races and is open to companies of any size, fielding male, female and mixed teams. The races are also great excuses to get out of the office to train and generate positive company vibes. “Teamwork, compassion and commitment are natural to adventure racing,” says race director Nick Moore. “When learned and applied to the corporate environment, these values help build more effective teams.”
The registration fee per team is $275 for a sprint and $825 for the 24-hour adventure. The races include running, mountain biking, kayaking and other special tests such as navigation. The races started in New York in May. The series now heads Salt Lake City, Utah, on June 7-8; Atlanta, Ga., on June 21-22; Portland, Ore., on Aug. 2-3; Sacramento, Calif., on Aug. 16-17; Hartford, Conn., on Sept. 6-7; and Richmond, Va., on Oct. 4-5. The series final will be held in Los Angeles on Oct. 18-19. i[Info: (203) 352-5216, www.BalanceBarAdventure.com.]i
``xEpVEllyEppqrttcRdW``x1051886100``x(default)``x PPA and RVers Deal Vegas Convention``xpaddler``xIn an attempt to bring more faces to the paddlesports industry, the Professional Paddlesports Association (PPA) and the National Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds (ARVC) are finalizing details for a joint conference and trade show in 2003. The event, tentatively billed as InSites--Parks and Paddles, will be held Nov. 12-15 at the Tropicana Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. “We are extremely pleased to be working with ARVC,” says PPA President Ed Councill. “ARVC has built InSites into the best professional development and industry expo for the outdoor hospitality industry. By working with ARVC, we will increase the buying pool for our vendors to more than 400 companies. A huge number of RV parks are located on water, and these companies are looking for new revenue streams from paddlesports.”
In addition to an expanded trade show, InSites will have more than 50 educational seminars, cracker barrels and social events that bring the two organizations together. According to PPA Executive Director Matt Menashes, RVers are a natural market for paddlesports vendors. “RVers and coachers spend money on accessories for their vehicles like you and I spend money on groceries,” Menashes says. “The opportunity for retail sales to RVers is immense. We will work with campground owners to introduce RVers to paddlesports as an important step in building this market.”
``xEpVElEkFAkSHoxZdvr``x1051812392``x(default)``x Columbia Acquires Mountain Hardware``xpaddler``xIn a deal that closed at the end of March, Columbia Sportswear bought Mountain Hardwear for approximately $36 million. Consequently, Mountain Hardwear, founded in the Bay Area in the early 1990s to provide high-end, technical outdoor apparel, becomes a wholly owned subsidiary of Columbia. Immediate plans for Mountain Hardwear include the use of Columbia’s resources to expand international distribution and continue relationships with high-end specialty retailers. According to Tim Boyle, Columbia’s CEO, Mountain Hardwear’s line will likely be expanded to include packs and footwear. Mountain Hardwear is expected to contribute $100 million in annual revenue to the company’s balance sheet within five years. In 2002, Mountain Hardwear recorded an unaudited $21.4 million in revenue.
``xEpVElEkFFEYMyyecFx``x1051812331``x(default)``x ACA Releases “Critical Judgment” Safety Report``xpaddler``xBetween 1996 and 2000, 75 percent of all paddling-related fatalities involved canoeing and 83 percent of those victims were not wearing a lifejacket at the time of the accident, according to the American Canoe Association’s (ACA) recently released report on paddling fatalities.
Titled “Critical Judgment: Understanding and Preventing Canoe and Kayak Fatalities,” the report aims to provide information to paddlers looking to better understand the risks of boating and the nature of paddling accidents. The report states that the primary reason for all kayak-related fatalities—45 percent--was hazardous water/weather. In the canoeing category, 20 percent of all fatalities were caused by operator inexperience or error. The ACA states, however, that it is convinced that occupant movement and weight shift played a major role in half of all canoeing accidents.
“Critical Judgment” also outlines the ACA’s strategy to reduce canoe and kayak fatalities, and recommends safety policy changes such as increased training of state and federal marine patrol officers in paddling technique and safety and expanded education efforts to encourage all paddlers to wear lifejackets. Safety measures also include better signage at low-head dams and better accident reports, stricter laws regarding alcohol and boating and that a greater portion of Wallop-Breaux Trust Fund dollars be allocated to boating safety programs. i[Info: www.acenet.org, (800) 929-5162.]i
``xEpVElEkpyZiWQqxtoW``x1051812067``x(default)``x Dagger Targets Dealers with Paddle with the Pros``xpaddler``xIn an effort to reach out to retailers and the public, Dagger has launched a series of clinics in which members of Team D will be the on-water instructors. Known as Paddle with the Pros, the clinics are free and will be roving the country this season. Co-sponsored by Paddler]i and Kayak]i magazines, the program features such world-class paddlers as Tao Berman, Andrew Holcombe, Anna Levesque, Brad Ludden and Andre Spino-Smith, all of whom will be analyzing paddlers form and offering suggestions. “It’s the culmination of two years' worth of research and input from retailers and Team D athletes,” says Dagger Marketing Manager Mike Steck. “It’s our way of sharing our passion and commitment to whitewater kayaking with our loyal paddlers and retailers.”
