PADDLEACA | - - SUP - Raft - Rescue, Volume 3, Issue 2, March 2017 ACA launches new surfski curriculum

ACA installs new State Directors

Instructors of the Month for February & March

Oceania Championships kick off racing season ACA Mission Statement Founded in 1880, the ACA is a national nonprofit organization serving the broader public by providing education related to all aspects of paddling; stewardship support to help protect paddling environments; and sanctioning of programs and events to promote paddlesport competition, exploration and recreation.

NATIONAL STAFF STATE DIRECTORS SAFETY, EDUCATION & INSTRUCTION COUNCIL Wade Blackwood - Executive Director AL - Chris Anderson (SEIC) Chris Stec - Chief Operating Officer AK - Levi Hogan Chair - Steve Hutton (SC) Amy Ellis - State Director/Membership Coordinator AZ - Vacant Vice Chair - Trey Knight (TN) Bailey Roseveare - Social Media Coordinator AR - Tom Burroughs Secretary - C.C. Williams (SC) Dave Burden - International Paddlesports Ambassador CA - Alexander Morris Past Chair - Robin Pope (NC) Katie Hansen - Membership Coordinator CO - Theresa Zook Kimberly Jenkins - Magazine Editor CT - Vacant Committee Chairs Kelsey Bracewell - SEI Manager DE - Chris Beckman Touring Canoe - Molly Gurien (OH) Louis Metzger - Public Policy Chief DC - Meredith Waters Canoe - Beth Wiegandt (VA) Marcel Bieg - Western States Outreach Director FL - Tommy Thompso River Kayak - Jerry McAward (PA) T.J. Turner - Education & Outreach Coordinator GA - Scott Fraser - Larry Haff (MA) HI - Indar Lange Surf Kayak - Nigel Law (GA) BOARD OF DIRECTORS ID - Vacant Safety & Rescue - Sam Fowlkes (NC) IL - Lenore Sobota Executive Committee Safety & Rescue - Charlie Walbridge (WV) IN - Joe Rozsaheqyi President - Peter Sloan (NC) Rafting - Vacant IA - Vacant Vice President - Jerry Dunne (NY) Adaptive Paddling - Joe Moore (SC) KS - Vacant Treasurer - David Bell (OK) Intro to Paddling - Ben Lawry (CA) KY - Nathan Depenbrock Secretary - Anne Maleady (CO) Stand Up Paddleboard - Raphael Kuner (Germany) LA - Ben Sandmel

ME - Rob Hutchison Institutional Members Board Members MD - Chuck McMillin Roby Hackney (VA) SEIC Chair Appointment - Josh Hall (SC) MA - Kevin Beckwith SEIC Chair Appointment - Peter Casson (RI) Bill Micks (VA) MI - Micheal Gray

Kirk Havens (VA) MN - Bridget O’Boyle Lili Colby (MA) MS - Brian Ramsey Liaison Member Andrew Tush (VA) MO - Justin Adams BSA Liaison - Keith Christopher (TX) Steve Hutton (SC) MT - Vacant USCG Auxiliary - Don Goff (MD) William Irving (NC) NE - Steve Kuhl Jeff Rouse (VA) NV - Vacant David Bell (OK) NH - Vacant Cover photo Tom Uebel - Sugar Island liaison (NY) NJ - Jason Parke Surfskiers paddle through ocean waves at sunrise Wade Blackwood - ACA Executive Director (VA) NM - Robert Levin 123rf photo NY - Mike Cavanaugh PARTNERS NC - Kyle Thomas L.L. Bean ND - Vacant Rapid Media OH - Ryan Pepper MTI Adventurewear OK - Aasim Saleh Kokatat OR - Vacant Werner PA - Steve Barber Follow us on... Stand Up Paddle Industry Association PR - Omar Ramos USA Canoe/Kayak RI - Vacant BSA Aquatics Taskforce SC - Jefferson Atkins NOAA Marine Debris Program SD - Cory Diedrich U.S. Coast Guard Office of Boating Safety TN - Bob Snuck National Safe Boating Council TX - Janice Malone Outdoor Alliance UT - Vacant Outdoor Alliance for Kids VT - Vancant Hobie Polarized Sunglasses VI - Vacant Association of Outdoor Recreation & Education VA - Steve Eudy International Whitewater Hall of Fame WA - Bill Corson Whitewater Symposium WV - Evan Young Leave No Trace WI - Thomas Schrader National Association of State Boating Law Administrators WY - Helen Tozer-Wilson Western States Boating Administrators Association Polynesian Voyaging Society Meet your ACA Staff www.americancanoe.org/staff

Wade Blackwood Christopher Stec Kelsey Bracewell Executive Director Chief Operating Officer SEI Coordinator Paddling around the world! Working as a raft guide again. Working at another outdoor program in the mountains of If you weren’t working with the ACA, Southeast U.S. what would you be doing?

Amy Ellis State Director/Membership Coordinator

Katie Hansen Working for a nonprofit Bailey Roseveare Membership Coordinator animal rescue organization Social Media Coordinator or as a a dog trainer. Teaching horseback riding Working in outdoor lessons and training horses. education, spending as much time in the field as possible.

Louis Metzger Marcel Bieg Public Policy Chief Western States Outreach Working in the area Director & Grant Manager of marine-centered Finding another job ASAP! environmental issues.

