US Olympic Slalom Trials at the Newly Opened Riversport Rapids OKC.

Words & Photos by Tom Dunning.

Oklahoma may be known more for its rich American western history and tornadoes but now it can also be known for its whitewater rafting & kayaking center Riversport Rapids OKC.

The best whitewater slalom paddlers in the USA came to Oklahoma City May 7th and 8th for the US Olympic team trials. The event was the first held at the new center located in the city’s Boathouse District which is a short walk from downtown Oklahoma City. The $45 million venue was designed by former Olympian Scott Shipley and will offer the public both whitewater rafting and kayaking.

Among the competitors in Oklahoma City were Olympic qualifiers Michal Smolen in Men’s K1 and Casey Eichfeld in Men’s C1 and top American paddlers Dana Mann and Ashlee Nee in Women’s K1; Eichfeld and Devin McEwan in Men’s C2 and Sage Donnelly in Women’s C1.

Other top performers included Richard Powell and Tyler Uthus in Men’s K1; Anna Ifarraguerri in Women’s K1 and Zach Lokken and Tad Dennis in Men’s C1.

Hundreds of fans attended the first ever whitewater kayak and canoe trials held in this part of the United States.

Watch the full results: HERE.