Europe's hottest new whitewater trend—Riverbugging—has come to Canada. Try out a Riverbug this May at Rapid's Palmer Fest whitewater weekend.

Riverbugs have come to Canada thanks to Trailhead store of Ottawa, where they will soon be available for purchase. For a video and more info on Riverbug pricing and options, see the blog we wrote about the new craft in December.

Now Palmer Fest participants can be some of the first in North America to paddle a Riverbug. Take advantage of this unique opportunity to get a lesson from the man who pioneered the Riverbug, New Zealander Don Allairdice.

Don will be offering an Introductory Riverbug Clinic in the morning and afternoon Saturday May 22 and a morning clinic Sunday May 23rd. There will also be a downriver run for those interested in receiving an advanced clinic and ’‘level one instructors certificate’ in Riverbug Running.

The Introductory Riverbug Clinic is a fun-oriented 2 hours. We will cover basic Riverbugging techniques for running class 2-3 rapids. This will include paddling techniques, front and back ferries, eddy turns, self rescue and some play moves like surfing and enders to impress your friends.

We will supply a Riverbug, flippers and propulsion gloves. You must be a good swimmer and supply helmet, wetsuit or drysuit, lifejacket with whistle, paddling top, neosocks or booties, plus a 30L dry bag for the downriver trip. These items can be rented at TRAILHEAD, OTTAWA (613-722-4229) and brought to Palmer Fest.

Like all Palmer Fest Clinics the Riverbug am/pm clinics are FREE but the downriver instructor's course is $50.00. Space is limited to 12 participants so enroll early. Palmer Fest registration can be done online at: www.rapidmag.com/about.html

Learn more at www.riverbug.info/www/index.php?Itemid=99