During day one of the two-day clinic, Team D paddlers meet with retail staff and take them paddling. On day two, retailers invite the public to a designated location to participate in complimentary clinics, where the athletes tailor their instruction to match consumers' skills, from novice to advanced. The second clinic of the season was held April 11-12 at Sierra South, a paddling shop in Kernville, Calif. It drew 20 people, who were taught by Team D’s Jayson Bowerman and Scott Feindel. “It increased excitement for the sport and we saw sales increase for that weekend,” says shop co-owner Marianne DeChant.
Each retailer is invited to initiate its own promotional program to draw interest to the clinics. “This grassroots effort will support our retailers and increase our brand awareness,” says Steck. “With Team D as our ambassadors, we are giving back to the paddling community that has supported this brand throughout the years. In addition, we can provide a friendly atmosphere for consumers to try our newest and coolest products.” i[Info: (864) 859-7518, www.dagger.com.]i
``xEpVElEkpkFQFyqjpFa``x1051812023``x(default)``x Spring Shows Draw the Masses``xpaddler``xThree trade shows this spring showed that paddlesports continue to be on the up and up nationwide. Canoecopia, the Jersey Paddlesports Show and the Colorado Kayak Supply Paddlefest saw substantial crowds and interest. Rutabaga’s Canoecopia, the world’s largest paddlesports show, drew 22,000 people. “We were expecting it to be flat but everything was crowded,” says Rutabaga co-owner Darren Bush. “We’re seeing preseason orders coming in way ahead. We’ve had to push all of our orders up because we’re so busy.”
Canoecopia had 40 speakers, but not all of them were paddlers, which Bush says was a nice addition. Jamling Tenzing Norgay spoke about climbing Mt. Everest 40 years after his father became one of the first to climb it. “He’s not a paddler, but it doesn’t matter because everybody has a father, and it speaks to the heart of all paddlers,” Bush says. “Paddlers are also people who want to be outside.” Bush says one reason why so many people attended Canoecopia could have been attributed to the war in Iraq. “People feel the best thing to do is to go paddle.”
Paddlesport, put on by The Jersey Paddler over three days in late March, improved upon last year’s attendance by drawing 4,300 people. Held at the Garden State Exhibition Center, the event attracted people from surrounding states, says Marty Stanley of The Jersey Paddler. In attendance were over 100 manufactures and a demonstration pool provided by H2 Outfitters. Although all paddlesports were represented at the show, Stanley says the strongest interest was in touring kayaks. Highlights from the show included lectures and films from expedition sea kayakers Derek Hutchinson and Nigel Foster.
Out west in Silverthorne, Colo., Paddlefest drew roughly 1,500 people and 15 manufacturers. The three-day show, put on by Colorado Kayak Supply, was held at the Silverthorne Pavilion in early April. About 1,500 people attended the show and 15 paddlesport manufactures were present. The show offered discounts on whitewater and touring kayaks, clothing and accessories, and featured movie premiers from two new whitewater kayking flicks, “No Big Names” and “Amped.” In addition, David Crane spoke about First Descents, a whitewater camp for children with cancer. Colorado Kayak Supply’s Earl Richmond says next year the show will double in size and sell used gear.
-- Kenny Brown
``xEpVElEEAkEvmibcXXj``x1051811921``x(default)``x Web site links outfitters, destinations``xpaddler``xGo Paddle 4 Fun, a limited liability company in Butler, Ky., created to promote paddlesports recreation, recently established a Web site to get more people on the water. On the Web at www.gopaddle.com, the site includes an international directory of outfitters and paddling destinations. While the main objective is to attract new paddlers to canoeing, kayaking and rafting, a key emphasis is to give those already acquainted with the sport a quick and easy way to locate outfitters and paddlesport providers in any location they wish to paddle. Outfitters who subscribe to the site will receive Go Paddle 4 Fun’s promotional efforts, which include driving Internet traffic of non-paddlers to www.gopaddle.com. The site will also be promoted in both outdoor literature and general audience magazines, newspapers and other publications.
``xEpuulAkpZVMnvWmCrc``x1044892075``x(default)``xWant to know where to paddle? Check out www.gopaddle.com Attendance up at Winter OR``xpaddler``xBringing the Winter Outdoor Retailer Market Show back to Salt Lake City helped increase attendance by 25 percent over the previous year, when the show was held in Anaheim, Calif. Total attendance was marked at nearly 13,700; exhibiting companies at 650; retail stores at nearly 2,270; and buyers just shy of 4,400. While attendance was up, total numbers were still 15 percent lower than those at Winter OR 2001. But with the SIA Show being held in nearby Las Vegas just prior, the numbers show optimism within the industry, according to Peter Devin, OR’s trade show director. Noting the increase from last year, Devin says numbers on “both sides of the aisle were appropriate and reflective” of the outdoor specialty marketplace.
“There were definitely more people there than I thought there’d be,” says Brad Johnson, co-owner of Steamboat Springs, Colo’s Big Agnes.
However, Johnson and his business partner Bill Gamber noted that the show’s attendance may have been too low to warrant a four-day show, saying that the winter show could be just as affective in a three-day period.
``xEpuulAEllyRkAAXZsY``x1044891886``x(default)``xAfter taking a year off from Salt Lake City, Winter OR returns with increased attendance. Trade Talk Tidbits``xpaddler``xTIDBITS

