Paddler Development Weekend

On this annual weekend of instruction and socializing you will self-assess and choose 2 on-the-water clinics all of which are designed to challenge and improve your paddling skills in and around dynamic conditions.  Choices include strokes, navigation, maneuvering in currents, and practicing rescue techniques  The controlled environment provides a safe learning environment.  However, you will want to come to this weekend with some experience in various aspects of paddling in order to be in your learning mode.

 Read on for a list of clinics and skills suggestions.  

What you get for the registration fee of $90.00

• Two nights lodging at the historical Cornet Bay Environmental Learning Center
• Two hearty breakfasts, with coffee, tea, fresh fruit
• Saturday evening dinner, vegetarian options included.
• Two full day, instructional clinics of your choosing, one on Saturday, one on Sunday
• Tow-line Talk, with an option to make your own short tow ($20.00 separate fee)

Upon Registration you'll receive:

1. A complete list of Clinic Descriptions.
2. Clinic Registration Form.  First come, first choice.  Optional Short Tow Workshop Registration.
3. Additional information including what to expect, what to bring, when to arrive, etc.  

PRIMARY INSTRUCTORS INCLUDE:  Carol Asplund, Brian High, Michael Kennedy, Melinda Moree, Don Rice, Teresa Wittman, Todd Scheuer, Felicia Wibowo, Tom Unger.

CLINIC TOPICS AND SUGGESTED SKILLS TO SELF-ASSESS

Note: Multiple branches offer skills building sessions.  Or contact a trip leader or Kay Gowan if you have particular skills to improve prior to PDW.

Introduction to Rock Gardening. In this introductory rock gardening clinic, students discover the fun of actively seeking to play safely where the waves and rocks meet. Participants will push their skill level and boat control beyond the basic level to being confident around moving water and a rocky shoreline. Participants need good self rescue skills, good boat control skills and familiarity with bow rudder and other boat maneuvering skills.

Managing Unexpected Situations On The Water. In this introductory clinic, practice how to manage various real-world scenarios that may arise on your kayaking journeys. We will role-play through various situations. You should have good self rescue skills, good boat control skills and familiarity with bow rudder and other boat maneuvering skills.

Three Arrows in Your Quiver. On the water surroundings often look alike and the water moves up, down and sideways. Learn techniques to know where you are, where you want to go and how to get there safely and efficiently. Comfort in up to 2 knots of current and 10 knots of wind suggested.

Introduction to Moving Water. In this introductory course, learn how to understand tidal currents, "read the water" and practice maneuvers while crossing eddylines, ferrying and eddy-hopping. Comfort in up to 2 knot currents waves up to 2 feet (SK-III) and be ready for practice in stronger currents (SK-IV).  Efficient with forward, reverse, bracing, and sweep strokes is suggested.

Introduction to Dynamic Water. A non-threatening introduction to the skills and techniques for enjoying the fun of moving water. For any paddlers who are comfortable in their boats on flat water.

Towing Happens. Paddlers soon learn how often it is necessary to assist other paddlers and swimmers. In this clinic you will learn a variety of ways to tow or otherwise provide assistance in many common situations. Comfort in up to 2 knots of current and 10 knots of wind is suggested.

Learn, Refine and Use Strokes and Maneuvers. Refined and practiced strokes allow you to move your kayak wherever you would like, efficiently and with minimal effort. We will refine your existing paddle strokes and maneuvers, learn new ones and put them to use on a paddle to explore the area. This clinic is suitable for anyone who wants to focus on stroke improvement.

On The Water Navigation

In this introductory clinic, practice skills to help you follow a "water trail". Learn such things as how to measure your speed, estimate your paddle time based on your speed, locate your position and direction on a chart, and how to calculate your heading when crossing a current.  Anyone is welcome.