Lee Leibfarth, executive director of the Nantahala Racing Club (NRC) in Wesser, is excited about the club’s upcoming year of events and programs. Leibfarth said the mission of NRC is to promote whitewater sports, assist athletes in their preparation for national and international competition and encourage youth participation. The club begins the season Feb. 23-24 with the Glacier Breaker Slalom. This annual event is followed on March 30-31 with the U.S. Open Slalom time trials and Southeast Team qualifier and wildwater championship. Leibfarth expects between 150 to 200 competitors for the Easter weekend event. It will be a great opportunity for the public to watch world-class paddlers in action, Leibfarth said.

NRC is no stranger to world-class athletes. In the 2000 Olympics, NRC members made up over 60 percent of the U.S. Whitewater Team. NRC coach Rafal Smollen served as U.S. team coach. Junior level and Cadet level NRC team members have also medaled in National and Olympic competitions.

NRC’s Kid’s Program, sponsored by Bank of America, begins its sixth year in 2002. The Kid’s Club has programs in Bryson City, Charlotte, Asheville, Robbinsville, Columbia, S.C., and Chattanooga, Tenn. The program is designed to teach young people canoeing and kayaking skills and whitewater safety. A second goal is to provide competitive opportunities for those kids that show an interest in racing.

Leibfarth said NRC has nine races and nine training camps scheduled for the 2002 season. Some of the races include the Asheville Challenge, April 6-7, the U.S. Senior Team Trials on May 31-June 2, and the U.S. Nationals on Sept. 1-2. Training camps include a Development Camp April 1-5, three weeks of Slalom Summer Camp in June, and a Junior Development Wildwater Camp June 21-23.

Another 2002 project that has Leibfarth excited is the creation of a Whitewater Park on the Tuckasegee River near Bryson City. Leibfarth said the park is in the planning stages and organizers plan to meet with renown whitewater designer Gary Lacy to discuss the possibilities. The average flow of 800 cubic feet per second (cfs) and the gradient present should allow for the construction of an outstanding park, Leibfarth said.

According to Leibfarth the establishment of the park would enhance the aesthetics of the river, help stabilize the stream bank and create a premium destination for boaters. The park would include a large “rodeo hole.” Three time World Cup Champion, three time Olympian, eight time national champion and NRC member Scott Shipley would serve as a consultant for the design of the park, Leibfarth said.

Major corporate sponsors for NRC are the Nantahala Outdoor Center, Bank of America and Dagger Canoe Company. NRC memberships are $30 for individuals and $50 for families. For information regarding membership, events and/or programs call 828.488.2176, ext. 108, or visit their website at www.nrcrhinos.com.

(Don Hendershot can be reached at don@smokymountainnews.com)