Seattle, Wash.’s Cascade Designs won this year’s Moving Mountains Award, presented annually at the Outdoor Retailer show in Salt Lake City. Cascade was nominated for the award by the Washington Trails Association (WTA), which works on behalf of wilderness trails throughout Washington State. Cascade Designs has provided WTA with both financial support and thousands of hours of volunteer time over the past decade.

Designed to spread the “passion for paddling,” Dagger recently unveiled its national “Paddle with the Pros” freestyle clinic program. The free event took place at 27 locations across the country through Oct. 20, 2002. “Our Team D athletes love spending quality time with people who just want to get out there and paddle,” says Dagger’s Mike Steck. During the clinics, paddling enthusiasts and retailers gain experience from the pros for enhancing their freestyle skills. “It’s great to get everyone behind the counter involved on the water,” says Team D’s Ben Selznick. “Everyone at the clinics seems really stoked.”

REI announced it will be the exclusive online gear store for MountainZone.com, the Seattle-based Web site featuring news-style content on climbing, skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking and hiking and live reporting from the athletes themselves. Now visitors to MountainZone.com can access REI's full assortment of outdoor gear and clothing by clicking on the "Marketplace by REI icon" on the MountainZone.com homepage or under each activity category.

Easley, S.C.’s Watermark has consolidated its Japan Specialty distribution with Montbell Co., Ltd, based in Osaka. Montbell will handle Watermark’s brands including Dagger, Perception, Islander, Harmony, Yakima Snowshoes, and Yakima inflatable personal flotation devices. Pearl Metal, which has been distributing Dagger in Japan, will continue to distribute Watermark’s Mainstream brand. “As we’ve done in the U.S., this decision reconfirms our goal of becoming a worldwide leader in technical outdoor equipment,” says Watermark President Jim Clark.

Bell Canoe Works announced Piragis Northwoods Company of Ely, Minnesota, as its 2002 Dealer of the Year. The award is presented each year to the dealer that best represents the criteria set forth by Bell’s staff. Bell also recently received two certificates of award from Zimmerman, Minn., high schools for support in providing on-the-job training to high school work experience students.

Potomac Paddlesports has expanded its operations to include overnight accommodations with the creation of The Potomac Paddlesports Center in Potomac, Md. In cooperation with The Maryland National Capital Park and Planning Commission, Potomac Paddlesports now provides destination whitewater kayak instruction from its new base at the Rockwood Manor Park.

