tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80376163007128478822024-03-26T10:54:09.082-07:00LiquidLoreA fluid, online whitewater guideSteve Arnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03542492688569692270noreply@blogger.comBlogger107125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8037616300712847882.post-17875220410333554022019-07-08T22:19:00.000-07:002019-07-08T22:19:36.203-07:00Callaghan Creek Race 2019 Results<h4>Callaghan Creek Race - July 6, 2019</h4>
<p>The 10th Annual Callaghan Creek happened on July 6, marking a decade of racing this classic stretch of whitewater. 46 competitors rounded out the field this year, braving cool rainy weather to run laps, race and party into the early hours of the morning. A weak snowpack led to low levels in the week leading up to the race, but a few days of rain rescued the level to a mellow but acceptable 0.18.</p>
<p>The shortened course was used this year.</p>
<p>A massive thanks goes out to everyone who helped make the race happen - the racers, party organizers and timing volunteers - it wouldn't be the same without your help. Thanks everyone for coming out!</p>
<ol>
<li>Blake Miller - Tad Dennis - 15:34</li>
<li>Louis Geltman - Geoff Calhoun - 15:47</li>
<li>Jure Stan - Kiah Schaepe - 16:08</li>
<li>Rhys Elliott - Sam Ricketts - 16:12</li>
<li>Raphael Boudreault-Simard - Rich Kemble - 16:15</li>
<li>Max Nielsen - Richard Maggs - 16:38</li>
<li>Corey Boux - Ash Bullivant - 16:49</li>
<li>Tyler Russell - Mariano Ferrer - 16:50</li>
<li>Philip Gibbins - Kynan Maley - 17:17</li>
<li>David Graham - Taylor ?? - 17:25</li>
<li>Rowan Kaar - Jake Perram - 17:28</li>
<li>Scott McBride - Graham Litman - 17:30<br />
Steve Arns - Sam Murray - Matt Kompass - 17:30</li>
<li value="14">Andy Osadetz - Ryan Boudens - 17:33</li>
<li>Russell Henry - Paul Dempsey - 17:41</li>
<li>Darby McAdams - Blake Hornblow - 17:46</li>
<li>Will Riorden - Maxi Kniewasser - 18:13</li>
<li>Josh Plankeel - Thierry Green - 18:36</li>
<li>Jen Chrimes - Crista Wiles - 19:16</li>
<li>Daphnee Tuzlak - Tess Fields - Monique Boag - 19:29</li>
<li>Earl Ree-Goodings - Jon Lane - 1:22:43</li>
<li>Davy ? - Angus ? - DNF</li>
</ol>
<h4>Upper Cheakamus Race - July 5, 2019</h4>
<p>The Upper Cheak Race was also a huge success this year. The normal course was used, from the eddy above the falls all the way down to the take out by the gauge. The level was 2.45. Congrats to Blake to being the dual champion this year!</p>
<ol>
<li>Blake Miller - 10:41</li>
<li>Kiah Schaepe - 10:50</li>
<li>Geoff Calhoun - 10:53</li>
<li>Tad Dennis - 10:58</li>
<li>Rhys Elliott - 11:01</li>
<li>Rich Kemble - 11:02<br />
Fidel Moreno - 11:02</li>
<li value="8">Philip Gibbins - 11:03</li>
<li>Jure Stan - 11:10</li>
<li>Sam Ricketts - 11:16</li>
<li>Tyler Russell - 11:18<br />
Francisco Jirmenez - 11:18</li>
<li value="13">Richard Maggs - 11:27</li>
<li>Ricky Miller - 11:30<br />
Jake Perram - 11:30</li>
<li value="16">Edward Muggridge - 11:33<br />
Mirko Moreno - 11:33</li>
<li value="18">Mike Gottlieb - 11:37</li>
<li>Scott McBride - 11:43</li>
<li>Corey Boux - 11:44</li>
<li>Kynan Maley - 11:45</li>
<li>Max Nielsen - 11:46<br />
Blake Hornblow - 11:46</li>
<li value="24">Jen Chrimes - 11:48</li>
<li>Garreth Thomas - 11:49</li>
<li>Josh Plankeel - 11:50</li>
<li>Russell Henry - 11:53</li>
<li>Rowan Kaar - 11:55</li>
<li>David Graham - 11:57</li>
<li>Paul Dempsey - 11:58</li>
<li>Earl Ree-Goodings - 12:02</li>
<li>Zach Morgan - 12:04</li>
<li>Andy Osadetz - 12:05<br />
Ryan Boudens - 12:05</li>
<li value="35">Luke Longridge - 12:09</li>
<li>Steve Arns - 12:10</li>
<li>Theirry Green - 12:17</li>
<li>Tess Fields - 12:24</li>
<li>Will Riorden - 12:28</li>
<li>Daphnee Tuzlak - 12:35</li>
<li>Jon Lane - 12:38</li>
<li>Darby McAdams - 12:50</li>
<li>Brydhi Stark - 13:05</li>
<li>Connor ?? - 13:10</li>
<li>Crista Wiles - 13:15</li>
</ol>
Steve Arnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03542492688569692270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8037616300712847882.post-40425844134135384772018-07-24T00:49:00.002-07:002018-07-24T00:49:31.278-07:002018 Callaghan Creek Race Recap<h4>Callaghan Creek Race - July 14, 2018</h4>
<p>The 9th Annual Callaghan Creek race went down last weekend. It was the most successful race to date, with 60 competitors racing the course. After a winter with lots of snow, the race was held in the normal window of mid July, but global warming like hot weather in the early months of the summer melted much of the snow off leaving us with a nice medium flow of 2.75.</p>
<p>The shortened course was used again this year, partially out of concern for the large tree wedged in the middle of the rapid that some people got tangled up in during training laps.</p>
<p>A big thank you goes out to our title sponsors <a href="https://westerncanoekayak.com/">Western Canoe and Kayak</a> and <a href="http://predatorhelmets.com/">Predator Helmets</a>. Predator provided cash prizes to the top 3 teams, and a bunch of helmets and other swag to all. Western provided an NRS PFD for the winner of the Cheak time trial on Friday night.</p>
<img border="0" src="http://www.liquidlore.com/images/western-large.png" width="320" height="131"> 
<img border="0" src="http://www.liquidlore.com/images/predator.png">
<p>A massive thanks goes out to everyone who helped make the race happen - the racers, party organizers, timing volunteers, and sponsors. This is a community event that is only made better by everyone helping out. The entry fees we raised this year were put towards some costs associated with the race, with a some left over to make the 10th anniversary race next year a real blow out. Most importantly, part of the money raised has already been spent to purchase new staff gauges - one to replace the broken one on the Callaghan, and another for fresh installation on the Soo.</p>
<p>Thanks everyone for coming out! See you next year.</p>
<ol>
<li>Jure Stan - Kiah Schaepe - 15:21</li>
<li>Tad Dennis - Mike Ferraro - 15:28</li>
<li>Blake Miller - Wes Dixon - 15:30</li>
<li>Rich Kemble - Jamie Wright - 15:38</li>
<li>Geoff Calhoun - Martijn Van Den Broeke - 15:39</li>
<li>Fabian Tandler - Michiel De Rutter - 15:47</li>
<li>Sam Swanson - Steve McGrady - 16:03</li>
<li>Corey Boux - Briener Matiz - 16:05</li>
<li>Chris Loughran - Joel Villeneuve - 16:06</li>
<li>Jonas Delonge - Ash Bullivant - 16:40</li>
<li>Ryan Boudens - Andy Osadetz - 16:46</li>
<li>Lars Skovlin - Joe Vincent - 17:07</li>
<li>Ethan Begley - Ben Wright - 17:08</li>
<li>Sam Murray - Mark Williams - 17:10</li>
<li>Phil Middleton - Winston 'Wiggy' Cawkell - 17:16</li>
<li>Matt Brook - Caleb Newsome - 17:24<br />
Tim Riddell - Kevin ?? - 17:24</li>
<li value="18">Russell Henry - Paul Dempsey - 17:26</li>
<li>Steve Arns - Ethan Smith - 17:42</li>
<li>Scott McBride - Graham Litman - 17:43</li>
<li>Etienne Beland - Rowan Kaar - 17:58</li>
<li>Corey May - Dennis Lynch - 18:03</li>
<li>Kevin Pierce - Josh Plankeel - 18:13</li>
<li>Brydhi Stark - Jen Chrimes - Anna Wagner - 18:15</li>
<li>Adrian Wigston - Mike Nash - 19:42</li>
<li>Monique Boag - Tammy Ritchie - 20:27</li>
<li>Louis Geltman - Brian Jewett - 29:37</li>
<li>Erin Board - Katie Jackson - Erin Savage - 43:36</li>
<li>Ben Hawthorne (UK) - Colby Bishop - 55:34</li>
</ol>
<a href="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/callaghan2018-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/callaghan2018-1.jpg" data-original-width="800" data-original-height="534"></a></br>
Pre race meeting. Maxi Kniewasser photo.</br></br>
<a href="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/callaghan2018-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/callaghan2018-2.jpg" data-original-width="800" data-original-height="534"></a></br>
Team Dad between the waterfalls. Maxi Kniewasser photo.</br></br>
<a href="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/callaghan2018-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/callaghan2018-3.jpg" data-original-width="800" data-original-height="534"></a></br>
Main falls, unknown racers. Maxi Kniewasser photo.</br></br>
<a href="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/callaghan2018-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/callaghan2018-4.jpg" data-original-width="800" data-original-height="534"></a></br>
Syncro boating. Maxi Kniewasser photo.</br></br>
<a href="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/callaghan2018-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/callaghan2018-5.jpg" data-original-width="800" data-original-height="534"></a></br>
Wiggy emerging from ODB. Maxi Kniewasser photo.</br></br>
<a href="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/callaghan2018-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/callaghan2018-6.jpg" data-original-width="600" data-original-height="800"></a></br>
New hardware for river gauge maintenance.</br></br>
<h4>Upper Cheakamus Race - July 13, 2018</h4>
<p>The Upper Cheak Race was also a huge success this year, with record participation. The normal course was used, from the eddy above the falls all the way down to the take out by the gauge. The level was 2.6. Finish times were used to seed start times in the Callaghan Race the next day. Notably, racer Cody Bartel survived an epic hole ride at the House Rock rapid while being cheered on by all the racers that were finished before him - he was awarded with a brand new kevlar Predator helmet for his survival skills. Blake won an NRS PDF courtesy of WCK for his effort too.</p>
<p>Stay tuned for some big plans to celebrate the 10th anniversary races in 2019. See you there!</p>
<ol>
<li>Blake Miller - 10:18</li>
<li>Geoff Calhoun - 10:23</li>
<li>Rich Kemble - 10:25</li>
<li>Tad Dennis - 10:28</li>
<li>Kiah Schaepe - 10:35</li>
<li>Jure Stan - 10:36</li>
<li>Corey Boux - 10:39</li>
<li>Fabien Tandler - 10:43</li>
<li>Briener Matiz - 10:48<br />
Michiel De Rutter- 10:48</li>
<li value="11">Chris Loughran - 10:50</li>
<li>Martijn Van Den Broeke - 10:57</li>
<li>Mike Ferraro - 10:58</li>
<li>Marco Colella - 11:06</li>
<li>Ryan Boudens - 11:09<br />
Etienne Beland - 11:09</li>
<li value="17">Ben Wright - 11:12</li>
<li>Scott McBride - 11:13<br />
Andy Osadetz - 11:13<br />
Dennis Lynch - 11:13</li>
<li value="21">Phil Middleton - 11:15</li>
<li>Russell Henry - 11:18<br />
Joe Vincent - 11:18<br />
Jeremey Hiemstra - 11:18</li>
<li value="25">Jen Chrimes - 11:20</li>
<li>Josh Plankeel - 11:22</li>
<li>Winston 'Wiggy' Cawkell - 11:25</li>
<li>Tim Riddell - 11:34</li>
<li>Jonas Delonge - 11:37<br />
Rowan Kaar - 11:37</li>
<li value="31">Paul Dempsey - 11:38</li>
<li>Steve Arns - Corey May - 11:42</li>
<li>Dave Reid - 11:46</li>
<li>Mark Williams - 11:48</li>
<li>Kevin Pierce - 11:50</li>
<li>Libby Tobey - 12:00</li>
<li>Graham Litman - 12:11</li>
<li>Cody Bartell - 12:20</li>
<li>Katie Jackson - 13:02</li>
<li>Brydhi Stark - 13:05</li>