T.J. Turner SEI Department Specialist Searching for work with an organization that allowed me to work outside more often and offer Dave Burden Kimberly Jenkins programming for both land- International Paddlesports Paddle eMagazine Editor and water-based activities Ambassador Looking for work as an year-round. Traveling the world by kayak. editor/writer, preferably in the outdoors industry. www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | March 2017 | Page 1 Table of Contents

Stewardship Adaptive 5 Update on ACA Stewardship Initiatives 25 Equipment Spotlight: 6 Paddle Green Spotlight: Volunteers Universal Paddling Seat Needed to Clean up Occoquan River 26 Upcoming Adaptive Paddling Workshops 8 Recent Paddle Green Policy Action News Near You Education 28 ACA Welcomes New Board Members 10 ACA Launches Surfski Curriculum 28 ACA Elects New State Directors 11 ACA Offers Rock Garden & Sea Cave Course 29 ACA Works to Support 12 February Instructor of the Month Western States Paddlesports 13 March Instructor of the Month 14 Save the Date for these Symposiums Membership 15 NTSB Identifies Risks with Shared Waterways 31 Featured ACA Member Benefit: 16 Back from the Dead after 23 Minutes Sugar Island 21 ACA Pro School Spotlight: 32 ACA Members Explore Hot Topics in Safety Nantahala Outdoor Center 34 ACA Outfitter Spotlight: Gravity Trails 22 New Edcuational Resource for Kids 37 Member Photo of the Month 22 ACA Implements New SEIC Structure 23 Swiftwater Rescue Conference

Page 2 | PADDLE | March 2017 www www.americancanoe.org.americancanoe.org Competition Paddling History 39 Oceania Championships Kick Off 49 Looking Back at a Dam Removal Racing Season 40 National Canoe Poling Calendar 41 News in Competition 42 Manhattan Kayak Circumnavigation 44 Upcoming Races & Events

International 46 IWHoF Opens Nominations 47 Fearless in Foreign Waters 48 Switzerland to host annual Europe Paddlesports Symposium

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | March 2017 | Page 3 STEWARDSHIP

Page 44 | | PADDLE PADDLE | March | March 2017 2017 www.americancanoe.orgwww.americancanoe.org Stay up-to-date on ACA’s Stewardship Initiatives

Interested in the political process? Check out some of the local and regional policy letters the ACA has submitted on behalf of paddlers: www.americancanoe.org/PublicPolicy

Want to help your local waterway? Watch these videos from fellow paddlers at their Paddle Green Events: www.americancanoe.org/PGEvents

How much is there? Where does it come from? Help the ACA and NOAA ‘Track Trash’ and clean up your local waterway in the process! Learn how to participate: www.americancanoe.org/TrackTrash

How do the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace apply to river corridors? Learn more at: www.americancanoe.org/LNT

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | March 2017 | Page 5 Paddle Green Spotlight Volunteers needed to clean Occoquan River

n Saturday, April 22, 2017, PWTSC is partnering with the PWTSC needs experienced kay- Prince William Trails Prince William Soil and Water akers, canoeists, jon boaters, and and Coalition, a Conservation District, Prince Wil- pontoon boaters to sign up for this O501(c)3 organization, is conduct- liam County Parks, Recreation, major on-the-water conservation ing its eighth annual cleanup of Prince William County Public effort. Some and will Virginia’s upper Occoquan River, Works, and a number of homeown- be available for loan provided by from nine different sites along 25+ ers associations, civic associations, Penguin Paddling and the Prince miles of the waterway. The clean- businesses, and volunteer groups William County Parks and Recre- up ranges from Cedar Run/Broad to accomplish this major 25+-mile ation Department. Run, through Lake Jackson, and river cleanup. from the base of Lake Jackson Dam Please visit www.pwtsc.org for to Hooes Run. During last year’s cleanup, 156 vol- more information and to register unteers pulled 204 bags and 25 tires for this event, or contact Ed Dan- This cleanup is part of theAlice out of the Occoquan River, and this dar at [email protected], (703) Ferguson Foundation’s Potomac year we hope to get more help to re- 791-6158. River Watershed Cleanup. move even more!

Volunteers are needed for this year's cleanup of Virginia's upper Occoquan River, which serves as the water supply for most of Eastern Prince William & Fairfax Counties. Last year's cleanup removed 156 bags of trash and 25 tires from the waterway.

Page 6 | PADDLE | March 2017 www.americancanoe.org The ACA Career Center Website is now better than ever!

Use it as a one-stop shop to find awesome jobs all over the country at places like REI, the U.S. National Whitewater Center, and more.

You can even sign up for email notifications so you know when new jobs get posted to the site!

Visit www.americancanoe.org/Employment to find your dream job in the outdoor recreation industry today.

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | March 2017 | Page 7 Recent Paddle Green Policy Action By Louis Metzger, ACA Public Policy Chief Boundary Waters Canoe Area The campaign to prevent sulfide-ore copper mining operations in Superior National Forest, adjacent to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness continues. The American Canoe Association sent an Action Alert to members nationwide. The alert generated emails to the National Forest Service requesting them to cover the entire scope of issues in their proposed two-year science-based environmental study. To learn more about the issue, please check out the “Save the Boundary Waters Campaign” website at https://www.savetheboundarywaters.org/about-campaign.

Campaign for New Access to Blackwater River The Virginia Department of Transportation recently requested public comments regarding the replacement of a bridge over the Blackwater River. In response, the ACA sent an email blast to members in Virginia asking them to request that water access be included in the construction plans.

One of the comments sent to the VADOT was from Bill Trout, who wrote: As a river buff, historian and canoeist I strongly support the proposed canoe access at the South Quay Bridge (Rt. 189) over the Blackwater River when it is replaced. We would be delighted to be able to add it to the access points in our guide to the river and its historic resources, The Blackwater, Nottoway and Meherrin Atlas, published by the Virginia Canals and Navigations Society, www.vacanals.org, and the Blackwater- Nottoway Riverkeeper Program. The society is involved with river access, history, and historic preservation in Virginia and North Carolina.

Protect Public Land For the past two years, Outdoor Alliance, of which the ACA is a partner, has been fighting to protect public land. On January 3, 2017, the House of Representatives in D.C., passed a provision that would significantly ease the giving away of public land to individual states. This transfer of ownership would allow each state to decide what to do with national parks, forests, public lands, wildlife refuges and other federal areas currently owned and enjoyed by the American people. In other words, a state could decide to sell the land, lease it for mining or drilling, or otherwise allow it to be developed to generate revenue.

This could easily result in the loss of use of land for the activities which are so important in our lives. In response, the ACA sent an Action Alert to members nationwide asking that they tell their representatives that they vigorously oppose the intent of this provision. We expect this to be an ongoing issue without a quick resolution. Read the ACA’s recent policy action letters. Page 8 | PADDLE | March 2017 www.americancanoe.org EDUCATION www.americancanoe.orgwww.americancanoe.org PADDLEPADDLE | |March March 2017 2017 || PagePage 9 ACA launches brand-new curriculum: Surfski

At the 2016 ACA National Paddlesports Conference held in November, the Safety Education & Instruction Council and the ACA Board of Directors approved the creation of a new Surfski discipline and curriculum. The first ACA Surfski Certification workshops were held in January, featuring highly skilled paddlers from both the East and West coasts. Several more workshops are in the in the works for the months ahead.

