In recent years we've suffered a lot of deaths within the sport - the majority of these occurring on Class V waters, often in remote areas. This has been a kiss of death to the sport. Anytime a newcomer hears of someone dying while paddling, it's an instant turn-off.
Nobody wants to buy into death.
We must be smart and work to teach the newcomers the safe way to paddle. Because if we think we have a high death rate now, making it look like anyone can run Class V will make those numbers go even higher. By promoting playboating, we can show how challenging and fun that can be and maybe we can keep beginners off the harder runs until they're ready. But we need to stick to promoting fun, safe and easy whitewater without glamorizing the extreme. That can only lead to injury or worse and I don't want me or my films to be the reason behind their decision.