Introduction to Kayaking

Introduction to Kayaking (Level 1) is a course which follows the curriculum established by the American Canoe Association (ACA). It is a 6 - 7 hour course on and around the water. You will be introduced to basic strokes and some maneuvers to help you stay upright and improve your paddling efficiency after more practice. You will also be introduced to and practice a basic self rescue* & an assisted rescue*.

rescue* = how to get back into a kayak which has overturned or you have fallen out of either by yourself or with assistance of another person

You should BRING YOUR OWN sea kayak, recreational kayak, or sit-on-top (SOT).

After a quick shore chat about types of kayaks, life jackets/PFD, paddles, paddling safety, and potential water hazards, instructor(s) will demonstrate and students will practice paddling skills and basic rescue techniques.

The objective is for you to be able to maneuver comfortably on flat water upon successful completion of this course.

Who should take this class? Introduction to Kayaking is ideal for the beginning paddler who wants to develop effective strokes early in your paddling life. And, the course is for any long time paddler who wants a huge improvement in your paddling ability and efficiency. Basically this class is for anyone who:

1. does not know how to paddle forwards, backwards, AND sideways,
2. can complete all of 1), however is unfamiliar with safety equipment, or
3. can do 1 & 2, but does not know basic self rescues or assisted rescues

..............................should take this class. Spray skirts will not be used.

What to bring? Dress to get wet. Sunscreen and a broad brimmed hat are recommended. Bring a small bag lunch so we can have a quick, beachfront lunch break. Lots of water/electrolytes/other fluids. And, the kayak, PFD, & paddle you regularly use.

To register: call 904-610-9287 or email kayakhank@gmail.com including your name and phone number so I can call back.

Tuition is $100 + $10 for event insurance if you are not an American Canoe Association (ACA) member). And, approx $10 entry fee to Flint Creek Water Park if the venue. Check, Zelle, or cash preferred for tuition & insurance, additional 3.5% if using credit/debit.

NOTE: CALL to Register 904-610-9287. A "yes" RSVP on Meetup does NOT register you for the class.

Class is limited to 5 students. Some register without being Meetup members so numbers shown may not add up to 6 (5 students + instructor) and they may change.