Urban Kayaking- The Next Extreme Olympic Sport?

The components creating a unique Pacific Northwest style experience fueled by adrenaline are simple. It involves watercraft and concrete, a limited amount of common sense, and a willingness to trespass —then hold on for the wild ride. Add sunshine into the mix, and game on!

A pair of urban or at least suburban kayakers took full advantage of the steep terrain and breathtaking views surrounding Lions Bay, British Columbia, a small settlement 8 miles to the north west of Vancouver, to successfully navigating a creek flowing down a steep hillside before being abruptly introduced to the chilly turquoise waters of the Howe Sound. The YouTube account of GoPro cameras, features this video profiling the breakneck speeds and crazy maneuvers of the men tussling to gain the competitive advantage of winning the race from the trees to the sea.

The nearly 800 foot drop in just less of half a mile propelled the dynamic duo to a peak speeds of over 45 miles per hour, as they risked bumps, bruises and breaks in hurling down Alberta Creek. Luckily for the thrill seekers, the creek flows over molded concrete creating the optimal water park style speed chute facilitating the abrupt final plunge into the calm maritime environment. Just don’t fall out on the way down.

Ironically, Lions Bay is located along the main route leading to Whistler resort, which played host to the Winter Olympics in 2010. In a region burgeoning with outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking,  mountain biking, and white water sports, just maybe the urban kayakers can lobby the IOC for inclusion in the next edition of the games.