WAUSAU, Wis. (WSAW) – Whitewater kayaking brings a wave of kayakers down the Wisconsin River. Wausau Whitewater is hosting a recreational outing this weekend.

The predicted release pushes flows from the dam to create whitewater. The release of water also causes a rush of river activity.

“We have a whitewater stream here in downtown Wausau that flows out of a dam. The same dam that provides electricity, a hydroelectric dam,” said Tom Schrader, the event organizer.

The whitewater flow makes it the ideal training course for paddlers.

“We will have around 80 to 120 people showing up. They will practice river racing skills and freestyle techniques, while getting better at the craft,” Schrader said.

Clint Massey and Wille Heindel are experienced kayakers. Massey has been kayaking for 8 years while his friend has been in the sport for 15 years.

“It feels like home, you know. I feel like I’m in nature where I belong,” Heindel said.

Massey said the best part of kayaking in Wausau is being with other kayakers.

“You have a whole group of people kayaking with you and cheering you on. Get into the features, surf and it’s just a huge family atmosphere. It’s a wonderful experience,” Massey said.

Paddlers said kayaking was a great way to train.

“So it’s actually a lot of heart that you use when kayaking. A lot of people think it’s mostly arms, but you’re actually doing a lot of core rotation, so it’s a really good workout for the abs,” Massey said.

The recreational version of Wausau Whitewater isn’t just for advanced kayakers. The weekend is also an opportunity for beginners to get their feet wet.

“It’s about a two and a half hour lesson and it’s $50 for the lesson. So it’s pretty inexpensive and an easy way to get a taste of the sport and see if you like it,” Schrader said.

The next open water event will take place on July 23-24. For more information click here.

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