Home > Introductory courses > Introduction to Paddlesports course - Autumn 2016, starting 24th September 2016
Introduction to Paddlesports course - Autumn 2016, starting 24th September 2016
So you want to give paddlesports a try, but are not sure how to get started? This course is for those who are new to canoeing and kayaking or those who have had very little paddling experience and would like to gain basic skills and knowledge. By the end of the course most people will have enough experience to join in club trips and begin exploring the rivers, lochs and sea of the Highlands.
Given the variety of disciplines within paddlesports, we try our very best to introduce course participants to a range of boats; including river kayaks, sea kayaks, and open or “Canadian” canoes. Coaching will be provided by volunteer club coaches and leaders.
The course includes four full days on the Caledonian Canal at the Muirtown Basin in Inverness. There are no pool sessions associated with this course, and there WILL be a requirement to capsize and exit from the boat on the canal (but this will be at the end of the first session, allowing you to get changed and warm up immediately afterwards).
The course is suitable for adults, over 16s or family groups (parent(s) with one or two juniors over 12) and costs £100 per adult, £60 for children. The cost covers all four days and includes equipment hire. The club can provide boats, paddles, buoyancy aids, spraydecks and basic waterproof cagoules.
To join the course, you will need to book a place in advance. Once booked, you must become a fully paid-up club member (if you are not already). It is possible to add both the event booking and a new subscription to your basket, so that you can make a single payment for both.
The course dates are:
- Saturday 24th September
- Sunday 2nd October
- Sunday 9th October
- Saturday 15th October
Time: 10-5pm
Venue: Scout Hut, Muirtown Basin, Caledonian Canal, Inverness
The course will follow the BCU 1 star syllabus (http://canoescotland.org/courses-training/bcu-star-awards), the first of the British canoe Union's personal paddling awards. It is anticipated that participants may want to go for 1 star assessment once they have completed the course and, if there is sufficient demand, the date for this will be Sunday 30th October.
If you have any queries or would like more information, do not hesitate to contact the course co-ordinator, Margaret Pearson, sea@invernesscc.org.uk.