They have done it again! Corbin Kickoff a sucess!

Steve Bailey and Dustin Semb. The two names that every kayaker and rafter in the Inland Northwest should know. These two gracious, skilled and energized men came together three years ago with to build something our paddling community was missing: community. The result is the now annual "Corbin Kickoff" held at Corbin Park in Post Falls Idaho. For some this is a place to learn to kayak, others a place to see the new gear, others compete for smiles in friendly events, and for most of us it's a reason to put the skis away and get out on the river. The dynamic duo worked with many generous volunteers and orgs to build this event but their efforts should not be understated.

This year Steve B. had a few extra hurdles that he cleared to make this event happen. Steve and Kristy welcomed a new son into their family this week. With sleepless nights to ready him Steve made it to the event even after family emergencys beckoned him elsewhere. Steve: Your commitment to the paddling community is amazing, we (the paddling community) wish you and Kristy the best with the new family and steadiness in the storm of recent events.



As you can see this years event was once again a smashing success. Sponsor provided food kept hungry stomachs silent. Excellent raffle prizes appropriate for paddlers and non paddlers helped to raise ~$300 for Peak 7 Adventures, a successful outdoor adventure program that helps at risk youth find a connection to nature. Retailers and manufacturers had the latest demos from Bliss Stick, Dragorossi, Wavesport, Jackson, Big Dog and other brands on the water for anyone to try. Fist Descents was on hand to help raise awairness and support. Free kayak instruction for anyone/everyone from the godfather of local playboating Chris Hoffer. The boatercross was crazy (Dynamic Duo!). The raft race wore everyone out. With over 100+ people in attendance and 75 at the raffle this was a great day!

The day finished out with a trip for the hearty to Trailer Park Wave for the Fist Hydrotherapy Session of the year. More on that in a later post.