International Whitewater Hall of Fame

The Call of the River – A Hundred Years of Whitewater Adventure

May 14, 2009 – 7:30 and 9:30 pm

The twists and turns of whitewater history resemble the canyons its pioneers have explored, a collage of unexpected influences such as World War II’s impact on boat materials and world champions’ defection from communist regimes in their homeland. Curiosity, ingenuity and outright audacity have built boats in friends’ basements and bribed dam keepers to release water, all in pursuit of the river experience. These tales are together on film for the first time in The Call of the River, produced by award-winning videographer and former world champion Kent Ford. Vintage paddling footage, in-depth interviews with eclectic pioneers and captivating narrative provide a close look at what inspires paddlers to answer the call of the river.

Join the DC Area paddling community at this double header debut! Ticket proceeds will benefit Team River Runner and the International Whitewater Hall of Fame!

6:30 pm Doors Open

7:15 pm Remarks from Team River Runner, International Whitewater Hall of Fame and Special Call of the River Guests!

7:30 pm First Show

Whitewater History Pop Quiz for Prizes!

9:15 pm Remarks as above

9:30 pm Second Show

Price: $10 online in advance, $15 at the door

To purchase tickets visit www.arlingtondrafthouse.com. For more information regarding Call of the River, please visit Kent Ford’s Performance Video Website.

See you on May 14th!

(Silver Spring, MD) – The Paddlesports Industry Foundation is proud to announce that the Reel Paddling Film Festival once again includes a tribute to the International Whitewater Hall of Fame.

Year II Inclusion Expands Awareness Across Borders
The video included in the RPFF 2009 lineup highlights accomplishments of the 2008 IWHOF Inductees who were celebrated at the Nantahala Outdoor Center October 11, 2008:

• Explorer Mick Hopkinson (UK/New Zealand)
• Pioneer Carl I. Luther (Germany)
• Champions Gilles Zok (France) and Eric Jackson (USA)
• Advocates Klaus Lettmann (Germany) and Kent Ford (USA)

(continue reading…)

(Silver Spring) MD – The International Whitewater Hall of Fame Board of Governors has announced the Class of 2008 IWHOF honorees. Nominated from over twenty affiliate organizations and voted in by 75 internationally-recognized whitewater paddlers, this class of legends has contributed mightily to both the sport and business of whitewater. A formal induction ceremony of the 2007 and 2008 Inductees will take place 11 October, 2008 at the Nantahala Outdoor Center in Bryson City, North Carolina, USA. (continue reading…)