Lee Belknap

A lifetime of paddling, teaching, leadership, and making whitewater safer for everyone. As American Whitewater’s Safety Chair from 1990–2002, Lee Belknap co-created the Whitewater Accident Database with Charlie Walbridge—transforming anecdotal knowledge into actionable safety data that continues to benefit the whitewater community. Lee served on the American Whitewater Board from 1992–2003, led the 1998 River Rating Revision, created AW Safety Flash Cards, authored technical safety articles, and helped establish AW’s first five-year safety plan. For decades, Lee has shared his knowledge and passion for whitewater with thousands of paddlers, helping generations develop their skills, confidence, and respect for the river. A pioneer. An innovator. A leader. A champion of whitewater safety.