Re: [Paddlewise] Fatal Accidents Involving Folding Kayaks?

Matt posted (snip):
>Doug, do you still have any old copies of the OKABC newsletter you used to
write for? I think they had some articles about death by Klepper.<

Excerpt by Fred Potter, President at the time of The Ocean Kayaking
Association of BC. From Newsletter #12, September 1982, original spelling:

"A few points to consider in regards to the tragic death of two kayakers
during July 1982. The area involved was off Victoria in the Cattle Pt.,
Cadboro Bay, Discovery Isl. This area is known for tide races, small whirl
pool and upward boils during times of large tides. These conditions can be
further modified and intensified by the appearance of wind its velocity and
direction in relationship to the tide strenght and direction. The kayak
involved was a Klepper "Aquarus" know for their stability (good). Both
people were wearing PFD's, when found the kayak appeared to have no damage."

I have all the back issues _except_ #13, which is the one I believe where
Derek Bamforth, the Victoria kayak shop owner went on to make comments about
relative stability. In retrospect, I don't recall if the Klepper in question
was actually under sail (or assumed under sail at the time of the incident).
My memory tends to get a bit selective as has been glaringly pointed out
here and there, so I'll try to state up front when there is a fog rolling
in.  :-)

>To get back on topic, The anti-BCU retailer was also a promoter of, you
guessed it, wide folding kayaks (which was probably the hidden agenda for
OKABC's attacks on them).<

Derek Hutchinson made a fine distinction shortly prior to newsletter #12
regarding his opinion that there are (were, I guess) two distinct branches
in sea kayaking: Ocean Kayaking and Ocean Kleppering. Different pursuits,
different gear, different rescue strategies I think were his points, but I
better not put words in his mouth.

Personally, I think the issue with wider boats, both Kleppers, other
folders, and tandem hard-shells is that the occupants have a false sense of
security, with the real tragedy being that the paddlers tend not to practice
rescue drills, which is unfortunate when one considers the ease of a
wet-boarding when two paddlers are present to counterbalance.

Regardless. folders have made a profound contribution to the enjoyment of
sea (or ocean) kayaking the world over, introducing many to the wonderful
attributes of our watery planet. Tour companies continue to reap the
benefits (along with the clientele) of these versatile craft.

Doug Lloyd
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