Re: [Paddlewise] BCU Proficiency (Scott Williams)

The following response to Chuck's posting is from Scott Williams, BCU Coach
Level 3.  I am posting it at his request.


Return-Path: <SWKAYAKS_at_aol.com>
From: SWKAYAKS_at_aol.com
Date: Mon, 16 Feb 1998 17:09:37 EST
To: Robert_at_Starling.Com
Subject: Re:  [Paddlewise] BCU Proficiency Award

The four star award certifies that you have acquired the skill, experience,
and have the proper equipment to paddle for the day in conditions of up to
17 knots of wind, 3 foot surf, and a 3 knot tidal currents as a member of a
group led by a competent leader. 

No chicken and egg here. All paddling at or above one's skill level should
be conducted under the supervision of a more experienced paddler and leader.
The BCU provides a very structured system of checks and balances to ensure
that all training and instruction is accomplished in definable steps and in
controlled conditions. Every paddling experience would be considered a form
of training until one passes an assessment. 

You get the experience by paddling with more experienced paddlers. Even an
instruction session should have a contingency plan should conditions
deteriorate-the safety of the group is of primary importance. The 4-star
award should only be awarded to someone who has not only aquired the
technical skills but much more importantly developed the seamanship and
judgement to
prevent unnecessary risks at that level. There is no shortcut to this
end-the experience is acquired thru training sessions. 

Sea Kayaker  Magazine is full of articles about paddlers who have gotten
into situations way over their heads-the consequences aren't always
pleasant. To specifically answer the question-the criteria for taking people
on open water trips who aren't suitablly experienced-YOU DON'T! 

Scott B Willaims

________________________________________________________
Robert Starling                                              Member ASMP / APSG
Robert Starling Photography, Inc.
Orlando, Florida

Phone 407 521-0041      Fax  407 521-0031

http://www.starling.com     NetGuide Magazine  Internet Site Of The Day

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