<li>Caitlin Foran - 13:07</li>
</ol>
<a href="Http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/cheak2018-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="Http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/cheak2018-1.jpg" data-original-width="800" data-original-height="600" /></a>
</br>
Surviving an Upper Cheak take out rapid beating.</br></br>
<a href="Http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/cheak2018-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="Http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/cheak2018-2.jpg" data-original-width="800" data-original-height="600" /></a>
</br>
While the crowd watches on....</br></br>Steve Arnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03542492688569692270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8037616300712847882.post-89179937324234041042017-07-21T01:13:00.002-07:002017-07-21T13:10:46.904-07:002017 Callaghan Creek Race Recap<h4>Callaghan Creek Race - July 15, 2017</h4>
<p>The 8th Annual Callaghan Creek race went down as a huge success last weekend. After a winter with lots of snow, the race was held in the normal window of mid July, but unseasonably cool weather caused a drop in flow in the days leading to the race. Flows ended up being a relatively mellow but respectable 2.7 or so.</p>
<p>This year we had 36 racers. The shortened course was used again this year as it was still a bit low to safely race over the first ledge. Even though OBD changed last winter, the rapid still offered up a ton of excitement for racers.</p>
<p>A big thank you goes out to our title sponsors <a href="https://westerncanoekayak.com/">Western Canoe and Kayak</a> and <a href="http://predatorhelmets.com/">Predator Helmets</a>. Predator provided cash prizes to the top 3 teams, and a bunch of helmets and other swag to all. Western provided gift certificates, and a paddle for the winner of the Cheak time trial on Friday night.</p>
<img border="0" src="http://www.liquidlore.com/images/western-large.png" width="320" height="131"> 
<img border="0" src="http://www.liquidlore.com/images/predator.png">
<p>A big thank you also goes out to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hardcorepaddles/">Hard Core Paddles</a>, who provided a paddle to the fastest paddler using their product during the race - this year Jamie Wright claimed the prize. These guys make a great product! Try it out if you can.</p>
<img border="0" src="http://www.liquidlore.com/images/hardcore.jpg">
<p>Lastly, a thanks goes out to everyone who helped make the race happen - the racers, party organizers, timing volunteers, sponsors. This is a community event that is only made better by everyone helping out. Of note was the change in party venue to an awesome location along the Cheakamus River.</p>
<p>The race was very competitive this year. There was only 1 second between first and second place! The winning team, Maxi and Benny, have been paddling together since they were teenagers and they were fired up the share the title, and a giant bottle of Jack Daniels at the after party... It was great to see a long list of familiar faces and new competitors participating.</p>
<ol>
<li>Maxi Kniewasser - Benny Marr - 15:28</li>
<li>Richard Kemble - Jamie Wright - 15:29</li>
<li>Kiah Schaepe - Jure Stan - 15:40</li>
<li>Ash Bullivant - Andraz Krpic - 15:45</li>
<li>Joel Villeneuve - Chris Loughran - 15:55</li>
<li>Corey Boux - 16:10</li>
<li>Eric Johnson - Trent McCrerey - 16:16</li>
<li>Taylor Weston - Fidel Moreno - 16:22</li>
<li>Ryan Boudens - Blake Miller - 16:27</li>
<li>Ethan Shea Begley - Dave O'Sullivan - 16:30</li>
<li>Wes Dixon - Henry Heyman - 16:31</li>
<li>Spencer Beck - Lars Skovlin - 16:35</li>
<li>Dave Graham - Iztok Zuber - 16:50</li>
<li>Steve Arns - Jonas Delogne - 16:59</li>
<li>Michael Freeman - Mike Nash - 17:35</li>
<li>Tom Potter - Evan Corral - Paul Stamilio - 17:45</li>
<li>Phil Middleton - Winston 'Wiggy' Cawkell - 18:20</li>
<li>Honza Muska Musil - Liam Cook - 19:57</li>
</ol>
<a href="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2017-callaghan-race-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2017-callaghan-race-1.jpg" data-original-width="800" data-original-height="532"></a></br>
First place: Maxi and Benny. Tegan Owens photo.</br></br>
<a href="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2017-callaghan-race-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2017-callaghan-race-2.jpg" data-original-width="800" data-original-height="532"></a></br>
Second place: Jamie and Rich. Tegan Owens photo.</br></br>
<a href="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2017-callaghan-race-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2017-callaghan-race-3.jpg" data-original-width="800" data-original-height="532"></a></br>
Third place: Kiah and Jure. Tegan Owens photo.</br></br>
<a href="Http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2017-callaghan-race-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="Http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2017-callaghan-race-4.jpg" data-original-width="800" data-original-height="417" /></a>
</br>
Whiteout in the Old Dirty Bastard. Graham Lavery photo.</br></br>
<h4>Upper Cheakamus Race - July 14, 2017</h4>
<p>After a few years hiatus, the Upper Cheak Time Trial was back this year. The course started below the waterfall this year as there was a log blocking the river just below it. A successful competition with almost no carnage. Finish times were used to seed start times in the Callaghan Race the next day. The finish times were also used to choose who won the Hard Core Paddle, and both Jamie and Rich were using them in the Callaghan Race on the same team.</p>
<p>Stay tuned for some new ideas for the races in 2018. See you there!</p>
<ol>
<li>Fidel Moreno - 10:06</li>
<li>Blake Miller - 10:21</li>
<li>Maxi Kniewasser - 10:25</br>
Eric Johnson - 10:25</li>
<li value="5">Andraz Krpic - 10:26</li>
<li>Taylor Weston - 10:27</li>
<li>Kiah Schaepe - 10:33</br>
Jure Stan - 10:33</li>
<li value="9">Jamie Wright - 10:34</li>
<li>Richard Kemble - 10:37</li>
<li>Ash Bullivant - 10:40</li>
<li>Joel Villeneuve - 10:43</li>
<li>Corey Boux - 10:46</br>
Chris Loughran - 10:46</li>
<li value="15">Iztok Zuber - 10:52</li>
<li>Ryan Boudens - 10:54</li>
<li>Ethan Shae Begley - 10:56</li>
<li>Jonas Delogne - 10:57</br>
Katrina van Wijk - 10:57</br>
Honza Muska Musil - 10:57</li>
<li value="21">Steve Arns - 10:59</li>
<li>Dave Graham - 11:00</li>
<li>Ben Holzman - 11:10</li>
<li>Liam Cook - 11:12</li>
<li>Peter Harper - 11:15</li>
<li>Winston 'Wiggy' Cawkell - 11:16</li>
<li>Tom Potter - 11:17</li>
<li>Casey Williams - Nicole Mansfield - 11:21</li>
<li>Josh Plankeel - 11:39</li>
<li>Nike Nash - 11:42</li>
<li>Andy Nash - 11:51</li>
<li>Phil Middleton - 17:21 (assisted swimmer)</li>
<li>Daniel Klein - DNF</li>
</ol>Steve Arnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03542492688569692270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8037616300712847882.post-11234908668761779732016-07-18T21:11:00.002-07:002016-07-18T22:41:26.016-07:002016 Callaghan Creek Race Recap<h4>Callaghan Creek Race - July 16, 2016</h4>
<p>After a few years of low water and early flow windows, the 7th Annual Callaghan Creek race moved back to its traditional time in mid July.</p>
<p>52 racers competed, which is tied with the 2013 race for the most competitors to enter! Level 2.68. The modified course was used because the water level was just below the cut off for running the first ledge, and the course finished at the normal take out where the race has always finished. Running OBD was optional.</p>
<p>A big thanks to <a href="http://westerncanoekayak.com/">Western Canoe and Kayak</a> for providing the top prize of a new paddle for the winning female competitor and gift certificates for the overall winners!</p>
<img border="0" src="http://www.liquidlore.com/images/western-large.png" width="320" height="131">
<p>A thank you also goes out to <a href="http://www.predatorhelmets.com/">Predator Helmets</a> for providing a bunch of helmets and hats that went out to the top teams and safety crew, and to <a href="http://waterflow.ca/">WaterFlow Paddling</a> for providing a throwbag and hat to the racers that had some carnage over the weekend.</p>
<img border="0" src="http://www.liquidlore.com/images/predator.png"> 
<img border="0" src="http://www.liquidlore.com/images/waterflow.jpg">
<p>Finally, a huge thanks to all the people who came together to make the race happen. From finish timers to safety crew, trail workers, party makers and everyone else in between - it wouldn't be possible without your hard work!</p>
<h4>Race Times</h4>
<ol>
<li>Raphael Boudreault-Simard - Ric Moxon - 15:28</li>
<li>Louis Geltman - Benny Marr - 15:43</li>
<li>Rhys Elliot - Carl Whitehead - 15:48</li>
<li>Phil Mitchell- Joe Morley - 15:52</li>
<li>Hector Darby MacLellan - Richard Kemble - 15:54</li>
<li>Charley Nguyen - Mael Nguyen - 16:00</li>
<li>Kiah Schaepe - Martjin Van Den Broeke - 16:18</li>
<li>Dave Fusilli - Matt Anger - 16:28</li>
<li>Corey Boux - Chris Loughran - 16:44</li>
<li>Adrian Kiernan - Scotty Hall - 16:47</li>
<li>Honza Muska Musil - Andraz Krpic - 16:50</li>
<li>Edward Muggridge - Pedro Astorga - 16:52</li>
<li>Ben Kinsella - Nate Klema - 16:57</li>
<li>John Harding - Matiu Kapa - 17:01</li>
<li>Jonas Delogne - Iztok Zuber - 17:26</li>
<li>Bryce Shaw - Ethan Shae - 17:29</li>
<li>Glen Carpenter - Laura Bannon - 17:30</li>
<li>Jeremy Norbury - Trent McCrerey - 17:32</li>
<li>Steve Arns - Ali Marshall - 17:40</li>
<li>Dave O'Sullivan - Ash Bullivant - 18:06</li>
<li>Will Riorden - Geoff Dunbrack - 18:32</li>
<li>Chris Tretwold - Jonathan Ellinger - 18:36</li>
<li>Ben Hawthorne - Harlan Johnson - 18:42</li>
<li>Josh Plankeel - Phil Middleton - 19:17</li>
<li>Sam Murray - Dave Graham - 20:18</li>
<li>Tegan Owens - Hilary Neevel - 22:25</li>
</ol>
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/images/callaghan-2016.jpg">Steve Arnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03542492688569692270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8037616300712847882.post-21752931658793736962015-06-23T02:06:00.000-07:002015-06-23T02:07:12.624-07:00Callaghan Creek 2015 Recap<h4>Callaghan Creek Race - June 20, 2015</h4>
<p>18 racers competed, 3 solo, and 8 teams, with one racer competing both solo and team. Level 2.55. The modified course was used because of very low water starting by seal launching at first ledge, finishing at the normal take out where race has always finished. Running OBD was optional.</p>
<p>The record extreme low snowpack of the 2014/2015 winter made planning the race particularly difficult in 2015. The race was initially cancelled early in the week before the race, but slightly warmer temperatures, some rain and enthusiasm from the community to hold a race anyways salvaged the event last minute. Lower turn out than normal, but a great time all the same.</p>
