Courtney Wilton

I started kayaking at an older age and fit the definition of “average recreational kayaker” pretty closely. While impressed with the skill and courage of those who boat Class 5 water, I mostly stick to class 3 runs. I envy those who paddle 100+ days a year and try to boat every weekend, but don’t always due to work and family responsibilities. I’m amazed at those who can surf well, but still struggle with the feeling of being upside down / underwater - and don’t always hit my roll. In short, I’m a pretty average boater.

Despite my mediocrity I’m also pretty passionate about kayaking. For one, I’m continually amazed at the jaw-dropping beauty of the sport. Last weekend while kayaking the upper Klickitat in Washington our group rounded a corner and came upon an elk standing in the middle of the river. What an amazing sight! Who else has the opportunity to see such things! Two, I love the excitement and still get pleasure out of playing back various runs – such as escaping disaster on Grand Canyon’s Lava Falls. What a rush! Three, I’m continually impressed with the people who are drawn to the sport. Kayaking isn’t easy. It requires perseverance, humility, decisiveness and a certain level of intrepidness. I’m inspired not so much by the feats of kayak superstars, but what I see as the wonderful attitudes / combination of skills shared by so many “average Joe’s and Janes” who embrace the sport.

I think AW captures these values as well. With a limited staff and tight budget they continually do great things to preserve our rivers and our heritage. I’m happy to contribute to them in any way I can.