Hydrospeed is a water sport involving the descent of mountain rivers on an individual craft, controlled by the body movements of the rider.
The craft is short, made of high-impact plastic, equipped with a keel, and includes two grips that allow the rider to hold on and steer. The rider’s legs remain in the water, serving as both propulsion and rudder.
Born in Buenos Aires and living in Bariloche for 23 years, currently splitting his time between Bariloche, the Manso Valley, and less than he’d like in Costa Rica.
He discovered kayaking and mountain rivers back then, which was the starting point for dedicating his life and profession to whitewater sports.
Working as a Rafting Guide and Instructor, Class IV Trip Leader certified by the IRF, Mountain River Rescue Techniques Instructor, SUP Guide, Safety Kayaker, and Photographer; Instructor and Safety Kayaker for Hydrospeed, he has had the opportunity to explore various destinations and different rivers in Argentina, Chile, Ecuador, Colombia, Costa Rica, Spain, France, and Switzerland.
Now focused on expanding and developing this activity, and above all, on enjoying the opportunity to teach and share his passions with his son, Valen.
And when we talk about passions, we can’t forget to mention his love for baking and mindful eating, almost a chef.
Grateful and conscious of his connection with the river and nature.
Father of Maia, Fran, Emma, and Thiago.
My journey in this activity began over 44 years ago, alongside my father, one of the first kayakers in the area.
I then made this my way of life, gaining solid experience over the last 30 years as:
Since 1995, I’ve been among the Top 3, with many first-place finishes in Rodeo (freestyle kayak) competitions in Argentina.
I was a representative of Team Argentina at the World Freestyle Kayak Championship in Spain in 2001 and a member of the Rubber River Freestyle Kayak Team at the European Freestyle Championships in 2001–2002, and in various international rodeos with great results.
And, I also enjoy eating barbecues with friends…
I was born in Buenos Aires, where I trained as a Physical Education Teacher and Lifeguard.
Passionate about outdoor activities and the mountains, I decided to move to Patagonia back in 2003. That’s when I began to specialize, working as a rafting guide and mountain river safety instructor in the summer, and as a ski patroller and snowmobile guide in the winter.
The river led me to travel through different countries, including Ecuador, Peru, Chile, and Argentina.
In 2005, I met Bauer and Xasqui, two titans. It was a fortunate moment when the idea of bringing a new activity to the Manso Valley, where I currently live, started to take shape.
Eternal gratitude, and as a friend of mine says, “what a curious thing black pudding is.”