<p>Thanks to <a href="http://www.atpaddles.com/">AT Paddles</a> from providing a paddle each for the two kayakers from the winning team! A thank you as well to the safety crew, timing crew and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/seatoskywhitewater">Sea to Sky Whitewater</a>.</p>
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/images/atpaddles.jpg" />
<h4>Race Times</h4>
<ol>
<li>Gerd Serrasolses - 15:57 - Gerd is now 3x reigning champion</li>
<li>Darren Albright - 16:47</li>
<li>Liam Cook / Kiah Schaepe - 17:14</li>
<li>Sam Ricketts - 17:42</li>
<li>Corey Boux / Andrew ?? - 17:48<br />
Beny Nowak / Andreas Wicky - 17:48</li>
<li value="7">Ash Bullivant / Martijn Van Den Broeke - 18:00</li>
<li>Ben Seeberger / Geoff Dunbrack - 18:50</li>
<li>Phil Middleton / David O'Sullivan - 19:12</li>
<li>Steve Arns / Sam Murray - 19:29</li>
<li>Gerd Serrasolses / Alicia Zaragoza - 20:40</li>
</ol>
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/callaghan2015.jpg" />Steve Arnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03542492688569692270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8037616300712847882.post-24460026269886596572014-07-08T01:21:00.000-07:002014-07-08T01:21:18.116-07:00Callaghan and Upper Cheak Race Weekend 2014 Results<h4>Upper Cheakamus Race - July 4, 2014</h4>
<p>Quick facts: 38 racers competed, 32 individuals and 3 teams. Level 2.60. Standard course - from the eddy immediately above the put in falls to the eddy where the gauge is located (normal take out).</p>
<ol>
<li>Gerd Serrasolses - 10:03 - 2 time reigning champion, new course record</li>
<li>Andraz Krpic - 10:24</li>
<li>Ric Moxon - 10:35</li>
<li>Darren Albright - 10:40</li>
<li>Richard Kemble - 10:43</li>
<li>Mikkel St. Jean-Duncan - 10:47<br />
Jurij Zmavc - 10:47</li>
<li value="8">Maxi Kniewasser - 10:49</li>
<li>Riley Best - 10:51</li>
<li>Jean Letuzo - 11:00</li>
<li>Liam Fournier - 11:01</li>
<li>Kiah Schaepe - 11:05</li>
<li>Corey Boux - 11:06</li>
<li>Sam Drouin - 11:07</li>
<li>Mathieu Coldebella - 11:12</li>
<li>Nick Bennett - 11:14<br />
Andrew Matthews - 11:14</li>
<li value="18">Zac Ruttiman - 11:16<br />
<li>Liam Cook - 11:22</li>
<li>Sam Murray - 11:26</li>
<li>Nick Gottlieb - 11:27</li>
<li>Steve Arns - 11:31</li>
<li>Alicia Casas Zaragoza - 11:37</li>
<li>Louis Bissonnette - 11:39</li>
<li>Dave Prothero - 11:41</li>
<li>Dave Sitar - 11:43</li>
<li>Patrick Liddell - 11:45</li>
<li>Jonas Delonge - 11:53</li>
<li>Nick Bishop - 12:02</li>
<li>Ryan Bayes - 12:29*</li>
<li>Annie Lagueux/Corey May - 12:32</li>
<li>Phil Middleton - 16:16*</li>
<li>Luke Borserio - 18:07*</li>
<li>Matthew Washer/Louise Fingleton - DNF</li>
<li>Sean Easton/Brett Easton - DNF</li>
</ol>
<p>*Racer stopped to help other paddlers needing help.
<h4>Callaghan Creek Race - July 5, 2014</h4>
<p>Quick facts: 45 racers competed in 21 teams. Level 2.60. The modified course was used because of low water starting by seal launching at first ledge, finishing at the normal take out where race has always finished. Running OBD was optional.</p>
<ol>
<li>Gerd Serrasolses/Darren Albright/Mikkel St. Jean Duncan - 15:54 - Darren is 3x reigning champing, Gerd 2x reigning champion </li>
<li>Andraz Krpic/Jurij Zmavc - 16:27</li>
<li>Hector Darby MacLellan/Richard Kemble - 16:30<br />
Maxi Kniewasswer/Ric Moxon - 16:30</li>
<li value="5">Marlow McGregor - Riley Best - 17:17<br />
Mathieu Coldebella/Corey Boux - 17:17</li>
<li value="7">Sam Drouin/Luke Borserio - 17:20</li>
<li>Mael Nguyen/Jean Letuzo - 17:28</li>
<li>Nick Bennett/Ash Bullivant - 17:30</li>
<li>Steve Arns/Sam Murray/Corey May - 17:40</li>
<li>Patrich Liddell/Louis Bissonnette - 17:49</li>
<li>Niko Peha/Mike Gottlieb/Chris Leach - 17:52</li>
<li>Ryan Bayes/Kiah Schaepe - 18:03</li>
<li>Dave Prothero/Liam Cook - 18:48</li>
<li>Romain Rue/Chris Hanssen - 19:22</li>
<li>Phil Middleton/Ben Yorke - 19:29</li>
<li>Jonas Delonge/Nick Gottlieb - 19:41</li>
<li>Tom Potter/Dave Sitar - 20:39</li>
<li>Annie Lagueux/Dave Hamlin - 21:06</li>
<li>Scott Mcbride/Olivier Villebrun - 25:26 (swim)</li>
<li>Liam Fournier/Zac Ruttiman - 28:28 (swim)</li>
</ol>
Steve Arnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03542492688569692270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8037616300712847882.post-15584723687074958612014-03-12T00:56:00.000-07:002014-03-12T01:05:23.935-07:00Thuli Bheri Photo Report<p>Here's a quick addition to the <a href="http://www.liquidlore.com/nepal/thuli/">LiquidLore river beta for the Thuli Bheri</a> in western Nepal. Enjoy the photos and the short story told in captions to go along with it.</p>
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/nepal/thuli/thuli1.jpg" /><br />
Private Jeep ride from Pokhara to Birendranagar. It was a little bit more expensive but much faster and relatively comfortable. We were on a schedule to get someone back to Kathmandu to fly home.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/nepal/thuli/thuli2.jpg" /><br />
We arrived in Birendranagar/Surkhet late in the night and stayed at a really nasty hotel near the airport recommended by a local we picked up in Kohlpur. It was nice however to be openly accepted into a huge Diwali party the night before we flew to the river. If you go, try and fly from Surkhet instead of Nepalgunj as it's a way nicer town. We later stayed at the Valley View Hotel in the middle of town - a nice clean place with good food.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/nepal/thuli/thuli3.jpg" /><br />
After much negotiation we chartered a plane from the Surkhet airport with Goma Air for about $1500 USD (November 2013). The usual Dolpa airport of Juphal was closed so we had to fly in to the Masinchuar airport on the other side of the river that was much further from the water. It was unclear where this airport was until we actually landed there.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/nepal/thuli/thuli4.jpg" /><br />
We attraced a crowd at this lonely dirt airstrip, but none of them were willing to act as porters to help us drag our stuff down to the river. Despite the remoteness, my phone worked no problem here, as it did along the whole river. Photo Si Rutherford.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/nepal/thuli/thuli5.jpg" /><br />
The Masinchuar dirt airstrip.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/nepal/thuli/thuli6.jpg" /><br />
A local woman.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/nepal/thuli/thuli7.jpg" /><br />
The hike to the river followed a prominent ridge and had some of the best mountain views I've ever seen. The mountains here are part of the Dhaulagiri massif. Apparnently the scenery from the Juphal side does not compare. Photo Maxi Kniewasser.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/nepal/thuli/thuli8.jpg" /><br />
The long 5 hour walk to the water was a knee busting 1000 meters of elevation loss.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/nepal/thuli/thuli9.jpg" /><br />
Excellent downstream view of the Golden Canyon, the first section of notable whitewater on the Thuli Bheri.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/nepal/thuli/thuli10.jpg" /><br />
This is the Bala Tripura Sundari temple in the town of Tripurakot. We had to walk through this town, and some kids threw dried shit at us. Much better than the fresh shit that was thrown at us at a campsite futher down the river. Nepal is a wonderful country but my experience with the locals on this trip, particularly on the Humla Karnali, was negative.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/nepal/thuli/thuli11.jpg" /><br />
Day 1 campsite below Tripurakot, next to the river. The town by the water had a few places to get dahl bat and beer. It even had a cell phone store that played obnoxiously loud music while we ate. The food wasn't great. Photo Si Rutherford.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/nepal/thuli/thuli12.jpg" /><br />
Evening light on the temple. Photo Maxi Kniewasser.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/nepal/thuli/thuli13.jpg" /><br />
We made a friend while having dinner. The people in the town where we ate dinner were nice.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/nepal/thuli/thuli14.jpg" /><br />
The first paddle strokes on the Thuli. This river is exceedingly beautiful. After just a few hunderd meters the river starts off with one of the hardest sections of rapids on the whole run. We agressively boat scouted and had no trouble. Scouting and taking photos would have been fun too. Photo Maxi Kniewasser.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/nepal/thuli/thuli15.jpg" /><br />
The first day of whitwater (day 2 of the trip) passes through the Golden Canyon, a long section of continuous grade 4 peppered with some bigger rapids. This is one of the first spots we needed to scout from the bank that ened up being a portage for us.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/nepal/thuli/thuli16.jpg" /><br />
One rapid stands out above all the others in the Golden Canyon. Despite the big canyon walls, a trail follows the whole river here (and everyewhere else) so scouting and portaging are easy. Photo Maxi Kniewasser.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/nepal/thuli/thuli17.jpg" /><br />
The Golden Canyon standout rapid. A burly ledge that's exciting to run, it's actually low consequence as the run out is class II for some distance.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/nepal/thuli/thuli18.jpg" /><br />
Golden Canyon boogie.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/nepal/thuli/thuli19.jpg" /><br />
More Golden Canyon boogie.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/nepal/thuli/thuli20.jpg" /><br />
We randomly chose a campsite on day 2 where there was a large flat terrace above the river on the left, away from the main trail on river right. It turns out that it was just above the exit to the Golden Canyon. On the terrace was a stone hut that we slept in, and there were tomato plants everywhere.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/nepal/thuli/thuli21.jpg" /><br />
A typical boulder rapid at the start of day 3 (day 2 whitewater) right as we left the Golden Canyon behind. Although the Thuli is not the most difficult multiday, you need to be prepared for a massive amount of boat scouting to get through the river in a reasonable amount of time. There is literally 100 km of continuous whitewater like this.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/nepal/thuli/thuli22.jpg" /><br />
The volume grows during the second whitewater day, and there are some bigger rapids amongst the grade 4. Photo Maxi Kniewasser.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/nepal/thuli/thuli23.jpg" /><br />
