the paddle the paddle · 2014-11-25 · book review 5 beautiful clayquot article (cont’d) 6 sea...
TRANSCRIPT
S K A B C T o p r o m o t e f e l l o w s h i p , s a f e t y , t h e e x c h a n g e o f i n f o r m a t i o n a n d s k i l l s ; t o e n c o u r a g e c o n c e r n a n d r e s p e c t f o r t h e e n v i r o n m e n t , a n d a b o v e a l l t o e n j o y s e a k a y a k i n g .
Next meeting:
June 7th 7:30pm to 9:00pm
Details on Page 3
Location:
Vancouver Museum Main floor meeting room 1100 Chestnut Street
Inside this issue:
Annual Big/Brother Sister Kayak Event
2
Spring Fling Paddle & BBQ
2
Upcoming Events 3 Upcoming Meetings 3
Book Review 5 Beautiful Clayquot article (cont’d)
6
Sea Kayaking Safety Guide
8
Kayaking & Camping Gear Checklist
9
Safety - Emergency ‘Day’ Bag
10
Sea Kayak Navigation Course - April, 2011
11
Training Corner 12
Ladysmith Paddlefest Trip
14
Trippin’ Out 14
Grand Opening of B.C. Marine Trails Network
4
SKABC Reflective Decal Returns
11
The Paddle The Paddle The Paddle The Paddle SKABC’s Newsletter SKABC’s Newsletter SKABC’s Newsletter SKABC’s Newsletter
Beaut i fu l Clayquot in Fog, Wind & RainBeaut i fu l Clayquot in Fog, Wind & RainBeaut i fu l Clayquot in Fog, Wind & Rain
- submitted by Bob Salo
Paddling on the West Coast of Vancouver Island has the potential to be sunny,
warm and spectacular, or wet, windy and foggy, but spectacular in its own way.
This trip turned out to be “spectacular in its own way”. My paddling companions
were Graham Lorimer, Maureen Benzon and Andy Barras, an ambulance driver/
paramedic from England on a six month trip to North America. Our plan was to
paddle the outside of Vargas and Flores Islands to Hot Springs Cove – weather per-
mitting!
Saturday, August 29, 2009 – At high tide in Tofino, there is not much beach to launch
at the best of times, and when you share it with a tour group of eight kayakers, it is
even more difficult. Still, we were on the water at 10:30am with the fog lifting. As we
rounded the south end of Filice Island the
fog thickened to the point of not being
able to see Vargas Island. We all took
compass readings and used the two GPS
units that Graham and Maureen had.
We headed around Moser Point to check
things out and to make a “go, no‑go”
decision. Outside of Wilf Rocks the swells
increased to 5 feet, and the fog would
come and go. Visibility started to be-
come good enough to see rocks and
islets so everyone was comfortable to
continue and we had an enjoyable paddle through the Lacroix Group all the way to
Ahous Point. The fog had completely lifted and there was brilliant sunshine heading
into Ahous Bay. We continued to the campsite at the west end, where we found a
sheltered sandy beach with a choice of tent sites.
Sunday, August 30 – Heavy fog greeted us at 7:00am. We decide to stay and day
paddle around the Ahous Bay and out to Blunden Island. The crossing from Foam
Reefs to Blunden Island is only half a mile, but in thick fog where we couldn’t see any
land was a bit uneasy! We landed on a northeast facing beach that was a well pro-
tected campsite. The wind got stronger, pushing fog in from the ocean. Coming
out of the bay we couldn’t see the north point of Ahous Bay. However, we all were
getting more confident traveling in fog using the combination of compass and GPS.
(cont’d on page 6)
June 2011
SKABC will be hosting our “Annual” Big Brothers/Sisters event at Panorama Park on
July 23 & 24, 2011. This is a rewarding, fun, tiring day of paddling and we are looking
for volunteers. The event will take place over 2 days. Saturday will host the younger
group and SKABC will cover the rental of 3 doubles from DCCK. Each double will be
paddled by a little buddy accompanied by his/her big brother/sister and will be ac-
companied by a SKABC member in his/her own boat. On Sunday we will host the
older “buddies” who will paddle in singles. In addition we will need a “free floating”
kayaker to go wherever needed.
Each “buddy” will be given a bottle of water and an energy bar for the paddle, and
all will get pizza and fruit on their return. If you are unable to join us, but would like to
supply some healthy goodies for the group, this would be very welcome.
We cater for 3 groups each day, and the organizers are never short of applications,
so we are looking for a small corp of volunteers, and as many loaned boats as possi-
ble. Doubles for Saturday and singles for Sunday. This event is becoming popular
with a small group of regular volunteers, but of course, timing is crucial and not eve-
ryone is available. If you are able to help, for one shift or more, lend a boat or supply
goodies, please contact Maureen at [email protected] (604-929-1035) and let me
know how and when you would like to help.
