Ladies on the Lower G, the annual American Whitewater Fundraiser, took place for the sixth year in a row September 17. This year was the largest group of women yet! We had a group of thirty women paddling together down the Lower Gauley, and raised $750! Many of the women had paddled this gem of a river before but several were their for a supportive first descent.

With the help of several women boaters from North American River Runners (NARR) rafting company, Adriene Levknecht, Maria Noakes and Lila Marie Thomas from AT Paddles the trip was a blast. We started early Friday morning, meeting new friends and greeting old ones, loaded up our boats and gear heading to the river.  Once we arrived at the put in, I lead a little name game and then Lila, a certified yoga instructor, lead us through a brief yoga sequence to warm our bodies for the adventure. Sticking together like an armada as we traveled down the river, we reconvened in eddies before the rapids to discuss the different lines. Halfway down the river we stopped for a delicious and satisfying lunch prepared by the friendly NARR chefs.

The trip filled the entire day, securing paddling friendships for a long time to come. Thanks to women for making the journey from DC, Atlanta, New York, Kentucky and many other locations. It was a blast! I hope to see you all and many more there again next year!

Thanks to Maria Noakes and Jessica from Confluence for taking photos. Have fun checking them out!