Women in Whitewater/ UofI pool session/Disabled Paddling

By Devon Barker

Yesterday I had the opportunity to not only drive my broken surf kayak to North Idaho to be fixed but also to present my Women in Whitewater presentation. I originally created it in 02’ and was so excited when NRS asked me to present it at University of Idaho. We had about 25 people at the presentation and over 60 at the pool night. I was sure glad UofI had two pools side by side. One we used for rolling and the other for strokes and flat water moves. My quote of the night, “Your brace/roll is your key to confidence!”

Back in 2000 I received my Masters degree from UofI and ran the pool nights one semester. It was really fun to come back as alumni and visit the school. The new recreation center Mike Beiser is running is amazing. They just received their shipment of Jackson Kayaks Funs. I brought my Stars and there was a waiting line with the women to use them. That made it all the better to see women out there in kayaks that really fit.

The NRS crew came out to support the night. It was great having you all there! The amazing part of the night came when the Outdoor Program staff member, Pat, introduced me to Lance who learned to paddle that night and how to wet exit. Lance had an injury that paralyzed him from mid-chest down. I got in his Fun and made a big pocket with his happy feet so he had full padding all the way around his feet. We tightened his back band and started. He did great. If any of you have resources for outfitting kayak seats for better stability please let me know. Please send me any info or resource sites to me at devobarker@yahoo.com

Here is a link to the school news paper for more information about the University of Idaho and a photo from the pool session.

I have 12 days until I leave for the World Championships. I just cannot wait to go to the Ottawa, Canada for the Freestyle World Championships. My parents are coming and we will be celebrating my mom’s birthday during the event.

Paddle in Peace,
devon