Extreme white water kayaking: The evolution of the North Fork Championship

After two years of covering this event, I decided to produce a long-form story that is highlighted by the legend Rob Lesser who first ran this river back in 1977. The North Fork Championship brings the best kayakers from all over the world to Idaho and the Payette River.

[@pbuehner]

great coverage.

[@thomasstillman4805]

My friend, ,Marc Alexander, and I pioneered Ocean Wave Kayaking with plastic Hollowform kayaks back in 1975.

[@tankmaster1018]

Man what I wouldn't give to meet Rob Lesser and shake his hand... Its gotta be the craziest feeling ever for him to see what the river he pioneered has grown into directly as a result of his courage and unbelievable paddling skill back in 77. Still seems like the most humble and easy going guy ever. What an absolute legend! Great video Steve

[@nicholassutcliffe3994]

Great job on this piece, Steve. I was paddling up on the South Fork a couple of weeks before the championship this spring and have been meaning to go look for some decent video coverage ever since. I'm delighted to have found your report. Your interview with Rob Lesser gives historical context to this insanely challenging event. Thanks for taking the time to do it. Once the paddling season dies down, I hope more people get to watch it.