Kelly’s Whitewater Park (KWP) located in Cascade is pleased to announce that Devon Barker-Hicks and Mike Hicks have agreed to share the Director responsibilities for the Park for the coming season. Devon is a 2-time National Champion and World Champion in Surf Kayaking and Mike is a highly accomplished fisherman who has spent the last 16 years guiding fishing trips in Idaho, Alaska and Chile.

“We are extremely excited that given Devon and Mike’s extensive recreation backgrounds and their combined passion for the sports of kayaking and fishing that KWP’s profile as a world class whitewater park and fishing haven will continue to attract tourists from all over”, said Mark Pickard, Board member.

KWP is more than a play park for water enthusiasts. It also features a 2,600 sq. ft. gallery showcasing cultural exhibits with panoramic views of the Payette River. As you enter the park you will see the breath taking bronze statue of John Borbonus, who heroically lost his life to save his fellow servicemen while serving in Iraq. It also features a beautiful bronze statue of Kelly Brennan, sister of Kristina Pickard and is the keepsake of the park. Anyone simply wanting to enjoy the serenity of the park can picnic on the 3.4 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds or take a stroll on the 2.5 mile trail along the Payette River that runs from the north end of town to the south end, and connects through the park.

“We couldn’t be more escatic to have Devon and Mike join as co-directors of KWP. They will be a huge asset to the park and their skill sets and high energy levels will help catapult KWP to the next level”, said Kristina Pickard, Board member.

KWP opened in 2010 and is now beginning its third season. The park is free to the public and attracts not only kayakers but also anyone interested in enjoying an exhilarating tube ride through it’s 4 water features or surfing on its continuos wave. Last year the park had 50,000 visitors, and this year the park is projecting at least 75,000 visitors.

“In these difficult economic times we are fortunate to have KWP located in Cascade which combined with all of the other amenities the town has to offer will continue to attract tourists for decades to come”, said Mayor Dick Carter, Board member.

KWP will once again host the USA National Freestyle Kayaking Championship on July 7-8. Last year over 60 elite athletes competed for a purse of $15,000 and this year is expected to draw large crowds to enjoy the acrobatics in the river. Last years athletes proclaimed that KWP is one of he premiere whitewater parks in the country.

Under Devon’s leadership over the last 2 seasons, KWP has offered Valley County students 10 hours of free kayaking lessons. It has successfully introduced the sport of kayaking to over 100 students and is proud to once again offer free lessons again this year. Registration for summer classes can be found on the KWP website: www.kwpid.com