whitewater.” That from Dan Gilbert, presi- dent of Whitewater Express, talking about the Chattahoochee’s signature rapid. His business is on the Phenix City side of the river.


On the Columbus side is Nantahala Out-


door Center, operated by Sutton Bacon. “We’re still blown away by the scale of


this river,” Bacon said. “In the mountains, whitewater rivers tend to be narrow; this river is so broad, and there’s so much water going through it.” The outfitters say the course will offer


two different experiences. If you’re new to whitewater, you’ll want to go earlier in the day. That’s when the water is a little lower, a little slower. But if you’re fit and adven- turous, hit the course after 4:30 p.m. when Georgia Power kicks on more turbines, releasing more water—lots more water— downriver. “That takes it to a world-class run comparable to the biggest whitewater in the country,” Gilbert said. No matter your skill level, the outfitters


will put safety first. Every rider will wear a helmet and a personal flotation device, and will attend a 30-minute orientation and safety briefing. “Whitewater, like rid- ing a horse, playing golf and driving down the street, has inherent risks,” Bacon said. “But whitewater rivers are typically pre- dictable, and with our 40 years of experi- ence, we have learned how to handle most of the risks.” The raft itself makes the ride safer. Out-


fitters studied the course’s features carefully before deciding the best size raft to use, one that is less likely to flip over or take on too much water. And the rafts are top qual- ity. Each one has eight air chambers, so if one chamber springs a leak, there’s plenty of back-up to stay afloat. People with disabilities will be able to


run the rapids. They can sit on the inflat- able floor of the raft, which is designed to allow water to run out holes on the side. Guides will help people in and out of the boats. The outfitters say they’re ready for local


paddlers, Atlanta-area day-trippers and weekend warriors from across the South- east. Gilbert is convinced this course is so special, it will draw enthusiasts from all over. “I think it’s going to be a hit. And one reason is,” he said, “everybody here is determined to make it a hit.” C


14


Columbus and the Valley


JUNE 2013


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