DAVID IS TOO FAR LEFT - NRG 6-23 & 24

[David]

New River Gorge Trip Report

June 23 & 24, 2007

The level was about 6” (3000 cfs) both days. The weather was excellent, not too hot and no rain, and the company was exceptionally good as well.

I had the opportunity to provide most of the entertainment. Saturday, after scouting Lower Keeney, I had a clean run past the first two wave-holes, then noted with satisfaction that I was turning right. “No, not that much right,” I then observed. I came to the crest of the third wave broadside, which resulted in the only swim of that day.

Sunday I expanded on that performance. That Middle Keeney is so wide, and it all looks the same from the top. I thought I was in the middle, but I had drifted left. Then the giant unseen hand of a monster hole was pulling me back, despite my best efforts to regain forward momentum. I set up, and sensed a continual churning of water, not the forward passage to smoother water I so earnestly hoped for. Those observing from below said my canoe stood straight up, and the carnage was spectacular. I am so glad they enjoyed it. I bailed.

I opted not to scout Lower Keeney again, reasoning it had not changed since yesterday. However, my line changed. I was too far left at the first wave-hole, and my bow was hurled with considerable force against the slanting rock face river left. Then I was backwards in the second wave-hole, and soon upside down. I set up and continued downstream, this hole not being a keeper. My thigh strap clip broke, and once again my stalwart companions came to the rescue.

After refitting at lunchstop beach, I sincerely hoped I would not have a three swim day. Such was not to be. Double Z seemed to be going well when I came upon a stopper wave I had not been aware of until that moment. My roll attempt failed. As I set up again, I came against Table (alias Undercut) Rock, the thought of which had been ever present as I thought about rolling. I ejected. My canoe briefly stayed against Table Rock and then went right. I had three seconds of my scariest whitewater experience. I was completely within a famous undercut, a known killer. However, I was quickly moved left and ejected, none the worse for wear.

There was nothing to do but get back on the horse. I then had decent lines and a dry boat through Hook 99, Miller’s Folly, and Fayette Station.

Paddling on Saturday were trip coordinator Dave Kessman, Lee Keller, Melanie, and J. R. Swope in kayaks. Marshall Shelton was in his C-1. Sunday we were joined by Thomas Bernadas, Brad, Steve Cates and his son Zach, and Vic and his son Gray. Thanks to all for the good company and of course the help I needed both in the events above and for the good descriptions of rapids and lines I got from Dave, J. R., and Lee.

The scene at Burnwood Campground was a piece of paradise. Angry Man gets a star for finding this place and securing it for our group. The NPS provides a massive finely mowed lawn, a large comfortable shelter, and bathrooms (but no shower, not so important for those who bathe on the river) all for $50/night. Everyone was so cool. It was good to see Dave Lewis again. Thanks to him for the tip for buffet dinner at Class VI and to Raymond for the ride there. I also enjoyed those gentlemen’s Alaska stories.

Driving out I stopped at Rivers Resort for a New River Gorge sticker. I met a raft guide and canoeist “Goldie,” a veritable viking who told me of Wednesday evening free shuttles and invited me up. When I said I would like to but otter learn the river a little better first, he said “We’ll show you the lines and keep you out of trouble.” I thought that is exactly what Dave, Lee and J. R. had tried to do. They certainly did their part. Goldie said Table Rock’s undercut was smooth and round and just pushed you out left, exactly as I had felt and experienced. I asked the highest level he had run the Gorge. He said 16 feet. He also said he had no roll and no pump, though he (and I) is seriously considering it. Goldie said when the water is that high you just ride high on the waves and they don’t break in the boat. Maybe we will get a hurricane and I can see for myself.

I am all about the New River Gorge. Less than two hours from home and it always has fun, exciting water and it is just beautiful in there, a protected national park. These trips were my 4th and 5th, and the first at a level above zero.

[Raymond]

David,

Excellent report. I enjoyed the weekend on the Upper New, so it was fun to read about the other trip.

Raymond

P.S. I hope you'll send a copy to Scott for the CaNews.

[Q-tip]

Ray, thanks again for leading us down the Upper New both days. I very much enjoyed the scenery trying a new river besides the James. Hanging out with all you wacky boaters at the campsite was a blast, too. Thanks to Dave Kessman for leaving quality music (Limp Bizkit)for Reed and I to rock out to on the way back to camp. I will forgive your music preferences, though, b/c you make some kickin scrambled eggs.
I can wait to pack up, hang my feet out the window and get out there for another trip. Thanks for a great weekend

-Q

[Dave K's PR Team]

Thanks to Dave Kessman

I guess we're not doing our job well enough if we're still not getting the second N in there!

you make some kickin scrambled eggs.

you know it!

[Kessman's Mom]

Davey,

Please honey, tell you PR team to stop with the extra "N" it's pretentious and is not true to your down home roots. In the long run sugar, folks will relate more to the old Davey. You know, the one with the over alls and hat, not the high falootin' Holywood super hero with styled hair. And honey please call sometime. I've made a fresh batch of scrapple and ramps and Dad say's he didn't mean it when he said he didn't wanna hear from some college edumacated snoot no more.