LEARNING TO KAYAK

Your Motivation

Many people get into kayaking for the thrills and adrenaline rush, yet some get into the sport for the camaraderie, team atmosphere, and the love of the outdoors. No matter what your motivation is for getting into the sport, one thing for sure, it is a rewarding outdoor lifestyle.

The Beginnings

People start off in the sport initially by taking a introductory course, and progressing from there by taking trips down easier whitewater. Wapiti Whitewater Kayakers love seeing new faces in the sport and as such, we enjoy teaching others by hosting Beginner Kayaking Courses in the Spring. We have many Level I Kayak instructors to help you get the feel for kayaking without having to invest in hundreds of dollars into a new sport. The club had a fleet of kayaks and basic gear for beginners to use before investing in the sport. For more information on when these courses may be, check out our schedule and register for a course.

Progression

As members gain confidence in their skills and can achieve a solid eskimo roll on slow moving water, it is time to start challenging your river reading skills by going on slightly more challenging rivers with seasoned paddlers. The hazards increase, but the challenge and achievement does as well. Many members will also attend the multiple Paddling Rendezvous, which are basically paddling festivals for all ages, and abilities. These festivals are often hosted in areas where there is a diversity in river grades and difficulties so that the beginners, as well as the advanced paddlers can be challenged. These events are great venues for those wishing to network with other clubs around Alberta and BC.

The Hit List

As your ability grows, and you have now established a network of friends you can rely upon, trips and expeditions start to materialize. At this point all of the members in your network should take a swiftwater rescue course, and be proficient in their own skills, abilities, and definitely be aware of their limitations. Wapiti Whitewater kayakers also hosts one or two Swiftwater Rescue Courses every summer, so check our schedule for dates to attend. The challenge and excitement of hitting the rivers in their peak is always rewarding, but as anything, risk must be balanced with benefit. For some, being on any river, with friends, in a friendly environment is reward enough. It is up to you to decide what sort of paddler you want to be.

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