One of the issues in growing the sport of kayaking is getting younger people involved. There are a number of obstacles to that end such as cost and other competing interests. However, last evening we were joined by Jacob who, I believe, is 15.
We saw Jacob a couple of years ago paddling around the cove in St. Philips on a sit-on-top kayak. He's since acquired a Valley Aquanaut and attended pool session over the past winter where we've gotten to know him. He fitted right in as we went for a short paddle.
After the short paddle Brian jumped out of his boat and talked Jacob through an assisted rescue. While there's no formal instruction offered during our Thursday evening practices, there are clear advantages to attending.
So, Jacob is well on his way to being a sea kayaker and a lifetime of memorable moments in a kayak. The challenge for Kayak Newfoundland and Labrador is how do we make this possible for others of Jacobs age?
If Jacob gets to most of the Thursday practices this year and gets on a few paddles (club and non-club) we'll see a big change in his skills and comfort level...
ReplyDeleteHe's already light years ahead of me when I was 15 *lol*
ReplyDeleteTony :-)