|
This was the most dangerous day for the crew of the African Queen, not because of the rapids, but because we missed the eddy into Matkatamiba Canyon (Mile 148). We were the last boat, Bill was at the oars, and unfortunately the boat bounced off that rock just under the surface at the mouth of the canyon. No problem. I was ready with a throw bag and three strong men were waiting to catch it and pull us into the eddy. But alas the throw bag went about 5 feet and died in the water so we ended up running Matkatamiba Rapid. I just couldn't understand what had happened - I take pride in my side arm throwing skills. It was only hours later when Dane said, "Mom, you know you never apologized for hitting me in the head with the throwbag", that I even realized what went wrong. So I apologized. |
 One last picture for Cindy's Mom Bill and Eric helping us along the ledge |
 At Matkatamiba |
I had been dreaming of visiting Matkatamiba for over ten years, and was not about to miss it this time. So we pulled into the first available eddy and started looking for a way back upstream to the mouth of the canyon. We looked up to see Eric on his way towards us, crawling on all fours along a ledge above the rapid. "Hey, keep your life jackets on and bring the spare one for me," he yelled. So we started our hike to Matkatamiba, trying not to look down at the swirling rapid below us. It was the most terrifying time on the trip for Cindy and I. But we made it up to Matkatamiba fine, and it was everything I knew it would be. |
 Judy and Dane in the waterslide |
 Edie and Cindy taking a much needed break |
 Dane jumping into a pool with Dick looking on |
 Judy at Matkatamiba Canyon |
 A brief hike up Havasu Creek before heading on to National Canyon |
|
 Eating cures all |
 Bill rows Upset Rapid |