SK ABC Annual Big Brother /Sister Kayak SK ABC Annual Big Brother /Sister Kayak SK ABC Annual Big Brother /Sister Kayak Event Event Event ——— July 23 & 24 July 23 & 24 July 23 & 24
Spr ing Fl ing Paddle & BBQSpr ing Fl ing Paddle & BBQSpr ing Fl ing Paddle & BBQ
The Club’s annual spring event took place on Saturday, May7th under inclement
skies and cool temperatures. A couple dozen brave paddlers set out of Locarno
Beach and paddled around English Bay. The weather conditions were not the finest
but these true heart paddlers set forth.
After a couple of hours on the wa-
ter, everyone gathered at
Simone’s house to dry off and
warm up for the bbq. We enjoyed
a veritable feast of foods – deli-
cious appetizers, chicken burgers,
fish burgers, many salads along
with a plethora of desserts – yum
yum.
Many thanks to all of the organiz-
ers for another successful Spring
Fling. Mike Mattinson has pro-
duced a video of the day’s events
-- check it out on our website.
Executive & Officers
President:
Leslie Hansen
Vice-President:
Bob Maher
Treasurer:
Harald Riffel
Assistant: Randy Bondar
Secretary:
Eda Kadar
Membership:
Kallie Cunningham
Training:
Christine Joffres
Assistant: Maureen Benzon
Trips:
Debbie Kovacs
Safety:
Leslie Hansen
Parks & Conservation:
Nick Heath
Programs:
Karin Hartner
Social Co-ordinator
Vacant
Library:
Ray Saadien
Webmaster:
Susan Jensen
Public Relations:
Mark Starkey
Communications:
Simone Avram
Newsletter:
Alice Pletcher
June 2011 Page 2
Summer Volunteer Opportunity for Experienced Kayakers
The Disabled Sailing Association, based out of the Jericho Sailing Center, is planning
a pilot project this summer to offer adapted kayaking to people with disabilities.
They have obtained a double kayak with pontoons and hope to be able to book 1-
2 hour paddles starting at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays over
the summer. A notice of 48 hours will be provided prior to a paddling day that your
time would be needed. An organizational meeting will be held in early June.
Interested paddler volunteers please contact Eric by phone at 604-688-6464 ext. 117,
MEC Paddlefest – July 10, 2011
Jericho Sailing Centre, 1300 Discovery Street, Vancouver
MEC Paddlefest is a celebration of paddle sports in a variety of forms.
MEC Paddlefest has something for every paddler and aspiring paddler, including the
opportunity to demo boats from leading manufacturers. The boat and equipment
manufacturers will be on-site along with a well-rounded selection of retailers, schools,
and clubs.
In the past, this has been a great opportunity for our members to try out different
makes and models of kayaks.
Upcoming E ventsUpcoming E ventsUpcoming E vents
Upcoming Meet ingsUpcoming Meet ingsUpcoming Meet ings
June 7th
So we can socialize more at our last meeting before summer (next meeting will be in
September), we will keep the presentations short and from YOU, the members.
Bring a kayak-camping tip: e.g. some equipment or other product you really like
and use a lot, or a set-up trick. Easy recipes are also welcome (with samples if you
like) or just bring the uncooked ingredients, to show what a good packer you are.
We’ll also talk about packing a kayak for a longish trip. If someone has a smallish
boat, we’d appreciate hearing about how you manage.
If you just send the recipes to me, I will collate them and have them put on the web-
site.
Those wishing to participate, please email me at [email protected] and let me
know what you are planning.
Example: I will bring a small eco-friendly toiletry article and the container that keeps
my fruit and veggies fresh for days
September 6th
The first meeting after the summer will be held on September 6th.
Regular meetings are held on the first
Tuesday of the month
starting at 7:30pm at the
Vancouver Museum,
1100 Chestnut Street
Vancouver
(September to June)
Membership year
April 1 to March 31 Fee is $45/person or $55/family for the year (pro-rated fees for new members joining after October 1st Register on-line at: www.skabc.org
SKABC mailing address
Box 751, Station “A” Vancouver, BC V6C 2N6
June 2011 Page 3
Grand Opening of BC Mar ine Tra i ls NetworkGrand Opening of BC Mar ine Tra i ls NetworkGrand Opening of BC Mar ine Tra i ls Network May 12 , 2011May 12, 2011May 12, 2011
June 2011 Page 4
During the Vancouver Island Paddlefest, a small but historic ceremony marked the official opening of the first
two (of many, we hope) marine trails. A three-armed trail traverses the Gulf Islands and a much longer linear
trail links Port Hardy to Tofino around the rugged north and west shores of Vancouver Island.
Work on the concept of a trail from Blaine, Washington to Alaska began in the 1990s, led by Peter McGee and
others, but success depended on a level of government support that then did not materialize. In 2008, encour-
aged by Charlie Cornfield, several ocean kayaking clubs convened and started the current Marine Trail Task
Force, which developed into the BC Marine Trails Network Association, of which SKABC is a founding member.
Weakening economic conditions in many BC coastal communities likely gave incentive for significant support
from the BC government, mainly in the form of staff time to check and upgrade land tenures on Crown lands.
