What first got you interested in whitewater paddling ? I was an 18-year-old in Charlotte ,
NC and got a job at U . S . National Whitewater Center . I fell in love with the sport , especially working with people as a guide .
What brought you to Montgomery Whitewater ?
I had worked with Dave Hepp , Montgomery Whitewater CEO , in both Charlotte and Oklahoma City , and he reached out . This industry is kind of like a family . I ’ d learned and had so much fun building a career with this team that it was an easy choice to come be part of this new , even more advanced park .
What ’ s your impression of the park so far ?
This is a world-class whitewater facility with state-of-the-art technology . Both channels are incredible , and I love how the competition channel has unique features and bends that paddlers will really enjoy .
What are your job responsibilities as raft operations manager ? My responsibilities deal with all things rafting , including keeping up with the equipment , scheduling , training guides , managing guides , making sure the river is a fun and enjoyable experience by moving around the rapidblocs , the system that actually creates the whitewater effect .
What do you love most or find the most fulfilling about your work ? I really enjoy mentoring people through a really challenging job . As a raft guide , you have to not only keep everyone safe you are helping them have the most fun possible , while often coming face to face with real fear . You have to be a leader , and you ’ ll learn so much about yourself as you develop those skills .
How will the Montgomery Whitewater benefit the community ? At the other parks , we ’ ve seen over time that people start to think of the park as their own back yard . They come just to get away for their own personal relaxation as well as coming to connect with friends and family , even if they aren ’ t going to get in the water . The events , the restaurant and just the sound of the whitewater are so appealing . This is going to be something people love as much as baseball or ASF .
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