Racing Comes to Buddhaland


On November 23–25, 2002, Maoist insur-


gents and retreating glaciers paused to witness the most comprehensive whitewater event ever held in the tiny mountain Kingdom of Nepal. The Himalayan Whitewater Challenge was sponsored and organized by equipment clothier Peak UK and combined the disciplines of slalom, down- river, freestyle and partying into one memorable event of nonstop action. Over 30 Nepali and 40 international kayakers (and a token C1er) from some 15 countries competed on the Bhote Kosi river high in the Himalayas near the Tibetan bor- der.


The event began with Nepal’s very first slalom race. Gates were constructed of bamboo and included “cartwheel” gates to add variety to the downstream and upstream genre. The tight class IV course saw only one clean run. The downriver race began next with a mass start and a gruelling full-contact paddle for three kilo- metres. To finish, competitors had to exit their boats and ring a bell at a Buddhist shrine. The Challenge concluded with a freestyle comp on a super-fast and flushy wave. All awards went to the Nepali competitors and the event made Nepali print, radio and television news. Don’t be afraid to attend in 2003—the rapids are still much more dangerous than the Maoists. Info: www.peakuk.co.uk.


—Chris McDermott (the token C1er)


2003 Spring 15


photo Chris McDermott


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