Shortly after a flotilla of about 100 kayaks swept into Ladysmith harbour, VIPs bravely paddled to the opening
ceremony in a large brigade canoe and in kayaks. They included:
Doug Routley, MLA for Nanaimo North Cowichan
Charlie Cornfield, Mayor of Campbell River
Steve Arnett, Deputy Mayor of Ladysmith
Ruth Hartmann, Councillorfor North Cowichan
Francine Burnett, Parks Canada
Don Cadden, BC Parks
Janis Leach and Paul Tataryn, Sites and Trails BC
Chief John Elliot of the Stz’uminus First Nation, received a cherrywood canoe paddle as a gift from the visitors,
who received his permission to land on his traditional territory. Following speeches and handshakes, Paul
Tataryn deftly cut the ceremonial ribbon from the bow seat of the canoe.
Thanks to SKABC members who attended the event and to all other members who have supported this initia-
tive. A BIG thank you too, for the recent $5000 donation from the SKABC Legacy Fund, for marine trail pur-
poses!
Nick Heath
Parks & Conservation
Editor note: See an excellent article on page 14 on being a paddler in the ‘flotilla of 100 kayaks’
Here is a comprehensive review on this book by Nick Heath. And thanks to Nick for
donating this book to our club library.
This is an updated edition of a well-liked, comprehensive and award-winning
guide to almost all aspects of sea kayaking, taking into account many recent de-
velopments in gear. It is aimed at beginners and its approach is based on North
American styles and techniques. Experienced paddlers will also find much of inter-
est in it, meriting a permanent space on any kayaker’s bookshelf.
Shelley Johnson is a an accomplished kayak instructor guide and editor based in
the Eastern USA. She has an interesting, friendly style that never intrudes on the
subject matter. She has also written the well received “Sea Kayaking: A Woman's
Guide” and much of this book reflects the woman’s point of view.
The breadth of coverage is impressive. It is hard to think of any aspect that has
been overlooked. For example, there is a discussion of kayaking for those with dis-
abilities. Topics include “Getting Ready; Kayaks; Accessories and Clothing; Get-
ting to Know Your Kayak; Controlling Your Kayak; Getting Into and Out of the Wa-
ter; Real Life Paddling; Finding Your Way: Kayak Navigation; Trip Logistics; Group
safety; Kayak Camping; Planning Your Dream Trip; Taking Care of Your Stuff.”
The essential safety emphasis is very well handled and I was pleased to note that in
every on‑water photo except one the paddlers were wearing PFDs and suitable
thermal protection. Ms. Johnson teaches by example! The recently-recognized
danger of cold shock is also prominently featured.
A ‘torso tool,’ a simple stick for teaching good torso rotation in the forward stroke,
shows that Ms. Johnson knows what teaching tricks really work and I was pleased
to note the emphasis on a slight lean or weight shift to effect minor course correc-
tions – good technique that is often kept from beginners.
As in many sports, there are controversial topics, such as details of boat design, but
the author diplomatically lets the reader know the essence of the debate without
taking sides.
In the quibble department, I was pleased to see that a wide range of construction
methods were evaluated including skin on frame, but composite boats built on a
plywood or wood strip core seem to be absent. For paddlers who are short on up-
per body strength for re-entering a kayak, the author recommends the use of
floating line for a rescue stirrup looped around a float-supported paddle shaft or
around the cockpit coaming, but does not mention the potential for breaking the
paddle shaft or being unable to get one’s foot high enough in the water to reach
the loop because it floats on the surface. However, she wisely suggests practicing
various methods.
Information specific to Canada is thoughtfully provided but is unfortunately less
reliable or outdated compared with US data. Examples are designated VHF radio
channels and registration of call signs, the now obsolete requirement that PFDs be
Book Review Book Review Book Review The Complete Sea Kayaker ’s Handbook The Complete Sea Kayaker ’s Handbook The Complete Sea Kayaker ’s Handbook
Library
Come check out the
library! We have a wide
range of books and
DVDs that you can
borrow for a month.
You can find a
complete index of all
our books on the SKABC
website. And if there‘s
something you‘re
interested in, but we
don‘t yet have, contact
SKABC Librarian, Ray
Saadein at
We‘re always looking
for suggestions to build
upon our great
collection.
June 2011 Page 5
We arrived in camp early and headed out for a hike
to the river in the middle of Ahous Bay. The beach is
huge and sunlight lit ocean spray was blowing onto
us. A white sand southwest facing campsite greeted
us at the river. It would be a beautiful spot to spend
a day or two exploring the river, beach or day pad-
dling, but very exposed to wind and sun.
