Fix up your Phonix, master your McNasty or simply learn to surf. Beginning May 15, the Town of Vail is sponsoring free kayak demos Tuesday evenings from 5 to 7 p.m. through June 19 at the Vail Whitewater Park located beneath the International Bridge in the Gore Creek Promenade.
The demos are presented by Alpine Kayak School where instructors and professional kayakers will be on hand to demonstrate the best of freestyle kayaking to spectators and those just learning to surf. Participants in the demo will also have free access to all of the latest 2012 freestyle kayaks.
“The demos are a great way to showcase Vail’s Whitewater Park,” says Sean Glackin, owner of Alpine Quest Sports. “It brings locals into the village and provides some entertainment for Vail’s out-of-town guests. It’s also a free way for kayakers to try different boats and get some tips from the pros.”
Participants in the demo are asked to maintain an intermediate level of kayaking and be comfortable with repetitive rolling. Beginner kayakers can find their place in one of Alpine Kayak’s beginner kayaking lessons going out on a daily basis.
Non-kayakers can enjoy the demos by watching from the shore or bridge. The grassy area lining the shore of the Whitewater Park has been a common place for family picnics or after-work relaxation in years past.
“The Whitewater Park has an integrated natural amphitheater,” Glackin said. “Spectators can get up close and personal to the kayakers, take pictures and really feel the excitement of the sport. The kayakers definitely get motivated by crowd interaction, too.”
For questions, call Alpine Quest Sports/Alpine Kayak in Edwards at 926-3867 or visit www.alpinequestsports.com