Bearskins, Snakes, and Duckies!

 The Ultimate Oregon A team successfully completed their latest challenge-taming the Deschutes River via white water rafts. We heard from the leader's late last night and they reported the following. The rafting trip into the backcountry was a great bonding experience.They had fantastic weather and they seemed to be taking epic plunges into the river during the hottest part of the days. Many of the Expeditioners reported it as their favorite days of the program.  Each day they loaded up their gear in dry bags, boarded the raft and charged class II and III rapids. There were several occasion where the group was allowed to jump of the raft and swim through class II rapids, like the "Bearskin Rapids" Please note: Helmet and life jackets were worn at all times, of course. On the last day of rafting, Sara followed through on her promise to the group and was the first one to go for a swim that day by leaping off a rock and plunging into the river.  Jacob R. was apparently the "Duckie Master" as he successfully navigating 3 sets of Class III rapids without flipping. Jake S and Max were not so lucky as they successfully managed to flip the "Double Duckie"several times. The teamwork during these wipeouts was said to be exceptional. Jacob R. was also known to be a "Wildlife Master" as he caught several non-poisonous snakes and many students held a snake for their first time. The group also began a new tradition on the river of sleeping out under the stars. Their 1st night back on the main land they continued the tradition and will most likely continue to do so whenever the opportunity presents itself. The leaders feel great about the social dynamics and feel like it will only continue to improve the final week of the program !