The Whitewater Line

Dane Jackson is one of the most accomplished and exciting whitewater kayakers of his generation. The GOAT! In this episode, Dane joins us for a wide-ranging conversation about growing up in one of kayaking’s most influential families, developing his own identity within the sport, competing at the highest level and constantly searching for the next challenge. We explore the mindset behind tackling massive whitewater, the balance between risk and preparation, what continues to motivate him after years of success, and how he keeps progressing while still holding onto the pure enjoyment that first drew him to kayaking. From world championship competition to remote rivers, enormous waterfalls and life on the road, Dane shares an honest look at the experiences, decisions and passion behind an extraordinary career. A brilliant conversation for paddlers, adventurers and anyone interested in what it takes to perform at the highest level while continuing to push beyond what seems possible.

The rulebook is changing, and if you're involved in freestyle kayaking, this is an episode you need to hear. In this episode of The Whitewater Line, we sit down with Charlie Brackpool to unpack the latest updates to the ICF Canoe Freestyle competition rules and appendix. From new scoring opportunities and recently recognised moves to competition format updates, judging considerations, trophy and style changes, and much more, Charlie breaks down what athletes, coaches, judges, and organisers need to know moving forward. We discuss why these changes have been introduced, how they could influence competition strategy, and what they mean for the future direction of freestyle kayaking on the world stage. Whether you're chasing podiums, judging events, organising competitions, or simply passionate about the sport, this conversation provides valuable insight into some of the biggest developments in freestyle competition in recent years. And make sure you stay right until the end of the episode, where Charlie shares a major announcement that could have a significant impact on the future of freestyle kayaking. Tune in and get up to speed on the changes shaping the next chapter of our sport.

In this episode of The Whitewater Line, we sit down with sisters MK and Mary Claire Hargrove from team USA at the World Cup in Millau France to talk about a life built around rivers, adventure, and family. From their first days on the water to travelling the world for freestyle kayaking, the Hargrove sisters share the story of how paddling became such a huge part of their lives. We dive into balancing school, studies, travel, competition, and the challenges that come with chasing big goals on the international stage. MK reflects on her journey to becoming World Champion, including the unforgettable moment of standing atop the podium and receiving her gold medal from her brother — a family moment that made the achievement even more special. Beyond competition, we explore the incredible work the Hargrove family has done with Team River Runner, helping veterans discover the healing power of paddlesports and the outdoors. We also discuss the creation of the Southeast Freestyle Tour, their efforts to grow the sport, and why building opportunities for the next generation of paddlers is so important. This is a conversation about family, community, adventure, service, and what it means to give back to the sport that has given so much in return. Whether you're a freestyle kayaker, whitewater enthusiast, or simply love stories of dedication and adventure, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

In this special episode from the Freestyle Kayaking World Championships, we spotlight the Development Squad with three inspiring voices. Athletes from Uganda and Kenya share the stories behind the growing whitewater and kayak scenes in their countries — from local rivers and challenges to the passion driving progress. Development Program Coordinator Valerie Bertrand joins to explain what the Development Squad is all about, its goals, and how it supports emerging talent on the global stage. A must-listen for anyone interested in the future of freestyle kayaking and the sport’s worldwide growth.

Join two of the most influential American C1 freestyle paddlers of the modern era—2023 ICF Freestyle World Champion Seth Chapelle and multiple-time world champion Jordan Poffenberger—as they dive deep into the world of high-level whitewater canoe freestyle. From epic training sessions on U.S. rivers to the daily grind of balancing family life, careers (Seth as an ER nurse!), and relentless practice, these legends share what it really takes to compete at the highest level.   Seth opens up about finally shattering his long-standing “world championships curse” at the 2023 ICF Freestyle Worlds in Columbus, Georgia—his ninth time on the global stage—snatching gold with an unforgettable final ride (858.33 points) in front of a roaring crowd of friends and family. He recounts the surreal emotion of achieving a dream he’s chased since he was a kid, the pressure of past near-misses (silver in 2015, multiple fourths), and the pure joy of going all-in when he had “nothing to lose.”   Jordan brings his veteran perspective with multiple world titles (including his second in 2019) and decades of dominance alongside icons like Dane Jackson, breaking down the evolution of C1 moves, surface tricks, and what keeps him hungry after years at the top. Together they talk paddling adventures, off-season hobbies, raising kids around the sport, and the future of freestyle canoeing.   Packed with raw stories and whitewater wisdom, this episode is essential listening for any paddler chasing big goals—or anyone who loves tales of perseverance, family support, and crushing it on the river. Whether you’re into C1, OC1, or just love extreme sports, these two USA powerhouses deliver the real talk.  

In this episode of The Whitewater Line, we sit down with Tom Dunphy, Irish whitewater freestyle kayaker, and Matt, team manager for Team Ireland. Together, they take us through the story of freestyle kayaking in Ireland — from the early days on local rivers to international competitions and the growth of the Irish paddling scene. It’s a chat full of river stories, community vibes, and a look at how far the sport has come (and where it’s heading next). Whether you’ve been in a boat for years or just love a good adventure story, this one’s all about passion, progress, and paddling in Ireland. Recorded live from the World Championships

Recorded live at the World Freestyle Championships, this episode of The Whitewater Line brings together legendary paddler Eric Jackson and head judge Charlie Brackpool for an unfiltered conversation on the sport’s past, present, and future. Eric shares stories from his decades at the forefront of whitewater freestyle—how his boat designs reshaped the game, and how his family became inseparable from the sport. Charlie breaks down the judging side: from how judges are trained and graded, to scoring systems, bonus rules, and the role of technology in modern competition. Together, they pull back the curtain on team culture, behind-the-scenes stories, and where freestyle is headed next. With support from Mason Hargrove, this is a rare chance to hear two of freestyle’s most influential voices trade insights at the very heart of the action.

They’re the first Indian women to compete in freestyle canoe on the world stage — and they’re just getting started. From remote rivers to Germany’s whitewater, Naina Adhikari and Devi Dada are rewriting what’s possible. As part of the ICF development camp, Naina and Devi represented India at the ICF Canoe Freestyle World Championships in Plattling — a historic first. Coming from communities with little exposure to paddle sports, they’ve overcome logistical, cultural, and financial barriers to rise to the international level. Their journey is one of passion and perseverance, but also purpose: Naina is now leading “Ganga Girls,” a grassroots initiative teaching kayaking to underprivileged girls in India — using the river as a tool for empowerment and change. This episode is about more than medals. It’s about breaking stereotypes, inspiring a generation, and creating new currents of opportunity.   -Update, Devi Dada has a new freestyle kayak from Spade Kayaks in India. What an amazing result and we also thank Denk Outdoor for supplying fantastic gear for the development camp.