[Paddlewise] What's Wrong With Kayaking

In contrast to Nick Schade's perspective that kayaking deserves more glossy
magazine publicity, I'd like to say that I'm opposed to the attention that
kayaking would receive if it was glamorized even more.  The current level of
kayaking publicity causes me to take a tow rope along even on the days when I
go on solo paddling trips because of the likelihood of meeting beginners in
trouble.  I'm horrified when I meet people paddling sit-on-tops on the ocean,
holding young children in their laps, without a life vest to be seen.  When I
see these boats being washed ashore by the surf, with swimmers and children in
the water, it makes me wonder how much longer before kayaks are banned at our
State beaches.  On more than one occasion I've met hostile life guards who are
against all kayakers because of the bad experiences cause by the
inexperienced.
Rather than glamorize the sport so that it has mass appeal, I would prefer to
see it marketed as a serious sport for those who are willing to commit to the
training required to be responsible.  Don't gloss over the fact that there is
risk involved in sea kayaking.

Patrick Martin
Moorpark, California