Re: [Paddlewise] landing a victim through surf

Scott Ives,

<snip>

>  Now a question for you all.  I have paddled through the surf when it
>is relatively light on numerous occasions.  However, I have a real fear
>of either going out, or coming in through big breakers.  Am I the only
>one with this fear?  My fear is that a wave will send me end over end,
>and my spine will snap like a twig.  Don't laugh, I met a 30 year old
>guy confined to a wheelchair for life for this very reasons.  Do you
>guys ever think about this problem?  A sit upon wouldn't bother me.  I
>can handle the surf, I just want to make sure I can fall off in a hurry!
>


Scott,

your rescue experience demonstrates that swimming is a practical approach
for surf landings.

however for that technique to work, kayakers need to be able to swim. My
local paddle club puts its emphasis on paddling gear and rolling. the
subject of swimming is rarely discussed... indeed being able to roll is the
hallmark of advanced paddlers and the entry ticket to paddling with 'the
guys.'  indeed there are some advanced paddlers who can not swim. i wonder
if swimming skills are an important part of kayaking...

Are swimming skills a part of kayak training programs that offer
certifications? Not that i put emphasis on certificates, but i wonder what
importance those groups place on swimming.

bye bye bliven


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