Go Huge

Taters Avoid Getting Mashed at Flea Flicker

2006-07-21T06:28:00.000-07:00

Team Tater below the New River Gorge Bridge

Nick Simpson working on his sweep.

Sierra recieving excellent instruction from Matt Fithian.

On the Lower New River everyone practiced their rolls and hipsnaps on the beach.Then the Taters put in at Fayette Station and paddled upstream to Thread the Needle. The taters learned how to "seal launch" off rocks, mystery move in eddy lines, and stopped for lunch at Fayette Station.

Matt spotting Alicia at Fayette Station

Caitlin looking over her shoulder, finding the surface.

After lunch, the taters continued to roll downstream to Flea Flicker and by Old Nasty, Alicia flipped but was completely comfortable. Caitlyn mastered her roll at the take out. Finally, Sierra and Leah got their first rolls and the Taters celebrated with a well deserved icecream break.

Day 3: Kayaking Students learn to roll & climb on Summersville Lake

2006-07-20T12:41:00.000-07:00

Nick Simpson Jumps into Summersville Lake

The morning started bright & early but quickly warmed up to the normal WV July humid heat. The heat was motivation enough for Matt & Scott to hurry the Taters to the beautiful waters of the Gauley River. With lunch packed, boats on top, and taters loaded, the team was off with a mission to roll, and a chilled out atmosphere in the shade as their classroom. The waist deep clear water was just perfect for some instructor assisted roll practice. After lunch Mackenzie had her roll and Caitlin was coming close too. Nick was only swimming 1 of every 10 tries. Alicia was practicing her hip snaps. Sierra was rolling with very little assistance. Leah was upside down more than she had ever been. Matt took some great video and photo of the kayak strokes clinic taught by Scott.

Sierra Climbing at Summersville Lake.

After the basic stroke clinic, the group went for a short half mile flatwater paddle to a beautiful cove just upstream of their rolling classroom. This cove provided for some real WV entertainment. The group practiced bouldering and did some really fun cliff jumping, right around 20 feet.

Day 2: Wootten's 'Taters' Discover the Art of Whitewater Safety at Hawks Nest State Park

2006-07-20T11:25:00.000-07:00

Nick & Scott identify whitewater features.

After exhausting the creative young minds with Kayak Culture artwork, Scott decided that safety comes first when learning whitewater skills. Matt & David suggested a great class V river section of Mill Creek, for identification of major whitewater features. After hiking to the river, the team of young paddlers had to use aggressive whitewater swimming techniques, rappelling & climbing, whitewater wading teamwork, the buddy system, shared team leadership, and critical thinking skills, while Matt and Scott were safety supervisors.
Big Tater Scott Wootten demos Aussie Rappeling.

Mackenzie Swims through currents on Mill Creek.

Taters on Mill Creek during a whitewater self defense clinic.

When the safety instruction was over, everyone was famished. Matt set up his famous deli style picnic and Scott showed off his fresh popeyed curried green slop. After lunch, the students eagerly geared up, and flocked around the expert instructors. Nick paid careful attention to his rolling mentors & figured out the roll during the structured ‘eskimo rescue’ lesson. Sierra was scared of Scott and would only swim for Matt. Caitlin came close to rolling, but had no hard time flipping over. Mackenzie tried the ‘tater wheels’ (buoyant foam training wheels) and decided she liked her regular paddle better. Leah was Sierra’s number one spotter as they rolled in the tail waters of the Lower New River. Alicia established that she liked being upside down more than she liked being right side up.

WV Beginner Kayak Instruction

2006-07-18T06:46:00.000-07:00

Wootten's Taters Learn How to Blog About Their Kayaking

Note: We could not figure out how to place photo descriptions with photos. Thus, the numbered description goes with the number of the photo.
1. Caitlin Collins thinks twice before jumping.

2. Wootten's Taters learn how to paint Kayak Culture shirts and make foamy boaters.

3. Leah Staley paints her nose instead of her shirt.

4. McKenzie hatcher says, "talk to the hand because the face aint listening."

5. Alicia Hawley shows off her smile while being artful.

Huge Experiences beginners are learning how to make blogs this morning. Alicia, Caitlin, Nick, Leah, McKenzie, and Sierra spent the morning listening to Scott Wootten as he taught blog basics.
Topics covered were: how to professionally prepare literature, editing, preparation of photos, how to make photo descriptions, how to setup a blog, how to post each of the above after professional preparation.
Note- this is basic on the fly blog post. We will post a well prepared post later this week.

High lights of WV beginner camp this week:
Nick- hits his roll first day.
McKenzie- She has hit some rolls and becoming more consistent.
Alicia- Has become more comfortable underwater, and gaining confidence.
Caitlin- She really liked jumping off of the cliffs.
Leah- Is getting better after a sick morning yesterday. Had fun learning how to rappel on the Mill Creek safety hike.
Sierra- Is now completely comfortable in her boat.
Scott Wootten- Painting shirts with the Taters.
Matt- I liked teaching Taters to roll on Summersville Lake, that was fun.

