About this event:
This class is an introduction to paddling a recreational kayak. It will give you the basic skills to manuever your recreational kayak in flat and moving Class I water. Instructors are certified through the American Canoe Association (ACA).
Gear/Equipment: PARTICIPANTS MUST PROVIDE ALL OF THEIR OWN EQUIPMENT! No gear is included in the clinic fee. Participants must have at a minimum the following:
- Recreational kayak
- Personal flotation device (PFD)
- Paddle
- Floatation bags
- Appropriate footwear (paddling booties, water shoes, etc.) is required. Thin, lower-profile shoes are suggested. Flip flops are not recommended because they will fall off during a swim. Sandals such as Tevas, Chacos do not fit well in whitewater kayaks and have the potential to get hung inside the kayak during a flip.
Also suggested is synthetic clothing such as the following, depending upon how cold-natured you are:
- Neoprene wetsuit (farmer John/Jane style with no sleeves)
- Paddling splash jacket or drytop
- Polyester fleece top
- Bathing suit (for the ladies a two-piece design tends to be easier when answering the call of nature in the woods…)
- Polypro underwear/long johns
- NO COTTON GARMENTS are permitted
We also recommend the following:
- Plenty of bottled water
- Lunch you can pack in your boat
- Sunblock
- Waterproof camera if desired
Lead Instructor – Marshall Busko
Cost/Registration: $35.00 for GCA members.
An additional $5 is required for ACA event insurance, if participant is not an ACA member.
Swimming Ability: You must be able to swim and should not panic with your head under water.
Physical Condition: Paddling is a physically and mentally challenging activity that requires fitness, flexibility, and a positive attitude in stressful situations. Kayaking is a high-risk activity for individuals with a history of shoulder dislocations. Applicants should discuss potential physical limitations with the Coordinator before signing up.
Got questions? e-mail them to gapaddletraining@gmail.com
