Re:[Paddlewise] Trip report to Arrecife El Cabezo

Raphael wrote:

>>>>>I reentered and rolled and once up I noticed that it is very difficult
to
pump water out without using a paddle float as an outrigger.
Juan Luis came by, and held the boat.

Next time, if I have to wet exit (which should not be needed, if p bottle
and all), I'll reenter and roll with the paddlefloat, and after I pump out,
I'll store it and continue to go. With the paddlefloat, placing the free
blade end under the thigh brace, you can keep the balance by moving your
waist, like circus wire men do with their long balance rod. If waves turn
you to your left side, the paddle and float weight will compensate, if they
push you to your right, the paddle will float and you can support yourself
on the shaft. That way you have both hands free to pump out, even with semi
rough waters.<<<<<<

Thanks for pointing out the pump out flaw in the re-enter and roll scenario.
Sometimes I wonder how many who practice reenter and rolls ever bother to
pump out the kayak as part of the practice session. Pumping out is the crux
of this rescue but few seem to even realize it. I'll have to try the blade
inside the cockpit outrigger. It is new to me. Where did you learn it, or
did you make it up?

I wonder why you don't just fasten the paddle to the back deck while still
in the water (easier to do then), use it to stabilize the boat for reentry,
and then leave it in place while you pump out? If fastened right it is a
simple matter to slip the paddle back out (or free it however you have
devised) to continue paddling.

Matt Broze
www.marinerkayaks.com

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