Tame The Tyger Race, 3/29/03
On Saturday 3/29/2003 the Spartanburg Dept of Parks and Recreation held the second annual Tame The Tyger race. The course was 7 1/2 miles and the temperature was 80 degrees and sunny. The organization was supurb and the shuttle so very convenient. I paddled continuously and was pleased with my finish. We left our boats and gear at the Start at Morris Bridge and drove to the Big Tyger River Campground at Old Hills Bridge. The water was up and some of the rapids were more than most of the paddlers expected as we have had so many years of drought. I got several really good passes in the rapids but took a chance as I paddled so hard I had no reserve and it might have been risky to roll. I had to use traditional kayaking strokes like the stern draw and the Duffek in the rapids as I paddled my longest boat to keep up speed. The race committee had a great celebration and an afternoon of activities at the finish line. What an absolutely wonderful day! /hugh
The start was at Morris Bridge.
A great shuttle is very dear to paddlers.
The race committee was very well organized and helpful!
Dan and Eric Newton were paddling the race for the second time.
I paddled my ten year old Corsica S for downwater speed. It was a good choice.
I paddled hard and didn't ease up on rapids .
The finish line was at the bottom of a troubling rapid.
This provided a great show for the spectators.
I came in fifth.
Fudruckers provided the food, you could smell the burgers cooking as you crossed the finish line.
A bluegrass band kept us entertained.
Eric beat me by two minutes, then we waited for Dan.