USA Canoe/Kayak has signed Seals Sprayskirts, of Johnstown, N.Y., as an Official Supplier through 2005. As part of the suppliership agreement, Seals sprayskirts will be designated the "Official Sprayskirt of USA Canoe/Kayak,” and will supply USA Canoe/Kayak with approximately 100 sprayskirts for its national teams each year. A percentage of the sale of every sprayskirt bearing the USA Canoe/Kayak name and marks will be paid to USACK.

Portsmouth N.H.’s Portsmouth Kayak Adventures (PKA) launched a new full service kayak shop located directly on Sagamore Creek in Portsmouth, NH, this July. The shop provides direct access to a combination of inland waterways, salt marshes and open ocean, allowing customers to rent boats and paddle right from the store.

Wilderness Medical Associates (WMA) now offers a life-long retail discount to certified WMA graduates. Graduates will receive a 10 percent discount on rescue and medical gear carried by WMA as long as certification is current. Shopping can be done online at: www.wildmed.com.

Retailer giant REI plans to add three more shops to its fleet in 2003 despite a challenging retail landscape. The newest shops will be in Massachusetts and the Puget Sound area, bringing the total to 63.

``xEpFVluAEZukfTprDNB``x1035849174``x(default) Trade Talk``xpaddler``xDrought Drowns Colorado Rafting Season
Colorado’s worst drought in 100 years has left outfitters high and dry. With most companies reporting anywhere from a 30 to 80 percent decline in business, many see the season as a total write off. “It was the worst season we’ve ever had,” says Pete Van DeCarr, owner of Backdoor Sports in Steamboat Springs. “We couldn’t even get inner tubes down the river after mid-June.” According to the Colorado River Outfitters Association, the industry that ferried over 500,000 customers down 27 different river stretches in 2001 stands to lose upwards of $50 million this season, down from a near-record $125 million last season. Not only did overall numbers drop, but due to low water, many outfitters had to use smaller boats with a higher customer to guide ratio. The only thing that may save some companies is the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) disaster loan program. The SBA’s Denver office accepted 466 applications from whitewater businesses seeking low-interest, long term loans to reduce the impact of a terrible year. They’ve handed out over $10 million to stricken rafting and kayaking businesses.
--Jason Blevins

Pam Dillon Takes Over as ACA Head
Pam Dillon stepped into the top spot at the American Canoe Association (ACA) in October, filling the void left by Jeff Yeager’s departure in July. Dillon, who has served on the ACA’s board off an on since 1990, says she hopes to use her new position to foster growth in paddlesports. “Paddlesports hasn’t peaked yet, not judging from the strength of the ACA’s instructional programs. The whole industry stands to benefit from our promotion of paddling as a lifetime sport,” says Dillon.
Most recently working as Deputy Chief of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Watercraft, Dillon has been an ACA instructor since the early ’80s. She also served as Chairperson of the National Safe Boating Council (NSBC) from 1991-1993. She continues to serve on the NSBC Board of Directors.

OIA Figures Show Growth in Canoeing
Design Note: Make into its own sidebar-like box.
According to the Outdoor Industry Association's (OIA) Outdoor Recreation Participation Study for the U.S. for 2001, following a period of stagnation between 1999-2000, participation in canoeing grew significantly in 2001. 24.1 million Americans 16 and older, or 11 percent of the population, canoed in 2001, as opposed to 18.1 million in 2000 and 1998, and 17.5 million in 1999.

* More males canoe - Participants - 56% -male, 44% - female
* Most canoeists are between the ages of 16 to 24 - (29%
participants, 26% enthusiasts)
* The median age of canoeing participants in 2001 was 29.5 - off
from a median age of 39.5 in 2000.
* Americans who went canoeing at least one time in 2001 are most
likely to live in the South (31%) and North Central regions (28%).
* More than one in 10 Americans 16 and older canoed at least
once in 2001.

Northern Forest Canoe Trail Underway
New home for office and full-time staff hired
Paddlers have a new trail organization in their midst—the Northern Forest Canoe Trail (NFCT), which recently established its office in Warren, Vermont. The nonprofit is devoted to creating the historic water trail which begins in New York’s Adirondacks and ends 740 miles later in Fort Kent, Maine. The trail is the longest inland water trail in the Northeast and follows traditional routes used by Native Americans and early settlers. “The Northern Forest Canoe Trail will be built and maintained by local communities,” says Executive Director Rob Center. “There is a piece of the trail for most everyone—beginners, experts, canoeists and kayakers.”
The NFCT recently hired its first full-time staff. Center, formerly of Mad River Canoe, has been part-time executive director for the past two years and became full-time in May. Joining Center is assistant director Sylvia Plumb, former director of communications with the Green Mountain Club. While, according to Plumb, only one group has completed the entire trail, “we’re hoping more thru-paddlers will step up to give the trail some publicity.” This June, the NFCT awarded $35,000 to communities along the trail to develop access points, portages, signage, and campsites for the trail. Info: (802) 496-2285, www.northernforestcanoetrail.org.

Confluence Deal to Acquire Whetstone Falls Short
Less than a month after it announced an agreement to purchase paddle manufacturer Whetstone Inc., Confluence Watersports’ deal to acquire the company has dissolved. Whetstone is a manufacturer of carbon fiber whitewater and touring paddles. According to Buff Grub, Mad River Canoe’s brand manager at Confluence, the deal had been tentatively approved by William Carpenter, Whetstone’s owner. However, upon final review by Carpenter's other partners, Whetstone decided that acquisition would not be in the company's best interests. “The deal fell through on some of the mechanical details of the agreement,” says Grub. “It seemed like a good fit for both us.” Grub says that Confluence will continue to seek out another opportunity in the paddle line. “We do look at paddles as an area of opportunity,” he says.

Bomber Gear Partners with Equinox
Durango, Colo.’s Bomber Gear, manufacturer of whitewater apparel and accessories, has partnered with Equinox Extreme, a clothing manufacturer based in Bangkok, Thailand. Bomber Gear will distribute Equinox apparel in North America, and will be involved in the design process. “We’re very excited to be working with Equinox,” says Bomber Gear’s Director of Marketing Rebecca Lowry. “They are a cutting-edge company, and we like their style. Their line complements ours perfectly.” Equinox’s line includes technical travel wear in what Lowry calls “the Ex-Officio style.” It features radio-frequency welding and supplex materials like Toray, a three-ply, waterproof, breathable fabric, as well as Lycraprene, a four-way stretch, thin neoprene laminated with anti-bacterial Lycra.

Liquidlogic Partners with IR, Black Diamond, Werner and Thule
New Facility in the works in Hendersonville, N.C.
Liquidlogic, keeping with the formula that’s helped them break into the saturated paddlesports market, has formed partnerships with their friends—who also happen to be some of the outdoor industry’s leading players. Liquidlogic recently netted partnerships with Black Diamond, Immersion Research, Werner and Thule. “I’ve always felt that to make the best product you have to defer to the experts who specialize in those areas,” says Tom Dempsey, a Liquidlogic co-founder. “In this case these folks happen to be good friends.”
Black Diamond’s contribution is aluminum security bars mounted on the outside of whitewater kayaks. “We were looking for someone expert in the “security business,” says Dempsey. Immersion Research will produce sprayskirts and cockpit covers for Liquidlogic’s touring boats, as well as an improved backband and on-seat outfitting for all boats. Thule will be contributing to the effort as an official sponsor of Liquidlogic’ pro paddling team and in other marketing projects. Lastly, Werner is making a private-label fiberglass touring paddle for Liquidlogic.
“This cross-marketing will help us all perform better and really make our product top-notch,” says Dempsey. “As our need for components or complimentary products has developed, we sought out the best companies in the world to fill those needs. This is just the beginning.”
In addition to the new facilities, Liquidlogic is pressing ahead with plans to construct a new compound in Hendersonville, N.C. The 26-acre plot will feature offices, an R&D lab, a factory/warehouse, and most importantly an on-site pet-care kennel.

