2007 was THE year for Jesse Coombs. He made so many kayaking first descents in foreign countries that National Geographic named him a 2007 adventure hero. But Jesse's life encompasses much more than kayaking. He is also an award-winning cinematographer. A local boy, Jesse attended Oregon State University and graduated with an engineering degree, an MBA, and then spent 10 years in corporate America. This man's resume is beyond stellar.
Jesse says that he bases his kayaking on his life values: family, fun, honesty, integrity, stewardship, athleticism, a life without drugs and a driving passion to achieve excellence.
We, here at White Water Warehouse are especially proud of Jesse since he purchased some of his first boating equipment from us in 1998. Jesse talks about the start of his incredible life journey. "What got me interested in boating were multi-sport competitions. My first kayaking race was the Mill City triathlon and I did it in a Tahiti (inflatable kayak). I took OSU kayaking classes and was completely hooked from that point forward. What has held my interest is a bit more complex, but it comes down to the following basics: I love nature and rivers are so unique in their perspective. I love athleticism and kayaking is always presenting new athletic challenges--it is such a thrill to feel the power of the water and work with it. I also love the friendships of kayaking, I LOVE the travel that kayaking encourages us to do...I just love the whole kayaking lifestyle."
Jesse's legacy is deeper than kayaking. Recently, he established the The Jesse Coombs Foundation. The Foundation's mission is to "positively influence youth to choose a life free of drugs." Click on the link above to learn more about the Coombs Foundation.
If you are interested in reviewing the story that National Geographic wrote about Jesse's adventure hero award, click here.
We are proud of Jesse and his accomplishments. In our eyes, he is a hero in so many ways that go beyond boating. And better yet, he is an all-around swell person.
Photo credits: Darin McQuoid & Eric Jackson
