[Paddlewise] learning curve!!

On Wed, 18 Feb 1998, K. Whilden wrote:

[snip]
>>I know lots of long-time whitewater paddlers who are happy as can be
>>running nothing harder than class III with occasional class IV. Also,
>>class III skills are relatively easy to come by. Most beginners that I
>>teach have the skill to begin paddling class III by their second or third
>>river trip, although it generally takes a year or more to reach solid
>>class IV skill. 

many novice open boaters reach class II in their first year, although many
do not. it is usually their 2nd year before they can _competantly_ run
class III, if they are aggressive. and probably another year before [if
ever] they run class IV. i'd bet less than 10% of open boaters can paddle
class IV and above. probably a lot less.

>>
>>It will always be my position that sea kayakers stand to gain a lot of
>>skill by exposing themselves to whitewater. Even a two-day lesson on easy
>>(grade I - II) whitewater would really help with bracing, edging, rolling,
>>and general boat control. 
>>
>>Cheers,
>>Kevin
>>

a-men!! a little white water experience will go a long ways!!

mark

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