Re: [Paddlewise] Group Paddling

>I'd like to hear about how others deal with the various problems we
associate with group paddling, in the hopes of infusing more enjoyment and
safety in them.


Group Paddling 101. Case 1.

A recent trip report that can be picked apart with no offense taken...live
and learn.

Early March 99, 50's air temp, water temp low 40's .
Tidal river, no wind. launch from a site with warm showers available.

An informal group of 3:  a kayaking fellow 1 yrs experience who is a very
strong paddler, but who has little background of safety issues; a longtime
paddler who should know something; and an expert who knows alot and has all
the skills. The expert is paddling a racing style canoe, the other 2 are in
18 ft touring kayaks. i'm the guy who should know something. this will be a
fast paddle, no one is wearing any cold water protection.

during the launch, i see that both kayakers are wearing PFD's, however the
canoe guy doesn't his on.. i start to comment, but since he's still going
between car and boat, i suppose that he will put it on because he always
wears one.

two miles up the river, the wake riding canoeist makes a bad move behind the
novice and rolls the canoe. the boat floods with water and is about 100 ft
downstream of the swimmer who is heading for shore...now we realize that he
isn't wearing his PFD, nor is it in his boat. he finds a cypress tree stump
about 400 ft from shore and stands on it so that he is only kneee deep in
water.

the canoe has no ropes attached. we aren't carrying any lines. the canoe is
covered with 303 and thus very  slippery. my attempt to hold on to it and
drain water fails. during the next 4 or 5 minutes, we bring the boat to the
fellow - who is able to get it set to re-enter. the two kayaks come along
port side and brace as he gets into the boat...

planning to head back, he tells us to continue the 10 mile loop. we protest.
he insists. i give him a power bar, he has water. i ask and he replies that
he has his car keys and warm clothes. since i did a swim like this a few
years ago, i think that he will be warm while paddling and become very cold
when he reaches shore, however the warm shower will take care of him.

so, the group splits..... we continue, he heads back.
==================

if you like, arm chair review that outing,
and please include your thoughts as to
*where do we next see him?*

will i really attach my name to this?
shamefully
bliven










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