To complement this exciting new ACA program, we are proud to announce an Instructor Prodeal with Epic Kayaks – one of the nation’s premier designers of surfskis and other high-performance kayaks and accessories. To access an ACA Instructor Prodeal Purchase application, please click here.

For additional information about the ACA Surfski curriculum and program, please visit www.americancanoe.org/Courses_Surfski.

If you have questions about this new ACA Program, or the ACA Instructor Prodeal Program, please email the SEI Department at [email protected].

Page 10 | PADDLE | March 2017 www.americancanoe.org Check out this new course: Coastal Rock Garden and Sea Cave Skills & Safety

Ever wanted to stick your bow into a sea cave, or play around in coastal rock gardens?

If so, the ACA has a course for you! The Coastal Kayak Rock Garden and Sea Cave Skills & Safety course is designed to teach paddlers how to paddle safely within rock gardens, run features, explore sea caves and perform self and assisted rescues in these dynamic environments.

During this seven- to eight-hour course, participants will learn: • Dynamics of the rock garden ; interaction of swell, wind and tide • Identification of hazards and safe areas • Selection of features for play • Setting up for and running a pour-over • Safe exploration of sea caves • Modification of existing rescue techniques to the rock garden and sea cave environments

For more information, please visit www.americancanoe.org/resource/resmgr/sei-courses/ Rock_Garden_Sea_Caves_Skills.pdf.

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | March 2017 | Page 11 February Instructor of the Month

With more than 20 years to develop Kent Ford described Mike as a lifeguards, Eagle County Colorado hisMike judgment on and inMather the water, “highly skilled person, with a valu- Fire Department, among others. Mike Mather is one of the more ex- able set of skills, including guiding, perienced and entertaining rescue guide training and broad national Mather worked with Horst Fürsat- professionals in the industry. experience in swiftwater rescue. His tel, the inventor of the rescue PFD experience level is truly unique on a in Germany, and tested the rescue Having taught courses all over the national level.” harness by having the class haul U.S. and in Europe, Mather has an him up an 8-foot ledge. Mather unconventional approach to this Mather is an ACA Safety & Rescue played the role of the entrapped topic. He excels at keeping topics Instructor Trainer Educator, Rescue victim in the film “Heads Up” mul- clear, accessible and applicable for 3 Rope & Water Instructor Trainer. tiple times and in one instance the rescue professionals, as well as ex- A few of the teams he has trained to rope snagged on the river bottom perienced boaters and novices alike. date include USN Seals, USAF PJs, entrapping him for real. He truly is San Diego lifeguards, Los Angeles the “Houdini” of swiftwater rescue!

We are proud to partner with Kokatat to bring you the ACA Instructor of the Month program. Do you know an instructor who deserves recognition? Nominate them today!

Page 12 | PADDLE | March 2017 www.americancanoe.org March Instructor of the Month

Erin Shaw is entering her tenth year She moved to Tennessee during she attended the ACA SUP surf trip with Ohio Department of Natural college, where she worked as a Erinto Puerto Rico. WhereverShaw she is in Resources, where she is a park nat- guide for an adventure-based the world, Shaw finds a way to uti- uralist for the Division of Parks and counseling camp, leading white- lize her love of water activities. Watercraft. She holds ACA instruc- water canoe trips, rock climbing In 2007, Shaw returned to her tor certificates in , kayak- expeditions, mountain biking, hometown in Ohio and got on- ing, stand-up paddle boarding and horseback riding, power boating, board with ODNR. As a park nat- adaptive paddling. She is currently skiing and teambuilding activities uralist she melds the two most im- in the process of joining the ACA on a high- and low-rope course. portant aspects of her life – a love Instruction and Education Council. of the outdoors and her passion for After graduating with a Master’s teaching – into a rewarding career. As a naturalist, Shaw provides pro- in Education, Shaw taught school She was recognized as Park Natu- grams statewide, but she primarily in inner-city Cincinnati; Asheville, ralist of the Year in 2013. oversees the state parks near her North Carolina; and the islands hometown, which include Cae- of Micronesia, where she paddled Sharing her passion for paddling sar Creek, Cowan Lake and Little traditional canoes on the is Shaw’s favorite part of the job. Miami State Parks in southwest South Pacific Ocean. She continues to master new skills Ohio. Her main goal is to educate and increase her knowledge, always the public about safety and the joys Currently, Shaw is excited about striving to move forward with the of outdoor recreation, such as ca- SUP surfing. Just a few weeks ago, many different aspects of education. noeing, , SUP, sailing, archery, hiking, resource manage- ment and water quality monitor- ing, to name a few. Shaw is also nearing her 10th year hosting a TV show focused on wildlife and rec- reation in the state parks.

Shaw grew up on the Little Miami River in the rural community of Oregonia, Ohio. Her love for pad- dling started at an early age. As a child, she was brought up canoeing to and from friends and family who lived along the river. In high school, her career on the water began at the local canoe livery where she taught the public paddling skills.

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | March 2017 | Page 13 Make plans now East Coast Paddlesports Symposium | April 21-23, 2017 | Charleston, S.C.

The 27th annual East Coast Paddlesports Symposium world’s leading manufacturers, social opportunities with takes place April 21-23, 2017, in Charleston, South the world’s top instructors, an event souvenir package, Carolina. This event is a three-day immersion in the and much more. history, technique, hands-on experience, and fun of kayaking, canoeing, SUP, and more. The symposium will feature several ACA instructor certification courses, from the L-2 SUP Instructor The symposium is the heart of the Charleston Certification Workshop and L3 Coastal Kayak Outdoor Fest, and paddling enthusiasts will not Instructor Development Workshop to the Adaptive be disappointed. Classroom lectures and on-water Paddling Workshop and the new L-2 Surfski Instructor basics and master classes are designed to enrich your Certification Workshop. For more details, please symposium experience. Symposium participants will visit http://www.ccprc.com/3118/ACA-Instructor- also have access to unlimited demos from the Certification-Courses.

