I joined a group from the CTAMC to run the race course of the annual Scantic Splash whitewater race, which will be held next week. The level was low but runnable, and of course I was the only open boater. The first 2.5 miles is quickwater/easy class I. The next 2.5 miles has couple of nice surf spots, and three class II+ rapids – Stokers, Chimney and Staircase.
Stokers is a 3-foot ledge that needs to be run about 10 feet off the left bank. My history at Stokers isn’t great (1 for 4 prior to this run), and I may have run it a little too far to the right this time, but I made it through fine.
Running Stokers
The next rapid is Chimney - an “S” turn through some rocky ledges – no problem.
Dana running Chimney
The final rapid is Staircase, and it is exactly what you would expect - a series of ledges that look like a staircase with a large shoot at the bottom. The ledges were pretty boney, and I got stuck in a hole just above the final shoot. I worked my way out, but came out backwards and couldn’t get myself turned around in time, so I had to run the final shoot backwards. I ended up swimming at the big wave at the bottom – first swim of 2018.
Running Staircase the hard way, and about to swim
Swimming in a wetsuit reminded me why I love my drysuit, so I ordered a new one as soon as I got home. Anyone know where you can get a drysuit zipper fixed.
Few more pictures here;
https://www.flickr.com/photos/eckilson/albums/72157667060443968/with/27125952718/
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