RE: [Paddlewise] Tour Inspired Comments/Questions-Guide Criteria)

From: Rob Cookson <rob_cookson_at_mindspring.com>
Date: Mon, 31 Jul 2000 12:40:35 -0700
Hi Tim and All,

> -----Original Message-----
> From: owner-paddlewise_at_paddlewise.net
> [mailto:owner-paddlewise_at_paddlewise.net]On Behalf Of
> NEWTOT_at_mail.modot.state.mo.us
> Sent: Monday, July 31, 2000 12:17 PM

>
> Rob,
> Thanks! - Your assessment of pre-paddle guide instruction put me
> at ease.

You're welcome.

<SNIP>

> This brings up the personal issue of what to do when WE are the
> guides for a new
> paddler, such as when we want to introduce a friend to paddling.
>  I typically
> request the newbie to find the limits of stability by extreme
> leans and wet
> exits before the journey begins.  They become more relaxed and
> are comfortable
> with small leans to steer the kayak, rather that stiff and a bit scared.
> Problem is when the water and / or air is really cold, making the practice
> itself dangerous.  What do you do here?
>
> This situation is common to us all, and most of us don't have that 3 star
> certification!  I would be interested in the groups personal criteria for
> introducing people to kayaking.  We are the "guides" most of the time!

Well, first I'm not certified, though have been accused of being
certifiable....  I was a registered Maine Guide for years but have let that
lapse...  Never found a reason for any other certification.

I rarely take new paddlers out in non -professional settings.  On the few
occasions I do, I usually handle it like I would if it were a Pro trip.
That is I give instruction appropriate to the situation and setting.

Happy paddling.

--
Rob Cookson
"I like a little rebellion now and then. It is like a storm in the
Atmosphere." Thomas Jefferson in a letter to Abigail Adams, February 22,
1787.


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Received on Mon Jul 31 2000 - 12:47:03 PDT

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