Freestyle classes available at Adirondack Canoe Symposium July 13-16, 2017 Scheduled for July 13-16, 2017, in Paul Smith's, New Courses are offered for all skill levels, from beginners York, the Adirondack Canoe Symposium offers excellent to experienced paddlers, in both solo and tandem instruction in a quiet water venue for people wishing to canoe. Classes are based on freestyle techniques, i.e., improve their paddling and boat control skills. using body, boat and blade physics to add efficiency and ease to your paddling. The ACS is designed to be an enjoyable weekend, where you can receive coaching from experienced ACAInstructors, who will assess your skills and allow you to learn at your own pace.

The Adirondack Freestyle Symposium, organized by Tom MacKenzie, began in 1985 at Paul Smith’s College. For 2017, the event is returning to its origins and being held at Paul Smiths. It will take place concurrently with the Wooden Canoe Heritage Association Assembly.

For more information, please visit www. freestylecanoeing.com or contact Robyn at [email protected] or (201) 314-4462.

Page 14 | PADDLE | March 2017 www.americancanoe.org NTSB reports on safety risks in shared waterways

TheNational Transportation Safety and Commercial Vessels in the rules of the road upon our nation’s Board issued a report Feb. 9, 2017, Marine Transportation System” that maritime transportation system identifying the risks associated all recreational vessel operators need to make waterways safer for all with the shared use of America’s to attain a minimum level of boating vessels, large and small,” said NTSB Marine Transportation System by safety education to mitigate risk. Chairman Christopher A. Hart. recreational and commercial vessels. In addition, the NTSB believes The NTSB issued three safety The growth of both commercial the U.S. Coast Guard should recommendations to the US and recreational vessel traffic require recreational boaters Coast Guard, one to the National during the last several decades is a on US navigable waterways to Association of State Boating significant risk factor. The number demonstrate completion of an Law Administrators and one of canoers, kayakers, and stand up instructional course meeting the the National Water Safety paddleboarders increased by nearly National Association of State Congress in the report. These 22 percent between 2008 and 2014. Boating Law Administrators or recommendations address the equivalent standards. need to identify and mitigate risks The diversity of waterway users associated with shared waterways, and their differences in experience, “Just as operators of motor vehicles and training and education for navigational knowledge, and boat- upon our nation’s roadways are recreational vessel operators. handling skills exacerbate the required to demonstrate a standard safety risk. of understanding of the rules of the To read or download “Shared road in order to make roadways Waterways: Safety of Recreational The NTSB concludes in its safety safer for all vehicles, large and small, and Commercial Vessels in the recommendation report “Shared so too must operators of recreational Marine Transportation System” Waterways: Safety of Recreational vessels understand and practice the visit, http://go.usa.gov/x9Mpc.

Kayakers and commercial traffic Chicago River NTSB photo/Larry Dostal

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | March 2017 | Page 15 Back from the dead after 23 minutes By Rick Rassier, Performance Coach

Teamwork makes the dream work.

This is an expression I’ve used for Team” using volleyball as a platform with the student athletes, but I years as a performance coach, but to share a drug-free, motivational tend to run on adrenaline at times. never have I been so grateful to message in school assemblies/camps. That fateful morning, I woke up have teamwork demonstrated in the at 4:30 a.m. and drove four hours manner it was as on the day I died. I felt I needed to challenge my- to WWP in Wausau, Wisconsin. self to pick up a new sport and go The paddlers at Wausau Whitewater through the learning process from When I arrived at WWP and Park in Wisconsin are like family! ground zero. When I first was ex- prepped for paddling that morn- In the five years I’ve been paddling, posed to freestyle kayaking, I knew ing, I was running on empty, but I WWP has definitely become one of I had found my new sport. Picking was pumped about taking my pad- my favorite places to paddle. up such an aggressive sport might be dling skills to the next level. It didn’t out of the norm for someone my age, take me long to realize that I hadn’t There is an incredibly strong sense but I never claimed to be normal! packed my dry-top. Before leaving of community among the paddlers. Everyone looks out for each other, My encounter with death helps when they can, and provides happened on August encouragement in a sport that can 29, 2015, but the perfect certainly be intimidating on your storm may have started own. weeks before that day.

The flow of the water at WWP is I was coming off of three also dam release, so the freestyle solid weeks of three to features are predictable, which is a four teamwork motiva- bonus. If you are unfamiliar with tion sessions a day, each freestyle kayaking (also referred to lasting several hours. It as playboating), it involves getting can easily be a 16-hour on wave features on the river to day with the unloading attempt to surf them, or do more of equipment, packing advanced tricks like cartwheels, up between sessions, and loops, space godzillas, or phonics driving. After squeezing monkeys, etc. in my workouts, I usually operate on less than five In my business as a performance hours of sleep a night. Un- coach working with athletes, I chal- fortunately, my diet also lenge them to “take it to the next lev- suffers when I’m eating el.” When I turned 50, I had played on the run. No one loves volleyball for 32 years. For 20 of their work more than I those years, I traveled around the do, and I’m always excited The author, Rick Rassier, looking country as the “One Man Volleyball about making an impact healthy and fit.

Page 16 | PADDLE | March 2017 www.americancanoe.org cardiac arrest (sometimes referred to as the Widow Maker) is an elec- trical issue.

