Re: [Paddlewise] experience kayaker clinging

From: James Lofton <n5yyx_at_etsc.net>
Date: Sun, 07 Nov 1999 08:18:11 -0800
Dave Kruger wrote:
> 
>LARGE SNIP< 
> I think it is a matter of finding out, regularly, where the edge of our
> abilities lies.  If we do not explore that, under reasonably controlled
> conditions, then when Ma Nature puts us in a little trap, we won't really know
> what is "safe" and what is not.

While I agree with you as such, I'm not sure I do completely.(early here)
While testing the edge is where we do learn to go forward, or else we 
would grow stagnant(but not always bad if we are happy there). Where I 
"think" I differ with what you say is that I seem to add to my edge, if 
you will, by not trying to push my envelope, but it just happening. Like 
the weather taking a dive, etc. In other words, I know what the safe 
conditions is that I can make a certain cross'n of a certain lake. I also 
know that I have made it in quite a bit rougher conditions, however I 
don't always up the anti each time, just because I know I "made it" last 
time. I guess I just like that LARGE margin, especially in the winter.
Maybe I'm differant? I too used to climb at any chance in AK. Most rock, 
some snow/ice. I don't recall ever pushing the edge to see what I could 
get away with before I fell. I heard some say you don't know what the 
edge is until you fell. I never believed that! I got better and never had 
a bad fall. Slips yes, but pushing on behond your limits to total failure 
of your body and scenses is a waste, I believe on training yourself.

With all this said, I guess each new thing that we try or that comes our 
way is a chance we will fail or get better/stronger. One thing is sure, 
we will learn. :-)

I also think we can learn by beating around someone else's bad moments. 
Some things have to be exsperanced to learn, some thankfully don't. :-)

Andy Preston, who designed the Stranger(a kite I fly), said something to 
the tune of, go out each day with the thought you are going to learn 
something new. It's only a kite and if you crash it and break it, it's 
not a terminal thing. 
Works for me in kite flying, but not in kayaking.

James


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Received on Sun Nov 07 1999 - 07:39:02 PST

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