Team Dagger’s Brad Ludden Named “Cosmo’s Bachelor of the Year”

Easley, S.C. – Team Dagger’s very own Brad Ludden would be in line for some serious ribbing from fellow kayakers, if it weren’t for the fact that he’s just so darn nice. Cosmopolitan named Brad “Cosmo’s 2008 Bachelor of the Year.” His combination of athletic talent, intelligence, good looks and charm earned him the nomination; but it was his charitable giving and good heart that secured the top honor for the professional kayaker from Team Dagger.

Ludden represented his home state of Colorado, competing against 49 other bachelors from their respective states. On October 14, 2008, Cosmopolitan presented Brad with the huge honor of the title “Bachelor of the Year,” and a $10,000.00 check. He has pledged to donate his winnings to the charitable foundation he founded, First Descents.

In 2001, Brad started First Descents, an outdoor adventure program for young adults with cancer. According to Brad, the organization offers free trips for kids fighting the disease and offers them the opportunity to challenge themselves in the outdoors. The goal is for the physical and emotional challenges of the experience to play a key role in recovery.

“I was shocked,” said Ludden in an NBC-TV “Today” show appearance with editor-in-chief of Cosmopolitan, Kate White. “I didn’t expect it; and it’s a huge honor.” Ms. White added, “We knew Brad was passionate in his volunteer work, but we picked him, too, for his great looks and his passion for life!”

Kayaking has been a vehicle for Brad to see the world, to travel and to experience other cultures and beautiful places. His graciousness for the opportunity is shown every day in the way he gives back to the sport and to those who can benefit from it. Good choice, Cosmo!

For more information about First Descents, please visit: www.firstdescents.org. For more information about Cosmopolitan and the “2008 Bachelor of the Year” selection, please visit: http://www.cosmopolitan.com/hot-guys/bachelors/The-Hot-Bachelors-of-2008?click=pp.

About Confluence Watersports:

Located in Easley, S.C., Confluence Watersports is the result of blending the unique watersports brands: Wilderness Systems®, Perception®, Dagger®, and Wave Sport® kayaks, Mad River Canoe®, Adventure Technology® paddles, and Harmony® accessories. With a full representation of canoes, and kayaks ranging from touring and recreational to high-performance whitewater boats, the Confluence brands are well suited to outfit all paddling enthusiasts. People passionate about the outdoors run the company today: advocates who are dedicated to bringing more people to the water. For more information, please visit: http://www.confluencewatersports.com.