Cobra Kayaks Announces Licensing Partnership
Gardena Calif.’s Cobra Kayaks has created a new licensing partnership with Cobra Kayaks East, to manufacture, distribute and service kayaks east of the Mississippi. The goal of the partnership, says Warren Aitken, president of Cobra Kayaks, is to better serve Cobra customers by providing them with an East Coast production facility and newly developed freight programs. "It has been difficult in the past because of the expense of moving boats across the country,” says Aitken. “We're excited about this agreement and feel that it will accomplish our goal."
The new company is owned by Tom Strauss, Ron Norton and Tom Martell. "This is a true partnership,” says Strauss. “We will share in the areas of design, molds, manufacturing techniques, national advertising and public relations." Cobra Kayaks East will be based out of Reading, Pennsylvania, and have warehouses in South Carolina, Florida and Texas. Dealers west of the Mississippi will continue to be serviced out of Cobra's corporate offices in California.

Ispo Announces Earlier Show
European outdoor tradeshow Ispo will take place over a month earlier in 2003, announced the show’s organizers. The show is slated for June 29 at the fairgrounds in Munich, Germany, as opposed to its traditional slot in the first week in August. The new dates give manufacturers the advantage of being able to attend both Ispo and Outdoor Retailer, whereas previously time constraints led many to have to choose. “Believe me, it was pretty darn tough to do both,” says Horizon Communications’ Holly Kusko, whose clients include Ispo itself. More importantly, it puts the show at the beginning of the ordering season for European retailers. "Early, complete information about lines is the necessary basis for all stores to have a successful season. You need this basis for efficient orders," says Wolfgang Schnellbuegel, president of Sport 2000, which represents some 840 stores.
In addition, adds Klaus Jost, president of INTERSPORT, the move benefits many of the smaller shops, which aren’t privy to the sneak previews afforded larger shops by manufacturers. “The Ispo date decision is creating a level playing field again. Communication with the entire industry will be possible at one time and in one place.”

ACA, PPA and We-no-nah Team Up for Outdoor Writing
In an effort to gain more coverage of paddlesports in the field of outdoor writing, the American Canoe Association (ACA), Professional Paddlesports Association (PPA), and We-no-nah Canoe have joined forces to provide the first prize monies ever offered through the Outdoor Writers Association of America (OWAA) for excellence in published articles specifically about paddlesports.
The $1,700 prize was awarded to Holly Endersby of Corvalis, Ore., in the magazine category and John McCoy of Barboursville, W.V. The awards were presented at the OWAA’s annual conference in June. “The best way to encourage paddlesport stories is to create a separate category at OWAA,” says Tom Watson, Marketing Director for We-no-nah and an OWAA member. “Canoes and kayaks have been used for hunting and fishing for years. It’s about time we have stories to document that.”

Bell Turns 15
Garage obsession grows into a thriving business
Bell Canoe Works celebrates its 15th anniversary in 2003. Founded in 1988 by Ted Bell, the line has grown from a small assortment of solo canoes built in Bell’s garage to 16 models for everything from casual recreation to competition racing. Bell canoes are distributed through a dealer base of nearly 210 shops in the North America and Europe. To help celebrate, Bell organized their first industry trip, the Bell Experience—a weeklong trip on the Namekagon River in northern Wisconsin. Eighteen guests and friends enjoyed the trip, along with cooperating partners, including Marmot, PUR and Gaia. Next year: Bell Experience Florida.

Library of Congress accepts The River Chasers
Geneva, Ohio’s Flowing Water Press and Alpen Books Press recently announced that The River Chasers, a narrative history of American whitewater paddling, has been accepted by the Library of Congress. “The Library of Congress reviewed the book and deemed it appropriate for inclusion in the US Acquisitions Section of the Anglo-American Acquisitions Division,” says author Sue Taft. “This is a major accomplishment for the sport of whitewater, preserving its unique history while telling the story of the sport to future generations.” Flowing Water Press also announces the establishment of a website for The River Chasers at www.theriverchasers.com.

NOC 30th Birthday Bash
The NOC celebrated its 30th birthday by setting the lofty goal of teaching a record-setting 300 new students to kayak during the 30 days of June. “The employee owners of NOC wanted to show their commitment to growing the sport,” says Mark Singleton, NOC Marketing Vice President. “Our Rapid Progressions program provides students with proven methods of instruction to introduce contemporary whitewater kayaking skills in as little as two days.”
While they fell short of their goal (only 70), NOC still felt the effort was a success. “As a business we depend on guests taking on a new challenge and coming to NOC to help facilitate that,” says NOC PR Director Craig Plocica. “Getting new guests will hopefully plant a seed for future advocates of the sport and access into the wilderness.” Plocica attributes not reaching the goal to timing. “We started late with the goal, shooting for the moon and hitting the barn.”
Participants, however, were pleased. “I liked being able to try different boats until I felt comfortable in one, and having all the gear provided, so I didn’t have to bring anything with me was great,” says student Betsy Buranosky.

