Hometown: Asheville, NC

Sponsors: Dagger,Smith, Palm Equipment, AT

Favorite River: The ones with water

Biography: I grew up near the Nantahala River in Western, NC. My grandparents, Payson and Aurelia Kennedy, helped to co found the Nantahala Outdoor Center and along with my parents continue to work there today. So you might say that I was in this from the beginning. I started kayaking at age 7 and was immediately hooked. I've pursued my kayaking career in many different directions including instruction, coaching, freestyle, extreme racing, creeking, and expedition. I think that part of what I enjoy so much is the many opportunities and ways to get out on the water. I currently live, or at least base, in Asheville, NC and I definitely don't get to spend enough time there!

Results: 2001, 2003, 2007 US Men's Freestyle Team; 2003 World Silver Medallist; 3rd 2002 Ford Gorge Games; 3rd 2004 Vail Freestyle; 3rd 2006 Lyon River Festival; 2nd 2005 Black River Festival; 1st 2005 Ottawa River; 1st 2002 Extrasport Challenge; 1st 2004 Vail Extreme Race; 1st 2004 Vail Boatercross; 1st 2005 North American Championships

Countries visited: Canada, Ecuador, Panama, Chile, Venezuela, Mexico, Europe, Africa, China, New Zealand

AW Testimonial: I support AW because I am a kayaker and as a kayaker I spend time on rivers. AW's work is instrumental in river access, river protection, and securing releases. Without their leadership and organization I wouldn't be able to enjoy many of the rivers that I do. Plus what fun would kayaking be if there weren't any rivers to paddle?