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On Saturday, August 30, whitewater enthusiasts from across the United States will descend on the Adventure Sports Center International (ASCI) for the US National Whitewater Slalom Championships. This is the nation’s largest whitewater competition which will feature 80 to 100 athletes including former Olympians and National US Slalom paddlers vying for the title of National Champion.

This will be the first whitewater competition held after the 2008 Summer Olympics and several US Olympians, two of whom are former ASCI staffers, are expected to compete. “It will be a great opportunity to meet the Olympic Whitewater racing team, fresh off their appearance in Beijing,” said Jesse Shimrock, Marketing Director for the complex.

The race is a one-day event that involves two race runs for each competitor, the results of which will determine the 2008 National Champion in four different categories. In a slalom, racing gates are placed in challenging locations along the course, both up and down stream. Racers must make their way through the gates using a series of acrobatic looking maneuvers.

Admission for spectators is free and there will be a variety of vendors set up at the facility along with food and beverages available for sale. There will also be activities for children and families. After the event, the festival-like atmosphere continues with live music. Local business owners interested in being a vendor for the day should contact ASCI and of course, event sponsors are always welcome.