Re: [Paddlewise] Unofficial account of Andrew's accident

Craig wrote:
>>>>>I was struck by the fact that Andrew
reported over the radio that his kayak was sinking when it was found
floating. One wouldn't think that an experienced paddler would believe his
kayak was sinking when, in fact, it wasn't.<<<<<<

The unidentified kayak that may have been an Old Town Loon was found
floating however had it been occupied it would have certainly been sinking.
Andrew may have had to get into the water to stop his kayak from filling
further while trying to make repairs or correct the situation somehow and
call for help. It also seems likely to me from the distress call description
that he may have lost touch with his kayak and then been unable to swim as
fast as it was blowing away. That is not an uncommon experience for those
who end up in the water in a strong wind.

Once my friend (of no PFD, great self-rescues skills, and big trip fame) and
I were practicing in some very strong winds. He was in the water and said:
"I wonder what happens if I let go of the kayak" He took his hand a bit away
from the coaming for just an instant and his kayak was out of his reach and
blowing away at least twice as fast as he could swim after it. It was a
chase for me to get to it, paddling it down with my kayak. It just takes a
second of inattention to loose your life raft" if you are solo--or even if
with other paddlers not equipped (mentally, physically or equipment wise) to
run it down and bring it back.

Matt Broze
www.marinerkayaks.com
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