--Zach Moore

Doing the Charleston
Note: has photos
Charleston, S.C.’s 12th annual East Coast Canoe & Kayak Festival drew more boaters and exhibitors than ever, with a long list of top manufacturers and dealers in attendance. “It’s a unique opportunity for paddlers to interact with all aspects of the industry,” says John Pagenstecher, a 10-time attendee who was once a rep for companies like Wilderness Systems and Kokatat and is now co-owner of Carolina Coastal Adventures/Kayak Carolina, an outfitter in Carolina Beach, N.C. “From designers to manufacturers, instructors, guides, and retailers, everyone’s here.”
Coordinated by the Charleston County Park & Recreation Commission, the festival was named last year’s American Canoe Association Sanctioned Event of the Year. The event is held at James Island County Park, which provides a large pond for on-water classes and demo, access to bigger water, and proximity to the Atlantic for surf kayaking and classes. “Thanks to the location, the program, and word of mouth, we generate more and more enthusiasm within the paddling community each year,” says Steve Hutton, who coordinates the event for the parks system. That enthusiasm led to more than 750 consumers in attendance, as well as close to 50 speakers and presenters and more than 165 exhibitors and their staff.
This year’s version had more than 40 commercial exhibits. “We have been coming to this local event that gets national attention since 1986, but this was our second year of showing our products,” says Folbot’s president Phil Cotton. “We decided that the event is too large and well-attended not to have a presence.” The lake was filled all three days with paddlers trying out boats, but there were also dozens of on-water classes, ranging from those getting in a boat for the first time to ‘masters classes.’ Other highlights included book signings, a slide show, a southern barbecue, ‘Kid’s Fest,’ and even the opportunity to make your own paddle. Info: (843) 795-4FUN.
--Lynn Seldon

National River Cleanup Week a Huge Success
Spring cleaning isn’t just about getting the junk out of the garage, it’s also about getting the junk out of the rivers. Last May, 350 river cleanups took place across the nation, in conjunction with National River Cleanup 2002. The all-volunteer effort uncovered such items as washing machines, water heaters, mattresses, and even entire car and truck bodies. Registration was free and groups received educational and promotional materials on conducting cleanups of waterways. Groups can be as small as five volunteers or as large as thousands. Next year’s NRCW is scheduled for May 10-17. Info: (865) 558-3595, www.americaoutdoors.org/nrcw.

Rough Waters for Pro Teams
This summer, at least two major manufacturers either downsized or eliminated their pro kayak teams, spelling an end to many competitors getting free gear and roaming the country on someone else’s payroll. Perception eliminated its professional paddling team in June, laying off such stalwarts as Clay Wright and team manager Christie Dobson, while Wave Sport, generally credited with creating the industry’s first pro kayak team, effectively did the same by renegotiating a majority of its paddlers’ contracts.
For both companies, the cuts represent the effects of a flattening market combined with corporate sensibility. “Investors are all about making money,” says Confluence’s Kelley Woolsey. “The overall market isn’t growing, and people are tightening their belts.” For Perception, whose pro team included 13 top-level paddlers, many of them juniors, the shift away from a pro team was natural given that its parent company, Watermark, also owns Dagger. “We didn’t want to compete against ourselves,” says Perception Marketing Director Sharon Riddle. “With two brands, we’re focusing Dagger more on freestyle and Perception more on river running. Dagger’s demographic fit more with freestyle.” Riddle adds that Perception is paying the athletes through the end of 2002 and that many of them, especially juniors, are already signing on with Dagger. “If anything,” says Dagger tam manager Andy Gilliam, “next year should be better for our team.” Adds Wright, who was let go as Perception’s field marketing manager: “There will always be a market for having the best paddler in one of your boats. There will always be pro kayakers, just fewer of them.”
Shifts at such companies as Pyranha and Liquid Logic haven’t been as drastic, but their teams were never as deep. And they, too, are remaining vigilant with their allocations. “I think the industry as a whole is pretty much getting a wake-up call,” says Liquid Logic’s Woody Callaway, adding that their team is largely compensated with product only. “And the paddlers are getting a wake-up call also. It’s not what manufacturers can do for paddlers any more, but what paddlers can do for manufacturers. Pockets aren’t as deep as they were--and it’s not going to be as easy to get a free ride anymore.”
--Christian Knight

