Wildside Relay: Columbia River Gorge

Imagine linking a half dozen perfectly formed 4-foot waves, 30 knot winds at your back, warm, fresh water spraying off your bow…. For 21-miles! THIS is Wildside Relay on the Columbia River Gorge.

This past weekend, 39 teams of outrigger canoes, surfskis and Stand-Up paddle boards gathered for the annual surf fest. And let me tell you, the Gorge did not let us down!!! Winds started early, allowing beautifully formed, frothy waves to build along the entire race course.

It was awesome to see a sea of Kialoa paddles and shirts and a treat to run into Meg Chun, smiling as always and stoked for the epic race-day conditions!

My husband and I teamed up in the surfski division and whooped and hooted down wave face after wave face to a 6th overall finish, and the first (and only) mixed surfski team.

Although for the race I was in a ski, I couldn’t resist bringing my SUP down to the Gorge for a few downwind runs in paradise!!! I’ve been home for three days now, and still can’t wipe the silly grin off my face!

If you haven’t checked out the Columbia River Gorge yet, my advice is “Go!” You’re in for a huge treat!!!!

Happy Paddling!!!

Heather Nelson