What is a Tater?
Nick Simpson, "We still do not know?"
Caitlin, "I think this morning we are mashed taters."
Leah, "Yesterday, we were fried taters." Referring to the intense heat.
Sierra, "They never told us what a Tater was, they just keep calling us Taters."
Leah, "Isn't it a potato?"
Scott, "It's a spud boater."
McKenzie, "I don't know what they are?" As she lies on the couch being a "couch tater."
David, "In life there are all kinds of taters."
Nick, "It doesn't matter if your hair gets messed up, you are going to be wet all day."
Leah, "I can't do anything with my hair when it is dry, I have to fix it when it wet. It is a mess this morning."

Alex Mohn reporting from the field with Teen Kayaker notes in CO...

2006-07-08T07:25:00.000-07:00

07/06/06

It’s all coming to an end here in Colorado. Right now we’re all chillin’ in Zach Mitchell’s basement, waiting to clean the van and trailer and pack our stuff for the fly or drive home tomorrow. The last week of our adventure started out awesome – as we all enjoyed Lunch Counter, the amazing wave on the Snake River in Wyoming. But, all good things must come to an end – some faster than others. Due to unforeseen circumstances our time on the Snake river was cut short.
Here are Eli Spiegel and Bo Banducci working one of the massive seams on the Snake.

Out of our sadness, it was decided that we would spend the rest of our time, about 5 days, in Salida at the playpark in town. The last week was made possible by the generosity of Buffalo Joe’s Rafting. With all the time in the local hole, everyone’s skill levels skyrocketed at the end of the trip.
Kevin Mooney is shown here before one of his rides. Kevin had an incredible progression during this tour, going from almost no tricks to doing consistent cartwheels and an occasional loop. He ripped it up.

From cartwheels to Lunar Orbit – Mcnasty combos, new tricks were being learned and thrown by all every day.
Here is a Lunar Oribt-Mcnasty combo by the author.

The Fourth of July was made enjoyable by the local bands and firework show shot from the top of mountain. During our last day at the hole, a storm upstream of the playspot caused flash flooding which raised the water level by a foot and a half in about 5 minutes.
Here you can see the initial raft of fir needles that swamped the entire river.

We all started playing frogger in the hole – dodging the enormous logs and debri that flowed through during our rides.
Brynne Weeks plugs it deep, going for a loop.

As the water began to drop, it took on the color of chocolate milk – so much so that the foam pile of the hole was no longer white, but brown. It was a sight to behold.
Here is Zach Mitchell looping in the nastiness.

After the dirty session, we all loaded up and drove back to Zach Mitchell’s house, where we stayed last night an will stay tonight so that we are close to the airport. It’s sad to see my new friends leave, but I’m also glad for a short break from a straight month of kayaking.
On the way home we spotted this incredible rainbow. We just knew that there were unicorns and leprechauns rolling around in piles of gold at the end of it.

Signing off,

Alex Mohn
Huge Experiences

Teen Kayakers in Colorado - BAG of TRICKS at Salida

2006-07-02T19:01:00.000-07:00

Hello Sports Enthusiasts,

The Huge Experiences Colorado tour has stopped back in Salida where we have been playing for the past three days perfecting all our playhole magic. Please take a moment to view the video.

CLICK HERE to see the Salida, CO video!

Everyone is working on new moves and perfecting the ones they already know. The hole is at a lower level than when we were here for the FiBARK event but it is still incredible.

Most remarkable is Eli Spiegel. He has gone from getting an occasional loop or cartwheel to an occasional mcnasty or phonics monkey. For those of you who don't understand the terminology this would be like skipping learning how to dribble a basketball and going straight to dunking the ball. He still has to polish up on these moves, but with six hours of paddling every day at this play hole he is progressing very rapidly. He's like a Labrador that won't quit fetching the stick. As long as you let him he'll just keep on trying the moves. Apparently it's paying off though. Here's Eli winding up for a McNasty.

Brynne and Kevin are still dialing in their cartwheels. Here is Brynne wheeling it up.

And Kevin doing the same...

Alex has reached new heights today, hitting every hard move in the book, including back loop-mcnasty combos, huge lunar orbits, and phonics monkeys. Here is Alex skying on the later part of a lunar orbit.

I finally started hitting phonics monkeys after a day of figuring it out. It's a really fun move that is almost identical to a mcnasty. This was in the last part of a phonics monkey.

Bo has made remarkable progress today as well, partly due to using a shorter boat. He has gone from flat spins to attempting and almost nailing loops. Jason is now hitting McNastys both ways. Photos and video of those two boys on the next post. None were available at this time... Chris has left the trip this afternoon with his father. We will miss him dearly. He didn't paddle the last two days due to an injured wrist.

CLICK HERE to see the Salida, CO video!

Adios,

Spencer Cooke, Huge Experiences Colorado trip co-leader

Teen Kayakers Colorado/Wyoming video!

2006-07-01T10:43:00.000-07:00

Greetings fans! Happy July!

We have finally compiled another video installment for our trip. This includes footage from the FIBARK competition, Montrose wave, Green River rodeo in Wyoming and some of our paddling and antics on and around the Snake River in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Enjoy!

CLICK HERE to see the video! It is a ten minute edited segment at 11.5mb. You'll have to endure the small frame size because I didn't have until Christmas to compress and upload a large video file. I may make a DVD of the whole trip when we get home so everyone can view it full screen.