Our group scouts a big class V rapid a short distance before the flat water above the Awulgurta gorge. Our day 3 camp on a mid river beach had us spending the night huddled under a tarp as is dumped rain.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/nepal/thuli/thuli24.jpg" /><br />
Stopping to scout the lead in to the Awulgurta gorge. This is well marked in the guidebook, and there is an excellent trail through villages on river left that is an 'easy' 1-2 hour portage. We ran some of the lead in rapids at which point the group split with some walking the whole thing and others picking away somewhat successfully at running the canyon. It's serious class V that is probably best a really low water in the winter months. Photo Si Rutherford.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/nepal/thuli/thuli25.jpg" /><br />
Scenic portaging. Despite going through several villages the mobbing by children here wasn't too bad. Lots of stores to restock on food too. Photo Si Rutherford.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/nepal/thuli/thuli26.jpg" /><br />
Day 5 (day 4 on the river) was a long river day. In the morning we paddled through a short canyon with several class V rapids, including this one. We made it all the way to the confluence of the Thuli Bheri and the Sani Bheri, setting up camp on a beautiful beach.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/nepal/thuli/thuli27.jpg" /><br />
Random rapid on day 5. Photo Maxi Kniewasser.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/nepal/thuli/thuli28.jpg" /><br />
Cooking a feast on day 5. It was my birthday that day, so we celebrated with flasks of rum and a game of cards. Photo Maxi Kniewasser.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/nepal/thuli/thuli29.jpg" /><br />
It took 2 more days of paddling easy whitewater to reach the take out bridge where the road to Surkhet crosses the Bheri. When we arrived at the bridge we were met with the news that we might be stuck for days because of a transport strike related to an upcoming election. Luckly a convoy of police escorted busses showed up after a few hours to give us a ride back to to town, and on to the next mission. Photo Maxi Kniewasser.<br /><br />
<p>The Thuli Bheri is an awesome multiday trip. Enjoy the photos, hopefully they get you stoked to check it out too.</p>Steve Arnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03542492688569692270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8037616300712847882.post-17841430170514447752013-07-23T15:21:00.000-07:002013-07-24T11:17:09.759-07:00Whistler Race Weekend Results<h4>Upper Cheakamus Race - July 19, 2013</h4>
<p>Quick facts: 36 racers competed, 26 individuals and 4 teams. Level 2.70. Course was from the eddy immediately above the put in falls to the eddy where the gauge it located (normal take out).</p>
<ol>
<li>Gerd Serrasolses - 10:04</li>
<li>Darren Albright - 10:15</li>
<li>Phil Gibbins - 10:22</li>
<li>Mikkel St. Jean-Duncan - 10:23</li>
<li>Marcos Gallegos - 10:27</li>
<li>Maxi Kniewasser - 10:34</li>
<li>Greg Dashper - 10:35</li>
<li>Andraz Kpric - 10:38</li>
<li>Pete Lodge - 10:42</li>
<li>Sandy Macewan - 10:44</li>
<li>Orion Meredith - 10:45</li>
<li>Marlow MacGregor - 10:46</li>
<li>Chris Mctaggart - 10:47</li>
<li>Corey Boux - 10:48</li>
<li>Shane Kroeger - 10:59</li>
<li>Steve Arns - 11:07<br />
Leif Embertson - 11:07</li>
<li value="18">Liam Fournier - 11:08</li>
<li>Zac Ruttiman - 11:09</li>
<li>Mason Lacy - 11:11</li>
<li>Ryan Bayes - 11:14<br />
Brandon Jones - 11:14</li>
<li value="23">Mike Gottlieb - 11:15</li>
<li>Phil Middleton/Ben Yorke - 11:17</li>
<li>Geoff Dunbrack/Mathieu Coldebella - 11:27</li>
<li>Mike Grant/Sam Butler - 11:31<br />
Will Riorden - 11:31</li>
<li value="28">Winston 'Wiggy' Cawkell - 11:34</li>
<li>Justin Laycob - 11:54</li>
<li>Annie Lagueux/Denny Lunge/Gerard Meszaros/Dan Bentley - 12:59</li>
</ol>
<h4>Callaghan Creek Race - July 20, 2013</h4>
<p>Quick facts: 52 racers competed in 25 teams. Level 2.65. Course was modified from previous three iterations because of low water (first ledge is dangerous at low water). Start by seal launch at first ledge, finish at normal take out where race has always finished.</p>
<ol>
<li>Gerd Serrasolses/Darren Albright - 15:22</li>
<li>Marcos Gallegos/Mikkel St. Jean-Duncan - 15:40</li>
<li>Andraz Krpic/Marlow McGregor - 16:04</li>
<li>Phil Gibbins/Chris Mctaggart - 16:11</li>
<li>Rich Kemble/Hector Darby MacLellan - 16:19</li>
<li>Greg Daspher/Sandy Macewan - 16:28</li>
<li>Maxi Kniewasser/Mathieu Coldebella - 16:33</li>
<li>Sam Ricketts/Pete Lodge - 16:34</li>
<li>Corey Boux/Jules Domine - 16:37</li>
<li>Tomass Marnics/Benjamin Seeberger - 16:52</li>
<li>Orion Meredith/Mike Gottlieb/Brandon Jones - 17:00</li>
<li>Steve Arns/Ali Marshall - 17:34</li>
<li>Zac Ruttiman/Liam Fournier - 17:35</li>
<li>Shane Kroeger/Kristof Stursa - 17:42</li>
<li>Ryan Bayes/Will Riorden - 18:03</li>
<li>Justin Laycob/Winston 'Wiggy' Cawkell - 19:06</li>
<li>Leif Embertson/Joe Keck/Cameron Fearey - 19:15</li>
<li>Adam Frey/Mason Lacy - 19:23</li>
<li>Mike Grant/Pavel Faustus - 19:38</li>
<li>Dave Sitar/Gerard Meszaros - 20:05</li>
<li>Ben Yorke/Phil Middleton - 20:17</li>
<li>Dan Bentley/James Chandler - 20:23</li>
<li>Owen Crane/Sam Butler - 20:34</li>
<li>Geoff Dunbrack/Corey May - 23:11</li>
<li>Annie Lagueux/Denny Lunge - 25:20</li>
</ol>
Steve Arnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03542492688569692270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8037616300712847882.post-22673737844108120962013-05-13T11:48:00.004-07:002013-05-13T11:48:59.944-07:00Callaghan Creek Update // IPP Threat<p>Some beta updates for Callaghan Creek:</p>
<p>1. In late 2012 the old put in road was closed so now you have to access the river from the Olympic Park side.<br />2. In early 2013 a staff gauge was installed at the take out by Greg Dashper.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/callaghan/">See this link for more info.</a></p>
<p>* * * *</p>
<p>And now something of much greater importance. It was recently brought to the attention of the local paddling community that Innergex (the power company that owns the lions share of run-of-river hydro projects in SW BC, including Ashlu, Rutherford, Big Silver, upper Lillooet etc) have begun preliminary surveying for the construction of an IPP on Callaghan Creek.</p>
<p>While it is early days, and we are a long ways out from something being built, this is particularly worrying because this river is perhaps the most valuable and highly used creek in BC - it's a true local staple (it was and is used far more than the Ashlu) and it is one of key rivers that people specifically come to paddle when they visit BC on holiday.</p>
<p>Whether their interest has been rekindled because of recent changes to the Navigable Waters Act and they think kayakers will not have the same rights when it comes to mitigation of loss of recreation potential, whether they are just seeing what they actually own with the water license they have, or if it's the next-most-lucrative project in the string of projects that they are building is unknown. Let's hope it has nothing to do with the first point.</p>
<p>IPPs when developed in the right place and for the right reasons are not the end of the world. However, an IPP that would dewater such a valuable resource is not an acceptable outcome. In the past the local community has ultimately settled with the decisions that Navigable Waters have made concerning recreational releases on our streams, even when disagreeing that the decision made adequately mitigates the loss. In this case, the local community and others will vigorously and actively fight to make sure that the Callaghan does not go the way of the Rutherford or Skookum Creek, both of which are now not usable whitewater resources. Callaghan Creek will remain a free flowing river.</p>
<p>The fight starts with trying to actively/accurately document usage of the creek. It would be a fantastic help if you log your use of this river on the Save the Callaghan Facebook page, found at the link below. This is also a way to keep up to date on any new info that surfaces about the project. Making the general public aware of the value of this resource is also a priority item. Keep your eyes on the local news for more info!</p>
<p><a href="https://www.facebook.com/SaveTheCallaghan">Save The Callaghan on Facebook.</a></p>
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/callaghan/callaghan1.jpg" /><br />
This is what we stand to lose should this river be dewatered. One of the most valuable stretches of whitewater in BC.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/callaghan/callaghan2.jpg" /><br />
Despite the random factor this rapid offers, the Old Dirty Bastard would be sorely missed if it was a dry channel.<br /><br />Steve Arnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03542492688569692270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8037616300712847882.post-84638566706380854642012-12-29T22:16:00.001-08:002012-12-29T22:23:46.931-08:002012 Year End Photo Session<p>This might be the first year end post LL has ever done. It's been a while since I've posted anything, so this is in part to let you know (if anyone even reads the blog) that LL is still alive. 2012 was a great year - here's hoping it will be even better in 2013. Here are a selection of my favorite snaps from the last year.</p>
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/yearend0.jpg" /><br />
March. After a winter of skiing, thoughts turned back to kayaking as the days got longer. One of the early trip of the year was to Vancouver Island. This is the final canyon of Harris Creek, a nice run down south near Port Renfrew.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/yearend1.jpg" /><br />
April. The Seymour in North Vancouver is a real bread and butter run for Vancouver paddlers. Some of the local die hards (me included) get 50+ laps a year on this thing - it's short enough to lap before work in the winter, and to bang out laps during long early summer evenings. This past spring was one of the better seasons on record, with water levels running over 3 for nearly 6 weeks. This is the last rapid of the canyon at high water.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/yearend2.jpg" /><br />
May. The Ashlu needs no introduction. The spring release season is perhaps my favorite time of the year up there. There are no crowds, unlike in the fall when there have been a few days with what seems like 20 people on the river. This is the second rapid in the canyon - Will is aiming for the fantastic boof in the middle of the river on the 1st day of releases of 2012.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/yearend3.jpg" /><br />
May. While attending a conference for work in Calgary, I was able to sneak off for a day and paddle one of the local runs. This is Dave Crerar running Titan on Cataract Creek. It wouldn't have been possible without the help of the Calgary crew - thanks!<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/yearend4.jpg" /><br />
