The Camp Cup Challenge, a whitewater paddling event involving nine of western North Carolina's summer camps will meet for two days of competition on two courses on the Nantahala River.
The event is an opportunity for young paddlers to meet each other and paddle together, and features a slalom race below the NOC Outfitter's Store and a downriver race through Nantahala Falls. Over 85 young paddlers participated in the 2009 Camp Cup Challenge. The Camp Cup Challenge's return was spearheaded by Sean and Kristin Bierle of the Alzar School, based in Boise, ID. Bierle, an alumna of Camp Greencove, says "It was probably one of my favorite days of camp, and I wanted these campers to have the same experience I had and be exposed to new ways of paddling."
The following camps participate each year: Camp Carolina, Camp Chosatonga, Camp Green Cove, Camp Highrocks, Camp Illahee, Camp Kahdalea, Camp Merrie-Woode, Camp Mondamin and Camp Wayfarer.
Former US Canoe/Kayak Olympian and Director of NOC's Paddling School Wayne Dickert was present to help encourage and coach participants, as well 1992 Olympic gold medallist Joe Jacobi and instructors from Endless River Adventures. According to Dickert, "This event could get huge. I love the concept. It's not about the competition; it's about getting together and boating." Other event sponsors included Keen Footwear and Ovett Brothers Adventure Gear.
This year's Camp Cup Challenge follows the USACK Junior Olympics, July 10–18.
