David "Psycho" Simpson

Five decades of pushing limits. Countless first descents. Hundreds of paddlers mentored. And more than 100 runs through the Green River Narrows. Psycho was a pioneer of Southern Appalachian whitewater, making first canoe descents on rivers and creeks across the region. He also helped shape the evolution of open-canoe design and inspired generations of paddlers. His exploits became part of whitewater lore through appearances in Wayne Gentry’s classic films Southern Fried Creeking and Green Summer. An innovator. A pioneer. A mentor. A legend.