Dear Jed: I advertise the test with the trip, I discuss it with people who phone to find out about the trip, and I insist upon people demonstrating proficiency at the time of departure, in actual cold water, just before we head out. I go first, to prove that I'm serious. The trick is to show no sign of weakness, or you get run over and ignored (and you know how the rest of the trip is going to go after that!) The biggest problem is my wife. She's like a cat. She hates to get wet. ----- Original Message ----- From: <SeaKayakNH_at_aol.com> To: <kayakfit_at_fidalgo.net> Sent: Saturday, April 28, 2001 3:45 AM Subject: Re: [Paddlewise] get togethers, paddle floats and rolls > > In a message dated 4/27/01 9:06:09 PM, kayakfit_at_fidalgo.net writes: > > << When I lead trips with significant exposure I advertise that all > participants must pass an ear in the water test, meaning that they must do a > self rescue, a deep brace, or a roll, that wets at least one ear. That > assures me that they have some skill, or immersion clothing, (sometimes I > also specify immersion clothing, and make them prove it if I have any doubts) > or both. >> > > I like this approach. I've been looking for a fast way to cut through > the bullshit to find out who has potential weaknesses. Do you have them > perform this in the conditions pre-trip or would that be too late? > > Jed > > *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************
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