Freestyle 101

A freestyle kayaking competition consists of paddlers from beginners to experts performing tricks on a wave or in a hole. Each paddler has a specific amount of seconds (the amount of time depends on the particular competition event’s rules) to perform as many tricks as possible. Their score is determined by the variety of tricks performed and the difficulty level and technical execution of the tricks.

Tricks you can expect to see, not necessarily in order of difficulty:

Front/Back Surf: The paddler faces upstream or downstream keeping the bottom of the boat flat on the water.

Spin: Keeping the boat flat on the water, the paddler spins 360 degrees in either direction.

Cartwheel: The paddler rotates the boat 360 degrees with both ends entering the feature.

Splitwheel: Similar to a Cartwheel, however the paddler changes directions when the stern enters the water.

Loop: A flip, either forward or backward.

Space Godzilla: This begins and ends like a loop, however the paddler performs a cartwheel.

McNasty: The Paddler spins from a back surf, facing upstream to complete a front loop.

Phonix Monkey: A Pirouette on the bow followed by a front loop.

Competitors receive bonus points for completing moves without touching a paddle or hand to the water (Clean), if the boat completely clears the water (Air), or if they link two tricks after one another in a fluid motion. Come out and enjoy the show as paddlers of all levels from beginner to expert show off their tricks in one of the hydraulic features on our river. From Loops (flips), to cartwheels, spins, and split-wheels you’re in for a great show!