Extreme River Surfing

Time to change lens!

There was a brief lull in the rain this week and of course…I had to check out the American River, so once again I headed to William Pond Park.  I sat down and looked up to see a glimpse of orange on the river, the water flow was rapid where I was sitting and it looked like the kayaker was headed in my direction.  Did what any person would do with a SLR camera–went for a longer lens as he came closer to me!

Balance is important!

I sat and shot numerous frames of this talented young man.  My first thought was that it didn’t seem like a very safe activity.  Frigid and rapid flowing water–even with life jacket and wet suit.  Figured I could call 911 if he went under…continued to watch and shoot madly!

Soon learned as more spectators gathered–he was “surfing” the rapids.  Went for the same location each time and worked swiftly to maintain balance and keep from tipping over.

More surfing!

The good news is that he had a “spotter” on the shore–also with camera that monitored his progress.  As I enjoyed his antics–he must have had 4-5 “rides”.  On one of his trips past me, I couldn’t help but ask him–how long have you been doing this?  “He said, 3-4 years.”

Additional action shots…

Intense concentration!

Down the rapids

Maintaining balance

Riding the wave!

 This just reinforced my passion for photography–not my normal subjects of landscape and nature–but seriously fun to shoot!  Always willing to try new subjects and learn.  These shots were taken with my 70-200mm and hand-held.  Truth be told–couldn’t figure out how to attach my new lens to the tripod at the time.  Was just too engrossed in the action and the “quick release plate” was attached to my camera…thanks to Josh at Ritz who set me right.  Duh!  Do love learning and am frequently humbled by how simple things are!  Will order an additional plate, to keep handy:)  Still laughing at my self–which is a good thing!