Re: [Paddlewise] Instability with a flooded cockpit (and more added)

From: ralph diaz <rdiaz_at_ix.netcom.com>
Date: Sun, 30 Jan 2000 00:30:54 -0800
Matt Broze wrote:
> 
> Ralph wrote:
> <<<SNIP>...I do recall hearing some published tales of paddlers
> re-capsizing when trying to yank out the inboard blade from a tightly
> fitting bungee or cord X pattern. And I have seen it happen in calm
> water during practice drills. My guess is that when a capsize occurs
> while yanking it is because of poor technique or letting down one's
> guard. A person yanking out the blade should make certain that the
> paddle float remain active, i.e. still be in contact with the water
> while yanking, and then skimmed back across the water for removal of the
> float or left on to continue resting or let the adrenalin simmer down.>>
> 
> Ralph, were you teaching those who capsized? The reason I asked is because
> what you said about having the paddlefloat remain active as you pull it out
> could be causing the problems you have seen.
> 
> I think those who capsize when doing this have been doing the right thing
> while using the paddlefloat (that is) leaning their weight more to the float
> side. The catch comes when it is time to slip the paddle out from under the
> deck lines. Then you must get the kayak back on an even keel and for a
> second quit depending on the paddlefloat to stabilize the kayak. With no
> weight holding the paddlefloat down it is easy to slip the paddle out from
> under the deck lines with one quick arm motion and bring it in front of your
> body in normal paddling position. The float may still be resting on the
> water when you do this but no downward pressure should be applied to it at
> that time. 

No I wasn't teaching...just saw two people go over at different time.  I
don't think I said that one should lean on the float when yanking it out
of the deck bungee hold.  Physical laws would make that a more difficult
act than it already is...two opposing levers, in effect.  No, I meant
active in the way I stated, i.e. keep the paddle in contact with the
water and when released, skim the float end across the water in case you
suddenly feel tippy.

Your point about getting the boat on an even keel is a good one, or even
lean it in the opposite direction as you state.

ralph
-- 
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Ralph Diaz . . . Folding Kayaker newsletter
PO Box 0754, New York, NY 10024
Tel: 212-724-5069; E-mail: rdiaz_at_ix.netcom.com
"Where's your sea kayak?"----"It's in the bag."
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Received on Sat Jan 29 2000 - 21:33:51 PST

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