We're back in Salida now and plan to spend the next four or five days here working on playboating moves.
Yesterday Jason and I worked with Eli, Brynne and Kevin on cartwheels in the hole and they were all catching on quickly. We worked on back deck (rodeo) rolls and flat water wing overs with Bo, with which he is progressing smoothly. Chris, Jason and I were working on our McNasty's in the bottom hole here at Salida. Finally, Alex was honing quite a few of his already explosive moves in the top hole. We'll be shooting more video of this week's paddling.

Later,

Spencer Cooke, Huge Experiences Colorado trip co-leader

Huge Experiences Colorado Tour has "Dance-off" in Wyoming

2006-06-28T09:53:00.000-07:00

After arriving at our backcountry campsite the other night, Team Huge didn't know what to do when they found themselves with some down time. After some small dance moves from the van seats it was determined that the only way to spend the afternoon was having a dance off. A special thanks to Alex Mohn's ipod for having lots of "booty music," so we could dance the night away.

Alex and Brynne having a dance off

Here's Eli and Bo demonstrating their swing moves

David Spiegel showing off his mad break-dancing skills

Zack Webb dancing it up and some gymnastics too

Article and Photos by: Jason Aytes

Alex Mohn's Colorado/Wyoming Journal entry #2

2006-06-28T09:25:00.000-07:00

Alex Enjoys a breakfast of oatmeal and fruit.

06/28/06
Its been close to two weeks and we’re over two thirds of the way into our trip. From the Mitchell’s house in Evergreen, Colorado we left to go to Salida, Colorado where FiBARK and the Freestyle National Championships were being held. Zach Mitchell, Chris Miller, David Spiegel, and myself competed in the Jr. Expert class. Zach Webb, Eli Spiegel, and Kevin Mooney competed in the Sport class while Brynne, stepping her game up, competed with the Expert Women. Jason Aytes competed with the Expert Men and Spencer Cooke competed in the Pro class. Everyone who participated had fun and gave a good showing for Huge Experiences. After a whole weekend of festivities at FiBARK, the trip leaders -Spencer Cooke and Jason Aytes – decided it would be a good idea to plan an overnighter on the Browns Canyon section of the Arkansas River. The best part about that adventure was hiking to the rim of the canyon, where we all took in the beautiful Rocky Mountain vista. After finishing up on the overnighter, we spent one day in Buena Vista, Colorado – 20 minutes from Salida – where Jason and Spencer could catch up on blog posts and video editing while we were free to roam the town and use the whitewater park. That evening, we left for Montrose, Colorado where the famous M-wave made its home in the local drainage ditch. After about three hours of searching and countless backtracking, by lunchtime we were able to make it the spot. Everyone was stoked upon the first glance of the giant rooster-tail like green monster. The one word of advice given was just don’t catch your edge – that results in car crash like whiplash. M-wave is so fast that surfing it feels like being towed behind a motorboat. After a day of M-wave punishment, the group was ready to make the eight hour drive to Green River, WY. Up there was the Flaming Gorge Day festival and freestyle kayak event. The first thing we did out of that car was gear up and start practicing in the rodeo hole. The feature was small, shallow, but really retentive for all the cartwheel tricks. Zach Mitchell, Bo Banducci, Chris Miller, Brynne Weeks, Spencer Cooke, Jason Aytes, and myself all participated in the event. After a brief weekend of competition, we made our way up north to Jackson Hole, WY where we’ve been enjoying the Snake river and the famous Lunch Counter wave – good for all the big wave airial tricks. We’ll be up this way until Sunday, when we’ll then be making our way back down to Colorado as we all prepare to head home.

Alex Mohn
Huge Experiences

Trip Leader, Jason Aytes loves oatmeal too. He knows it's good for the heart.

Huge Experiences in Jackson Hole Wyoming

2006-06-28T09:01:00.000-07:00

After Colorado we headed up to the Green River Rodeo in Wyoming. Team Huge had a strong showing at the Green River Rodeo. Zach Mitchell edged out Alex Mohn in the finals for first place. Taking third place was Kyber Miller of Jackson Hole and fourth place was Huge Experience's Chris Miller. Bo Banducci entered his first rodeo and had a strong showing by throwing his paddle and doing a super clean spin. A super clean spin is spinning 360 degrees without using a paddle, a very stylish move!

After the Green River event Team Huge traveled north to Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Here we have been paddling the Snake River, parking and playing at Lunch Counter and the Greys River. A couple of nights we have had dinner and slept over at Kevin's brother and sister's apartment. A big thank you to Mark and Lauren Mooney. The other nights we have been camping at some beautiful campsites. The photo that is in the upper left corner is Bo and Spencer leading the way for the rest of the Team Huge. Photo by: David Speigel

Stay tuned, same channel same time for more video footage in near future.

Alex going for a donkey flip. Photo by: Spencer Cooke

Coach Cooke showing off his tricks. Photo by: Alex Mohn

Here's a photo of Chris I just got from my buddy "DK." This photo was during the Fibark competition.

Article by: Jason Aytes

Teen Kayaking Coach Report: Green River Rodeo, Wyoming

2006-06-28T08:45:00.000-07:00

As coaches, Jason Aytes and I were really happy with the kids' performance in our third and final competiton last week at the Green River in Wyoming. I'm happy to say that they all really stepped it up a notch when it came time to compete.

Alex Mohn, Chris Miller and Zach Mitchell have been throwing a move they call the "switch flip," which is a loop done within a sequence of cartwheels or after initiating a cartwheel. The hole at the Green Rodeo was kind of shallow and difficult to loop traditionally so the guys resorted to switch flips.