Monday, August 31 – There was fog again early, but
forecast to burn off by noon. The wind was ex-
pected to increase to 20‑30, and our morning goal
was to get to the northwest corner of Vargas first,
and if the conditions were favourable, then to Cow
Bay on Flores Island. To our surprise, we paddled in
great kayaking conditions. Not much wind, 2 to
3 feet swells and good visibility where could see any
exposed rocks. We soon arrived at Hobbs Island and
decided to take advantage of these conditions and
continued paddling straight to Whaler Island, where
we stopped for lunch. The 3 foot surf landing at
Whaler was fun as we all were pushed a bit sideways,
but everyone landed dry. We had good visibility
crossing Russell Channel into the Garrard Group. It
started to get a little challenging among the rocks
and islets as the swell height was increased due to
the shallow water. Conditions became more ex-
treme as we turned the corner to Cow Bay. Shallow,
below waterline rocks and huge swells (10‑12 feet?)
combined with rebound waves gave us all an excit-
ing ride! When we could relax, the clear blue sky,
huge swells and spray off the many rocks was a
beautiful site. We landed at Cow Bay’s middle
June 2011 Page 6
campsite in flat calm water. The gently sloping sand
beach leads to great grassy camping under a can-
opy of alder trees. A ten minute walk to the beach
west of us leads to a large stream with clear fast run-
ning water.
Tuesday, September 1 – It was foggy with a forecast of
south/south‑east winds 10‑15. We were hoping the
fog would lift and we could paddle outside of Flores
to Hot Springs Cove. As we left our sheltered bay the
wind/wave action picked up. The closer we got to
Siwash Cove the worse conditions got. We were hop-
ing to be in the lee once around the cove and at that
time make a “go, no‑go” decision to continue. We
soon encountered six kayakers coming toward us from
the west. They said this was the best conditions they
had encountered since leaving Hot Springs. All
Beaut i fu l C layquot in Fog, Wind & Rain (cont ’d) Beaut i fu l C layquot in Fog, Wind & Rain (cont ’d) Beaut i fu l C layquot in Fog, Wind & Rain (cont ’d)
only orange or yellow, marine bouyage differences and the use of a white flag as a distress signal.
The author appropriately uses nautical miles and knots for distance and speed, with imperial units for weights
and measures, but applies metric equivalents inconsistently.
Many line drawings are included and all are clear and unambiguous. There are also numerous monochrome
photos and an attractive colour cover photo. Photo captions are remarkably useful and interpretative.
Overall, the handbook delivers its promise, providing top-quality advice. It is excellent value for money.
The Complete Sea Kayaker’s Handbook (2nd Edition), 2011
Author: Shelley Johnson
McGraw Hill, New York, NY
338 pages Paperback
$20.00 (USA)
experienced kayakers and guide books caution
against paddling the 9 km from Cow Bay to Hot
Springs in fog and/or extreme conditions. Consider-
ing the conditions and the other groups warning,
turning around for one more night at the great
camping spot in Cow Bay didn’t seem too bad.
Wednesday, September 2 - 6:15am – I woke to a
calm sea, no wind and patches of blue sky! The ma-
rine forecast predicted maximum 10‑15 km wind in
the afternoon, and the lighthouse reports from Car-
manah to Estevan had less than 5 km winds. We had
a quick breakfast, broke camp and were on the wa-
ter by 8:40am. We paddled around Siwash Cove to
Rafael Point in flat water with no noticeable swell,
and the sun shining. While leisurely paddling, Gra-
ham’s GPS showed we were moving at 3.8‑4 knots!
Passing Dagger Point we all commented as to how
true the warnings are about this dangerous coast.
There was absolutely no place to go ashore if in trou-
ble. We landed at Crazy Eagle Beach at 11:30am,
two hours and fifty minutes from Cow Bay! We had a
lazy afternoon, beachcombing and lying in the hot
sun. There was a great sunset, but the forecast was
for high winds and rain the next day.
Thursday, September 3 – It rained all night, heavy at
times. I was up at 6:30am. We decided to forgo Hot
Springs and try to get back to Vargas or the south-
east corner of Flores before the high winds in the af-
ternoon. On the water at 9:00am and met a north
headwind all the way to Starling Point. Wind, clouds,
sun and rain were constantly changing. Within a ten
minute period we were in sunshine with a beautiful
180 degree rainbow and then a torrential downpour
with rain droplets bouncing six inches off the water.
June 2011 Page 7
As we entered narrow Hayden Passage, we were met
with the full force of the southeast wind. There were
whitecaps in the center of the channel. We should
have had one more hour of flood tide in our direction,
but the headwind along the shore negated any ad-
vantage. We needed a break and headed to a small
bay half a mile south of Hayden Passage. At high tide
there was just enough room for small kitchen and
three or four tents. During lunch we listened to an up-
dated forecast calling for heavy winds right through
the evening. We were looking at another four to five
hours of battling whitecap laced headwinds to the
next campsite, Whitesand Cove, and it would be ex-
posed directly to that wind/wave action. We had
built in lots of time into the trip for safety reasons so
there was no reason to move on.
Friday, September 4 – Our alarm was set for 5:00am.
