Re: [Paddlewise] Impossible Cowboy Rescues

> > I've been told that some BCU instructors will flunk you if you use your
> > paddle to enter a kayak.

I have in front of me the BCU brochure for the 1 - 3 Star tests for kayak.
Here is what it says about launching the kayak at each level:
   1-star:  "The boat must be afloat.  Balance must be maintained.  The
paddle must remain within reach or can be used to assist in embarking."
   2-star:  "Boat to be afloat and entry into it without any aid from the
paddle, though the paddle must be close, i.e., within reach."
   3-star: "The candidate should be able to launch safely and efficiently
from any reasonable launching spot, e.g., pier, steps, high river bank."
So, in fact, there is mention at the 2-star level of entry into the kayak
without the aid from the paddle.  However, a few observations:  (a) This
requirement presupposes an ideal (sheltered, smooth, shallow-grade) launch
site appropriate for paddlers without advanced skills;  and (b) while entry
without a paddle may be a good way to prolong the life of the paddle and may
also be a good balance-enhancing exercise, I believe that this is *not* a
skill that should determine passage or failure of the 2-star award overall.
So it may be that "some BCU instructors will flunk you if you use your
paddle to enter a kayak,", but again, IMO this should not be a criterial
skill.


> The same instructor apparently will not allow you to take
> the course in a kayak equipped with a rudder, even if you don't use it!
> A friend wanted to take the course and was annoyed he'd have to borrow
> or rent an unfamiliar kayak for the week long course.

This also may be true, but is decidedly not BCU policy.  While BCU (and
probably most) instructors may shy away from using some recreational boats
for courses (impossible to edge for boat control, difficult to rescue when
without bulkheads or floatation), There is absolutely nothing in the BCU
materials that prevents the use of a sea kayak with a rudder.

Bob V


***************************************************************************
PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - All postings copyright the author and not
to be reproduced/forwarded outside PaddleWise without author's permission
Submissions:     PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net
Subscriptions:   PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net
Website:         http://www.paddlewise.net/
***************************************************************************