Chris Miller throws a Switch-flip here, placing 4th at the Green.

Alex Mohn finishes up a Tricky-wu in the prelim round, finally placing 2nd in the finals.

Zach Mitchell took the gold medal at the Green, barely edging out Alex Mohn by doing... you guessed it, a Switch-flip.

Brynne Weeks took third in Women's Expert, barely missing the cut to the final two. Here Brynne goes vertical.

Bo Banducci is shown here throwing a no-paddle flat spin. Being this was Bo's first competition, we were really proud of him for coming in 6th place, barely missing finals. His skills are improving every day.

This me throwing a McNasty in the Pro/Expert finals.

I was able to make my way into 2nd place behind local, Cory Volt. Cory had this hole wired like no other and was really difficult to beat. Behind me in third was our guest coach, Dave Fusilli "coach D"

This was a really fun hole and a great event. I think we all improved our skill and competition game.

See you next time.

Spencer Cooke, Huge Experiences Colorado trip co-leader

Teen Kayakers Practice Good Hygiene

2006-06-28T08:43:00.000-07:00

Don't fret mothers, your kids hygiene is in good hands with Coach Cooke and myself. Here we are having a group flossing session.

Eli digging deep to get last night's dinner

Article and Photos by: Jason Aytes

Kayaking Teens Visits Montrose Wave

2006-06-28T08:11:00.000-07:00

After Fibark the group has been on a mission to find more whitewater around the Rocky Mountains. After our Brown's Canyon trip we decided to stay one more day in Buena Vista to take advantage of the local whitewater park. Next, we drove to Montrose, Colorado where we would find the Montrose Wave. The Montrose Wave is created by a concrete irrigation ditch in the middle of the desert. This wave is unlike any wave I have ever seen and easily the fastest wave I've ever surfed. Check out the look on Kevin's face! This is one of my favorite photos.

Here's Brynne getting her courage up to seal launch into the fast moving current.

Brynne going for it!

"Coach D" a.k.a Dave Fusilli of Team Wave Sport joined us for a couple of days at the Montrose Wave and the Green River Rodeo. Coach D getting a big kickflip off the Montrose Wave.

Alex going for some big air

Zach Mitchell getting it done at Montrose

Zach doing a kickflip

Zach throwing a vertical blunt

Here's Alex doing a trick called a flip turn

Eli surfing it up

Zack Webb launches in for his surf session

Article and Photos by: Jason Aytes

Life as a Movie Star

2006-06-21T12:43:00.000-07:00

Spencer Cooke, the man behind the video camera

Jason being interviewed by Spencer

Bo practicing for his life as a movie star

Photos by: Chris Miller

More Freestyle Photos from Team Huge

2006-06-21T12:38:00.000-07:00

Zach during the finals day at Fibark getting a Huge Space Godzilla. Zach finished third overall.

Chris Miller throwing down. Chris finished fourth overall at Fibark.

New River Academy student Ty Martin at Fibark. Ty placed fifth overall, way to go Ty!

Photos by: Jason Aytes

Huge Experiences Lifestyle Shots from 06 Colorado Tour

2006-06-21T12:30:00.000-07:00

Brynne loves being in front of the camera

Zach showing his other talents

Chris Miller and Spencer Cooke discussing Chris' competition rides

David and Zach enjoying the Fibark atmosphere

Spencer enjoying some down time

Photos by: Chris Miller and Jason Aytes

Banducci Lays Playboating Foundation on Brown's Canyon

2006-06-21T12:20:00.000-07:00

Bo does his first stern squirts on Brown's Canyon

Bo navagating Class IV rapids on the Arkansas River

Banducci hits SICK rock splat

Bo impersonates Captain Caveman while chiseling family crest into large boulder

Photos by: Spencer Cooke and Jason Aytes

Coach Spencer Cooke

2006-06-21T12:16:00.000-07:00

Coach Cooke chatting with Team Huge Athletes during competition
Photo by: Jason Aytes

Brown's Canyon Overnighter

2006-06-21T11:53:00.000-07:00

This past Monday and Tuesday we did an overnight trip on Brown's Canyon of the Arkansas River. We hired Buffalo Joe's Rafting Company to oar boat our gear and food while we paddled down in our kayaks. We camped near an awesome playspot and under a huge rock outcropping. After paddling and before dinner some of the team decided to hike/climb up to the top of the canyon walls. For those of us who decided to make the journey we were rewarded with an amazing view. A big thanks to Buffaloe Joe's for the wonderful steak dinner and french toast breakfast.

Brown's Canyon view from the rock outcropping

Group photo of those who chose to make the climb

What a view!

A big thanks to our rafting crew Micah, Red and Adam

Bo waking up after sleeping under the stars

Article by: Jason Aytes
Photos by: Chris Miller, Spencer Cooke and Jason Aytes

Huge Experiences Practices River Safety Techniques

2006-06-21T11:32:00.000-07:00

After Fibark, Team Huge planned out an overnighter on the Arkansas River. This is the group's first river run of the 06 Colorado Tour. Coaches Spencer Cooke and myself decided it would be a good idea to hold a refresher safety clinic. The clinic covered whitewater swimming, river signals, required equipment and rope throwing. Later in tour we will be covering more rescue topics including z-drags, evacuations, first aid kits, etc. The throw bag pratice was the highlight of the clinic.