We broke camp in the dark with both wind and rain
increasing as we got on the water. We weren’t too
optimistic, but had two plans. Plan A – hope the
weather calms down enough to get to Vargas Island
and Milties Beach. Plan B – if the storm didn’t let up
and the heavy southeast wind continued, we felt con-
fident we could push hard to Ahousat where a water
taxi could be rented. To our surprise, as we turned the
corner out of the next bay and conditions improved
dramatically. We made the crossing of Miller Channel
to Atleo River and were paddling on water like glass!
Around the southwest corner of Catface, we again
felt the southeast wind against us. However, with cur-
rent in our favour and Milties in sight, we were a smil-
ing group of paddlers. Considering the conditions
when we launched at 7:30am, it felt like we had won
the kayaking lottery.
Saturday September 5 – It rained hard all night. At
every campsite, we had tarps rigged over our tents
and a kitchen site. It was a comfortable feeling
knowing the tent and kitchen tarps would keep eve-
rything dry. The rain had stopped by 7:00am, but we
could hear high winds in the trees overhead. The
forecast was for rain the next twp 2 days and 15‑-
20 km east wind increasing to 20‑25 km by noon! We
were only two hours paddle from Tofino in normal
conditions. The decision was to give it a try and turn
back if we had to. The tide was flooding against us,
but we picked up a favourable current in the back-
eddy through Elbow Bank. Graham’s GPS showed
3.2‑3.6 knots. As we crossed from Rassier Point to
Schindler Point the wind had dropped off to nothing
and there was more blue sky than cloud. We hardly
had to paddle in Heynen Channel as the flood cur-
rent moved us past Stockham Island. We were a
happy group of paddlers going past Beck Island di-
June 2011 Page 8
rectly into the Tofino waterfront. Two hours after leav-
ing Milties, we arrived in Tofino – somewhat of a mira-
cle considering the 7:00am forecast!
To assist you in preparing for your kayak trips, our website has a number of documents to help you along. Under
Trips, click on SKABC Trip Resource Documents and you will find numerous documents, including a Trip Leader
Checklist, Launch Checklist, Meal Planning List, Trip Gear Packing List along with others. Go on to the next page
to see an extract of the Trip Gear Packing List.
Resources on SKABC Tr ips Websi te Resources on SKABC Tr ips Websi te Resources on SKABC Tr ips Websi te
Sea Kayak ing Safet y Guide Sea Kayak ing Safet y Guide Sea Kayak ing Safet y Guide
As we wait for the weather to turn for
the better, we are eager to get into our
kayaks and starting paddling another
season out on the waters. Transport
Canada has published a booklet you
may like to review.
Noted below is the weblink:
http://www.tc.gc.ca/publications/EN/
TP14726/PDF/HR/TP14726E.pdf
June 2011 Page 9
As the paddling season is upon us, I thought it appropriate to publish this safety article. Remember to check
the Trips section for many upcoming day paddles.
- submitted by Bob Maher
It can happen to all Ocean/Sea Kayakers. You are out for a day paddle, the weather starts off great, then a
storm comes in and you have to get to land for safety. Or ... you or someone else goes over and you have to
get them to shore to warm them up. What do you do? If you have a good ―Emergency Day Bag, your
chances of a safe outcome are much greater.
Things do happen, why not be prepared!
• small First Aid Kit (gauze, tape, bandages)
• multi‑tool (i.e. Swiss Army Knife or a Leatherman Multi Tool)
• several bars of food
• bottle of water
• wool or fleece toque
• fleece scarf
• fleece top
• long underwear
• rain pants and top
• warm gloves or mitts (Cortex or similar)
• **wool or fleece socks and “two plastic bags” (Why plastic bags? See below)
• all weather blanket (similar to the original “Space” brand)
• small flash light with “new” batteries NOT installed
• fire starter (similar to Coghlan‘s “Fire Lighter”)
• matches, lighter and a candle
• half, flattened roll of toilet paper
• cellular phone and VHF radio (depending on your location)
• cycling flashing light (they are small, waterproof and do not cost a lot)
And it all fits into a 10 Litre Dry Bag!
What Else?
________________________________________
________________________________________
________________________________________
**Why two plastic bags? The plastic bags can go over your dry socks and you than can put your feet into wet
boots or sandals. This way your feet stay warm and dry, while you wear your wet footwear.
Note: In case you go over, keep items in separate Zip‑Lock style bags (double or triple Zip) in your Emergency
Dry Bag. This will give you a better chance of keeping everything dry, when you really need them.
June 2011 Page 10
Safet y Safet y Safet y Emergenc y “Da y” Bag Emergenc y “Da y” Bag Emergenc y “Da y” Bag
We have a new supply of SKABC reflective
decals for your kayak and/or your paddle.
All members as at May 31st (registered
on-line, paid and waivers received) will re-
ceive one free decal. It must be collected
at a club meeting by the member or a dele-
gate. Additional decals will be available for
purchase at a price of $2.00 each or two for
$3.00.
If you have already joined or renewed,
come to the June meeting and pick up your
decal. If you have registered and paid
on-line, mail your waiver in, or bring it to the
club meeting on June 7th.
