First Descents is a free, seven-day kayak camp for young adults with cancer. Started by professional kayaker and Nike ACG athlete Brad Ludden, First Descents uses kayaking and other outdoor activities to help campers face challenges and overcome obstacles associated with living with cancer in a fun and supportive environment. First Descents camps are designed to be inspirational, educational and above all, fun. It's an ideal escape for young adults struggling with the challenges of cancer. Here's a glimpse of a day at First Descents: Morning Mornings at the camp feature a hearty breakfast followed by a presentation by a professional athlete. Past speakers include: Sean Swarner, First cancer survivor to summit Everest Sara Will, 12-time Paralympic gold medallist, women's world champion disabled skier Picabo Street, Olympic gold medallist skier Amy Van Dyken, Olympic swimmer, 6-time medallist Tom Rouen, Denver Bronco Ellen Miller, Everest climber and adventure racer Chris Anthony, world extreme skiing champion Barrett Christy - US Women's Olympic Snowboard Team, winningest athlete in winter X Games history Day Days at First Descents include one or two outdoor activities highlighting the best of Colorado's Rocky Mountains. Kayaking: Taught by professionally certified instructors, campers spend two sessions on a flat-water pond and then two days on the scenic Colorado River. All equipment is provided and thanks to generous support from Dagger, campers can try out the latest kayak designs. Rafting: An experienced outfitter guides campers through the thrilling Class III rapids of the Colorado River in spectacular Glenwood Canyon. Horseback Riding: Campers experience the Colorado backcountry the old-fashioned way, on the back of a horse. A professional outfitter leads campers on a scenic trail ride and afterwards campers test their roping skills and cowboy lingo at a real working ranch. Challenge Course: Campers build their strength and confidence in themselves, and one another on a course that includes obstacles such as the Trust Fall, the Mohawk Walk, the Initiative Wall and the Wild Woosey. Hiking: Campers enjoy short, but spectacular guided hikes providing unbelievable views of several surrounding mountain ranges. Sightseeing: Campers have the opportunity to explore the famous pedestrian villages of Vail. Night Days are busy at First Descents, so the nights are designed to be relaxed and easy. Most evenings feature home-cooked meals followed by movies, games or just plain lounging.