Bo Banducci demostrates a proper rope toss

Chris Miller showing off his rope throwing skills

Look Out Spencer, Incoming Ropes! These guys are good...

Jason demonstrating how to stuff one's throw bag

Article by: Jason Aytes

Photos by: Chris Miller, Spencer Cooke and Jason Aytes

Jason Craig is the 2006 Junior National Champion

2006-06-21T11:28:00.000-07:00

A big congrats to Jason Craig from all of us at Huge Experiences. Jason earned the 2006 Junior National Champion Title at Fibark. Photo by: Jason Aytes

Junior Sport Class at Fibark

2006-06-21T11:26:00.000-07:00

Kevin Mooney blasting the "sticky" Salida hole during the comp. Look out this kid is improving at a rapid rate. Photo by: Jason Aytes

Alex Mohn Finishes Second in National Championships

2006-06-21T11:21:00.000-07:00

Alex preparing for his final ride at the National Championship

Alex gathering some frequent flyer miles. Photos by: Jason Aytes

Fibark Juniors Stepping it Up

2006-06-21T11:09:00.000-07:00

Zack Webb showing off his new tricks during the Fibark Comp.

Photos by: Jason Aytes

Fibark Air Time!

2006-06-21T11:07:00.000-07:00

Here's David Speigel getting massive air during the Junior Expert Comp.

Here's David's "little" brother trying to be like his big brother. Look out David, he's catching up with you fast! Photos by: Jason Aytes

Fibark Junior Sport Class

2006-06-21T11:03:00.000-07:00

Eli looking for some advice from the coaches and his big brother David during the comp at Fibark.

Eli Spiegel setting up for a move during the junior sport class at Fibark. Photo by: Jason Aytes

Huge Experiences has Strong Showing at Fibark

2006-06-21T10:23:00.000-07:00

Huge Experiences athlete Alex Mohn finishes second in National Championships behind talented junior Jason Craig. Huge had four Colorado Tour students qualify for the finals on Sunday, and two previous students. After Friday’s prelims there were ten athletes competing in the finals. The competition started with two heats and after the first round the field was cut in half. David Speigel had an awesome ride however, he was edged out by Chris Miller, Zach Mitchell, Alex Mohn, Jason Craig and Ty Martin. The finals were exciting as again the field was cut from five competitors to three then to two. Going into the final round Alex found himself in first place against Jason Craig of Reno. In the finals Jason went first and had the best ride of the competition. Jason had a flawless ride hitting airflips, space godzillas, and a McNasty. Alex had a good ride hitting enormous airflips but couldn’t beat out Jason’s ride. I’m proud of all of our athletes because they all stepped up for the competition. All athletes of our team did their personal best and they made Jason Craig earn his National Champion title. Congrats to Jason and the rest of the juniors who participated in this year’s National Championship. This event had the most overall talent in any junior rodeo I’ve witnessed.

Huge Experiences had three students compete in the junior sport class. The sport class is for up and coming athletes who don’t have the experience that the junior experts have. Eli Speigel, Kevin Mooney, and Zack Webb all competed and had some of their personal best rides. All three of these guys hit their first loops this past weekend. After the competition Kevin jumped in a demo boat from Clay Wright and hit one of the biggest airflips of the weekend from anyone, pros included. Look out for Kevin! Unfortunately we didn’t capture Kevin’s massive airflip on film, but I have a feeling he’ll be doing many, many more.

Brynne Weeks competed in the woman’s expert class. Yes, she skipped the juniors and decided to compete against the big girls. After the prelims Brynne was in second place. Brynne ended up finishing third overall and had some of the biggest air of all the ladies. Brynne is such a talented athlete and other kayakers were asking all weekend, “Who is this girl?” I say, “Brynne can take kayaking as far as she wants. She’s a talented athlete, responds well to coaching, and has the drive to be the best.”

Brynne doing an airflip

Photos and article by: Jason Aytes

Alex Mohn's Colorado Journal entry #1 and National Championships report

2006-06-16T18:08:00.000-07:00

Spencer Cooke here with news from the National Championships in Salida Colorado regarding Huge Experiences. Before we get into that, Alex Mohn, a 17 year old student that is traveling with us, had a journal entry to share...

