Re: [Paddlewise] Entrapment

> I have posted challenges on
> other lists to those folks who seem to believe that the Eskimo rescues are
> real and asked them to capsize, without warning, during a group paddle and see
> if they can wait long enough hanging in their boat until someone comes along
> and rescues them with an Eskimo rescue. So far I have had no takers.

Scott,

I quite accidentally took up your challenge a few years ago. I had just
finished my first serious training and was touring with the instructor and
two other students. The instructor (a BCU coach) was no more that 50 ft away
and was watching as two large converging wake waves sent me for a swim.

Since we had just finished rescue practice, the image of the bow rescue was
fresh in my mind. I had managed to get a good breath before being submerged
and felt comfortable "hanging out," with my hands waving in the air in hope
of avoiding a wet exit and re-entry. After counting to 30 without any sign
of help, I did the wet exit.

Even though the instructal had seen me take a dive and was quite a
proficient paddler, he was unable to turn his boat around fast enough to
present the bow near my hands. He also expressed his surprise at seeing my
hands emerge, as most often paddlers exit without even considering this
option. 

In considering my own response to a companion's capsize, there is also the
necessity that the would be rescuer make a quick decision to attempt this
resue (in addition to having the skill to pull it off).

I don't think I would bother waiting the next time I capsize in a combat
situation unless there is another boat already in the optimal position. Of
course I'll never capsize again... :<}

Jeff
NYC
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