October 2, 2001
 

Dear Wildwater Racers and Friends:

After a very difficult September for our nation, many Americans return to routine life activities to regain a sense of normalcy amidst incredible loss. We as athletes can take comfort in our own training routines--more sacrosanct to us than any suicide terrorist pact. For those who have lost loved ones and friends, we are thinking of you.

We can bring comfort next spring when we return to the World Championships, as we remember that our role as athlete-ambassadors is perhaps even more important than our performance on the river. I hope we train not with anger or sadness in these months leading up to the race, but for hope of making the team to be a part of the highest possible calling of sport: to improve international understanding and friendship.

And there is good news to report, too. We have a great new Website with expanded resources and a new USACK Wildwater Committee to elect. Write back with your nominees soon!

Michael Beavers
Editor, USAWildwater.com