6/15/06

Well, Huge Experiences is off to another adventure. This time it’s the 06 Colorado tour. It started with a drive – a long, cross-country 24 hour journey across six states to reach our most recent residence in Evergreen, Colorado where the Mitchell family, whose son Zach Mitchell is participating in this program, generously allowed 8 guys, one girl, and our two instructors a place to stay in their wonderful home. The two instructors, Jason Aytes and Spencer Cooke, drove all the way from West Virginia with Chris Miller and Kevin Mooney. After passing through Indiana, I joined along for the ride and three hours later, in St. Louis, Brynne Weeks was picked up. Along the way the six of us were able to appreciate the wonderful Kansas landscape. We kept ourselves enterianed by such roadside attractions as the Prarie Dog Farm with examples of local wildlife like the five and six legged cows and Roscoe, the miniature donkey. Sadly, at seven dollars a person we never actually went inside the compound, but were still able to peer through the fence to get our fix. Later that night, we made it to the Mitchell’s house where we all enjoyed dinner. The next day, it was decided that we would head out to the Lawson Hole on Clear Creek. We were out the door by ten o’ clock and all anxiously awaited our arrival. Lawson is the best hole I’ve been to out of traveling a whole year with the school, so of course everyone left the playspot with a perma-smile.
See the video of the whole crew ripping it up at Lawson CLICK HERE to see video!
We returned to the Mitchell’s house where Jason and Spencer then left to pick up the remaining students from the airport: Bo Banducci, Dave and Eli Speigel, and Zack Webb. The next day we took the newest members of our group to the Lawson Hole so they could thoroughly be welcomed to Colorado. But, to make sure everyone got enough boating, we drove to Golden, Colorado to compete in a rodeo and boater-cross that same afternoon at the Golden Whitewater Park. Everyone participated in at least one activity. The rodeo competition went very well for Huge Experiences, with the top three places all taken by members of our group in the Jr. category. Chris Miller stepped his game up and competed not only with the juniors but also in the Men Expert class winning both!
Currently, we are packing up to head over to Salida, CO where we will spend the weekend at FiBARK, where the 2006 Freestyle National Championships are to be held. I expect all to compete well in this upcoming event.

Article by Alex Mohn

Alex is pictured here at the Prairie Dog Farm where a third hand spontaniously grew from his left shoulder.

This is Spencer writing again. Back to Salida and the Nationals. The kids did awesome today. We have four guys competing for the national title in Junior Expert and all four of them made finals today. Additionally, Brynne Weeks, our one young lady on the trip, has pulled her first loop (front flip) in competition placing her in second of women's expert prelims. Brynne is competing with "the older girls" since there is no junior women's class. So, hats off to Brynne. We are proud of all the kids.

Official results looked like so:

Junior Men Expert (TOP TEN MADE FINALS)
1 - Jason Craig
2 - Zach Mitchell (HUGE)
3 - James Tansey (formerly of HUGE)
4 - Michael Palmer
5 - Tyler Martin (formerly of HUGE)
6 - David Spiegel (HUGE)
7 - Chris Miller (HUGE)
8 - Alex Mohn (HUGE)
9 - Colter Beereboom
10 - Khyber Miller
11 - Taylor Preusch
12 - Nick Vanderhoof
13 - Ryan Zubizarreta
14 - Reid Whitney
15 - Scotty Craighead

Women's Expert - (TOP THREE MADE FINALS)
1 - Natalie Kellum
2 - Brynne Weeks (HUGE)
3 - Cheyenne Rogers
4 - Jamie Weaver

Finals will be held on Sunday. Additionally we have three more students competing in Junior Sport on Sunday.

Thanks and enjoy the Video from the Lawson Hole .

Colorado Trip Co-Leader, Spencer Cooke

So tired...

2006-06-15T11:12:00.000-07:00

Ladies and Gentlemen, "Zach Mitchell being Zach Mitchell."

The Coaches

2006-06-15T11:09:00.000-07:00

Here is Spencer and myself trying to keep up with the young whipper snappers. Photos by: Chris Miller

Zach Mitchell perfoming a hull grab while looping

2006-06-15T11:07:00.000-07:00

Brynne showing the boys how it's done!

2006-06-15T11:05:00.000-07:00

Kayaking High School Cleans up at Golden Rodeo

2006-06-15T10:19:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Team Huge attended the Golden Rodeo event at the Clear Creek Play Park in Golden Colorado. This event is a series of rodeos that take place every Wednesday for six weeks straight. I was amazed at the organization of the event, the spectator turnout, and the talented kayaking community here in the city of Golden.

This competition included a rodeo and a boater-cross team event. Team Huge had five competitors in the rodeo and everyone participated in the boater-cross. The boater-cross, a team event, included a short flat water sprint, then a run across a field up some stairs then racing back down twisting slides, then finished off with a down river paddle through the Golden Whitewater Park. This event can be summed up with one word, FUN! Team Huge would like to say, “Thank you,” to event organizer Gary Mullins for putting on such a sweet event.

In the rodeo Team Huge had a good showing. In the junior class Huge Experiences took first, second, and third out of an extremely talented field. New River Academy student Brynne Weeks placed second in the women’s class. Golden has a handful of talented juniors who are always contenders and can “throw down.” Third place went to local hero Zach Mitchell who is leading the Golden Series point race. Alex Mohn found himself in second and threw one of the few trophy moves of the event, a McNasty. First place went to up and coming fifteen year old Chris Miller from Maryville, TN. Chris has traveled with the, The New River Academy of Huge Experiences for the past year and was awarded the most improved paddler at the end of this previous school year. Not only did Chris win the juniors but he also took first place in a talented Men’s expert class. Chris’ rides included cartwheels both ways, loops, air flips, and space godzillas.

Chris Miller looping like it is his job. Today we are driving to Salida to celebrate the Arkansas River at Fibark. Stay tuned for updates.

Article and Photos by: Jason Aytes

Kayaking High School Travels To The Rocky Mountains

2006-06-15T10:17:00.000-07:00

Huge Experiences is back in Colorado and neighboring states for the summer of 2006. The trip is coached/lead by Spencer Cooke and myself. The trip started in Fayetteville, WV with Spencer, Chris, Kevin, and myself. We picked up several students along the route and a handful of kids flew into Denver International airport where they were greeted by the rest of the gang. The drive out was long but pleasant. We even had the opportunity to stop in Kansas and visit Roscoe the Miniature Donkey. Now the entire group is together and we have paddled for several days now.