June 2011 Page 11
SK ABC Ref lect ive Deca l Returns SK ABC Ref lect ive Deca l Returns SK ABC Ref lect ive Deca l Returns
Sea Kayak Navigat ion CourseSea Kayak Navigat ion CourseSea Kayak Navigat ion Course——— Apr i l 16 & 17 , 2011 Apr i l 16 & 17 , 2011 Apr i l 16 & 17 , 2011
- submitted by John Androsky
Paddling new places and home again.
Seeking more information and tools for my planning of an adventure paddling for a couple of months on the
north coast of BC to the southern Gulf Islands, I signed up to spend a weekend with Rick Davies and Maureen
Benzon.
The pair of SKABC instructors took us from a boat launch in Departure Bay around Newcastle Island to a fantas-
tic group campsite overlooking Protection Island and the Strait of
Georgia.
I love the moments of putting paddle to water (this was a new dy-
namic for me of paddling within a group) as we discussed our destina-
tion, launched and overcame the obstacles of landing in an ebb tide
with exceptional teamwork. Thank goodness for Maureen’s carrying
strap systems!
An eager and eclectic group of paddling students set up camp and
after discussing and displaying a range of gear and systems, we
walked along the beaches with compasses and charts in hand to
learn to read the land and water, with one eye to the sky, to predict
paddling conditions and distances. Both instructors held valuable ex-
perience from personal and professional journeys and presented the
information simply and clearly, as we bustled about trying to imprint
the techniques and tools into our own caches of paddling systems. At
times, the smell of lean calories burning, proved the need for a
breather to discuss and assist each other with the details of the learn-
ing curve we were on. (cont’d on next page)
Sandstone formations on
DeCourcy Island
SKABC members share their expertise through a variety of excellent courses. The courses provide opportunities for
meeting people and refreshing your skills or learning new ones. Review descriptions of core courses by visiting the
Training section of our website.
If you would like to volunteer as an instructor, assistant instructor or co‑ordinator in 2011, please e-mail train-
[email protected] or leave a message with Christine Joffres at [email protected]
Important Notes:
� All course participants, co‑ordinators and instructors must be club members at the time of the course. SKABC
year is April 1 to March 31.
� While some changes will be communicated via a general e-mail to members, members are responsible for moni-
toring the Training section of the Member‘s Area on the SKABC website for the most recent information.
� Advance registrations through the SKABC Training Co‑ordinator will not be accepted. Please wait for registration
to open. Individual course co‑ordinators will be identified once registration opens.
� Course co‑ordinators are assured a place in the course and do not pay course fees, unless the fees are payable
to outside suppliers.
� Generally, co‑ordinators prefer to communicate by e-mail. If your e-mail is not acknowledged within 24‑48 hours,
phone to follow up.
� Fees are paid thru Karelo.com and must be received by course coordinator 7 days from registration booking in
order to hold your spot in the course.
� If you have taken the course last year, you may be put on the wait list for popular courses, e.g. Currents.
For a description of the courses, see Course Descriptions on the Training site.
Train ing CornerTra in ing CornerTra in ing Corner
June 2011 Page 12
With an evening social filled with adventure stories, gourmet goodies and phenomenal cookies followed by a
sunrise breakfast with a cookie dessert, we managed to strike camp and hike out on an even lower tide improv-
ing more of our individual systems with assistance all around. Paddling into increasing winds in a protected har-
bor, we made attempts at piloting and dead reckoning while being blown into rafts of drifting boats and com-
pass bearings.
Rick and Maureen’s stories and teachings using simple props to paint a global and regional picture of what
weather, water and land were struggling with in their universal tango with each other left me paddling back to
the boat launch with a new perspective using all six of my senses.
Thinking back to the early days of when intuition was my primary instrument for traveling in a kayak, I chuckle at
my apparent luck. I am appreciative to now have the science to help me deduce what kind of conditions I will
be paddling in leading to better risk management strategies and further the beauty and relish of my paddling
moments both now and through the planning and preparation for the adventures to come.
Note: For most up-to-date and current information, check the website.
Check the website for required Pre-Requisites for each course.
Date(s)
Number of
Participants
Location
Contact
Information
Instructor(s)
Cost
Beginners #2 – Ocean – registration open
June 4 & 5
(+ evening of
June 3) (2. days)
Min. 6
Max. 8
Deep Cove Christine Joffres
Lead: Barry Dutor
Assistant: Graham Lorimer
$60
June 2011 Page 13
Note: For most up-to-date and current information, check the website.
Check the website for required Pre-Requisites for each course.
