Different styles

Paddlers stretch into the horizon

Saturday Kayak Newfoundland and Labrador had a club paddle with 41 paddlers attending. It was a large group with a wide range of paddling experience. Paddling in a large group means following a trip leader. No need to decide on where to paddle, just decide if you want to paddle the advertised plan and contribute to group dynamics.

There may be people you haven't seen in a while so you catch up on news. There may be slower paddlers so you can paddle at a more relaxed pace. There's more banter back and forth on the water and always someone with a joke.

Its more of a social event and I find its important to take these club paddles in because it gives me a chance to stay connected with a great bunch of people.

Stan in "Gull Feather"

I've paddled a lot in small groups of two or three, and, usually with Stan. Paddling in small groups is different starting from making a decision where to paddle. We discuss where we want to go and agree on what we're going to do. On the water we stick closer together, chat or get lost in your own thoughts. When one stops to take a picture or just to have a look at something, the other stops or slows down.

I like paddling in large groups and I like paddling in small ones. Either way, I just like paddling and having paddling buddies ensures I can do it in safety. Aquaforte was the last club paddle for the year but Stan and I will continue to paddle as part of smaller groups or with each other.