Adventure of the Week: Wet and wild weekend in Reno

If you thought downtown Reno was all about casinos, think again. The opening five years ago of a $1.5 million whitewater kayak course on a downtown stretch of the Truckee River has breathed new life into a district that will be jammed with outdoors enthusiasts this weekend as the fifth annual Reno River Festival paddles into town.

Some of the top whitewater athletes in the world are scheduled to compete May 9 through 11, among them hometown favorite Jay Kincaid, 2008 freestyle champion Eric Jackson, reigning women's champion Ruth Gordon and 2007 challenger Tanya Faux.

Events include pro and amateur divisions of boater-cross, in which multiple paddlers charge down a 100-yard course; and freestyle contests in which participants perform nose stands, spins, squirts and other maneuvers while making their way through Class II and III rapids.

Spectators inspired by what they see can register for free whitewater clinics on Saturday and Sunday. The first-come, first-served classes (sign up on site) will serve paddlers of all ability levels, from "never-ever" beginners to intermediates wanting to practice roll skills to advanced playboaters focusing on technique. In addition, special-access clinics will be offered for the mobility-impaired.

About 37,000 spectators turned out for last year's festival. Extra events scheduled this year are expected to attract an even larger crowd.

Sure to provoke laughs is the festival's first out-of-water event, a Run Amuck relay in which participants are encouraged to dress in costume as they race through a giant mud pit and negotiate other obstacles while carrying a bar of soap that serves as a team baton.

Also on tap is Street Rapids, a mountain-bike speed trial event focusing on bike handling skills. Participants in open, pee wee, amateur and professional invitational divisions will race a 750-foot course studded with man-made and natural obstacles.

In the market for a kayak, canoe or maybe just some summer sandals? Dozens of vendors will showcase their wares at the festival's Outdoor Expo. In addition, six bands will play, food vendors and a beer garden will be waiting and free riverside yoga classes will be offered at 9:30 each morning of the event.

It all takes place at Wingfield Park in Reno's downtown Riverwalk district. Check the festival Web site, www.RenoRiverFestival.com, for parking and event registration details.