June. In June and July I was able to realize a long term goal to go to Norway on a kayaking trip. It was a good time making new friends, seeing old friends and doing some good kayaking. This is the Brandseth River, above the time trial section of the Extremsportveko.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/yearend5.jpg" /><br />
June. The Brandseth again, during the time trial race. This is a section well suited for racing with easy spectator access and a short, action-packed course.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/yearend6.jpg" /><br />
July. The highlight of my Norway trip (and probably the year) was getting to paddle the Teigdalselva near Voss. Here's Mark Basso, our gracious host, paddling off the 3rd or 4th waterfall on the run. While the drops are spectacular, I was most surprised by the difficulty of the 'inbetween' stuff on this run.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/yearend7.jpg" /><br />
July. <i>The</i> double drop at the take out of the Teigdalselva. It's a big rapid, but readily runnable!<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/yearend8.jpg" /><br />
July. This was a busy month with Norway at the start and the Callaghan Race at the end. I was lucky enough to squeeze in a weekend, late season trip to the Island between these things where Maxi and I were lucky enough to run Little Qualicum Falls. This is something I've wanted to hit for a while and it was good to get it done, even if the flow was a bit on the low side.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/yearend9.jpg" /><br />
July. The Vancouver Island weekend was a busy one - we paddled 5 or 6 runs in 2 days. This is the Monkey Canyon on the Gold River - still at a reasonable flow in mid July!<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/yearend10.jpg" /><br />
July. The ever-classic Callaghan Creek falls. This is the day before the 2012 race. This was the third iteration of the race, and it was the first race that had a nice medium flow instead of a near-unreasonable high water (for racing).<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/yearend11.jpg" /><br />
September. I didn't spend a lot of time kayaking in the fall this year. Our crew did spend a fair bit of time scouting out new runs. This photo is from a day scouting a section of river in the upper Lillooet zone called Salal Creek that is at the bleeding edge of what might be runnable. Notice how close, yet how much lower the valley bottom is.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/yearend12.jpg" /><br />
December. The Callaghan in December. Definitley a season closer, and I think the last time I paddled. Here's hoping the snow piles deep to give us another long season with many months of snowmelt!<br /><br />Steve Arnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03542492688569692270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8037616300712847882.post-40847280746045688572012-10-31T23:12:00.000-07:002012-10-31T23:12:02.718-07:00Cataract Creek, Alberta<p>Cataract Creek is a nice creek on the eastern slope of the Rockies south of Calgary. <a href="http://www.liquidlore.com/alberta/cataract/">Here's some info about the run</a>.</p>
<p>Amusingly, some of the big rapids on this run are named after creatures/things of legend and myth; Hercules, Titan and Leviathan for example. Pretty cool actually. This is the only run I've done in Alberta - I had the chance to sneak away for a day while in Calgary for work, and this is what I got to paddle. It was a fun day, and it was great to meet and hang out with the Calgary crew. I will definitely be back.</p>
<p>Here's a few photos from this trip.</p>
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/alberta/cataract/cataract1.jpg" /><br />
The put in on a fridig late May afternoon. It was as cold as it looks.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/alberta/cataract/cataract2.jpg" /><br />
Mikkel St. Jean-Duncan rolling over the lip of Titan. Check out the Rocky Mountain bedrock!<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/alberta/cataract/cataract3.jpg" /><br />
The Hercules/Titan stack up.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/alberta/cataract/cataract4.jpg" /><br />
Zig Zag Falls, a really fun rapid.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/alberta/cataract/cataract5.jpg" /><br />
Dave Crerar paddling through the Leviathan. This manky drop reminded me a lot of paddling in New York.<br /><br />Steve Arnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03542492688569692270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8037616300712847882.post-38894894548783092992012-09-26T15:49:00.002-07:002012-09-26T15:49:53.608-07:00Currents v2.6 Creek Racing - Callaghan 2012<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/49355124" width="800" height="450" frameborder="0" webkitAllowFullScreen mozallowfullscreen allowFullScreen></iframe> <p><a href="http://vimeo.com/49355124">Currents v2_6: The Creek Race</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/user2998134">Five2Nine</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.</p>Steve Arnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03542492688569692270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8037616300712847882.post-27759523184835974602012-08-30T23:27:00.001-07:002012-08-30T23:27:29.049-07:00North Stein<p>Semi-photo dump from the North Stein. <a href="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/north-stein/">Check out this link for the beta you need to stage a trip</a>.</p>
<p>The North Stein is one of SW BC's gnarly whitewater multiday runs. You've probably heard of it before. If hike in gnar runs with a ton of log portages is your thing, then this is the run for you. Despite the hardship, it's a worthwhile trip, at least once.</p>
<p>Check out the few photos we have and a good video from White Box Mag to get a feel for what it's like in there.</p>
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/north-stein/north-stein-1.jpg" /><br />
Getting ready to hike.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/north-stein/north-stein-2.jpg" /><br />
This makes the hike 4km longer than it used to be.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/north-stein/north-stein-3.jpg" /><br />
Battle on the moraine, headed towards the pass.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/north-stein/north-stein-4.jpg" /><br />
Even after the moraine there is still a lot of up.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/north-stein/north-stein-5.jpg" /><br />
Heading towards the North Stein.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/north-stein/north-stein-6.jpg" /><br />
The first really nice rapid.<br /><br />
<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/28791850" width="800" height="440" frameborder="0" webkitAllowFullScreen mozallowfullscreen allowFullScreen></iframe>Steve Arnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03542492688569692270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8037616300712847882.post-61658076511142704802012-07-31T22:06:00.001-07:002012-07-31T22:06:41.451-07:00Callaghan Race 2012 Recap<p>The Callaghan Creek Race, 2012 edition, has come and gone, and it was a resounding success once again. Unlike years past it was (somewhat) clear in the week leading up to the race that high water wouldn't be an issue. On race day, the river was flowing at a beautiful medium level with bright sunny weather and the biggest crew of racers yet to challenge the course.</p>
<p>Things started off again this year with a mass paddle down the river in the mid-afternoon, followed by some the lunch, the safety meeting and a rally to the top to get things underway. This year marked the highest participation in the race to date, with 11 teams - 23 racers - competing for the top spot. This year was also the first year we saw a team of 3 compete; they did well. New faces, race veterans and fresh teams all performed amazingly on the demanding course with no carnage and fast times. The slowest time this year would have placed 5th (of 9) in last years race!</p>
<p>With the level of competition and numbers increasing every year, we can only hope that the 4th annual Callaghan Race, to be held in July 2013, will continue to build on the success of the event so far. See you next summer.</p>
<p>Here are the final results:</p>
<ol>
<li>Maxi Kniewasser/Ric Moxon/Darren Albright - 15:39</li>
<li>Sam Ricketts/Jules Dumoine - 15:46</li>
<li>Ben Marr/Mikkel St. Jean-Duncan - 15:52</li>
<li>Mark Basso/Greg Dashper - 16:12</li>
<li>Brian Fletcher/Ben Hawthorne - 16:14</li>
<li>Corey Boux/Riley Best - 16:42</li>
<li>Paul Harwood/Shane Kroeger - 16:46</li>
<li>Steve Arns/Ali Marshall - 16:57</li>
<li>Sandy Macewan/Hector Darby MacLellan - 17:03</li>
<li>Matt Kompass/Andrew Slater - 17:14</li>
<li>Will Riorden/Geoff Dunbrack - 17:50</li>
</ol>
<p><i>A special thanks goes out to the safety crew who paddled down the river to set up at the waterfalls, to Steve Rogers for the awesome photos, and to Shawna Hawthorne for running the finish line timing while missing out on the action on the river.</i></p>
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/cr1.jpg" /><br />
Ric Moxon leads the charge as the first team attacks the waterfalls.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/cr2.jpg" /><br />
Airborne Maxi Kniewasser as Ric leads and Darren takes up the rear.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/cr3.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/cr4.jpg" /><br />
Mikkel and Ben.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/cr5.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/cr6.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/cr7.jpg" /><br />
Sam Ricketts leads Jules Dumoine.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/cr8.jpg" /><br />
Matt Kompass/Andrew Slater.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/cr9.jpg" /><br />
Greg Dashper/Mark Basso.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/cr10.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/cr11.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/cr12.jpg" /><br />
Shane Kroeger with a very flat boof! Paul Harwood takes up the rear.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/cr13.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/cr14.jpg" /><br />
Corey Boux, past Whistler Creek Cup champion.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/cr15.jpg" /><br />
Riley Best.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/cr16.jpg" /><br />
Brian Fletcher.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/cr17.jpg" /><br />
As bad as it looks, it worked out well - Riorden and Dunbrack.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/cr18.jpg" /><br />
