Every River Tells a Story — Let Gene 17 Kayaking Help You Write Yours! Experience Expert Coaching, Thrilling Adventures, and the Spirit of Exploration at Every Turn.
Aamot, Sjoa & Boof
Location is everything. We’ve paddled the hottest spots—and many hidden gems—in Europe and beyond. We helped establish our core destinations, including the Soča River, Valsesia in Italy, and Norway, and featured them in our early instructional videos from the 2000s. Our intimate knowledge of these rivers, combined with an unusually low coach-to-paddler ratio (never more than 3:1), allows for personalised instruction and detailed feedback.
The collective experience of our team is immense. From advanced paddling techniques to river-running tactics, we know how to translate complex skills into effective teaching. With decades of exploration, medals, and champions coached under our belt, our commitment to your paddling journey is total.
— The Gene17Kayaking Team.
At Gene17Kayaking, white water kayaking is everything. We’ve explored the world’s best rivers, coached champions, and brought those experiences straight to our instruction. With tiny coach-to-paddler ratios (never more than 3:1) and insider knowledge of epic rivers like the Soča, Valsesia, and Sjoa, we give you personalised coaching, expert feedback, and an unforgettable time on the water. Your paddling adventure starts here.
Simon Westgarth is a highly respected British whitewater kayaker, coach, and educator, and the founder of Gene17Kayaking. With decades of paddling and guiding experience worldwide, he has contributed significantly to modern kayaking techniques and coaching methods. Simon blends technical skill development with real-world river experience, helping paddlers navigate challenging rivers, make confident decisions, and develop independence on the water. He holds an MSc in Performance Coaching, a BSc in Environmental Science, and is a Qualified Teacher. A Paddle UK Level 5 coach, he has produced award-winning instructional videos and documentaries, sharing his expertise with the broader kayaking community through courses, expeditions, and media resources.experience in paddling and guiding worldwide, he has made significant contributions
Jakub Šedivý is a Czech-born whitewater kayaker, photographer and coach with over two decades of experience navigating rivers worldwide. Starting his paddling journey at age 9, he has since honed his skills on challenging rivers across Europe, North America, New Zealand, and Chile. Jakub is a core member of Gene17Kayaking, where he leads courses and expeditions in destinations like Soča, Sjoa, Valldal, and Nepal. His coaching approach emphasizes technical precision, safety, and fostering confidence in paddlers of all levels. Supported by brands such as Palm Equipment & VE Paddles. Jakub continues to inspire and mentor the next generation of whitewater enthusiasts.
Eirik Hansen is a world-class Norwegian whitewater kayaker, known for tackling extreme rivers and technical alpine runs with precision and fearless style. As a coach, he combines hands-on guidance with real-world experience, helping paddlers develop skills, confidence, and safe decision-making from intermediate to advanced Class IV/V whitewater.
Why you should choose Gene 17 Kayaking for your next adventure on the water.
the pursuit of wild rivers, fresh challenges, and unforgettable moments.
Building friendships and connections that last far beyond the water.
Coaching that empowers paddlers to progress with and confidence.
Celebrating past team members who supported and shaped Gene17. We miss each of their contributions, but are lucky to welcome them back occasionally for festivals or paddling adventures at our destinations.
Jake Holland has gone on to become an award-winning mountain sports documentary producer, living life to the fullest in Chamonix, France.
Matt Tidy, originally trained as a hydrogeologist, now lives on the banks of the River Dee in Wales, shredding river waves both from his balcony and on the water with his family.
Chris Eastabrook earned a doctorate in Adventure Sports Coaching and now runs a successful outdoor centre in Llangollen.
Implemented comprehensive training protocols for new guides.
The OG Dave Carroll became a critical care paediatric EMT in Ireland, where he enjoys ripping up the local mountain biking trails beside his home.