The last two years Ben has continued his push to the forefront of the kayak world.  He's become a bonifide freestyle icon with standout segments in the sports top films, has accelerated his creeking recently with a jam-packed month of California class 5, and is shortly embarking on a top secret expedition to some of the biggest whitewater in Africa.  From an all-around standpoint it's hard to think of anyone that can compete, and Ben did his best to show that at this years inagural Whitewater Grand Prix, winning the 3 freestyle contests, placing 3rd in the time trial, and finishing the event in 2nd just behind young prodigy Dane Jackson.  Because of his style, power and all-around abilities on the river Ben is a top contender for Rider of the Year.