was dead before I tipped over. I didn’t take in any water because I wasn’t breathing. Two other pad- dlers – Derek and Jeremy, right next to me – didn’t think anything of it until they noticed some strange movement of the boat and my pad- dle floating into the main flow of the river. Because of their quick action, and their “hand of God” move to get that morning I never went through I always try make the most of the six me upright and out of my boat, CPR my mental checklist of paddling hours for the release, and that means was started within a few minutes. gear. All I had was a short-sleeve getting as much paddling in before splash top, which is the equivalent it gets busy on the river features. I had been pulled out of the water of a t-shirt when it comes to protec- feet first at an incline on the rocky tion from the elements. I put it on. It was approximately 11:15 when I shoreline so my head was lower than noticed one of the guys who I had the rest of my body. This little detail The water wasn’t very cold, but in been paddling with standing up on in itself is one of the many things combination with the overcast sky, the shoreline. He had a dry-top on that played a part in preserving my wind and air temperatures that day, and he had wrapped himself up in brain. My body temperature had al- I certainly wasn’t dressed warmly a blanket. I thought to myself, “Awe, ready dropped to hypothermic tem- enough. In the past, other paddlers that looks warm,” but also thought, peratures to help protect my brain have given me crap about being “Awe, 10 more minutes.” I had ac- and other organs. The community overdressed. My response was, “I’d tually urinated in my boat (some- of paddlers at WWP that day was rather be warm than cold!” thing I had never done before) prior amazing! Carrie Butt (trained as to that in an attempt to warm myself an EMT), Neal Schroeter (doctor), Hypothermia happens often when up just a little. Lynne Majetic (nurse) and several people are in cool water for a long other people trained in CPR sprang time. Since I live in St. Cloud, Min- I was cold and knew I was push- into action like a finely tuned ma- nesota, 10 minutes from the only ing it but thought I could tough it chine. Neal was able to determine whitewater on the Mississippi Riv- out. No one could have anticipated that correct intensity of CPR by feel- er in the continent, I had paddled what happened next. Throughout ing the blood flow in my veins. many times in very cold water (34 my whole body, I felt an intense degrees) with ice chunks floating BUZZ! I recall thinking, “Whoa” After 10 minutes of CPR many down the river, and had no issues as my body slumped over in what of the paddlers couldn’t watch with a full dry-suit on. seemed like slow motion. Some- any longer and walked away. thing was wrong! It was a cardiac Some even wondered why they The release of the water at WWP is arrest – not a heart attack. People had persisted with CPR after so scheduled for 10 a.m.-4:00p.m., and often don’t know the difference. A long. Apparently, my complex- I’m usually on the water by 9:30 a.m. heart attack is a circulation issue ion was a dull gray and my ears to get warmed up in advance. This typically caused by some degree of looked like they had turned black. day was no different. blockage in arteries or veins. The

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | March 2017 | Page 17 Lynne was the paddle friend/nurse and one of those who did CPR on me the day before. Recently, she told me, “I will never forget going to see you the next day. I was filled with dread. I’d seen the outcome of prolonged resuscitation efforts, and I knew the outcomes were often prolonged, difficult recoveries, if at all. And there you were pacing in your room like a caged animal eager to be free! Those moments are why we keep trying even when the odds aren’t good...we are only a part of the bigger plan.” Shutterstock photo Shutterstock

I’m so glad Lynne was part of the ing whether I was dead or alive. “team” that day. Because of that ex- At times, they said I needed to be They were told that if I did survive perience, she has gone on to become held down while CPR was per- I would likely be in a coma. a CPR instructor. formed because my body was thrashing around. I didn’t have a When I came to at Aspirus Wausau Carrie was at the WWP represent- pulse and I wasn’t breathing, but my Hospital, my family was in the ing Divepoint Scuba Paddle & Ad- brain was still active. Many people room. The nurse asked me if I rec- venture before she took charge of have asked me if I “saw the light.” I ognized anyone. I looked down the the situation the day before. Two didn’t see anything, but I remember line with my wife, five kids, future images were stuck in her head: Rass- hearing for spurts of time. People son-in-law, and son-in-law and, ier’s “beautiful blue eyes” staring off were yelling, “Stick with us, Rick”, with a very straight face, looking at into the distance, looking lifeless, “We got you, Rick”, “Hang with us, my son-in-law at the end of the line and a glimpse of the wedding ring Rick” – all in the midst of the feeling said, “Don’t they call him Ass____.” that told her he could be leaving like I was wrestling against them. someone behind. Carrie didn’t lose It was uncharacteristic of me to say hope during the 20-plus minutes of For more than 20 minutes they did that word so after the initial gasp, CPR and AED shocks she helped CPR and administered the AED no one laughed. My daughter then administer on me. “That thought multiple times before the para- asked me if I recognized the little never crossed my mind,” she said. medics arrived. The paramedics girl (my only granddaughter at the “My thought was ‘Keep going. Don’t also used the AED, but substituted time) she was holding. I made an- stop. Be effective. Do something. regular CPR with the relatively new other joke about her being someone Give him the best chance he has.’ ” LUCAS CPR Device. over 90 years old that we all knew and laughed along with everyone It is just a crazy, unbelievable story! When I appeared to have respond- else. My son said with enthusiasm, One doctor said in 28 years he had ed to the last AED shock, those still “He’s back!” referring to me and my never seen anything so ridiculous. watching cheered as the ambulance sense of humor. I was ready to leave Just the fact that after over 20 min- took me to the hospital. My fami- the hospital the next day, but need- utes of CPR from both the Wausau ly had already been notified and ed to fulfill the mandatory 48-hour community of paddlers and the LU- would drive four hours not know- stay after a cardiac arrest. CAS Device, I had no broken ribs,

Page 18 | PADDLE | March 2017 www.americancanoe.org Planning to Paddle? Know Your Limits! no cracked sternum, no bruises, not about determination and teamwork. even a mark on my chest. Plus, at The day I died was all about deter- When getting ready to head out on your that time it appeared like I didn’t mination and teamwork by every- next paddling trip, be sure to keep these have any cognitive issues, stroke- one at WWP, the paramedics and in five safety tips in mind to ensure you have like symptoms, speech delay, or the hospital. Saying “thank you” to an enjoyable time on the water. memory loss. each of them seems so inadequate. 1. Take an on-water course. Whether it's One nurse at the hospital told me There are several things I hope you a safety or skill development course, that she didn’t believe in God, but take from reading this far. Are you an ACA on-water instruction course after witnessing what happened to ready if the paddler next to you provides the information you need for me, how could she not!? Miracle? I needs CPR? Get trained! You’ll nev- canoeing, kayaking, stand up paddle- think so! Either way, I’m just so in- er regret it. After I died, someone boarding, rafting, or safety & rescue. credibly grateful for everyone who at WWP sponsored CPR training had a part in my survival. I was back at the next release. Get in the best 2. Wear your life jacket. Expect to capsize and swim occasionally when paddling on the water four days after the car- shape you can since it can only help a canoe, kayak, SUP or raft. Learn more diac arrest. I had to refrain from do- your paddling. On a follow-up ap- about PFDs and how they might just ing flatwater loops because my chest pointment, the doctor told me that save your life. was a little bit sore. I wonder why!? my chances of walking away from my experience with no issues would 3. Be prepared for cold water. Cold water I’ve always felt like I have a purpose be a fraction of 1%, and it would is extremely dangerous! Learn more and have been passionate about have never happened if I hadn’t have about protecting yourself in this envi- what I do and even more so now. My been in good shape. Lastly, dress for ronment. new life theme is, “Every minute has the weather! The most important a purpose.” My career as a teacher suit you’ll ever wear may be your 4. Learn the Rules of the Road. These and performance coach have been dry suit. guidelines spell out what paddlers need to know when sharing the waterways.