``xEpFVluAEuEiHGAqVnQ``x1035849141``x(default) Industry News Briefs!``xpaddler``xAPPA and PPA Defeat VA Throwable Rule

The Virginia Professional Paddlesports Association (VAPPA), a PPA-affiliated state trade association, along with PPA and the American Canoe Association, defeated a proposed new regulation that would have required a throwable Type IV PFD in all canoes in Virginia. On October 24th, VAPPA President Randy Gore, PPA Board Member Trace Noel, and PPA/VAPPA member Buzz Kraft dissuaded the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (VDGIF) from adopting a proposed regulation that would require all watercraft under 16 feet to carry - in addition to one PFD per occupant - a throwable Type IV floatation device. The American Canoe Association expressed its opposition to the rule in written comments.
Choosing not to seek an exemption strictly for the commercial paddlesports industry, VAPPA tailored its presentation to illustrate a lack of supporting data for the rule along with the potential dangers associated with having a throwable device in a canoe. VAPPA recommended that instead the board support the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators resolution that the US Coast Guard study, review and make recommendations on supplemental floatation for manual powered watercraft. The vote to exempt all canoes was unanimous. If your state is considering passing a similar regulation, contact the PPA office for technical assistance.

Northwest River Supplies Otter Livery Series Special at Trade Show

At the 2002 PPA trade show NRS will unveil the new Otter Livery series built by Riken. Designed by NRS and built by world class Riken craftsman, the Otter Livery is sized and priced specifically for Raft Livery Operators. The uncompromising quality of the Otter Livery line is readily apparent in its durable Riken material and sturdy low profile Leafield valves. NRS will offer preseason pricing on these and other models at the show. See the new Otter Livery by Riken at the PPA trade show in Orlando. In addition to world class rafts NRS can supply you with: Paddles, Oars, Wetsuits, Apparel, Booties, Gloves, Lifejackets, Helmets, and all your outfitting needs at a great price. Thanks to PPA and all its members that make this show possible.
This message is a service offered to companies exhibiting at PPA's upcoming trade show.

Osage Canoes Trade Show Special

We here at Osage Canoes would like to thank all of the great people that make up the PPA for another great year. We feel that we have the greatest customers in the world and we really appreciate your business. We would like to show our appreciation by offering a special fall discount, available only to members attending the PPA show in Orlando, Florida on November 21 and 22nd, 2002. We will be extending our lowest price of $439.00 for our 17' Standard livery model, with no minimum quantity. This is a perfect opportunity to upgrade your fleet at a price that will not be seen again. We look forward to seeing everyone at the show at Booth number 8.
This message is a service offered to companies exhibiting at PPA's upcoming trade show.

Pam Dillon New ACA Executive Director

Pam Dillon took over the Executive Directorship of the American Canoe Association on October 1, 2002. Pam comes from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources where she served as Deputy Chief of the Division of Watercraft. There she assisted in the development of the Ohio River Rescue Training Program. She managed law enforcement and education operations, including training, publications, budgeting, planning, and grants. Pam is a past chair of the National Safe Boating Council and continues to serve on its board of directors. Pam is also a past member of the ACA board of directors. Pam was also the project director for the National Livery Safety System, the rental industry's standard risk management materials, produced in cooperation between ACA, USCG, ODNR, and PPA. In her role as ACA Executive Director, Pam also serves on PPA's board.
Please join us in welcoming Pam to her new position with the ACA and to the PPA board.

FERC to Undertake Hydropower Licensing Rulemaking/Public Comment Sought

FERC is sponsoring hearings to receive public comment on proposals from the IHC (Interagency Hydropower Committee) and NRG (National Review Group - a self-appointed group representing utility companies, NGOs, tribes and state representatives) related to hydroelectric dam relicensing. American Rivers, American Whitewater and the National Heritage Institute are some of the lead organizations for the environmental and paddling communities. The FERC meetings are public forums and anyone is welcome to attend. For more information, contact Risa Shimoda, Executive Director, American Whitewater at risa@amwhitewater.org
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