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Whitewater anyone?
Whitewater paddling is exciting and gives the participant new and interesting ways in which to entertain their coaches. The season starts on Oct 3th and finishes at the end of March. This season the PPCA is hoping to run 2 trips on most Sundays during the season, all trips being dependent on water levels.We are not talking rocket science here. October to March means that we are paddling through the winter and whitewater means that we are paddling on the rivers. Gentle readers, by using the words “winter” and “river” in the same sentence you should be able to make the connection to the word “cold” without any prompting. Dress accordingly.
You do need to approach whitewater paddling with the right attitude. It’s not really a gentle day out on the water but instead needs some commitment from the paddler. With river paddling you only get out what you put in and if you don’t put anything in you get out cold, wet and miserable.
Whitewater paddlers need to be close to what we old school coaches refer to as 2* standard, particularly with respect to low brace and edging. If in doubt have a chat with one of our marvellous coaches. I have absolutely no idea how these skill levels transfer to the new scheme of personal development awards. You could try asking British Canoeing but I don’t think they know either, best speak to a coach.
The PPCA categorise trips into two classes, beginners and intermediate, which sort of define themselves really. Again if in doubt talk to someone.
In order to participate in whitewater paddling you will need a boat, paddle, spray deck, buoyancy aid and helmet. Failure to comply with this list will result in you not paddling.
River trips generally meet at the car park near the Co-op in the Ridgeway, Plympton. We do not go to Mount Batten first to collect equipment but club equipment is available to hire for the season for a small charge. If you wish to use club equipment please contact the club equipment officer, Pete Anderson, on 07958 694434 or equipment@ppca-canoe-club.org.uk
Trip details, including where and when to meet, will appear on the club forum and we are expecting that you let us know via the forum that you intend to paddle. Posting your intentions on Facebook or any other form of social media will not necessarily be seen by your session leaders, so just use the forum please. To labour the point a little it is important that we know how many people are going to attend each trip so please do get yourselves registered on the forum in order for you to be able to indicate your intention to paddle.
In case you missed the message, think forum only.
See you all somewhere cold and wet.
Have fun.
Clive A.
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