The 2007 Class of Honorees joins past inductees as part of whitewater paddling’s rich history. IWHoF is pleased to announce the four IWHoF Honorees. The 2007 International Whitewater Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony was held at the Nantahala Outdoor Center in Bryson City, North Carolina.
Read the full profiles of each of these honorees by clicking on their names.
William Nealy
William Nearly, heralded as “Whitewater’s Poet Laureate,” was one of the best known ambassadors of the sport. He brought a self-deprecating sense of humor and wealth of practical knowledge to all of his work.
William (Bill) T. Endicott
Bill Endicott vastly influenced whitewater slalom in the U.S. and internationally for thirty years.
Walt Blackadar
Walt changed the face of kayaking in the 1970s from a conservative slalom philosophy in the U.S. to a “go get it” whitewater attitude. Not only did he develop a U.S. style and technique for big whitewater, but he created the hype and popularity becoming the basis for today’s whitewater stars.
Tony Prijon, Sr.
Tony’s touch as a designer has impacted more than 45 years of the world of whitewater as few others have. Given his and the sport’s focus on competition, much of the efforts of his company revolved around slalom and wildwater.
Richard Fox
Richard Fox is a decorated slalom paddler, and the innovator of smooth slalom techniques emulated by many and was the first to use a double torque kayak paddle during the ’89 World Championships.
Cathy Hearn
Cathy began her two-decade winning career in international competition with an unprecedented three gold medals (1979 World Championship) in slalom, slalom team, and wildwater team events.