Pump up your adrenalin

White water rafting figures in the ‘Things to do before I die,’ list of numerous adventure lovers. You just can’t beat the thrills it offers, especially the unpredictable ones. Anything can happen out on that raft.

“It is the element of discovery and the insights you gain on yourself and how you respond to the challenges in the environment that holds special appeal to both the young and old,” explains adventure tourism promoter Wade Campbell. “The learning never ceases,” he adds.

Rafting, kayaking, rock climbing and mountain biking that are a great way to feel the forces of nature firsthand are increasingly gaining popularity in Sri Lanka among the corporate sector as part of their HR training as well as with adventure lovers. With the ocean, the jungles, wildlife and the hills, the country has a tremendous potential for these sports, much of which has not been utilised.

Equipment for such activities is now available at the country’s first retail store focusing on adventure goods called The Edge. Opened on October 4, the store houses sea kayaks, canoes, paddles, dry bags that keep personal belongings dry even in water, outdoor jackets, backpacks, life jackets, helmets, flash lights, etc. – all the equipment required to enjoy the thrill and excitement of going to the edge and taking risks.

Campbell who also runs the Borderland Adventure Company was puzzled by the absence of such a store. “In a country with over 20 million people and incredible outdoor resources there is not one shop dedicated to adventure sports,” he thought, resolving to fill the gap.

Catering to people who enjoy being outdoors and into adventure sports, the adventure outfitters would also serve as an agency for adventure tours within Sri Lanka, Nepal and tourism in the Himalayas. Imported from Thailand and designed in New Zealand, the equipment is apparently the best in the world.

“Kayaking is perhaps the closest one can come to being one with the river environment. The Kayak is not a boat but an extension of oneself,” the trainers say of the unique experience that Kayaking provides. The Kayaks they sell although manufactured in Sri Lanka are for export only.

So once you have your equipment, where do you start? The Edge offers international expertise to train and conduct workshops on the use of equipment.

Their water-base in Bentota allows buyers to test-run equipment or train; the safety aspect being of paramount importance. “Our focus remains on how to utilize the outdoor environment without destroying it,” the accomplished trainer stresses.

Significantly the availability of such facilities can encourage youth to pursue activities that were hitherto unfamiliar and unavailable to them. Further, it would positively boost tourism. “Adventure tourism is the fastest-growing segment of tourism and Sri Lanka is poised to embrace these activities and do very well,” Campbell remarks.

Tourists apparently are constantly looking for new countries that can offer such sports as it allows them to interact with local people and see some of the spectacular natural sites. The Mahaweli River, the scenic Kitulgala river, Belihul Oya, Sitawaka River or along the coast are among the many perfect spots for such activities within the country.

If you haven’t already experienced the thrill of adventure sports, you are missing something. What better way to benefit from a warm sunny day than to enjoy the thrill and excitement of water sports?