Meet-and-greet, demos, ‘jam session’ held at Charles City’s Whitewater Course

Internationally-known kayakers visit Charles City

By Mitchell Hanson, mhanson@charlescitypress.com

Charles City’s whitewater course on the Cedar River is continuing to draw crowds — and rave reviews from internationally known whitewater paddlers Emily Jackson and Nick Troutman.

The two, representing Jackson Kayak of Sparta, Tennessee, visited Charles City Thursday to demonstrate new kayak models and show paddlers how much fun can be had in the water.

Dubbed an “on-water jam session,” it gave around 15 paddlers a chance to have fun on the river and meet and greet the pair, who are some of the biggest names in whitewater sports, according to those who know about such things.

Jackson Kayak is the largest manufacturer of whitewater equipment in the world, and Jackson and Troutman are happy to share their expertise far and wide, including in locations like Charles City.

“Charles City is a great whitewater destination,” Jackson said. “There are some super enthusiastic paddlers here.”

Jackson and Troutman tour nationwide and even visit international whitewater locations, giving demonstrations on techniques and equipment. But what makes Charles City, Iowa, a top destination for paddlers?

“It’s a unique course,” Jackson explained. “There are very different water levels and great features on each one. It’s great for river-surfing and kayaking.”

During the demonstration, Jackson and Troutman helped outfit seasoned paddlers and newcomers with new equipment and boat models.

“New paddlers, experienced paddlers — it’s a great chance to get out on the water,” Jackson said. “Even the experienced always have new things to work on.”

Accompanying Jackson and Troutman was Darrin Siefken of Crawdaddy Outdoors, a whitewater outfitter in Waverly. The three provided instructional DVDs and refreshments along with their paddling knowledge and experience.

The “jam session” was followed by a brats-and-burgers meet-and-greet at Crawdaddy Outdoors, downwater on the Cedar River in Waverly.