ROGUE RIVER

On August 6, 2009, Taylor Robertson, a U.S. Kayak team member and 18-year veteran of the sport, completed the first-known SUP descent along the Rogue River, located just below Grants Pass in Oregon.

For three days and 35.5 miles, he went along the wild and scenic section of the Rogue on his Surftech 9' board with a single-bladed paddle. His father accompanied him on a raft, photo documenting the adventure.

Taylor stayed up on his board through class III and IV rapids- including Blossom Bar and Mule Creek Canyon.  Surprisingly, Taylor came off only four times for minor class II/III raids.  He chose to portage one, the class V Rainie Falls.  According to Taylor, the eddy lines in Mule Creek were the most difficult to maneuver, with every current and whirlpool working to throw him off his board.

While stand-up paddling continues to gain worldwide popularity and is often associated with another type of body of water, Taylor takes it a step farther as he tests the river and its hydraulics and rocks.  Armed with shin and elbow pads, a Sweet helmet and a life best by Kokatat, Taylor says, "It's a combination of surfing, kayaking and skateboarding.  Class III rapids quickly become class V and you're hoarder hit fallen off your board than rolling in your kayak."

After 18 years in a kayak (12 of them as a sponsored athlete), Taylor has found a new challenge on the river… stand-up style.

GO TO TRIPHOTO.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION ON TAYLOR ROBINSON PHOTOGRAPHY.