After an amazing weekend in Moab and Arches National Park, I have to update my last blog about "Raft for the Cure."  What a success it was, not to mention fun!!!

"Raft for the Cure," like it's sister event "Race for the Cure," raises money for *** cancer research.   Kudos to the Moab Adventure Center for coming up with the idea to take the effort to the river.  The MAC leads rafting tours along the Colorado River, and they approached the Susan G. Komen Foundation with the idea to donate half of their proceeds on a busy summer Saturday to the cause. 

For the first year, they did an amazing job, selling out every spot on their full-day and half-day trips.  My husband and I joined the afternoon half-day excursion.  (Fortunately I had called a few days early and reserved two spots or we would have been too late!)  Having never rafted before, we were very excited but not sure just what it would entail.   We hopped a bus and drove along the river for about a half an hour to Rocky Rapids, where we waited for our boats to arrive.  They offered 2-person kayaks, 10-person paddle boats or larger oar boats that are powered by the guides.   We ended up in an oar boat with a guide named Ryan, who was great fun and provided plenty of stories about the history and geology of the river along the way.

With temps above 100 degrees, we were delighted when at several points along the route he told us we could jump in and swim if we wanted.  "Swim" meant jump in the water, hang onto your life vest, lay back and let the current carry you along.  It was so refreshing on a hot day.

We met some great people on our boat ... several of whom had also driven down from Salt Lake City for the event.  We also met Betty, a 16-year *** cancer survivor, who knew better than any of us how important the foundation is.

The guides thought of everything ... from all the food and supplies for a tasty lunch on a beach along the route ... to life vests and plenty of cool water... to popsicles for all the hot and exhausted rafters on the bus ride back into Moab.

Back at the Moab Adventure Center parking lot, there were raffles of items donated by local businesses and sale prices on some great outdoor equipment and apparel. In the evening, a barbecue and concert featuring local bands rounded out a perfect day.  

Congratulations to the Moab Adventure Center for a wonderful event for the community.  I'm glad I was able to take part, and I hope you do it again next year.  I'll do my best to be there, and we'll hope for some great rapids!