A Nantahala Fixture: "Crazy Pete"
Pete Lucic, aka “Crazy Pete,” is a long-time fixture around the Nantahala. A graphic designer and part-time NOC employee, Pete can usually be seen running the river, mountain biking, or taking photographs of his friends styling the Nanty Wave.
How did you get your nickname?
I suppose that came from the days when I used to move rocks down at the wave at 6am. People would see me down there and be like “What is he doing?” “Oh, that’s ‘Crazy Pete’ fixing the wave” (or screwing it up sometimes!). It may also be from back when I was squirt boating the Upper Gauley, I think that’s kinda crazy too.
How many years have you been boating and how did you get started?
At the age of 25, my roommate at Clemson University – Mike Teachy took me to paddled section III in Feburary.
Pete squirt boating
Have you ever had a love affair with a boat?
The LiquidLogic Session. When it came out it was so balanced in cartwheels, surfing, and just fun.
What is your favorite WNC run or play spot?
It might be the Watauga for a river run and the Eternity hole for playboating.
Pete surfing the Nanty Wave
What do you see as the future of boating?
I’d like to see that we continue to appreciate the wilderness aspect of running rivers as well as more controlled environments such as whitewater parks to introduce novice paddlers to the sport.
What are your top two destinations that you have traveled to boat? And what made them special?
West Virginia and Oregon/Washington-Western Columbia River Gorge watersheds. When life turns you upside down, go to the river and roll up.
Pete in Hood River, Oregon
What is your single favorite piece of boating gear?
My Paddle. Wood paddles used to be more available but are more of a rarity nowadays. It’s the way you connect with the water (try hand padding). The boat is second but it’s really moving down the river with your paddle that saves you from dire consequences.
What was the most challenging whitewater experience you have had?
The Chattooga River when it was 8 ft., almost everyone swam including me. I think God wanted us to live another day and help fellow paddlers to live as well.
Check out a few photos by Pete:
