GEORGIAN GOLD KAYAKING THE CROSSROADS OF EUROPE AND ASIA

Balanced between Western Europe and Eastern Asia, Georgia is an intersection of landscapes and cultures. From green valleys and vineyards to arid mountains and snowy peaks, the country is peppered with towns steeped in ancient history and religion. But it’s the whitewater that brings a team of Czech and Slovakian kayakers to Georgia in the spring of 2016. In this diverse country they find gorges, big water, continuous creeks and spectacular views. More than that, they find friendly locals ready to share their country, food, culture and whitewater.

Words and photography: David Sodomka

Landing in Tibilisi, the capital of Georgia, the Boeing 737 bounces well off the runway several times before solidly connecting with the ground. David Sodomka (CZ), Jan Lásko (CZ), Eva Lásko (SVK), Jan Kolář (CZ), and Tom Andrassy (SVK) look at each other, wide-eyed. The jerky, unorthodox landing is their first introduction to Georgia, and they hope it is not an indication of how their whitewater adventure will unfold over the next two weeks. Standing in front of the baggage carousel,the Czech and Slovakian kayakers feel welcomed to the country as Georgians ask questions about kayaking or quietly stare at the bright plastic boats and piles of gear. Heading outside into the chaos of taxis and crowds, Sodomka spots a solitary figure, standing still as a statue. Through the throng of…

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Kayak Session (Digital) - 1 Issue, Winter 2016

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