Re: [Paddlewise] ACA Greenland certific

I don't like the "freestyle" name either, first because it isn't,
second because it doesn't refer to the paddle type, third because the
name is already used for certain styles of canoeing and skiing. I
prefer "narrow-blade" style, first because narrow blades is what the
certification is all about, second because a lot of so-called
"Greenland" paddles are not shaped like authentic Greenland paddles
and can't be used like Greenland paddles, third because it removes
any implication that the student is learning authentic Greenland
techniques, and fourth because it is unlikely to upset the
Greenlanders.

Also, there is a continuous kayaking tradition in Greenland. Greenland
kayakers paddle, not "paddled."

People have different reasons for learning Greenland techniques. Some,
as you say, merely want to add to their repertoire, but others really
are concerned about authenticity -- out of curiosity, if for no other
reason. For that reason I think it is important to maintain the
distinction.

Chuck Holst


 -----Original Message-----
From: Nick Schade [mailto:schade_at_guillemot-kayaks.com]
Sent: Friday, July 09, 1999 10:51 AM
To: paddlewise
Subject: RE: [Paddlewise] ACA Greenland certific


At 9:42 AM -0700 7/8/99, Mattson, Timothy G wrote:
>I don't like the name Free-style 'cause it is devoid of information.
>

Thats exactly what I like about it. Most people practicing "Greenland
Technique" are really having fun experimenting with different paddle
strokes and trying different manuevers. "Freestyle" lets you experiment   and
grow in the best tradition of the kayakers of Greenland. Instead of   trying
to conform to some mis-begotten concept of how the original kayakers   really
paddled, why not create a context and foundation for moving onward. The
only valid reason I can see for studying traditional techniques is to   learn
how to improve your own and hopefully learn techniques better than those
you were taught.



Nick Schade

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