Re: [Paddlewise] supplies

Hey, just my quick input on retrofitting your new capella for a
paddlefloat park. I have 2 different options than drilling.

   I have always practiced my paddlefloat rescue without using the
designated bungee paddle park apparatus. I simply hold the paddle in place
with the same hand that grips the cockpit coaming.
   For example, Approaching the boat from a swimming position on the right
side. The inflated paddle is on my left. 
   In my left hand I grip the paddle with my fingers and the coaming with
my thumb. I swim up, over the back deck - making sure the paddle/float is
secure and remains perpendicular to the boat with my weight on it. Then I
simply finish off the reentry and sit down. 
  My other paddle float rescue without the float involves a stirrup loop.
Great for people who need a little more assistance. And pretty much
immobilizes the paddle.   
 Big note, I keep the unattached paddle really close when I reattach the
skirt.
  These are both fairly simple exercise that I have practiced in pool,
flat wide rivers and on the lake in really crappy weather. 
    I figure that practicing in all conditions with as little help as
possible - when I REALLY need that paddle float park, it will be there.
    I usually do not use any of these rescues for anything other than
practice for when I might miss a roll. With the majority of the boats I
paddle,   I swim up onto the back deck, straddle, keeping center of
gravity low and slide in. This can be practiced in most fair conditions.
   Practice makes perfect.

Phil Huck
huck_at_mhd1.moorhead.msus.edu
thekayaker_at_yahoo.com



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