Freestyle Kayak

FIBArk’s Freestyle Kayaking Rodeo is scored on the paddler’s ability to do tricks and maneuvers in a river hole or standing wave. Competitors do tricks such as loops, spins and tricky-woos while trying to combo the moves together to accumulate points based by style, difficulty and how “huge” the moves are.

Freestyle began in the early 90’s when P.T. Wood, our 2010 Commodore, organized the first Whitewater Rodeo held in conjunction with FIBArk. The paddlers attempted to stay in a “wave” on the river and perform such maneuvers as endos – putting the boat vertical in the water – or doing spins. The first Rodeos and Endo Competitions were held at Endo Rock in The Numbers rapids above Salida, but since 1996 the FIBArk Freestyle Competitions have been held in Salida at the FIBArk Boat Ramp.

Since 1994, the Whitewater Freestyle competition has been part of the FIBArk festivities. With the development of small, light kayaks paddlers are able to perform acrobatics in the water. The boaters must complete feats, such as standing on end and spins to accumulated points. In 1998, the FIBArk Freestyle contest gained national ranking. “Trophy moves” are scored on style, variety and the ability to do moves in either direction.