SEPTEMBER 2, 2010 ISSUE
First Descent of Linville Falls
Pat Keller, 24, boldly made the first descent of Linville Falls last Tuesday, August 24. The triple-tiered waterfall has been eyed by many experienced kayakers over the years, but the intimidating upper drop had been, until now, thought to be un-runable.
During Keller's descent the upper waterfall (partially obscured in photo) proved to be the most difficult and nearly ended with disastrous consequences.
“In the entrance slide, I thought to myself, ‘You've wanted to do this your whole life, you better get it right,’” Keller said.
Keller briefly lost his paddle and then recovered it, and he was left a little bruised from his kayak’s impact with the water on such large drops.
As excited as Keller and many others in the outdoor sports community of Western North Carolina were when first hearing of his descent of Linville Falls, the National Park Service isn't feeling the same way.
Keller's descent violated several laws, and he has been charged with multiple misdemeanors, all of which, if convicted, could result in up to $5,000 in fines and the possibility of jail time for Keller.
For Keller’s take on the story, click to www.teamdagger.com/profiles/blogs/the-day-of-a-lifetime.
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