Re: [Paddlewise] Not Enough Rescue Practice

"Seng, Dave" wrote:
> 
>   I recall at least one WW group that used to stage (and may still) an
> annual White Water Rescue Rodeo.  They drew teams from at least a few
> different states in the southeastern US.  Steve Cramer, do you recall these
> guys, I think they they were somewhere down in your neck of the woods (maybe
> in the Carolinas)?  I was invited once, but unfortunately couldn't attend.
> IIRC the rodeo was comprised of several different rescue scenarios designed
> to test a wide range of rescue skills - ranging from gear/boat/swimmer
> rescue to an entrapment to first aid for serious trauma.  Competition seemed
> to be intense, but at the same time very good-natured.  Maybe this is an
> idea some of you folks belonging to clubs could work with and expand for
> your own purposes.

You are thinking of the Western Carolina Paddlers Rescue Rodeo, held
annually the first weekend of June at the Nantahala Outdoor Center. In
the past, this was organized by Chris Bell. I haven't heard an
announcement for this year, though.

I only competed one year, and our team finished next to last :( Of
course, there were only two teams. :) The team was organized out of
rec.boats.paddle by Jim Dowdy, from Huntsville, AL. His idea was: Who
typically performs rescues? The first 5 guys on the scene, using
whatever they've got in their boats. So we all showed up, never having
laid eyes on each other, and went for it. Team members from AL, FL, GA,
NC, paddling WWK-1, IK, and WWOC-1.

IIRC, the events were throwrope toss, first aid, self rescue, gear
recovery (aka paddler's yard sale), and a surprise rescue scenario,
which that year involved a person found floating face down after a
lightning strike. The scenario was scored by Slim Ray, who literally
wrote the book on WW safety. The reason we did well is that, unbeknownst
to anyone until we got there, one team member was an EMT. I really like
paddling with EMTs.

An excellent event. If anyone is interested in how to do it, I think
Chris has a handout. I'm reluctant to post his address without his
permission, so if anyone is really interested, email me and I'll put you
in touch.

Steve
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