Re: [Paddlewise] Speed Rolling

You asked for speed rolling stories.

The Western Michigan Coastal Kayak Association symposium always has a
speed rolling contest, open to instructors and students.  A few years
ago, a very great paddler, who is an Instructor Trainer Educator for the
ACA and one of the best teachers/paddlers around, had a problem in the
middle of his timed rolling session where he took in a bit of water as
he gulped a breath of air.  This lead to an instant asthma reaction (he
does have asthma) and resulting loss of orientation.  He was upside down
for a while before he got himself out.  He was wheezing and hacking
water out of his lungs for the rest of the evening.

No one even thought to help because it was unthinkable that this guy
might need a rescue.

So your caution, Mark, is right on.  Stuff happens.


Jim Tibensky
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