Splash! Caught on the first strong eddy line of the day, one of my Introduction to Whitewater Kayaking students is quickly upside down in a low oxygen environment. Almost before they even tip, 2 instructors and another student are charging their way for a bow rescue. The paddler is soon upright and back in the safety of the eddy.

I am always glad we take the time to work on bow rescues prior to getting on the river. Not everyone gets their roll right away, and knowing how to do a bow rescue allows paddlers to push hard to improve their skills without worrying that they will have to swim every time they tip.

Choosing an appropriate river for introducing people to whitewater is also vital. The Tuckasegee River is a fantastic river to learn about whitewater. There are great places to catch eddies, peel out, ferry, and learn about river features. The class II water makes the “Tuck” a great place to learn and explore new skills and features without the pressure of water so difficult it is all you can do to survive.

We have lead river trips over the past 2 weekends and it has been great. Students have learned how to plan their own trips, find and choose paddling partners, begin to understand river features, and build on the skills we have been developing in our flatwater sessions.

Someone recently wrote about the “death” of whitewater kayaking, but I just don’t see it. I see an excited, enthusiastic group of new paddlers ready to get out there any explore and I love it!

Edgar Peck
ACA Whitewater Kayak Instructor