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　　In a downtown Taipei bar, English teacher Jane gets talking to Dave, a greenhorn.

　　J:So, what brings you to Taiwan? Are you teaching?

　　D:No, I came here to ride some rapids with a white-water-rafting team from the States. We're competing in the international race on the Hsuikuluan River.

　　J:I know that river like the back of my hand; I go there every spring. It's stunning. I didn't know they had races there though.

　　D:It's big: we're one of two hundred teams taking part this year. Thrill seekers converge from all over the world to participate.

　　J:Sounds pretty exciting. What are your chances? Are you hoping to win?

　　D:No. We don't have a snowball's chance in hell. The Aussies or the Koreans usually win --- they have more experience in this neck of the woods.

　　J:You'll love it, anyway. The scenery is spectacular, with steep, narrow gorges and forested mountains lining the river's course.

　　D:I don't think I'll have much time to take in the view, to be honest!

　　J:How long is the ride?

　　D:For novices, it's about four hours, but we're aiming for half that.

　　J:Can I come and cheer you on?

　　D:You want to come? That'd be great!