Riverboarding In Washington.

The goal of my blog is to introduce "regular" people to the variety of outdoor activities and help them experience every adventure that our state has to offer in the most affordable and safe way. So far, I've covered many activities and adventures. But today, I want to write about one that will not be available to the general public ( at least in our state) any time soon - Riverboarding.

Riverboarding is the North American name for a watersport in which the participant is prone on the board with fins on his/her feet for propulsion and steering. This sport is also known as hydrospeed in Europe and white-water sledging in New Zealand.

I have tried bodyboarding in the ocean, on my trips to Hawaii and California. But I have to tell you, there is absolutely no comparison between these two sports ( actually, I wouldn't even call bodyboarding a sport). Don't believe me? Check out this video:

Did I get you attention? Are you ready to give it a try?

First of all, a river board, which is also known as a hydrospeed, resembles a standard body board that's used to catch ocean waves, but it's bigger, thicker, has handles and specifically designed for buoyancy in highly aerated water.

Second- clothing gear. Besides standard whitewater equipment like wetsuit, PFD, helmet, and gloves; additionally, knee pads, shin guards, and elbow pads are sometimes worn for extra protection. Two wet suits with extra padding between them are worn to help you deal with boulders.

Third- "reading water ". Well, as a river guide , I can tell, that reading water is something that comes with experience. The more you do it, the easier it gets ( and less frightening).

Now that you are all exited and ready to go, I'll have to disappoint you. There are no commercial outfitters that will take you riverboarding (mainly because of the insurance reasons). But if you really, really want to try it, visit Rochelle Parry's Blog.

Rochelle finished fifth overall in her first competitive appearance, a run at the 2008 Gorge Games.You can also watch Rochelle's videos on Youtube here.