West Virginias Original Whitewater Rafting Outfitter Joins Forces with ACE Adventure Resort



Two of West Virginia's leading outdoor adventure pioneers merged today, combining the state's oldest outfitter with the largest. Wildwater Expeditions in Lansing joined forces with ACE Adventure Resort, uniting more than 65 years of history and experience on the New and Gauley rivers.

ACE Adventure Resort (http://www.aceraft.com), in addition to being the state's largest whitewater outfitter, is a model for adventure resort development. The 1,400-acre Oak Hill complex features more on-property outdoor activities, lodging and unique guest amenities at the New River Gorge campus than any other company in the Mid-Atlantic. The addition of Wildwater Expeditions brings a high standard of dedication to the New River and Gauley River watershed and its whitewater assets.

Founded in 1968 by nationally recognized whitewater pioneer Jon Dragan and his two brothers, Wildwater Expeditions (http://www.wvaraft.com) is the industry's' sparkling gem of customer service, with excellence in safety and a reputation for delivering affordable, quality adventures in West Virginia.

ACE owner Jerry Cook plans on maintaining those attributes as the two companies combine resources to benefit area visitors. "Wildwater Expeditions is the pioneer in our industry. They set the bar in the 70's and 80's for all other companies to follow. The full service opportunities that we offer at ACE Adventure Resort were modeled after Wildwater. Our goal is to provide the same level of service whether you are an ACE or Wildwater guest."

The combination of these two companies marks the fourth major industry merger this year. ACE's managing partner, Ernie Kincaid thinks that today's acquisition will strengthen the brand of both companies. "By keeping the Wildwater management team and employees intact, the rafting company will retain its presence as a leader on the New and Gauley rivers. Wildwater's founders laid the groundwork for the first-class whitewater rafting trips (http://www.aceraft.com/white-water-rafting-pages/white-water-home.html) we offer today. By merging with us, they will receive the added benefit of our marketing strategies and resort management programs. Our products and infrastructure are already in place, and we are the only full service adventure property available to southern West Virginia visitors today."

For information on ACE Adventure Resort or Wildwater Expeditions, visit www.aceraft.com or www.wvaraft.com.





West Virginias Original Whitewater Rafting Outfitter Joins Forces with ACE Adventure Resort