Officers-Past President

Twenty-five years ago, I came to love rivers. Someone stuck me in a raft on the Upper Gauley.  I saw all these idiots in tiny plastic boats with long paddles. Some in canoes. It looked a bit insane.  Of course, I was hooked immediately. Like the old expression “That’s a terrible idea!… what time?”

Being a bit fearful of this new thing, I wanted to focus initially on safety and excellent instruction. I sought these out. I needed kindred spirits as well. I quickly found it all in the CCC. This foundation has safely seen me through certifications, canyons, countries, creeks and close calls….and, most importantly, 25 years of great friendships and joy.

CCC relationships have for many years enabled me to experience awesome adventures, local and abroad, and all the adrenaline rushes I could handle. These days I’m more drawn to joyful runs and relishing the time with friends on the river. My most recent joyful run was leading a “White Knuckle Nanty” trip at Week of Rivers (for people with some deep-rooted, genuine fear). I watched as very nervous people turn into absolute warriors (all with dry hair!) by the end of the run. Now, that’s joy. That’s the sanctuary and power of the river. It’s not about what river the boat is in. It’s about the people sitting or kneeling in the boat. The CCC engenders this experience for all of us at all levels of participation.

No matter what your skill level is, CCC  offers something for everybody!

Do you have questions, concerns or ideas for the club?  Please feel free to contact me at past.president@carolinacanoeclub.org