Take Risks While You Have the Chance (Safely) by Wil Scouten

Taking risks can be nerve wracking for many Keeners, especially when it comes to intimidating features. But avoiding them can lead to missed opportunities and disappointment. The infamous Dragon’s Tongue on the Ottawa River is one of those rapids. It’s known for its reputation as a scary undercut death trap. I first heard about whitewater kayaking when I was five. My dad told stories of all the rivers he’d run, from sketchy slides to the Seven Sisters on the Rouge. He always mentioned the risks, but also talked about how important it was to try new things. That encouragement, however, never extended to Dragon’s Tongue or anything on Garvin’s Chute. He’s never run them. His fear, based mostly on rumours and speculation, shaped my own view. I figured if he wouldn’t run it, I never would either. While it is true that dragons tongue can pose real danger if ran improperly, there are safe ways to do it. I am proof of that, as are many keeners. As of this week I’ve now run Dragon’s Tongue three times. (Albeit some lines more successfully then others) One of the best things about Keeners is learning how to gather information from different people and sources. You’re taught to respect the river, but also to ask questions, to watch, to learn. You get to make some of your own decisions, not just follow fear. Running Dragon’s Tongue wasn’t about being reckless. It was about knowing the risks and deciding to go anyway. Trying something new. Knowing that you could get hurt, but trusting your group and judgment was there to protect you. Keeners has taught me that it’s important to take chances while you have them and can do so with proper safety.