Fear is a very interesting companion.  It can manifest itself in many ways and many forms - sweaty palms, cold fingers, dry throat, a need to run to the nearest washroom.... just to name a few.  But where is all of this fear actually stemming from?  Does it have to do with crazy big holes, undercut rocks, and waterfalls or is it something (or someone) else planting the seeds of fear in our mind?  Read the article and tell us what you think?

"Fear is a great motivator but it is a slippery slope.  Many a river isn't paddled due to pre-river anxiety and that's a shame.  I am not saying don't be afraid, I'm saying don't listen to terrifying tall tales, trash-talking fools and lying locals.  Save your energy for the actual run.  Play safe.  If you get scared, you can almost always walk.  If you still manage to get trashed......"

Read the full Fear article in the Summer 2002 issue of Rapid.