White-water rodeo Saturday

POST FALLS – Boasting some of the best white water on the Spokane River, Corbin Park near Post Falls is a kayakers paradise, with a play wave that is especially fun when the river is flowing above 16,000 cubic feet per second.

Boater Steve Bailey felt the park and its waves were begging for “a casual, fun local rodeo,” so he’s organized the First Annual Corbin Kickoff, set for noon Saturday. The higher water levels are not the best for beginners, but even if you don’t get in the water there will be plenty of networking opportunities and chances to learn about white-water gear and safety and have your questions answered.

The kickoff will feature clinics for hard-shell kayaks and demonstrations from a wide variety of manufacturers. Mountain Gear will show off boats from Jackson. Mountain Goat will demonstrate and show Wave Sport and Dagger boats. Rapid Sport will bring in the Liquid Logic line, and there will be Drago Rossi models from Tony Zaneti, and Prijon’s from Kayak Coeur d’Alene.

If you’re ready to give a boat the wet test, Flow Adventures will be on hand to conduct clinics.

“Sign a waiver and away you go,” said Bailey, a Spokane firefighter.

Spokane River Rescue is a new business that teaches safety. Representatives will offer question-and-answer sessions of anything related to river safety.

For those looking for a group to join in order to get out on the water, the Spokane Canoe and Kayak Club and Northwest Whitewater Association will have representatives on hand to explain their respective clubs.

Friends of the Falls, the promoters of Spokane’s proposed white-water park, will have updated information on the status of the proposed play spot, located near the Sandifur Bridge in downtown Spokane.

The free event kicks off at noon and runs until 6 p.m., concluding with a barbecue. The public is invited.