Kayak Session Issue 97 - Print Edition

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Table of Contents KS 97, SPRING 2026

MISSION: MUKSU - WHEN HIGH-WATER KAYAKING TURNS INTO HIGH-STAKES CLIMBING 

Fulfilling a dream is rarely easy. For the past decade, Czech adventure photographer David Sodomka has had his eyes on completing the Triple Crown of the Soviet Union with the descent of the Muksu River in Tajikistan, one of the world’s hardest and most remote runs. But once in the isolated canyon, the crew faced higher water than expected, turning the crux into a brutal, windswept climbing mission that pushed the entire team to their limits.

EXPERIENCE: SHARING THE RIVER – PASSING THE TORCH DOWN THE GRAND CANYON

What better place than the Grand Canyon to show children what kayaking and river culture are truly about? In August 2025, a crew of whitewater veterans from Germany and Great Britain traveled down the Colorado River with friends, children, and family. For twelve days, they shared knowledge, joy, trust, laughs, stories, and, more importantly, the very essence of river culture: respect. Twelve days none of them will ever forget.

EXPLORE: ISEL DURCHBRUCH - A BACKYARD WHITEWATER GEM IN THE AUSTRIAN ALPS

The Alps hold some of the finest whitewater in the world. Located in Osttirol, the Isel Durchbruch is one of those backyard whitewater gems that often gets overlooked. In September 2025, Kristof Stursa, Andi Haberländer, and Jacques Gilardone finally crossed this canyon off the list. What they found was a remarkable whitewater playground: technical drops, tight rapids, and serious rope work with multiple rappels.

INTERVIEW: OWEN DOYLE 

Raised in a ski resort and once bound for the racing circuit, Owen Doyle took a different line and never looked back. A carpenter by trade and whitewater obsessive by nature, he is the kind of character who gives this sport its edge. Owen has earned a reputation as one of the most formidable kayakers out there, fusing raw power, effortless steeze, and serious nerves. But what really sets him apart is the man behind the paddle: grounded, humble, and fiercely independent.

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