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: $50.00 for GCA members. Non-members can join GCA for $35 annually.

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