Due to the need for timeliness in making a decision on the location for this year’s event, the USRA elected to forego a public bid application process for the next two years only.
A public bid application process will go into effect when selecting the 2010, and 2011 venues, just as soon as the USRA amends and approves the bylaws in this area. The USRA has decided that the 2009 event will be hosted in Maryland. The USRA made an internal decision for the next two nationals events so that event coordinators, organizers, and sponsors could effectively and thoroughly promote and manage the event in a comprehensive manner.
The board intends to have a communicative Web site up shortly. Questions, suggestions, volunteers, interested sponsors, etc, will be able to communicate through that site once it is online. In the interim, the USRA asks that all interested persons get the word out and attend the PBR Idaho Nationals event.
Six-person paddle raft teams, men’s and women’s, will compete in sprint, slalom, and downriver races to determine who will represent the USA at the World Championships which will be held in Bosnia in May of 2009. Please refer to the IRF website for more specific rules regarding paddle raft competition.
Additionally, PBR event coordinators have indicated that they will include a cataraft division for their event. There will also be a variety of kayaking events at the PBR. Those events do not fall under the USRA umbrella at this time.
This is an exciting time in the world of whitewater paddling and it’s supportive communities. The USRA humbly asks that all are patient with as they develop our infrastructure and we certainly welcome all forms of positive energy and support.