Ali Marshall.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/cr19.jpg" /><br />
Hector and Sandy.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/cr20.jpg" /><br />
Fletcher/Hawthorne.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/cr21.jpg" /><br />
Second place - Jules Dumoine and Sam Ricketts.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/cr22.jpg" /><br />
First place trifecta - Darren, Ric and Maxi.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/cr23.jpg" /><br />
Third place - Ben and Mikkel.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/cr24.jpg" /><br />
Steve, Mikkel, Jules.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/cr25.jpg" /><br />
A group photo, warming up for some beers.<br /><br />Steve Arnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03542492688569692270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8037616300712847882.post-53513897902241764012012-07-19T23:59:00.000-07:002012-07-19T23:59:49.809-07:00Little Qualicum Falls<p>Little Qualicum is an amazing park and huck waterfall on Vancouver Island. Check out the photos, and check out <a href="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/little-qualicum-falls">this information</a> to make it happen.</p>
<p>Little Q is a low water treat. Check it out when other runs in the area don't have a lot of water in them. After a few visits when the drop was too high, I finally got to rally this waterfall in mid-July on a big snow year on the way up to Gold River for some warm weather kayaking. Not a bad way to spend an evening.</p>
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/little-qualicum-falls/lq1.jpg" /><br />
Maxi Kniewasser freefalling the second waterfall.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/little-qualicum-falls/lq2.jpg" /><br />
Steve Arns rolling over the lip.Steve Arnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03542492688569692270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8037616300712847882.post-22304762418347297562012-07-12T22:50:00.000-07:002012-07-12T22:50:11.179-07:00Ernie's Canyon Hydro Threat - Washington State<p>From Ben Hawthore, a prominent member of the Seattle boating community, comes more news on the threat of hydro developement on Ernie's Canyon, a fantastic class V run barely 1 h from the core of Seattle.</p>
<p>During the permitting process there are several opportunities for the public to comment on the proposed project. Now is the time for you to speak out against development on this classic section of river. <b>The comment period closes on July 24, so make it happen!</b></p>
<br />
<p>Straight from Ben:</p>
<blockquote><i><p>Hey everyone,</p>
<p>We are in another phase of the comment period which ends July 24th. If you can resubmit your previous comments please do it, even if you already commented you need to do it again.</p>
<p>If you have not yet commented this is an important phase where FERC gauges public opinion.</p>
<p>Please take the time to do this, the comments are streaming in (all against the project at this time) but it sounds like it can't hurt to have many more.</p>
<p>Please forward to the people I missed.</p>
<p>Thanks,</p>
<p>Ben</p>
<br />
<p>Simple directions:</p>
<p>GO TO:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.ferc.gov/docs-filing/ecomment.asp">http://www.ferc.gov/docs-filing/ecomment.asp</a></p>
<p>-Click the Orange eComment Tab at the top of the page<br />
-Fill in your name and email<br />
-Check your email for an email from FERC<br />
-Search and select docket P-14110<br />
-Write a comment!</p>
<p>If you want to register, you will be notified of other comments and updates. For that, go to:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.ferc.gov/docs-filing/efiling.asp">http://www.ferc.gov/docs-filing/efiling.asp</a></p></i></blockquote>
<br />
<p>If you want to see a little what Ernie's is like, here is a video, provided by the local community.</p>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/VVjbDP8tprI" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Steve Arnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03542492688569692270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8037616300712847882.post-60401532654950199642012-06-10T17:24:00.000-07:002012-06-10T17:26:41.992-07:00Callaghan Creek Race 2012<br /><h3>July 28, 2012</h3>
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/callaghan/cal.jpg" />
<p>The third annual Callaghan Race is happening on July 28, 2012. With another heavy snowpack in southwest BC, this year's race promises to be another exciting day on Whister's classic whitewater run. Read below for more information.</p>
<p><strong>GENERAL INFORMATION</strong></p>
<p>The Callaghan Creek Race is a 2 man team, timed race down the full length of Callaghan Creek in Whistler, BC. To read more about the river, see some photos or to email questions/intent to race to the organizers please see the following links:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/callaghan/">Callaghan Creek River Beta</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.liquidlore.com/contact/">Send Your Questions Here</a></li>
</ul>
<p><strong>The Race</strong></p>
<ul>
<li class="race">The race is a 2 man team race.</li>
<li class="race">The race starts at 5pm - you are responsible for showing up at the start line at this time.</li>
<li class="race">Registration is the day of the race - sign up between 11am-3pm at the take out parking lot.</li>
<li class="race">Competitors must attend a pre-race meeting at 3:30pm.</li>
<li class="race">Boats are limited to modern creek boats.</li>
<li class="race">Prior experience on the Callaghan is absolutely mandatory. We can refuse entry into the race at our discretion.</li>
<li class="race">All competitors must have personal safety gear on hand at the race - throw rope, float bags, pin kit etc. are mandatory.</li>
<li class="race">In the event of unsafe water levels on the course, the race will be moved to the Upper Cheak at the organizers discretion.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Volunteers</strong></p>
<ul>
<li class="race">Volunteers are always appreciated to help with all aspects of the race.</li>
<li class="race">Time keepers at the put in and take out are needed.</li>
<li class="race">Anyone comfortable paddling the Callaghan is welcome to set safety along the course.</li>
<li class="race">Please sign up between 11am-3pm, or contact us beforehand if you would like to help out.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Spectators</strong></p>
<ul>
<li class="race">The Callaghan waterfalls are accessible to spectators via a moderately strenuous trail leaving from near the put in.</li>
<li class="race">It takes about 30 minutes to hike in to the waterfalls - the most exciting portion of the course.</li>
<li class="race">Give yourself at least 45 minutes before the race starts to reach the river - you don't want to miss the action.</li>
<li class="race">Please sign up between 11am-3pm, or contact us beforehand if you would like to help out.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Camping/Party</strong></p>
<ul>
<li class="race">Camping is available at the take out (Cal-Cheak Campsite) for $10/car/night.</li>
<li class="race">We will do our best to reserve a block of sites - show up early to be sure to get a spot.</li>
<li class="race">The awards and after party will be held at the campsite, beginning immediately after the race.</li>
<li class="race">Remember, we aren't the only ones at this campsite so don't go too crazy and clean up when you leave!</li>
</ul>
<br /><br />
<p><strong>AWP and WESTERN POINTS SERIES</strong></p>
<table>
<tr>
<td><img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/callaghan/awp.jpg"/></td>
<td><img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/callaghan/wps.png"/></td>
</tr>
</table>
<p>The Callaghan Race is supported by the <a href="http://awpworldseries.com/">Association of Whitewater Professionals</a> and is a member <a href="http://www.westernpointseries.com/">Western Points Series</a>. Your finishing position in the race will contribute to your points standings in the WPS. You are automatically registered. The Callaghan Race does not count towards standings in the AWP World Series. We hope it will be a member race in the future.</p>
<br />
<h2>Past Race Recaps</h2>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://liquidlore.blogspot.com/2011/07/2011-callaghan-race-recap.html">Callaghan Creek Race 2011</a></li>
<li><a href="http://liquidlore.blogspot.com/2010/07/callaghan-race-recap.html">Callaghan Creek Race 2010</a></li>
</ul>
<br />Steve Arnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03542492688569692270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8037616300712847882.post-60774261763389299972012-04-27T00:38:00.004-07:002012-04-27T00:41:28.922-07:00Lens Creek Photo Dump<p>Images from Lens Creek. <a href="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/lens/">Check out our beta page</a> for all the info you need to actually go kayaking there.</p>
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/lens/lens2.jpg" /><br />
Relaxing on a fine sunny day at the Lens put in.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/lens/lens3.jpg" /><br />
This is what the first canyon on the Lens is like - low slung walls of solid rock.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/lens/lens4.jpg" /><br />
A random rapid in the first canyon. Difficult lighting conditions for photos existed in here.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/lens/lens5.jpg" /><br />
One of the boulder rapids at the start of the first canyon. Awkward photo angle.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/lens/lens6.jpg" /><br />
The entrance to Stairway to Hell, the marquee rapid of the Lens. It's a big rapid.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/lens/lens7.jpg" /><br />
The bottom 1/3 of Stairway. Those logs were deposited by high water.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/lens/lens8.jpg" /><br />
The hole/boil at the end of Stairway.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/lens/lens9.jpg" /><br />
A nice boof.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/lens/lens10.jpg" /><br />
Lens Creek adventure portage.<br /><br />Steve Arnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03542492688569692270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8037616300712847882.post-52648791014414004152012-03-27T22:03:00.001-07:002012-03-27T22:03:06.261-07:00Spring Has Sprung: Harris Creek<p>Yeah, spring has sprung - kinda. The weather is warming up in the lowlands, warm rains are falling and some of the creeks are starting to come to life. While it might be a while before many of the mainland rivers in BC roar to life, the Vancouver Island season has just begun (does it really stop?).
