Rescue Rodeo is a highly-rated one-day course, taught on the Hiwassee River by TVCC’s very own Team Safety. It is designed to give new and less-experienced paddlers some basic river rescue skills and make you a more confident boater! We put this event on each year in the middle of paddling season just for you.  

It works and it’s fun!

This course is usually held in late July.

2025 Date TBD

Class Schedule

All classes are taught in a “challenge by choice” style. 

Students are assigned to small groups, typically 5-6 students and 3 support boaters. 

Training is conducted at a series of stations along the river where various skills are first demonstrated before students are afforded to opportunity to practice and learn under the watchful eyes of Instructors and Safety Boaters. 

• Basic plan is: 
  • 7:30 - 11 AM      Land-based classes
  • 11- 11:30 AM    Grab a quick lunch 
  • 11:30 AM             Shuttles depart for river
  • Noon- 4 PM        On river training in your assigned small group.
• Bring all your paddling gear or make your own arrangements to borrow what you need.  Required gear:
  • Boat,
  • Paddle
  • PFD
  • Helmet
  • Spray skirt (kayaks only; not necessary for open boaters)
    
• You will also need to bring: Snacks (on river), sunscreen, plenty of hydration
• Each group will paddle to different training stations on the river and practice the planned rescue skill(s) at each station 
• At the end of the day there will be an awards ceremony, TVCC-provided dinner, and lies will be swapped till it gets late!