INTRO TO KAYAKING

EVENT DETAILS

•  August 15, 2021
• 12 pm to 4 pm
• Galts Ferry, Lake Allatoona (GPS Coordinates: 34.132677095367576, -84.64492904725367)
• $50 for class only (optional boat/paddle/PFD rental available from GRN for $25)

THE CLASS

This is a half day, introductory level class to get you more familiar with the features of your boat and paddle and give you more confidence on your adventures.

By the end of the day you will feel like your boat is less tippy, know how to paddle all day without wearing out your arm muscles, know how to avoid tennis elbow, know how to help yourself or your friend in a capsize situation at the lake, and other basic information that will prepare you to be a better paddler or trip leader for your family.

• Basic paddle strokes and boat control
• A couple of options for self or assisted rescue to climb back into your kayak if you capsize in deep water
• Legally, what’s required in a non-motorized craft
• An introduction to gear, trip planning and prevention

ABOUT YOUR INSTRUCTOR

Andrea White is an ACA certified Level 2 River Kayaking instructor with an instructor endorsement as a Paddlesport Safety Facilitator.

She served for 2 years as the Chair for all Recreational Boater Training for the Tennessee Scenic Rivers Association and has been teaching entry level kayakers for 5 years. She has a passion for building a community of safety conscious paddlers who can help each other when things on the water go sideways.

She also earned the award from the American Canoe Association as the Best State Director in the nation in 2020 for her work leading paddlesports training and advocacy in Tennessee. We welcome her to Georgia to spread her enthusiasm for paddlesports among all of the folks who love Georgia’s rivers!

SUPPORTING GEORGIA RIVER NETWORK

Georgia River Network is a 501(c)3 organization founded in 1998 to serve as the voice of Georgia’s rivers. GRN works to empower everyone to connect with, and advocate for economically vital and clean flowing rivers in Georgia. Your class fees will contribute to this effort statewide.

LOGISTICS

We will meet at Galts Ferry Landing on Lake Allatoona (GPS Coordinates: 34.132677095367576, -84.64492904725367) at 12 p.m. on Sunday, August. 15.

There is a parking lot by the beach/playground and a separate parking lot near the boat ramp. In between the two parking lots is a patch of woods with restroom facilities and picnic tables. We will meet in this area near picnic table #35.

There is an additional $5 charge for parking.

WHAT TO BRING AND HOW TO PREPARE

• We will start promptly at noon, so please eat lunch before you arrive. Bring lots of water to stay hydrated all afternoon and feel free to bring snacks that fit in your life jacket.
• Every participant will be required to wear a US Coast Guard approved Type III life jacket anytime we are within 10 feet of the water or are out on the water. There will be no exceptions.
• DO NOT WEAR COTTON. Poly pro materials that are quick wicking are far more preferable. You will also need shoes that cover your toes, attach at the ankles and give you good traction on rocky river beds. In a pinch, old tennis shoes work well.
• We will meet for approximately an hour on land before moving to the water. Please bring a camp chair for your comfort. You will put it back in your car before we go on the water.
• Every participant will need a kayak, paddle and life jacket. Rentals from GRN are available during registration for an additional $25.
• You should also bring sunscreen, bug spray and a strap for your glasses.
• Other gear that will come in handy if you have it handy: whistle for your life jacket, paddle float, sea kayaker’s tow rope, tubular webbing, floatation bags/beach balls (for sit inside kayaks), bilge pump, rain jacket (just in case), dry box or dry bag for your valuables.

COVID-19 Guidelines

Please review the following and be prepared to help us minimize the risk of spreading the COVID-19 virus during the event.