I have visited Money Drop on Rock Creek multiple times.  This section of Rock Creek is known for its’ non-stop landslides and ever-changing landscape.  The first time I saw this waterfall, it was around 70 feet;  years later 30 feet; and now, around 55-60 feet.  The most significant change we noticed on our recent return, was that the bank on both sides of the river has continued to fall in, making it the most eerie feeling, trying to scout the drop.

It’s been about 2 months, since our Mexico adventures, that I’ve hucked a big waterfall.  I was feeling the urge to drop something big . . . so, I convinced Nate & Ryan Scott to join me for Money Drop.  Ryan and I scouted for quite a while, carefully tip-toeing ourselves along the sketchy embankment.  After awhile, Ryan decided this certain drop wasn’t the best choice for his back and decided against running it.  I continued scouting!   “Well, I totally see my line, the timing of each stroke”, I told Nate, “today is TOO perfect to NOT run it!”  “I’m doing it!” 

I was nervous about two things:  One, the fast entrance into a 60 foot vertical drop; and two, not having any safety or the opportunity to see someone run it before me.  As Nate & Ryan set up the camera’s, I walked my boat to the put-in and visualized my line.  Out of the total time I spent scouting, I probably spent 5% of my time looking at the vertical drop and 95% of my time looking at the fast entrance and rehearsing what I’d do heading towards the vertical.

After taking a few deeps breathes, I pushed myself into the water . . . I looked for each wave I had scouted, slid down the rocks toward the lip, leaned forward and tucked.  I felt myself falling, falling, falling.  It sure felt higher than 55 feet to me . . . Assuming the impact HAD to be soon, I braced myself and hit!  As I resurfaced, I rolled up to the feeling of victory. 

I have to admit, I was proud . . . Money Drop execution = Perfect!

Heather