The past couple of days we have been based around Evergreen Colorado and staying with the Mitchell Family. I would like to give a big thanks to the Mitchell Family for hosting eleven kayakers in their comfortable, mountain home. Zach Mitchell has shown us his local gems of play spots and we have had three days of amazing play boating.

We are traveling with a talented, athletic group of kayakers. The students all have solid rolls and a good bit of paddling experience. Some of the students are just beginning to play-boat and working on moves like spins, cartwheels and blunts. Other students are working on more advanced moves like McNasties, Air Flips and Tricky-woos. My favorite aspect to coaching kayaking is watching one improve and progress within the sport. In the next three weeks these kids will improve their paddling skills, make life-long friends and have an experience that only a three week long paddling road trip can provide.

Kevin surfing it up!

Team Huge has started this online journal so family and friends can live vicariously through this blog. Our goal is to have weekly updates with articles, photos and even video. Keep in mind, internet access is better in some places than others. We hope you enjoy the adventure.

Alex performing a space godzilla.

Article prepared by: Jason Aytes
Photos by: Chris Miller, Spencer Cooke and Jason Aytes

Pichilemu

2006-02-02T08:47:00.000-08:00

We made it to the surf town of Pichilemu. The students have been enjoying the surf and wonderful weather. Here is a photo of the cabanas where we are staying.

High School Kayakers take trip to New Zealand

2006-01-23T10:55:00.000-08:00

The Academy of Huge Experiences traveled to New Zealand and had an amazing time. Our journey started at the action packed Rangitikei River. This is a class IV, V river that goes through an amazing gorge complete with Paragon Falcons, humungous trout, and six-foot long eels. We were based at the comfortable River Valley Lodge. River Valley Lodge is New Zealand’s premier whitewater rafting destination. While in the area we visited the Bliss-Stick Kayak factory. One year ago, on a private trip to NZ, I worked for Bliss Stick kayaks. I called Charles, the owner, and asked if he would be willing to let us take a look around. In true kiwi fashioned Charles replied, “sure mate come down day after tomorrow and we’ll show you the ropes.” Charles greeted us and gave the entire group a V.I.P tour of the factory. Charles, Andi –O and the gang showed us the complete process of manufacturing a kayak. Also while on the Rangitikei River we visited my good friends at the Mangaweka Adventure Company. MAC is based downstream of River Valley Lodge and specializes on rafting trips through a section of river that is best known from the movie, “Lord of the rings.” The Huge students teamed up with MAC to clean up a section of river that had litter from previous floods. The Huge students spent the afternoon picking up litter, tires, and sheep. Yes, there were two sheep that had found themselves stranded at the bottom of a towering cliff. After lots of tries we were able to capture the sheep and raft them out to safety. If you ever have to chance to make it to New Zealand you have to check out the Lord of the Rings trip at Mangaweka Adventure Company. A trip to the North Island of NZ is not complete without hiking the Tongariro Crossing. This famous hikes stretches across Mt. Doom, from Lord of the Rings. Along this walk one can view epic scenery like the Emerald Lakes, Blue Lakes, active volcano craters, bubbling hot sulpher springs and much more.

Our next stop was the Kaituna River, Okeere Falls, NZ. The Kaituna has been a kayaker’s hotspot for years now. The Kaituna comes complete with a waterfall, several nice boofs, a world class play spot, and five minute shuttle. While here the school was based at a holiday park that was a short paddle to the put-in. We spent a total of two weeks here and easily could have stayed longer. The play hole here is perfect for giant loops, endless cartwheels, phonix monkeys, and many more freestyle moves. The play was epic, and the river run was equally as fun. Just down the road about one hour is the Warioa River. This class IV, V river is dammed released and is a NZ gem. We had the chance to paddle here a total of three releases while in NZ. This area of NZ is rich in culture and history. While in the area the school visited a local Maori (Polynesian people of NZ) village and was treated to a theatre performance and traditional hangi meal.

After leaving the Kaituna the school made their way to the South Island. Our first stop on the South Island would be Hokitika. On my previous trip to NZ I spent over one month in Hokitika, as it is known internationally as the place to paddle hard whitewater in NZ. Only a year ago NZ witnessed its wettest year in recorded history. This year was different, we had blue bird skies and wonderful weather. I have to admit it was a nice change from the rainy cold weather from last year. The water levels were lower than normal however the weather was perfect for surfing. The school was located a two minute commute to the beach were the waves were good for most wave moves including pan-ams, helixes, and huge blunts. Thanks to the low water we were able to paddle some rivers that were usually too high to paddle. If anybody were to ask me for one piece of advice for kayaking on the South Island of NZ I would reply with two words, “heli-trip.” It was a personal goal of mine to share this experience with the students of Huge. After days of researching river difficulties and water levels Bryan, Jonathan and I decided on the Whataroa River. The Whataroa River has class III, IV and V rapids and is located just south of Hokitika and is joined by the Perth about ¾ of the way down. This was the perfect river for a big group because anyone who isn’t up to the class V rapids can make a short hike and rejoin the river after the rapid. The day we picked to fly was perfect weather and conditions. One could feel the energy from the students and staff as we waited on the helicopter to arrive at the take out. The students were feeling the rush from riding in the chopper and then knowing the only way out was by kayak. I was more excited that I had a part in making this experience available to so many paddlers. The river was epic, in a good way, and everyone had good lines.

