[Paddlewise] Adaptive Paddling

I took the ACA Adaptive Paddling course last summer, additionally I paddle on 
a regular basis with a person who is chair-bound, having no use of his legs 
(T-7 injury).  

My paddling partner paddles a QCC 400xl.  When he was considering what boat 
to purchase I suggested that he talk to QCC about building him a boat with a 
skeg rather than a rudder that he wouldn't be able to use.  They were more 
than happy to do so.  I'd be hard pressed to say that there is a "best" boat, 
like all of us it depends...

While the original thought was for a very large cockpit for ease of entry, and
exit, we have sense thought that a snugger fit would be better.  We have 
accomplished this with a lot of foam.  Tried a foam bulkhead, but have gone 
back to traditional foot braces.

Hardest part has been accessibility issues in our post-paddle coffee 
gatherings, and transport across the sandy beaches (when they're not 
frozen)--couple of rolls of plastic fencing have worked best.

Have fun!

John Browning
www.wildernessconnection.com
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