Nestled among the rolling hills, hardwood forests, and waterways in the middle of the Cumberland Plateau, Rock Island is a mecca for kayakers, fishermen, and outdoor enthusiasts. Rural. Unspoiled. A day in Rock Island is a reminder of a simpler time.
The Base
Rock Island
The Jackson family settled here in Rock Island after 8 years of traveling the world in search of their perfect home base. It is fitting that it is also the base for Apex Watercraft. The Factory is only 4 miles from EJ’s home office, while, unlimited testing grounds are in his back yard. Rock Island State Park, Great Falls Lake, Center Hill Lake, as well as countless rivers and streams assure that there are always great local testing grounds for these boats.
The inspiration
The Tyr, a symbol of belief
EJ’s Story behind the Apex Logo
I have been a competition addicted person my whole life. I enjoy the games, but compete to win. I want others to compete with me and want a good game.
In 1998, while living full time in an RV, traveling from competition to competition, Kristine gave me the Tyr Rhune. She selected it from a host of Rhunes; Success in Marriage, happiness, etc…. When she got to “Victory in Competition” she knew that was something she should get me. I had never seen one before.
I won the next 11 kayaking events in a row in Extreme races, freestyle, boatercross, and slalom kayaking. While I am not superstitious, I enjoyed how my Tyr looked on me, and enjoyed the fact that I was dominating.
Over the years, I have had many challenges to overcome along with many successes. My Tyr was always with me. It took on a life of its own. I began to use it as a reminder in any situation that required inspiration, “inspiration to go the extra distance”. I find myself reaching into my shirt or paddling gear and touching it, just to remind myself that success doesn’t happen, you make it happen. That action is required to be the best at all times. This, I felt, was fitting for a company that would only accept the “Apex” position.
Apex is not an opinion. It is a fact, a truth, the top of something, a highest point. This is the only place we intend to operate. The Tyr represents that with the Arrow, and it represents the Apex of my competitive whitewater career. Now my Son Dane Jackson rocks the Tyr every day and has experienced enormous success on and off the water. Not because of the Tyr; however, the Tyr also serves as a reminder to him to “go the extra distance.” And is a fitting symbol to remind him that he is striving to be at the top.
You can get your own Tyr here and enjoy the feeling it brings.
The importance of community
The Apex Party is not made up of random people. It was built from the ground up from relationships formed over several decades. The newer relationships we've made have brought integral working parts to our community. Our customers are people we know, or have the wonderful opportunity to know personally. We work alongside you to ensure that your boat is exactly what you're looking for. We hand-deliver it to you whenever possible, and welcome you into our community. We take responsibility to assist you with skills and knowledge that can help you improve your time on the water. We know that while this is an individual experience, it is best experienced as part of a supportive community. We strive to continue to be that community long after your boat is made for you. You can count on us, as we care about your time on the water just as much as you do. From the Apex Party and our Jobbers, expect our support time after time.
