Post by clayton on Apr 28, 2016 9:11:34 GMT -5
The Kenduskeag Slalom is still on!
There has been concern about there being adequate water for this event (and other upcoming NESS events) given the recent dry conditions in New England
I have considered hanging gates for a clinic and practice only. After discussing the conditions and paddler's expectations with other organizers, some veteran NESS paddlers and volunteers I have been encouraged to work with what we have for conditions and not abandon the work, money and planning already invested in the event.
The water is low (126 cfs), but is trending to be equal to or greater than 2013 when we raced on 98 cfs, and should be sufficient for a slalom course. The start will be moved downstream 120 yards to what is known as Washing Machine drop, normally gate 6 or 7, where the water is deeper to avoid subjecting composite boats to unavoidable rocks.
The course will have two whitewater gate sequences: Washing Machine and Shopping Cart. At this level both are an easy class II with a good wave train after Shopping Cart. The course set up crew will take advantage of these features and the long flatwater stretch in the middle to provide a course that is challenging for beginners and experienced boaters.
The tide will be high Saturday afternoon to coincide with the planned Combined Downriver race. This should give us some deeper flatwater to include in the DR race for a different flavor to that part of the event. We will either finish in the Downtown area or have a buoy turn and return to the race venue for the finish.
Any early registered paddlers can request a refund if you choose not to attend the race.
Thank you for your support and encouragement.
Clayton Cole
There has been concern about there being adequate water for this event (and other upcoming NESS events) given the recent dry conditions in New England
I have considered hanging gates for a clinic and practice only. After discussing the conditions and paddler's expectations with other organizers, some veteran NESS paddlers and volunteers I have been encouraged to work with what we have for conditions and not abandon the work, money and planning already invested in the event.
The water is low (126 cfs), but is trending to be equal to or greater than 2013 when we raced on 98 cfs, and should be sufficient for a slalom course. The start will be moved downstream 120 yards to what is known as Washing Machine drop, normally gate 6 or 7, where the water is deeper to avoid subjecting composite boats to unavoidable rocks.
The course will have two whitewater gate sequences: Washing Machine and Shopping Cart. At this level both are an easy class II with a good wave train after Shopping Cart. The course set up crew will take advantage of these features and the long flatwater stretch in the middle to provide a course that is challenging for beginners and experienced boaters.
The tide will be high Saturday afternoon to coincide with the planned Combined Downriver race. This should give us some deeper flatwater to include in the DR race for a different flavor to that part of the event. We will either finish in the Downtown area or have a buoy turn and return to the race venue for the finish.
Any early registered paddlers can request a refund if you choose not to attend the race.
Thank you for your support and encouragement.
Clayton Cole