Noted local kayaker Jeff West was killed Sept. 11 while attempting a solo run down the Class V-VI rapids of the Grand Canyon of the Stikine River in British Columbia. West, 42, was widely known throughout the kayaking community in Southeast Tennessee, and he introduced many boaters to the sport through ACE Kayaking School, which he founded and ran in Ocoee, Tenn. West’s death has had a profound impact on the local kayaking community. This is just a small sample of the tributes to West’s life and legacy.
REFLECTIONS OF WEST
“I knew him for 15 years and paddled with him for probably 13 years, and it’s just hard to sum him up. He was really larger than life in a lot of ways. You knew that when you were paddling with him, and you knew that when you watched him teach and interact with the community. He was just a really fine individual.”– Chris Townsend, longtime friend and kayaker
“With the passing of Jeff, there is now a huge void in the southeastern kayaking community that won’t close anytime soon. He introduced thousands of people to the sport over the years through ACE Kayaking School, was continually and safely pushing the boundaries of what was possible in a creek boat, and owned a legendary status within the community; all while being the most kind and humble badass you ever met. He was a hero to many and the Ocoee River, or really any river for that matter, will never be the same without him. A friend put it best by saying, “We’ve lost a friend, but gained a River God,” and that couldn’t be more true.” – Charlie Mix, kayaker and friend
“Jeff’s death is a tragedy. He was unusually charismatic and used that charisma to inspire people to overcome their fears so they could discover and appreciate the joy of whitewater paddling, and in doing so, could live more fulfilling lives. He was also a one-man magnet to the river, and the county economy’s going to take a hit from losing him.” – Longtime friend who asked to remain nameless