RE: [Paddlewise] Weather

Gabriel L Romeu sent this on Tuesday, December 15, 1998 6:59 AM
To: John Winters
Cc: PaddleWise_at_lists.intelenet.net
Subject: Re: [Paddlewise] Weather

<snip> As a neophile to the discipline, I feel that the ACA proposal of
increasing and expanding standards will result in actual demonstrable goals
for me to attempt to acheive.  This is a good thing and I think that its a
laudable enterprise for the ACA to attempt.  I would like to be an asset
rather than a liability to anyone I plan to paddle with in the future.  It
will be also good to know or understand the level of training of those I am
with for distinguishing who might need special attention or who might be a
reliable assist.  Many of the trips which I see invites to on this list and
others will be with total strangers.<

Good attitude Gabriel.  I'd like to paddle with you.

I believe that there are many new paddler who are truly into learning as
much as they can about ALL aspects of the sport.  The ACA should offer
weather reading for just this type of paddler.  Sure it's not "sexy", but I
think there are enough serious paddlers out there to make it worth offering.

As for paddling with "total strangers" -- Proper paddle planning is one of
the most important aspects of the trip.  During the planning phase, each
member should tell the group their paddling experience.  They should talk
about their likes, dislikes, and preferences.  There are many types of
paddlers.  Some like to take it nice and slow, while others prefer to cover
as much distance as possible.

Be honest with yourself and others since your fibbing could jeopardize
everyone's safety.  Some fear is healthy, a lack of fear can be fatal.  Fear
and/or uncertainty are normal for novices.  If you're a novice, say so!  If
an experienced paddler gives you a hard time, then you probably shouldn't
paddle with them anyway.  Gabriel, never paddle with someone who doesn't
"feel" like they have to right attitude.  It's not worth the risk.

Routing decisions should be determined by voting.  It's important that
novices or weak paddlers have the right to veto the routing.  Scared or
concerned paddlers don't react judiciously in adverse conditions.  For the
sake of the entire group's safety, their voices must be influential in the
decision-making process.

Cheers,
Dave

Dave Williams, Training Director
dave_at_seacanoe.com
http://seacanoe.com


***************************************************************************
PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List
Submissions:     paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net
Subscriptions:   paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net
Website:         http://www.gasp-seakayak.net/paddlewise/
***************************************************************************