Serac Adventure Film School is back at the Teva Mountain Games in Vail, Colorado for another exciting year of adventure film. On day one, students filmed world class kayakers paddling Homestake Creek's technical class IV rapids.
Students began the day bright and early at the race venue just outside Minturn, Colorado. The river staging area was packed with fully sponsored vehicles, world-renowned kayakers, and a full array of excited spectators (and river dogs). Expectations were high, competitiors were focused, and soon the race was on!
Kayakers dropped into the quarter-mile course ready to face rapids like Leap of Faith and Piece of S**t. Despite fast water and high flows, the rules were simple- the best time wins. Many kayakers opted to wear elbow protection and full helmets. Big drops and sharp rocks meant the potential for injury was high. A full safety crew lined the entire course ready for rescue.
Serac Adventure Film School
students were on hand to capture the entire race on film. Students enjoyed all access VIP press passes getting up close and personal with the world's best paddlers. Many students were able to wear PFD's (Personal Flotation Devices) and film at the rivers edge. Big whitewater was only a few feet away.
Serac Adventure Films instructors Michael Brown, Ryan Ross, Michael Herbener, CJ Carter, Ashley Weller, Kate Mason, Sharyn Smith, and Tyler Jones spent the day assisting students with every aspect of adventure filmmaking. Topics included white balance, exposure, camera angles, interview techniques, story telling, and shooting with a purpose.
After all was said and done, the race had imparted its fair share of mayhem, including shattered kayaks and injured collar bones. Two champions emerged. Nikki Kelly and Mike Dawson walked away with the 2009 Bud Light Lime Steep Creek Championship presented by Jackson Kayaks. The two champions will undoubtedly have fierce competition next year defending their titles.
After the action subsided, students headed back to a private editing room at the Antler's at Vail to digitize and log their footage. Ultimately each student will have a finished film to be shown at their own film festival.
Article by: Tyler Jones
Photos by: C.J. Carter
Film by: Kate Mason and Tyler Jones
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