Beginner Kayaker Day
- June 4, 2012 · 6:00 PM
****IMPORTANT - Due to rain, this event has been moved from May 21 to June 4****
Are you new to kayaking? Want to learn a little more about the basics? Curious about different types of boats? Have some questions you want to ask about kayaking or the group itself? This is the event for you! Come on out to DOD Ponds for a day geared just for you, whether you have your own boat and want to brush up on some of the basics, or you are still deciding on what boat to get. We will have loaner boats for all (for the on the water instruction) and we'll have several different types of boats available for you to demo if you are curious.
The day will consist of two components - an off water discussion about boats and gear, and an on water clinic about basic paddling skills. We will split into two groups when we arrive, and one group will be on water first while the other group has the on land discussion, then the groups will switch halfway through. Both components will be taught by Red Cross certified kayak instructors.
Component 1 - Kayak Gear & Safety: We will discuss the different types of boats and what they are used for. We will discuss what to look for when purchasing a boat, and what to avoid. We will cover both basic and advanced safety gear and take a look at other kayaking goodies. We'll have some sample boats available for short test paddles so you can feel the difference between types of boats. We'll be happy to answer any questions you may have about boats, gear, or kayaking in general.
Component 2 - Basic Paddling Skills: This session will be held on water. We will have boats and equipment provided for you. If you'd like to bring your own equipment/ boat, feel free! We'll head out onto the lake and learn basic paddling strokes such as the sweep, forward stroke, and sculling stroke. This is entry level instruction, no prior skills required.
While this is geared for entry level paddlers, all skill levels are welcome to attend either to brush up on skills or to help out on the water. If you are already skilled and have your own boat and equipment DO NOT SIGN UP. Simply post that you are coming on the message portion of this paddle.
If you are interested in attending the land only portion of this event you do not need to sign up or RSVP in any way (unless you want to). If the paddle becomes full and you want to listen in at the on land portion just show up on the day of the paddle. Bring any questions that you might have!
Important Info:
- Please be ON TIME. If you are bringing your own boat, please allow time to unload your boats and gear PRIOR to 6pm.
- Please be considerate of other lake patrons! We are not the only ones using the lake: please do not block the boat ramp, and give fisherman on the lake plenty of space.
- PFDs are required and must be worn while on the water.
- Cancellations due to thunderstorms or other dangerous conditions will be posted by 3pm the day of the paddle. Please check your email BEFORE departing for the lake.
- Contact me the day of the paddle with questions or problems: [masked]
- Bring a towel, change of clothes, sunscreen, and plenty of water!
Important: The Delaware Valley Kayakers collects no dues and assumes no responsibility.
NOTICE: By attending an event you are agreeing that YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR OWN SAFETY AT ALL TIMES. No member of the group EXCEPT YOURSELF can be held responsible for any damages, accidents, or liabilities incurred while paddling with us.
Paddling is an inherently dangerous sport. Information is provided with the understanding that the providers are not engaged in rendering advice on technical matters, equipment performance, safety, or any other aspect of the sport in absolute terms or advocating any of the techniques or experiences described.
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A former member
ye ha
June 6
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Linda
The class was terrific! The instructors were terrific and really knew their stuff! They were very open and honest and very willing to answer any questions you might have. They were very good helping new people (some pretty nervous) feel comfortable. All the club members that stopped by were so nice and willing to help too! Everyone was so nice and friendly!! It was great the instructors were certified by Red Cross and I think that helped some beginners feel more safe and willing to try!
June 5
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Jen
Great information...Meri and Hack were really helpful, and it looks like a fun group of people!
June 5
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Rhonda Fiehler
Meri and Hack shared a huge amount of information. I feel I can now purchase a kayak with at least a little confidence that I will get what I want! They were terrific!
June 5
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Meri
We are here in the rain. :) come on out and join us. We will have more beginner days if you can't make tonight.
June 4
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A former member
Yes Meri, I agree although I am not really a kayaker yet:) I am ready to go now. See you soon!
June 4
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Meri
Still a go. I am not rescheduling again. We're kayakers, we can stand a little water. ;)
June 4
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Meri
For any last minute attendees - here's a link to info on how to find the Ponds: http://www.delvalkayakers.com/m...
June 4
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Hack
remember that you don't have to sign up if you are just participating in the "on land" portion of this paddle! simply show up on the day of and join in the discussion!
May 26
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A former member
I figured others would have liked the spot, so I gave mine up and now it's all filled up. (-: I hope everyone has fun.
May 21, 2012
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Hack
just a reminder, there are no guest spots for this paddle. i am trying to get a correct head count. it is free to join the DVK, so simply have your friends join up themselves!
May 21, 2012
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Meri
Due to rain and thunderstorm forecast, we are rescheduling (again, sigh) for Monday June 4. Cross your fingers for better weather!
May 21, 2012
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Meri
Forecast is looking iffy. I'm going to give Hack a call on my break and we'll make a decision. Should have info for you by 12:20ish.
May 21, 2012
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A former member
It looks like going to rain. it is my questiong too. Thank you all for organizing this event. I hope we could make it.
May 21, 2012
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joanne
Are we meeting tonight (May 21) for beginner's kayaking? I need to know soon because of other things I am coordinating with this event tonight. I am asking because of the weather forecast. thanks
May 21, 2012
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Paul
Thanks Hack, whenI saw this there was no instruction on just notifying you that I would be there to assist in any way.
May 20, 2012
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Hack
Paul, I've noted that you are coming and changed your RSVP (you are definitely too advanced to be taking the class).
May 20, 2012
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A former member
I changed my RSVP yesterday since I assumed this would be cancelled and I hadn't heard from Meri in a long time. There she is...here I am...let's all be there!
May 14, 2012
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Meri
Hey folks, due to the miserable forecast, we are rescheduling for next monday, the 21st. Darren, we will still be able to give you a lift.
May 14, 2012
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Hack
There have been several concerns about finding the spot. The following is a link to all of our launch sites (in google maps) so that you should be able to find it (simply copy paste the link into your browser). You can also do a search for DOD ponds in NJ to see a map of the area.
http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?...
May 11, 2012
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Steve Levick
I would like to participate and may even be able to provide some pointers. Steve Levick
May 9, 2012
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Hack
Greg, I've noted that you're coming and changed your RSVP (you're advanced enough that you don't need to "take the class")
April 27, 2012
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A former member
Hello. I'm a beginner who just joined. I haven't been on the water in over 20 years. May I ask if there's anybody near Woodbury (right near Westville and Deptford) who's perhaps carpooling that might help me out?
April 18, 2012
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Hack
Mike, I only have you listed as one person. If you go to gmail you can get a free email account.
April 11, 2012
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Mango Mike
I signed up twice and now have 2 e-mail confirmations - one sent April 10 and the other sent April 11 - but they are for the same e-mail address. How does this show up in your headcount?
April 11, 2012
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Mango Mike
My wife and I share one e-mail address, and it looks like she cannot sign up with her own separate account with the DVK. Can she come anyway? Or do I need to get another e-mail address for her? Thanks.
April 11, 2012
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Hack
Don, Scott, and Randy. I know you're coming. Please read the paddle description and don't sign up next time!
April 11, 2012
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Hack
Hey all! For this paddle only there is no "guest" spots allowed. If someone you know wants to come just have them sign up for their own account with the DVK (all it takes is an email address). It's free to join the DVK. Please don't show up with extra people to this event that have not signed up!
April 11, 2012
29 attended
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