Date(s)
Number of
Participants
Location
Contact
Information
Instructor(s)
Cost
Currents – registration open
June 11 &
12
(2 days)
Max. 16
Mayne Island Brenda Viala
Lead: Rory Sutherland &
Taver Rice
Assistant: Richard Jensen &
Harald Riffel
$45
Trip Leader – registration open
June 24-26
(+ evening of
June 16) (3 days)
Min. 6
Max. 8
Gulf Islands Christine Joffres
Lead: Harald Riffel
hereorsome-
$45
Strokes & Rescue – registration open
June 25 &
26
(2 days)
Min. 6
Max. 12
Locarno Beach Alice Pletcher
Lead: George Prevost
Assistant: Bruce Pickwell &
John Martin
$45
Surf (registration closed) – co-ordinator needed
September
TBD
(2 days)
TBD
Tofino Lead: TBD $45
PADDLE CANADA CERTIFICATION COURSES
Skills Level 2 – registration open CHANGE OF DATES
July 1-4
(+ evening
prior to Jul 1) (4 days)
Min. 6
Max. 8
Gulf Islands
(wheel on at
Tsawwassen)
Maureen Benzon
Lead: Mark Kelly
Course Director: Maureen
Benzon
$95
SPECIAL INTEREST EVENTS AND CLINICS
Navigation Practice Weekend
June 17-19
(+ June 11) )
Max. 8
Blackberry Point Maureen Benzon
Maureen Benzon Free
Pre-requisite: must have completed SKABC navigation course – any year)
Rolling Practice Session
July 10
(9:00am)
--
Jericho Beach
Christine Joffres
Roberet Conrad Free
Session is for members who have had formal instruction re: rolling or have experience in rolling and wish to improve
their skills and/or practise their rolls
June 2011 Page 14
Tr ippin’ OutTr ippin’ OutTr ippin’ Out
As a trip participant, your responsibilities are:
� Wearing a Coast Guard approved personal floatation device and carrying all gear recommended in the
Gear Checklist (shown on the website under Trips).
� Having recently practiced self and assisted rescue techniques.
� Being ready to launch at the agreed upon time.
� Packing the appropriate food and clothing to maintain an optimal level of comfort throughout the trip.
The Gear Checklist (shown on the website under Trips) is a good resource for both short and longer kayak-
ing trips.
� Travelling with the group throughout the trip.
� Emergency “Day” bag.
Ladysmith Paddle fest Tr ip Ladysmith Paddle fest Tr ip Ladysmith Paddle fest Tr ip - submitted by Debbie Kovacs
I WAS THERE!
How often are we part of history and know it? I don't mean personal history or the accidental kind, or the
tragic kind but, the 'this is the day it happened and I was there' kind of history!
That was what was in my mind as I was bouncing around amongst the flotilla of kayaks and canoes hiding be-
hind Dunsmuir Island. We were about to commemorate the opening of the BC Marine Trail and I was a part of
it! It would be on a map forever, people would come from around the world to explore it ... and I was there
when its history was made!
The wind funneled between the island and the headland as we listened to the coordinator update us on the
procession. We clunked and jostled each other in the waves and wind, formed and reformed our groups -- our
'waves of paddlers' and waited. Waited for the voice on the radio to advise us that the time was NOW! Finally!
An excited voice said "yes, it's time!" And then "I see you, I see you!"
The plan was to paddle abreast in groups of 6 or 8 paddlers that would form 'waves' of watercraft. That was
the plan but we were too excited so we paddled in clumps. Clumps of grinning, laughing kayaks and canoes!
Our leader approached the beach and asked permission from the first nation representative to land. As per-
mission was granted we rested our paddles on our sprayskirts and held them upright in front of us. A hundred+
paddlers banged out a salute with their hands upon the sides of their boats, and then … on Q … all that could,
rolled their kayaks!!!
I am not known to be a crier … exactly the opposite actually, I hate crying! But folks, I found myself a little ver-
clempt!! I had a lump in my throat and a tear or two rolled down my cheek … I was there!
As each boat approached the beach, helpers walked out into the cold water, pulled our boats gently ashore
and helped us out. These same helpers carried our kayaks across the beach, up the stairs and carefully placed
them side by side on the grass!! What a sight that kayak rainbow was!
All trace of tears vanished though as Leslie (our most esteemed president) informed me " you know that the
boats on the grass are being auctioned off to support the trail … did you agree to that?" "GASP!" “WHAT?!"
Trust me, in one breathless moment the tears were gone!
Happy Birthday BC Marine Trail!
June 2011 Page 15
Trip Classification STRENUOUS LEVEL (Assumes some paddling experience)
DIFFICULTY LEVEL (Expected conditions require matching paddling skills)
Code
Description Estimated
Paddling Time Distance
(nautical miles)
Code Expected
Conditions Paddling
Skills Required
A Minimal < 3 hours < 3 nmi 1 Calm Beginner
B Moderate 3 – 5 hours 6 – 10 nmi 2 Intermediate Basic (self/assisted rescues)
C Strenuous 5 – 6 hours 10 – 15 nmi 3 Exposed/Difficult Good seamanship
D Very 6 hours 15 nmi 4 Challenging Advanced
Note: For most up-to-date and current information, check the website
Day Trips
Date
Destination
Class
On Water
Co-ordinator
Co-ordinator
Max.