5. Perform a safety check. The ACA pro- vides a safety checklist of tips you need to consider the next time you head out on the water.

In addition to the "Top Five" here are 5 more to round out the "Top Ten": 6. Practices, Ethics and Conduct - Key points on how to appropriately share, and enjoy our natural paddling resources 7. Know Your Limits - Good things to contemplate before you leave shore 8. River Paddler's Guide to Rescue - The basics, just in case... 9. Best Practices for Paddlers and Paddle- sports Programs 10. Trip Preparation and Planning - Getting ready to schedule your next trip? Learn more useful tips

www.americancanoe.orgwww.americancanoe.org PADDLE | March 2017 | Page 19 Don’t miss the 2017 paddlesports conference!

Mark your calendar for the 2017 National Paddlesports Conference

The ACA provides a range of recreational opportunities and has been established as one of the premier standards of paddlesports safety and education. As part of the ACA’s leadership role in the paddlesports community, the organization initiated this annual conference to target all facets of the paddlesports community. Don’t miss out!

This year’s conference takes place October 18-22 at the Nantahala Outdoor Center in Wesser, North Carolina, and has a great deal in store for you. Offerings include exceptional educational sessions, instructor updates, navigation classes, outdoor activity opportunities, and exciting events for paddlers of all experience levels.

To learn more, please visit www.americancanoe.org/NPC today! Page 20 | PADDLE | March 2017 www.americancanoe.org ACA PRO SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT Learning to paddle whitewater rivers takes commitment. But canoeing and kayaking lessons with the Nantahala Outdoor Center’s celebrated Paddling School accelerate the learning process.

NOC has taught more paddlers than anyone else, and our 40+ years of experience go into every class. Our diverse instruction team focuses on your personal goals and shows you the pleasures of paddling. NOC offers a variety of courses varying in skill level, learning style and duration. And our location on the Nantahala River in North Carolina offers quick access to the Southeast’s best rivers for learning and skill development.

NOC, the nation’s most active paddlesports event venue, is hosting the 2017 National Paddlesports Conference October 18-22.

ACA Pro Schools are some of the best organizations across the country to find top quality ACA certified instruction. Plus, current ACA members receive discounts on certain Pro School instructional programs.

Please visit www.americancanoe.org/ProSchools to find a Pro School near you. www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | March 2017 | Page 21 ACA debuts new educational resource for kids

Kids Go Paddling covers the basic principles behind paddling, such as an introduction to the forward stroke, various sweep strokes, and draws. It also covers various paddlecraft that youth may en- counter, from canoes and kayaks to stand up paddle- boards and rafts. ast summer, the ACA introduced a new edu- cational resource for youth: Kids Go Paddling This booklet helps to further inform individuals about – A Safety Guide for Young Canoeists, Kayakers, paddlesports and the pertinent information paddlers LStand Up Paddleboarders and Rafters. need to know before they go. Throughout the booklet, a variety of games check for This booklet focuses on the five main topics relevant understanding of key principles and topics while keep- in paddlesports safety, called the L.I.F.E.R. Principle: ing the youth and families engaged. L - Life Jacket I - Immersion With this resource, we can help create a more conscious F - File a Float Plan paddling community and help further safe paddling E - Evaluate Your Venue practices. So, please help the ACA by creating lifelong R - Return Safely paddlers that follow the L.I.F.E.R. Principle!

New SEIC Structure: At-Large & International Members

The Safety Education & Instruction Council (SEIC) has updated the way volunteers are chosen to serve on its Discipline Committees as well as on the SEIC Board itself. The revised SEIC Bylaws now provide for at- large positions on the SEIC Board as well as International positions. Learn more about how you can become involved under the new structure at www. americancanoe.org/SEIC.

Page 22 | PADDLE | March 2017 www.americancanoe.org Swiftwater Rescue Conference

October 13-15, 2017 Location: Pacific Northwest - Mill City, Oregon Venue: Santiam River, Oregon

Registration will be available online in June 2017 Limited to 100 spaces Cost: TBD

Sponsors Additional Highlights If you are interested in sponsoring the Challenging on-water sessions for paddlers of all 2017 ACA SWR Conference, please con- experience levels tact ACA SWR Committee Chair, Sam Fowlkes at [email protected]. Learn from a list of who's who in swiftwater rescue

Presenters Educational sessions for fire and rescue personnel If you are interested in presenting at the 2017 ACA SWR Conference, please High quality land and water educational sessions contact SWR Conference Chair: Aaron Peeler at [email protected]. ACA Safety & Rescue Instructor Updates

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | March 2017 | Page 23 ADAPTIVE

Page 24 | PADDLE | March 2017 www.americancanoe.org Equipment Spotlight Universal Paddling Seat opens paddling to everyone

Creating Ability's Universal Paddling Seat for Canoes was designed with one purpose in mind: to open the sport of paddling to everyone. Regardless of the level of support needed, the seat provides as much or as little support as a paddler needs.

The back structure consists of pelvic, lateral, lumbar, and upper-back supports. The back has several vertical adjustments to fit different torso lengths and types. The upper unit (the upper-back rest and laterals) can be adjusted independently or removed completely, for those who don't need the high-level support.

Please visit the Adaptive Paddling section of the ACA eStore for more information on all of the adaptive equipment available for purchase. Don’t forget to log in for ACA member pricing!

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | March 2017 | Page 25 Upcoming Adaptive Paddling Workshops

April 23-25 Hosted by: Adaptive Expeditions Location: Charleston, South Carolina Click here for more information and to register

June 6-8 Location: Durham, New Hampshire Click here for more information

Visit the Adaptive Event Calendar to stay up-to-date on APWs happening near you!

