Last weekend Casper, WY hosted a Whitewater Rodeo for kayakers from across the state. The Whitewater Rodeo was held on the North Platte River in downtown Casper. The City of Casper developed this water park for events of this type and to allow the residents of Casper and Wyoming to have a fun place to play on the North Platte River. The Whitewater Rodeo is one of the many events that are held throughout the summer making Casper a great place to live and own a home.
The event started with the play boat rodeo with competitors using kayaks to surf, flip, back surf, and cartwheel in the River. Divisions included Junior (under 18 yrs old), women’s, Pro, amateur, and senior. Competitors came from Casper, Cody, Douglas, and Glenrock. All competitors are required to wear personal flotation devices (life jackets designed for kayaking) and helmets. The organizers for the rodeo are very concerned about river safety and getting the word out to everybody to be sure and have the proper safety equipment when on the river.
The second event was the down river race which started up river and involved creek boats (the longer kayaks) and paddling down river. Again all divisions were included with this event. Competitors paddled from the start line and navigate the North Platte River through several sets of rapids and across the finish line. This event takes a great amount of stamina as well as upper body strength.
The 3rd event and probably the competitor’s favorite is the Hooligans’ race. This is much like the down river race but the competitors are not allow to have their spray skirts (neoprene cover over the entry into the boat) on and you can try and dunk your competitors. There is no doubt that all of the competitors had a great time in this event and most laughed all the way to the finish line.
The rest of the day was spent visiting and enjoying a great summer day. The Whitewater Rodeo is held every year in July. During the summer you can find kayakers and boogie boarders playing on the river. It is a great place to relax, watch the fun (or join in), and cool off during the summer months.