Prtcpnts
June 11
(4-6 hours)
Ladner Marsh B2
(must be able to
do self and
assisted rescues)
Karin Hartner
Karin Hartner [email protected]
604-803-5215
-
June 19
(full day)
Anvil Island
(Howe Sound)
B2/C3
(must be able to
do self and
assisted rescues)
Bruce Pickwell
Bruce Pickwell bruce.pickwell@
telus.net
6 to 8
July 16
(full day)
Howe Sound B2/C3
(must be able to
do self and
assisted rescues)
Kurt Connell
Kurt Connell kpconnell@
hotmail.com
(604) 980-0693
6-8
August 14
(full day)
Sandheads
Lighthouse
B2-C3
(must be able to
do self and
assisted rescues)
Bruce Pickwell
Bruce Pickwell bruce.pickwell@
telus.net
6-8
August 27
(full day)
Bowen Island
Circumnaviga-
tion
C2
(must be able to
do self and
assisted rescues)
Bruce Pickwell
Bruce Pickwell bruce.pickwell@
telus.net
6-8
Check the website on a regular basis for new day trips
Wednesday Evening Paddles – 6:00pm to 8:30pm (unless otherwise stated, these are purely social paddles) – Check website for specific launch site and times
Date
Destination
Class
On Water
Co-ordinator
Co-ordinator
Max.
Prtcpnts
June 1 Spanish Banks to
Wreck Beach
A2
(must be able to
do self rescue)
Melissa Woods Melissa Woods melissabwoods@
me.com
8
June 8
White Rock B1/B2
(must be able to
do self and
assisted rescues)
Karin Hartner
Karin Hartner [email protected]
604-803-5215
-
June 2011 Page 16
Wednesday Evening Paddles — (cont’d)
Date
Destination
Class
On Water
Co-ordinator
Co-ordinator
Max.
Prtcpnts
June 15 Ladner Estuary (Sunset & Moonlight
paddle)
A2
(must have 360°
light)
Pat Jones Pat Jones [email protected]
-
June 22
North Shore B2
(must be able to
do self and
assisted rescues)
Peter Kearney
Peter Kearney
-
June 29
Deep Cove
(paddle ‘n play
practice)
A1 Maureen Benzon
Maureen Benzon
8
July 13 Crescent Beach/
Nicomekl River
A1 Patti Gordon Patti Gordon
pgordon@
abccountry.ca
6-8
July 27
Deep Cove
(paddle ‘n play
practice)
A1 Maureen Benzon
Maureen Benzon
8
August 31
Deep Cove
(paddle ‘n play
practice)
A1 Maureen Benzon
Maureen Benzon
8
Sept 28
Deep Cove
(paddle ‘n play
practice)
A1 Maureen Benzon
Maureen Benzon
8
There are other Wednesday evening paddles in the planning stages so check out the website on a regular basis for additional paddle dates
Weekend or 2-3 Day Trips
Date
Destination
Class
On Water
Co-ordinator
Co-ordinator
Max.
Prtcpnts
June 11-12
(2 days/
1 night)
Granite Falls (leave Deep Cove
Saturday morning
and return Sunday
afternoon)
B2
(able to paddle for
4 to 5 hours at a
slow to moderate
pace)
Derek Kline &
Dawn Lessoway
Derek Kline
604-315-7729
8
June 17-19
(+June 11)
Blackberry Point (navigation prac-
tice weekend)
B2
(pre-req: must have
completed SKABC navigation course –
any year)
Maureen Benzon Maureen Benzon
8
July 16-17 Sechelt (in planning stages)
6-8
Aug 20-21
(2 days/
1 night)
Gulf Islands B2/C3 Bruce Pickwell
Bruce Pickwell bruce.pickwell@
telus.net
6-8
Sept 10-11
Thormanby Islands B2/C3 Dennis Kovacs
Dennis Kovacs [email protected]
6-8
June 2011 Page 17
Longer Trips
Date
Destination
Class
On Water
Co-ordinator
Co-ordinator
Max.
Prtcpnts
Early June
(4 days)
(exact
dates tbd)
Gabriola Island
(circumnavigate the
island)
B2 Terry McGinnis
Simone Avram
simone.avram@
shaw.ca
tbd
Jun 23-29 (7 days)
Broken Group B2/C3 Karin Hartner
Karin Hartner [email protected]
604-803-5215
8
July 17-23
Gulf Islands (proposed)
6-8
Aug 2-11
(9 to 11
days)
Haidi Gwaii (space for 2 more)
B3 Terry McGinnis
Simone Avram
simone.avram@
shaw.ca
8
Aug 21-27
Texada and Jedidiah
Islands (proposed)
6-8
Sept 18-24
God’s Pocket (proposed)
6-8
Jul 13-22 (8 days)
Nuchatlitz B2 Heather
Harboard
Heather Harboard [email protected]
604-485-5379
6
Submissions to The Paddle
Be eligible for the draw for a $25 MEC GIFT CARD.
On your trips this summer, take notes and write an article of your adventure for our newsletter.
Submit the article and your name will be put in the draw for a $25 MEC gift card.
The deadline to submit your articles for the September issue is August 25th, and the 20th for
subsequent months.