<p><a href="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/harris/">Here's some beta about Harris Creek</a>, one of the nicest higher end runs in the Port Renfrew zone. Check it out.</p>
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/harris/harris1.jpg" /><br />
Hector DMcL running the first solid rapid on the Harris.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/harris/harris2.jpg" /><br />
This is a remarkably classic boof. Geoff Dunbrack.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/harris/harris3.jpg" /><br />
Standard downstream view.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/harris/harris4.jpg" /><br />
From the canyon rim (the road).<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/harris/harris5.jpg" /><br />
Raphael cruising the Stairway to Heaven.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/harris/harris6.jpg" /><br />
A great closing set on the Harris.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/harris/harris7.jpg" /><br />
Classic Vancouver Island water.<br /><br />Steve Arnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03542492688569692270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8037616300712847882.post-49563759420461065792012-02-22T23:47:00.000-08:002012-02-22T23:47:48.269-08:00Mid Winter Update<p>It's been pretty quiet around here lately. Don't worry, LiquidLore isn't fading away - even though we can paddle all year on the west coast it is still winter and there are other things to do instead of going and finding rivers to put in our guidebook!</p>
<p>Here are some random thoughts, and a report about a trip I took last summer, my third visit to California.</p>
<p><strong>Big Silver/Shovel/Tretheway IPPs</strong></p>
<p>First off, cheers to everyone who sent in comments about preserving recreation on these rivers. The response, particularly from people outside BC, certainly raised the attention of the proponent and the regulatory bodies.</p>
<p><strong>Callaghan Race 2012</strong></p>
<p>This winter is turning out to be normal, despite the threat of La Nina (which often means above average snowfall, like last winter). The race will be held around the same time as the previous years (late July) and will probably offer up similar or lower levels then the last 2 years. It's really impossible to speculate what the level will be when considering spring weather, how much more snow we get over the next month and the weather in the week leading up to the race.</p>
<p><strong>California 2011</strong></p>
<p>I've been to California several times to go kayaking, however any time I've been there it has been later in their runoff season and I've never had a chance to paddle some of the 'early season' runs. Due to a record setting snowpack last winter many of the runs that flow in May/early June didn't come in until late June/July meaning that a trip where we hoped to paddle some of the classic grade V multidays turned into picking off some of one day runs that are currently en vouge. It was nice as I didn't do any rivers I've done before.</p>
<p>This trip started off by having a quick stop off in Hood River for a trifecta of Little White Salmon laps, then rallying straight to Cali. In the first three days we were successful in smashing out the South Branch Middle Feather, Big Kimshew and the Upper Middle Cosumnes. The South Branch and Big Kimshew are classic runs. South Branch is as described in the glut of blog posts you can find about it on the internet. Big Kimshew had a lot more mank then I expected, but the core sections of whitewater are fantastic, challenging class V. I broke my boat there.</p>
<p>The UMC - <a href="http://www.liquidlore.com/california/umc/"> beta for Upper Middle Cosumnes found here</a> - is a good run, but I would not consider it classic. The granite portion of the run is only a mile long, and there is a relatively long paddle to the take out. This in itself isn't so bad, but it had (at least the way we went) a long shuttle, probably longer than the run was when it was all said in done. The water was a bit low, which might have tainted my opinion, but I wouldn't rush to get back on this one.</p>
<p>We finished off the trip by paddling a selection of runs in the American drainage, and the three day trip on the Middle Feather. I was dubious at first, but turns out it's a wonderful, relatively low stress V- trip (2800cfs putting on). If you think it won't be gnarly enough for you, just fire it up at high water. We also hit 49 to Bridgeport, another classic low elevation day trip. Work and severe poison oak stopped us from getting on the SF Merced, which just came in when we decided to head home.</p>
<p>Check out some photos from the trip, and the UMC.</p>
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/cali2011-1.jpg" /><br />
A trip to California always fits well with a few laps down the Little White. This rapid, Boulder Sluice, is an outstanding boof. <br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/cali2011-2.jpg" /><br />
Cody Howard runs the last rapid on the South Branch - even though it was late June, it was rainy in California for a few days. <br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/cali2011-3.jpg" /><br />
A solid miscalculation on Big Kimshew, near the start. <br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/california/umc/umc1.jpg" /><br />
A random bedrock rapid during the paddle in to the good stuff on the Upper Middle Cosumnes.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/california/umc/umc2.jpg" /><br />
There are a few annoying portages on the UMC.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/california/umc/umc3.jpg" /><br />
Boogie.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/california/umc/umc4.jpg" /><br />
Philip Kompass, typical whitewater of the UMC.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/california/umc/umc5.jpg" /><br />
Portage above Skate Park. Probably fine with a bit more water.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/california/umc/umc6.jpg" /><br />
Skate Park.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/california/umc/umc7.jpg" /><br />
Nearing the end of the granite mile, this small waterfall is named after the late Lars Holbeck.<br /><br />Steve Arnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03542492688569692270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8037616300712847882.post-50495314546382076122012-01-23T00:34:00.001-08:002012-01-26T23:30:23.771-08:00Preserve Navigation on Big Silver (and friends)<p>Don't want to read the report below? <b>Send in your comments about preserving navigation on Big Silver Creek, and others in the area at the following links:</b>
<p><a href="http://www.eao.gov.bc.ca/pcp/forms/Big_Silver_form.html">Big Silver Creek</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.eao.gov.bc.ca/pcp/forms/Shovel_form.html">Shovel Creek</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.eao.gov.bc.ca/pcp/forms/Tretheway_form.html">Tretheway Creek</a></p>
<hr />
<p>Once again, a new cohort of creeks in BC are under direct and immediate threat of small hydro development. The three creeks I'm talking about are Big Silver Creek, Shovel Creek and Tretheway Creek.</p>
<p>The original proponent, Cloudworks, was acquired by <a href="http://www.innergex.com/en">Innergex</a> (the owners of the Ashlu and Rutherford hydro sites) to form an entity that currently owns, operates or is currently developing <a href="http://www.innergex.com/kayak/">about 15 small hydro projects</a> in southwest BC.</p>
<p>On Thursday January 19th, Innergex, the Canadian Environmental Assessment Office and the BC Environmental Assessment Office hosted a public hearing in Chilliwack which included a question and answer period with these organizations. To sum up the evening, the proponent Innergex genuinely recognizes the recreational value of these places and they seem eager to appropriately mitigate the loss to the kayaking community in the event the projects go ahead.</p>
<p><b>Herein lies the problem:</b></p>
<p>Innergex base their proposed mitigation measures on a report prepared by a subcontractor called TyPlan. They don't have time to do everything in-house and their proposals come from these reports. This information is included in a navigational assessment for each creek. You can find these documents here:
<p><a href="http://a100.gov.bc.ca/appsdata/epic/documents/p326/d33959/1325713372961_bc5695953c488917d15f01fd7a4e35ea941ee14eb041ab8e46f8cdc2a64cf0cd.pdf">Big Silver Navigation Assessment</a></p>
<p><a href="http://a100.gov.bc.ca/appsdata/epic/documents/p327/d33956/1325708783091_7abf8e77679fd2255bc1a37076d4f46f782626aafb958bec3304f12c106fb007.pdf">Shovel Navigation Assessment</a></p>
<p><a href="http://a100.gov.bc.ca/appsdata/epic/documents/p326/d33959/1325713372961_bc5695953c488917d15f01fd7a4e35ea941ee14eb041ab8e46f8cdc2a64cf0cd.pdf">Tretheway Navigation Assessment</a></p>
<p>It is concluded for Big Siver Creek that <b>"The Project is expected to have a positive effect on recreational navigation on Big Silver Creek. No specific measures are required to mitigate any adverse effect on navigation."</b> Similar conclusions are reached for Shovel and Tretheway.</p>
<p><u>I think it goes without saying that the whitewater boating community generally does not agree with this statement</u>.</p>
<p>After a thorough review, myself, the team at Fraser Valley Whitewater, the CKBC River Access Coordinator Curtis McHale and others all feel that the navigation assessments are full of errors and inaccuracies, hence the proposed mitigation measures are not valid because this is the information they are based on. For example, the altered flow regime is represented in this graph:</p>
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/big-sliver-graph-1024x563.png" width="512" height="282"/><br />
Source: Big Silver Navigation Assessment<br /><br />
<p>As confirmed at the open house, the Big Silver project will divert everything and anything up to 42 cms - the graph should look more like the following modified graph. If you think I'm out to lunch in my analysis, please speak up in the comments. This is just one example of the inaccuracies in the reports.</p>
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/bsgraph.png" width="512" height="282"/><br />
Source: Big Silver Navigation Assessment. Modified by LiquidLore.<br /><br />
<p>The above graph is a more realistic representation of what the flow should be in the diversion reach after the dam is put in place. Look only to the Ashlu for a real-life example - outside of spikes due to intense snowmelt or heavy rain, there is usually just a base flow of a few cms present in the river for the majority of the year. There is no reason to assume why Big Silver would be any different.</p>
<p>The dewatering of a creek or river with recreational value can only be mitigated by providing whitewater releases. If you feel the same way, now is the time for you to comment on the BC EAO website. Please note that this <b>is not</b> the time to put out all encompassing statements about the evils of IPPs - <b>it is the time for people with an interest in preserving navigation to make their voices heard</b>, especially in light of the inadequate mitigation measures proposed. Innergex are interested in our opinions and I feel they will seriously consider everything we say. They have been professional and courteous to us, I recommend responding in kind.</p>
<p>Things to include in your comments:
<ul>
<li>The proposed mitigation measures are inadequate and are not in line with the mitigation measures provided on other creeks in southewest BC (even creeks with no access and/or no history of navigation have multiple releases each year. <a href="http://www.innergex.com/kayak/">See this link for more</a>).</li>
<li>These creeks have recreational value.</li>
<li>Whitewater releases are the only true way to mitigate the dewatering of a creek. The amount of releases should be proportional to level of use.</li>
<li>Releases should happen in the traditional period of use.</li>
<li>Gauges are a welcome mitigation measure.</li>
<li>Whatever else you feel is important.</li>
</ul></p>
<p>If we are granted releases that we sign up to use, we still have the option to paddle on these runs. If nobody uses them, at least the option is there, and the proponent doesn't lose any money. A win-win situation.</p>
<p>From Fraser Valley Whitewater:</p>
<blockquote>For those unfamiliar with these creeks Big Silver Creek has several runs on it, one of which will fall in the diversion reach of this project. It is a newer run only being explored in recent years and is seeing a large increase in use every year. This is one of the most scenic and diverse streams I have ever paddled on, it has something to offer everyone and the scenery is second to none. Tretheway Creek is listed in the latest guide-book, “River Gypsies Guide to 294 of the Contents BEST Rivers”, its referred to as one of the most special places you can visit in a kayak. Shovel Creek is the lesser known creek and has yet to be fully explored by paddlers.</blockquote>
<p>Here are the links for you to send in your comments. You have until Feb 9 to help make a difference.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.eao.gov.bc.ca/pcp/forms/Big_Silver_form.html">Big Silver Creek</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.eao.gov.bc.ca/pcp/forms/Shovel_form.html">Shovel Creek</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.eao.gov.bc.ca/pcp/forms/Tretheway_form.html">Tretheway Creek</a></p>
