[VIDEO] George Armstrong’s 2nd Rafting Trip (1963)
Posted August 15, 2021 by Jack Armstrong: grandson of founder George ArmstrongGeorge’s first rafting trip was difficult and full of mishaps, but sparked a passion. His second trip the following year in 1963 was more sensible and more enjoyable. Listen to the All-Outdoors founder tell the story and see the footage of this epic voyage that helped launch the sport of rafting.
George Armstrong Remembers His Second River Trip
My first rafting trip was in 1962 on the Stanislaus River with my brother Larry and young nephew Pete. For my second trip, in 1963, I planned to do the same section but… when we got there, it looked too big for my 11-year-old daughter Sherri. We drove down to the Lower section we thought might be easier. This was maybe one of the most sensible decisions I made in those early learning years when rafting was a new sport.
The first trip was difficult but a very enjoyable experience. On the second trip, I was trying to learn more and give Sherri a taste of the pleasures of rafting. We have not seen the Lower section before so it was an opportunity to explore it.
By the end of the day, Sherri had been hooked as we discovered the Lower section was a fun adventure and a good section of the river. As a result of this second trip, I started planning a third trip with my wife and two of my boys.
Sharing rivers with them and others became a passion of mine that has been with me for the past six decades.
Jack Armstrong
Jack grew up 35 minutes from AO headquarters, and is the grandson of our founder, George. His education includes a film degree and art studies from Biola University, as well as lots of experience breaking camera gear outside. After graduating college, he started an outdoors/action sports focused production company and is largely responsible for our video, photo, and social media content. Jack’s favorite trip is the Cal-Salmon, because of the river’s awe-inspiring beauty and the sweet rapids. When he’s not rafting or playing with cameras, Jack can be found skiing, surfing, visiting art galleries, or eating tacos.