Page 26 | PADDLE | March 2017 www.americancanoe.org News Near You

Visitors get ready to take a short lap around the section of a trail recently cleared by volunteers at Lone Pine, Sierra Nevada. ACA - California photo

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | March 2017 | Page 27 ACA welcomes new board members

At the Annual ACA Membership Meeting, held in November 2016 in Sausalito, California, results from the Board of Directors election were announced. The new Directors began their term on January 1, 2017. Welcome to our new Board members: Congratulations to our re-elected Board members: • Lili Colby • Robin Pope • William Irving • Bill Micks • David Bell • Steve Hutton (SEIC representative) • Jeff Rouse

Sugar Island Trustees: • Marilyn Vogel • John Kells

Learn more about your ACA Board of Directors. ACA membership elects new state directors In January, the ACA held elections for state directors. Results were tallied and the current list of state directors follows. Alabama, Chris Anderson – [email protected] Kentucky, Nathan Depenbrock – [email protected] Alaska, Levi Hogan – [email protected] Louisiana, Ben Sandmel – [email protected] Arizona, available Maine, Rob Hutchinson – [email protected] Arkansas, Tom Burroughs – [email protected] Maryland, Chuck McMillin – [email protected] California, Alex Morris – [email protected] Massachusetts, Kevin Beckwith – [email protected] Colorado, Theresa Zook – [email protected] Michigan, Michael Gray – [email protected] Connecticut, available Minnesota, Bridget O’Boyle – [email protected] Delaware, Chris Beckman – [email protected] Mississippi, Brian Ramsey – [email protected] District of Columbia, Meredith Waters – Missouri, Justin Adams – [email protected] [email protected] Montana, available Florida, Tommy Thompson – [email protected] Nebraska, Steve Kuhl – [email protected] Georgia, Scott Fraser – [email protected] Nevada, available Hawaii, Indar Lange – [email protected] New Hampshire, available Idaho, available New Jersey, Jason Parker – [email protected] Illinois, Lenore Sobota – [email protected] New Mexico, Robert Levin – [email protected] Indiana, Joe Rozsahegyi – [email protected] New York, Mike Cavanaugh – [email protected] Iowa, available North Carolina, Kyle Thomas – [email protected] Kansas, available North Dakota, available Ohio, Ryan Pepper – [email protected] Oklahoma, Aasim Saleh – [email protected] Oregon, available Pennsylvania, Steve Barber – [email protected] Puerto Rico, Omar Ramos – [email protected] Rhode Island, available South Carolina, Jefferson Atkins – [email protected] South Dakota, Cory Diedrich – [email protected] Tennessee, Bob Snuck – [email protected] Texas, Janice Malone – [email protected] Utah, available Vermont, available Virginia, Steve Eudy – [email protected] Washington, Bill Corson – [email protected] West Virginia, Evan Young – [email protected] Wisconsin, Tom Schrader – [email protected] Wyoming, Helen Tozer-Wilson – [email protected]

Page 28 | PADDLE | March 2017 www.americancanoe.org www.americancanoe.org ACA works hard supporting Western States paddlesports By Marcel Bieg, ACA Western States Outreach Director

The cold weather has come, The race is for all human- covering the mountains throughout powered watercraft the Western states in a blanket of including surf skis, sea white. The ample amounts of snow kayaks, canoes, SUP and in many regions look to be lining . Organized by up for some fantastic spring runoff the Outdoor Adventure and the regular rain patterns in Center and the Kayak several parched states offer a Academy, the event welcome reprieve. In order to keep brought out over 100 the stoke going for the upcoming participants and was. paddling season, the ACA has The ACA provided safety been working hard to support the paddlers, insurance and Through a partnership with Adaptive paddling community throughout general support at the event. Expeditions, the ACA brought 10 instructor trainers to Phoenix, Arizona, to work with the Western states. Daring Adventures during a three-day The ACA believes that as Instructor Certification Workshop. The ACA National Paddlesports outdoor adventurers, stewards Conference took place in California and educators, it is important event and offered some educational this past November and the action to collaborate with other areas clinics to boot. has not stopped since. A few recent of outdoor recreation beyond events worth noting include the the paddling disciplines. For the Through a partnership with Deception Pass Dash, the Hoodoo second year in a row the ACA Adaptive Expeditions, the ACA Backcountry Festival, and a Special has helped support the Hoodoo brought instructor trainers to Instructor Certification Workshop Backcountry Festival, which is held Phoenix, Arizona, to work with held in Arizona in early February. at Hoodoo Ski area outside of Bend, Daring Adventures. This nonprofit Oregon. The event brings vendors, organization is committed to 2016 marked the10th annual manufacturers and backcountry improving the lives of individuals Deception Pass Dash. The event is enthusiasts in for a weekend of with disabilities and significant life an exciting six-mile race through demos, music, local brews, as well as challenges through the power of the swirling currents of famous races and clinics all geared toward outdoor recreation. Ten instructor Deception Pass near Oak Harbor, accessing the outdoors. The ACA candidates took part in a three-day Washington. provided general support for the Instructor Certification Workshop The 10th annual Deception Pass Dash involved an exciting six-mile and saw great success. These newly race through the swirling currents of famous Deception Pass near certified instructors will continue Oak Harbor, Washington. on in the months to come to earn their ACA Adaptive Paddling Endorsement and spread their love of paddling to an important and underserved population.

Spring and summer are already starting to get busy for the Western states, and the ACA is eager to continue growth and support of the paddlesports community throughout the region and beyond.

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | March 2017 | Page 29 MEMBERSHIP

Sugar Island sunset Sunset at Sugar Island

PagePage 3030 || PADDLEPADDLE || MarchMarch 20172017 www.americancanoe.org www.americancanoe.org ACA Member Benefit Looking for a unique paddling experience this summer?

ACA members have access to the privately owned 35-acre Sugar Island on the New York / Canadian border.

Learn more about this member benefit at: www.americancanoe.org/SugarIsland Sugar Island is located in the heart of the Thousand Islands in Gananoque, On- tario, Canada. This scenic locale is an international tourism destination near the St. Lawrence Islands National Park.

