Columbia attracts international paddlers
Photos and story by Warner M. Montgomery Warner@TheColumbiaStar.com

Photo by Warner M.Montgomery

This week Columbia showed off one of its world class rivers when it hosted the 2007 Junior Wildwater World Kayak Championships on the Lower Saluda Scenic River. Ninety athletes from 15 countries competed in this international canoe and kayak- racing event.

The paddlers ran the rapids of the Saluda River from above Riverbanks Zoo down to the Gervais Street Bridge in a series of races that spanned four days. The races will continue in Charlotte, N.C., where events will be held on a newly- created course at the U.S. National Whitewater Center.

Staff with the S.C. Department of Natural Resources supported the Columbia Regional Sports Council, local race organizers, and city safety- rescue personnel with race preparations.

The Junior Wildwater World Championship includes athletes, ages 15 to 18, who compete in one- man kayaks, one- woman kayaks, one- man canoe, and two- man canoes. They participate in individual and team performances. Federations participating include: Canada, Croatia, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Great Britain, Ireland, Italy, Luxemburg, Netherlands, Slovakia, South Africa, Spain, Switzerland, and the U.S.

The Lower Saluda River, designated a State Scenic River in 1991, is dam- controlled. Water temperatures are in the mid- 50° range year round. Most rapids are well defined. Named rapids in the course are Stacey's Ledge, Blast- O- Matic, Millrace, Pop- Up Hole, Shannon, and White House. The most consequential rapid on the river is Millrace.

The Congaree Land Trust sponsored a viewing of the races and a breakfast Wednesday morning at The Reserve on the Saluda. These photos were taken on the river at The Reserve.