Re: [Paddlewise] QQ: Tow rope point of attachment

From: James Farrelly <JFarrelly5_at_comcast.net>
Date: Mon, 7 May 2007 23:52:08 -0400
I really, really think a tow system needs to be operated with three  
things in mind:

1. SOP ahead of time that you will not be asked for permission to be  
towed. You will simply be towed if deemed necessary by the group  
leader. This is all decided well ahead of time. I have had a paddler  
refuse a tow and screw the trip for their obtuse behavior.

2. The tow 'biner must be operated/ clipped on/off with one hand.

3. Getting rid of the tow rope must be done, again, with one hand  
very quickly. I can envision losing my balance while towing in rough  
seas and ending in an upside down position due to an unintended dump.

Making tow systems may not be prudent. Buy a tested commercial system  
and be happy you did. It is a known quantity in a situation where  
unknowns are not wanted.

I wear a tow belt. I got to use it twice. Shoot! That is two more  
than I ever thought I would need to use it. The second time I had to  
argue with a fat old woman who didn't want a tow even though she  
couldn't make it to the lunch landing spot due to a strong tide.  
Hence the need for an SOP. I learned the SOP trick here. Very good  
advise. Thank you Paddlewise.

Jim et al


On May 7, 2007, at 11:19 PM, John H wrote:

> If towing some one any distance it it best to attached to a rear  
> deck "U-bolt" just behind the  the towing paddler with a "biner" or  
> use a waist belt configuration. What is the experience and wisdom  
> of PaddleWise paddlers?
>   John
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Received on Mon May 07 2007 - 20:52:33 PDT

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