<p>For more information check out <a href="http://riveraccess.ca/2012/01/22/updates-on-big-silver-tretheway-and-shovel/">River Access</a> (CKBC Rivers Access site) and <a href="http://fraservalleywhitewater.com/misc/preserving-recreational-navigation-big-silver-tretheway-and-shovel-creeks-british-columbia/">Fraser Valley Whitewater</a>.</p>
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/big-silver-1.jpg" /><br />
Big Silver scene.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/blogphotos/2012/big-silver-2.jpg" /><br />
Such an awesome place.<br /><br />Steve Arnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03542492688569692270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8037616300712847882.post-43695226543121259602012-01-20T21:19:00.002-08:002012-01-26T17:43:19.484-08:00Stein Multiday<p>The Stein is one of the rare runs in SW BC that has relatively moderate whitewater for almost 50 km - long river sections are a rarity around here! While the bottom few km is a popular hike in day trip, you can also fly in to Stein Lake and make a multiday trip by paddling the whole river. Depending on the group, this can take anywhere from 2 to 4 days.</p>
<p>The Stein is good, but I'm not sure if I'd give it the 'classic' stamp of approval. It's not that the whitewater isn't fun, it's the fact that there is an abnormally large amount of portaging because of wood that take away a bit from the run. I'd say all told over a standard 3 day trip a normal group will spend at a minimum 4 hours portaging. The final 15 km of the run is head and shoulders above the rest of the run in terms of quality - it's a super classic section of solid grade IVish read and run - motivated people might find it more rewarding to simply hike up from the bottom!</p>
<p>Despite some quality issues, the Stein is worth the trip. It ends with a bang, and it does give up an enjoyable wilderness experience with wild forests and impressive mountain scenery. The Clendinning is a worthy alternative, but it's a bit harder. <a href="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/stein/">Check out the beta</a> and scope the photos to see what it's all about...</p>
<p>PS It's the <a href="http://www.eao.gov.bc.ca/">comment period for the Big Silver/Tretheway/Shovel IPPs</a> - speak out and help make a difference in preserving recreation!</p>
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/stein/stein1.jpg" /><br />
Whistler Air's DHC-3 Turbo Otter - it carries around a lot of kayakers.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/stein/stein2.jpg" /><br />
Otter dashboard - this definitely isn't a new plane...<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/stein/stein3.jpg" /><br />
The crew - James, Sandra, Sacha, Jen, Toni, Ryan.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/stein/stein4.jpg" /><br />
Tundra Lake - an unusually blue lake en route to the Stein.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/stein/stein5.jpg" /><br />
A wicked scene at Stein Lake.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/stein/stein6.jpg" /><br />
The dirty hike at the start of the trip. At least there's a trail.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/stein/stein7.jpg" /><br />
Ryan Bayes routing the one of the first slides.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/stein/stein8.jpg" /><br />
Sandra on a random ledge - the water at the start is super clear. It doesn't last long.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/stein/stein9.jpg" /><br />
Scenic forest floating.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/stein/stein10.jpg" /><br />
First rapid with any major consequence.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/stein/stein11.jpg" /><br />
Hey Don Barrie, we found your paddle! Don't ask <em>how</em> we found it....<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/stein/stein12.jpg" /><br />
Toni routing a nice drop in the most canyon-like part of the run.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/stein/stein13.jpg" /><br />
Random low water boogie.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/stein/stein14.jpg" /><br />
The start of the massive 2nd log jam portage. On all the rivers I've done, I've never seen such a terrible thing to portage where there are absolutely no canyon walls.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/stein/stein15.jpg" /><br />
In the thick of it. This is one of the good parts.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/stein/stein16.jpg" /><br />
The good stuff on our third day.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/stein/stein17.jpg" /><br />
A big boulder rapid. This might be Devils Escalator - not to be confused for Devils Staircase<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/stein/stein18.jpg" /><br />
Group shot at the end of the river where it is swallowed by the Fraser.<br /><br />Steve Arnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03542492688569692270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8037616300712847882.post-27277038257685249042011-12-23T01:21:00.000-08:002011-12-23T01:21:09.488-08:00Pamela Creek - Vancouver Island<p>Pamela Creek is one of those tiny creeks that turns out to be really fun. It's in the Gold River zone on Vancouver Island - the Gold and its tributaries represent an unusually concentrated region of whitewater with good varitey and varying difficulties - nothing there is too crazy either. The Pamela is one of the more challenging creek runs out there. It has wicked clear water, nice bedrock and classic V.I. mank. It ends on the Ucona River, where there are two really nice small waterfalls to end on a high note.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/pamela/">Here's the beta for Pamela</a>, and of course some photos.</p>
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/pamela/pamela1.jpg"><br />
Ryan Bayes in the midst of a sweet two set.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/pamela/pamela2.jpg"><br />
Island master Vollmers dropping hot in a slot.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/pamela/pamela3.jpg"><br />
Stacked bedrock.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/pamela/pamela4.jpg"><br />
The first gimme waterfall once out on the Ucona.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/pamela/pamela5.jpg"><br />
Dan Bentley fires up drop #2 on the Ucona - best of the whole run. An awesome corner perfect for laying out a fat draw-to-boof.<br /><br />Steve Arnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03542492688569692270noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8037616300712847882.post-1725255387394720612011-11-12T12:55:00.001-08:002011-11-12T13:15:27.869-08:00Dipper Creek 2011<p><a href="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/dipper/">Dipper Creek beta can be found here.</a></p>
<p>In the aftermath of the huge runoff year that was 2011, we were all speculating that many of the late season classics might not come in because of persistent high flows - for some runs that was true. For example, I don't think anybody got down the Stikine this year, and the Homathko had just a week long window when the weather was still decent. It got run by a few groups, which is cool because it seems to have fallen out of the limelight in recent years - maybe it was popular this season because no Stikine crews had the chance to fire that one up.</p>
<p>Dipper Creek is another of those runs that needs really low flows, and after not coming in to low levels before the fall rains began many of us thought it just wouldn't happen before it got too cold. Well, turns out it dropped down to low enough flows in early November. In retrospect, that's probably the latest in the year it's still reasonable - we put on to run just Vertigo Gorge through the upper Squamish in sub-zero temps with some ice on the rocks down by the river. It was still a wicked day - in fact, running the lower reaches of Dipper makes for a pretty classic day of kayaking with some fantastic canyons, good whitewater and waterfalls and a lot less stress than trying to run the uber-canyoned out middle stretch of the run. Not a bad way to bring the season to a close.</p>
<p>Here are some shots from the day. Thanks to Maxi and Sandy for lending the great images for us to use!</p>
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/dipper/dippera.jpg"><br />
The massive Doug Fir that stands watch over the Dipper Camp clear cut. There are several of these massive trees left standing in the area. Maxi Kniewasser photo.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/dipper/dipperb.jpg"><br />
Todd Wells rolling over the lip of the entrance waterfall to Vertigo gorge.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/dipper/dipperc.jpg"><br />
Hanging out in the Vertigo Gorge teacup - a large mob descended Dipper this year. Maxi Kniewasser photo.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/dipper/dipperd.jpg"><br />
Said mob. Maxi Kniewasser photo.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/dipper/dippere.jpg"><br />
The rapid that exits the teacup perfectly fits a modern creek boat. There were some short but inconsequential beatings there. Maxi Kniewasser photo.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/dipper/dipperf.jpg"><br />
Me and Fred, in the heart of Vertigo. Maxi Kniewasser photo.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/dipper/dipperg.jpg"><br />
A perfect beam of light at the exit of the gorge. Maxi Kniewasser photo.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/dipper/dipperh.jpg"><br />
The 20 footer just above the confluence - BC Groove Tube? Sandy Macewan photo.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/dipper/dipperi.jpg"><br />
Squamish confluence falls. Sandy Macewan photo.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/dipper/dipperj.jpg"><br />
Rob Murphy heading down the rapids of the upper Squamish below the Dipper confluence. There aren't many canyons like this one. Maxi Kniewasser photo.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/dipper/dipperk.jpg"><br />
Just above the take out. Maxi Kniewasser photo.<br /><br />Steve Arnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03542492688569692270noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8037616300712847882.post-91280470102372307922011-10-23T11:30:00.002-07:002011-10-23T11:31:18.774-07:00Hurley Canyon<p>The <a href="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/hurley/">Hurley River near the town of Bralorne</a> is a cool river on the very edge of the Coast Mountains in southwest BC - I guess you could even argue that it is actually in the Chilcotins. It's worth reading the beta out it to find out some more about what the river is like. There's a big canyon, some big rapids and a ton of old mining debris hanging out by the edge of the water. The whole area is famous for gold mining - Bralorne still sports an active gold mine.</p>
<p>One of the most striking features of this area are the massive reserviors made by the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bridge_River_Power_Project">Bridge River Hydro Project</a>; the Hurley is a trib of the Bridge. This is one of the biggest hydro complexes in British Columbia, and it's obvious that a project of such scale has a huge environmental impact. This whole thing was built before environmental assessments were required of such things.</p>
<p>If you've ever heard of or paddled the <a href="http://www.oregonkayaking.net/rivers/bridge/bridge.html">lower Bridge Canyon</a>, you might have wondered why such a huge riverbed has so little water - it's because this hydro project diverts the whole river - several hundred cms during snowmelt - into another drainage. If the full flow of the Bridge were allowed to flow back through the lower Bridge Canyon, it would certainly be one of the best big water runs in BC. It's likely that will never happen on a predictable basis though. C'mon BC Hydro, will you provide full flow releases for us one day?</p>
<p>Anyways, whatever you think of this hydro project, here are some photos of the Hurley itself to get you fired up.</p>
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/hurley/hurley1.jpg"><br />
Near the top of Hurley pass in early fall.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/hurley/hurley2.jpg"><br />
Ali and Steve trying to sort out where to go.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/hurley/hurley3.jpg"><br />
Downton Lake.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/hurley/hurley4.jpg"><br />
Heavy frost after a night camped out in Bralorne. Hurley is a late season run!<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/hurley/hurley5.jpg"><br />
On the river, just below the Cadwallader.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/hurley/hurley6.jpg"><br />
A sick boof near the start.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/hurley/hurley7.jpg"><br />
Scouting the first class V stretch - the wall on river left is huge.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/hurley/hurley8.jpg"><br />
<br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/hurley/hurley9.jpg"><br />
A typical rapid made by gnarly boulders.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/hurley/hurley10.jpg"><br />
The end of another gnarly section.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/hurley/hurley11.jpg"><br />
Orange cliff mean you're nearing the end.<br /><br />
<img src="http://www.liquidlore.com/bc/hurley/hurley12.jpg"><br />
The clear water of the Hurley, consumed by the heavily silted Bridge River.<br /><br />Steve Arnshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03542492688569692270noreply@blogger.com0