Paddlers ring in new year on Little Spokane

Neither rain and snow nor ice and cold can stop diehard paddlers from joining in the Spokane Canoe & Kayak Club’s annual New Year’s Day float down the Little Spokane River.

This year was no exception, as the paddlers slid their boats down the snow-covered access road near St. George’s School and launched off an icy ramp. They headed downstream through the forest of naked trees undaunted in their appropriate paddling garb by the chilling drizzle that eventually ensued.

Thermos bottles of hot drinks rejuvenated the group at a mid-float break.

But most of the paddlers agree it’s the post-float potluck dinner that ultimately brings them in and out of the cold ever New Years Day.

Get a flavor for the float in the accompanying amateur video by club member Julie Titone of Pullman.

New Year’s Day 2010, Little Spokane River from Julie Titone on Vimeo.

Neither rain and snow nor ice and cold can stop diehard paddlers from joining in the Spokane Canoe & Kayak Club’s annual New Year’s Day float down the Little Spokane River.

This year was no exception, as the paddlers slid their boats down the snow-covered access road near St. George’s School and launched off an icy ramp. They headed downstream through the forest of naked trees undaunted in their appropriate paddling garb by the chilling drizzle that eventually ensued.

Thermos bottles of hot drinks rejuvenated the group at a mid-float break.

But most of the paddlers agree it’s the post-float potluck dinner that ultimately brings them in and out of the cold ever New Years Day.

Get a flavor for the float in the accompanying amateur video by club member Julie Titone of Pullman.

New Year’s Day 2010, Little Spokane River from Julie Titone on Vimeo.