Want Feedback on an Idea: "Practice Paddles"

DJeffSmith · Post by **DJeffSmith** » Sun Jun 10, 2012 3:47 pm

Hey folks - based upon the response to the Lower James First First Descent Trip (NEXT SUNDAY - Whoot, Whoot!) it seems to me that we have a lot of people either getting into paddling right now, or folks that have been paddling for a while that are stepping up their games, all which is very cool.

So, I had this thought (I get them once in a while...

) what if we as a Coastals' Community did some "Practice Paddles?" These would be down river paddles (on the Upper James, Or the Lower) where instead of just bombing down the river, (note - I am usually a bomber!), we slow it down and practice our moves and share our techniques with any and all that would like to paddle with us on these? We could practice our river moves one night (peel outs, eddy turns, ferry's, S-turns...) and just practice the heck out of them, then maybe do an attainment night, could be a Lower James Practice night and work on the lines...

Note: The thought here is for this to be a sharing and practice paddle and not a class or lesson in any way. Everyone would have something that they can practice and something that they share even if it is just camaraderie.

The hope is that members could offer up a practice paddle and/or request one.

So - I want to hear from the membership on this. Is this something that is in the spirit of a club and would this helpful for our paddlers looking to learn from the other members of this club?

JoshPecaric · Post by **JoshPecaric** » Sun Jun 10, 2012 4:55 pm

this is a great idea. Its nice to know that coastal members are willing to help one another out. Just let me know when and where and i will try to make the drive from roanoke

Turbo_D · Post by **Turbo_D** » Sun Jun 10, 2012 5:41 pm

Me being the complete opposite of the bomber, thinks that this is a great idea!
I would be in for this! Keep me abreast!

kyakbum · Post by **kyakbum** » Sun Jun 10, 2012 7:59 pm

Definitely interested in a LJ descent as a "student"depending on date.

kristen.werefox.long · Sun Jun 10, 2012 8:35 pm

As one of the new arrivals, I love this idea. In a big way.

tolyho · Post by **tolyho** » Sun Jun 10, 2012 9:02 pm

I'm down. Sounds like a great idea as this is how I was introduced to the LJ and picked up most of the skills I try to remember on the bigger stuff now. I'll try to join when the schedule allows Thanks Jeff and happy belated!

eric · Post by **eric** » Mon Jun 11, 2012 6:07 am

SOUNDS GREAT....this is exactly how I learned.

Let me know where and when I can help... I could lead the eddy turns, attainments, show some new "slot moves" or run independent meet ups and as always, around to support a trip. Whatever is needed I will make myself available.

Wee Hoo

e

graystroke · Post by **graystroke** » Mon Jun 11, 2012 7:00 am

i'll throw in with this motley bunch of those offering to assist. although i excel at being a bad example perhaps i could double as crash test river dummy. standing by the bat phone.........

swcarter · Post by **swcarter** » Mon Jun 11, 2012 11:16 am

I think this is a great idea. I've been looking for a some trips like this down the LJ but they are all on days i cant come. Having them more often will make them more available. Looking forward to it

eastcoast43 · Post by **eastcoast43** » Mon Jun 11, 2012 11:38 am

I would also like to get out and work on some moves, i have been paddling the upper a lot and catching lots of eddies and ferrying but I'm sure theres plenty i don't know about. im open to getting out whenever, now that the river is pretty low I'm also open to getting down the lower. Thanks to everyone reaching out to help the new guys!

DJeffSmith · Post by **DJeffSmith** » Mon Jun 11, 2012 12:48 pm

Those doing the LJ First Timer Trip (This Sunday - Whoot, Whoot!)... Would you all be interested in a Thursday Night Practice Paddle on the Upper? Post on here if you would & if there is enough interest - we'll put one together.

JDzielak · Post by **JDzielak** » Mon Jun 11, 2012 1:27 pm

Maybe its just my irresistable personality but I feel like every LJ after work and/or sunday at 11 paddle can be as much (or as little) practice as I want it to be depending on what sub group I end up with and how fast we end up paddling.

Having a some dedicated times/dates to really work the features, work on class III moves on a class II river, etc. is great idea but don't feel like you need to wait for a special invitation to practice. We're all practicing at different levels and with different intensities every time we paddle!

open boater · Post by **open boater** » Mon Jun 11, 2012 1:58 pm

I agree with Jon, every trip down the lower James is a "practice" run to some degree. Take different lines, work on different moves etc. This is the time of year to work & hone those specific skills that will payoff down the road. If your not sure of what to work on or not sure how to go about it, just ask. Everyone I know if more than happy to offer a pointer or two.

eric · Post by **eric** » Mon Jun 11, 2012 3:02 pm

Thursday can work for me..

e

MichaelME · Post by **MichaelME** » Mon Jun 11, 2012 4:40 pm

Great idea! It's been a few years since I've had a stick in my hands. be good to get some feedback, something to actually practice, as opposed to practicing what you already do.