The Paddlesports Industry Foundation (PIF) has acquired the International Whitewater Hall of Fame (IWHOF) from its founder, the Adventure Sports Center International (ASCI).
IWHOF was founded in 2003 by the Adventure Sports Center International, Inc., of Garrett County, Maryland, home of the worlds first mountaintop artificial whitewater course. The IWHOF ownership transfer enables ASCI to focus on the operation of its 575-acre paddling, climbing, hiking and mountain biking facility and promoting outdoor recreation in western Maryland.
“We are excited about this new home for IWHOF,” notes Risa Shimoda, the Board of Governors chair and a member of the PIF Board of Directors. “The Hall of Fame is about celebrating the lives and accomplishments of extraordinary paddlers and telling their story to the largest possible audience. This move allows us to aggressively pursue opportunities to tell those stories.”
According to PIF Secretary/Treasurer Matt Menashes, IWHOF directly supports its mission to promote the growth of Paddlesports.
“The opportunity to license IWHOF properties may catalyze activities ranging from regional events in Hall of Famer hometowns and induction events that are held abroad, to the creation of a virtual museum of gear, video and interviews,” says Shimoda. “Stay tuned!”
The Paddlesports Industry Foundation, a newly created 501(c)(3) charitable organization.