While in Hokitika I also had the chance to sneak off and paddle a couple of West Coast Classics. Jonathan Souter, Scott Wooten, and myself called into work well to paddle the Upper Hokitika. The Upper Hoki had been on my mind for the past year because I had plans to paddle it my first time in NZ. Due to high water I was not able to kayak this river this river last time in Hokitika. The boys and I headed out early one morning and joined a couple other Americans Joe and Tim. We were a bit hesitent about putting on the river because none of us had ever been down the river. The Upper Hoki has a reputation for having several unportagable, unscoutable rapids. After a short meeting with the boys and a quick call to my local mate for some info we decided to make it happen and I’m so glad we did. This day of paddling was magical. We were on a remote, beautiful stretch of river navigating it first D style. For those of you who can relate, it was epic! After the run we were talking to some locals and realized that we ran a waterfall that had only been ran a couple of times. Most of us had good/ok lines, however one team member broke his boat. Another day of wellness Bryan Kirk, Jonathan, and myself made it to the Perth River. I had a wonderful overnight trip here my first time around to the West Coast and was inspired to go back. We joined up several boys from Bliss –stick including Honza, Ben, Andrew, and a couple of other European friends. This time around the water level was much lower and it made the river different in character. The Perth is a river that has water clean enough to drink, steep rapids, and scenery that is second to none. Our group moved quickly down the river and just like I remembered the Perth was a classic. If you ever have the chance to paddle on the West Coast of NZ and you have a strong team, don’t miss the Perth. My last helicopter trip was to the Upper Whitcombe. The Whitcombe River was named after Henry Whitcombe, who pioneered Whitcombe pass and the river valley with Douglas Lauper in 1865. The Whitcombe is steep in character but is unique to other NZ rivers due to its high volume, big water feel. Two of Huge’s stronger paddlers Nathan Silsbee, and Matt Fithian joined me for the day. Both of these guys have been paying their dues and getting 200+ days on the river for years now. Matt is one of the more experienced paddlers in the school and was recently picked up by Team Bliss-Stick. Nathan is an amazing kayaker with a silky smooth style, sensational timing and he loves to, “stomp it.” The three of us joined up with some European friends for an amazing day of kayaking. The Whitcombe River has challenging big water rapids, many are class V. When paddling hard whitewater one has to make many decisions about whether to paddle a rapid or walk around it. For those who have paddled hard whitewater you can appreciate paddling with people who are able to make educated, responsible decisions. Nathan and Matt have the ability to make wise decisions on whether or not to paddle or walk a rapid. On this day while scouting rapids I witnessed these two men considering all factors then making a good decision. The Whitcombe was a challenging and rewarding river. If you have a strong team it is a must do.

Before leaving Hokitika we were blessed with two days of hard rain. This rain made it possible to paddle another classic, the Kakapotahi. On my first trip to NZ I ran this river more than any other. There are two sections the upper and the lower. The upper is a steep creek with two waterfalls and one nasty portage. Our group opted for the lower that is action packed big water rapids. The run started out with a class V gorge that most of the group walked. Bryan, Jonathan, Nathan, Matt, Honza and myself decided to paddle the gorge. The gorge was one long rapid with the crux at the beginning. One large boof over a big hole then it was straight down the middle. Honza explained the line to everyone then we took off one behind the other. This rapid was not for everyone however we who decided to paddle it enjoyed it. After the gorge the we split into a couple of groups and headed down stream. This was one of my favorite days on the river in NZ due to its high water feel.

After Hokitika we made our way north to Murchison. Murchison is another paddling hotspot in NZ. We were based on the Buller River at another cool, little holiday park. While in Murchison we were finishing up school for the semester so paddling took a back seat. However, we made time to get out for a couple of days on the Buller River. Unfortunately the water levels around Murchison were low, however this was probably better for our finals. After all students and teachers were finished with school we celebrated by going to famous Maruia Falls. The students and staff relieved all post school stress by hucking themselves off the near 30 foot falls. After a couple of runs off the falls many students opted to free wheel the waterfall. For those who haven’t seen this waterfall it is the perfect waterfall for practicing technique. Just last year Rush Sturges performed a Hail Mary off the waterfall. A Hail Mary is a front flip off of a waterfall.

Finals are over and the stresses that go along with school are no more. Huge is now ready to make their way to Auckland and fly home. However, we left several days open for our travels back to Auckland. After consulting both staff and students the decision was unanimous to go back to the Kaituna River and the Wairoa River. After a long days drive, taking the ferry, then another long days drive we made it in time for the Wairoa release. After the Warioa we spent the next two days on the Kaituna making multiple runs and playing until we couldn’t paddle anymore. As the saying goes, “all good things must come to an end.” It was time to drive to Auckland and fly home. New Zealand is a magical place with wonderful people, spectacular scenery, and world class paddling. Cheers.

Welcome to Gohuge.blogspot.com

2006-01-06T10:20:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the Huge Experiences blog. The idea behind gohuge.blogspot.com is to keep in contact with family and friends of Huge's students and staff.