What to do on an island, you might ask? The island is rustic, with no modern amenities. It is a pristine, pure environment with crystal clear water, clean air, and beautiful night skies. Swim, snorkel, fish, paddle, sail, or simply relax.

www.americancanoe.org/Discounts www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | March 2017 | Page 31 ACA members explore hot topics in boating safety

Be sure to read the U.S. Coast placed into county vessel accounts. stand up paddleboard must meet Guard’s Fall-Winter 2016 issue of federal carriage requirements. Proceedings. ACA members Pam Combined state and county activ- Dillon from Pennsylvania, Dave ities in Idaho amount to approx- However, challenges arise with re- Dahms from Idaho, and Chris Stec imately 140 outreach events each gard to life jacket and leash wear from Virginia contributed insight- year, such as boat shows, sports- for SUP participants: ful articles for the issue. man shows, safety fairs, and other 1. It can be dangerous to wear a similar events. In addition, Idaho life jacket in surf, and In his article “Inland Recreational annually reports approximately 2. Wearing a leash in moving Boating Safety” (p. 50), Idaho Boat- 1,400 students who successfully water or a swift-flowing tidal ing Law Administrator and Boat- complete a boat safety course. river could also be extremely ing Program Manager Dave Dahms hazardous. discusses his state’s recreational One of the major investments the boating safety program and its ef- state boating program has made While it’s widely agreed that wear- fectiveness in reaching boaters. over the past five years is in life ing a life jacket is the safest choice jacket loaner stations. A loaner for any boater, wearing a life jacket Although Idaho is landlocked, it re- station consists of a kiosk, instruc- while actively surfing in the ocean ceives funding from the U.S. Coast tions on how to properly fit a life can be a safety hazard, as it would Guard annually through the Sport jacket, and a variety of life jackets prevent a person from diving un- Fish Restoration and Boating Trust, ranging in size from infant to adult derneath the waves after falling off just as do the other 55 states and extra-large. Life jackets at these the board. Additionally, a life jacket territories of the United States. Ida- loaner stations are provided free of would keep a person’s head on the ho sub-grants most of this state RBS charge for the public for short-term surface, right next to the board’s funding to county sheriff offices be- use. A recent survey indicates that sharp fins and hard rails. The US- cause the statuary authority for ma- the stations are well used and that CG’s 2008 vessel determination rine law enforcement lies with the the loaner program as a whole has addresses this by exempting SUPs county sheriffs, not the state. helped make boaters safe. from life jacket carriage require- ments while in a surfing area. RBS grant money is used to fund In “Stand Up Paddleboards: What the state’s boating program, which Every User Needs to Know” (p. 73), The second challenge relates to the consists of four full-time and one ACA Chief Operating Officer Chris complexities associated with leash seasonal position. It also funds an- Stec explains the growing popular- wear for SUPs. It is a widely accept- nual expenses such as boating safe- ity of stand up paddleboarding and ed practice that SUPs use coiled ty outreach, educational materials, the safety aspects of this fast-grow- leashes on lakes and straight leash- boater handbooks, and other asso- ing sport. es in the ocean. However, it’s not so ciated equipment and operating ex- straightforward in tidal and inland penses. The remainder of the grant In 2008, the U.S. Coast Guard rivers with swift-moving water. money is allocated to the counties made a legal determination on the for their respective local programs. vessel status of paddleboards, stat- Due to the complexities associat- ing, “when it is beyond the narrow ed with life jacket and leash wear, Idaho counties have boat registra- limits of a swimming, surfing, or as well as the various regulations tion dollars available as another bathing area, a paddleboard is con- applied to SUP, education is key. financial resource. Eighty-five per- sidered a “vessel” under 46 U.S.C. § Local, state, and federal regulators cent of registration dollars are dis- 2101, and is subject to USCG regu- need accurate information prior to tributed locally to counties for their lations, unless specifically exempt- crafting rules and guidelines that respective marine programs and ed.” Following this classification, a affect stand-up paddle boarding.

Page 32 | PADDLE | March 2017 www.americancanoe.org The current system for also include waiting periods and merchant mariner cre- personal visits to locations outside a dentials was not originally person’s home area to complete back- developed to certify rec- ground checks and medical testing. reational boating safety skills instructors. That this Another issue is developing a ro- regulation applies only to bust safety culture among the individuals who receive boating community. The chal- reimbursement, and not lenge for safety professionals is not to these same individuals what needs to be done, but how to who might volunteer and translate these concepts into a pro- receive no reimbursement gram’s culture. or other consideration, seems to indicate that this According to noted safety culture requirement is primarily author James Reason, training is about revenue and com- a universal feature in creating and merce, which are outside advancing any safety culture. Giv- the goals of the RBS Stra- en this, targeting on-water skill tegic Plan. training in areas of historically high recreational casualties could The most crucial step in reducing Ironically, if an interest- plant, nurture, and cross-pollinate future fatalities for SUPs is to edu- ed instructor candidate receives an the seed needed to improve the ar- cate the public. operator of an uninspected passen- ea’s boating safety culture. On the ger vessel credential, the creden- other hand, a less-than-adequate In “Who Can or Should Teach Rec- tial does not authorize (nor does safety culture can result from a reational Boating Safety?” (p. 80) it fully prepare) that candidate to failure to understand the full range Pamela Dillon, Education and Stan- teach a course of instruction under of challenges in a program’s im- dards Director for the National As- the most current systems of na- plementation. This is perhaps why sociation of State Boating Law Ad- tional curricula or recognized best formalized operator training has ministrators, delves into skills-based practices. The instructor candidate never been the norm within the on-water and advanced training. must go on to fulfill several other recreational boating culture. requirements. While sailing and paddling instruc- What is being done to address the tion have been widely offered for If obtaining the operator of an un- issue? At the 92nd meeting of the decades, powerboat instruction has inspected passenger vessel creden- National Boating Safety Advisory been limited, due in part to some- tial to teach paid recreational boat- Council, the members recommend- what onerous federal regulations ing safety courses were a simple, ed creating an OUPV exclusively requiring USCG merchant mariner inexpensive, straightforward pro- for on-water safety instructors for credentials in most, but not all, lo- cess, this would not be viewed as an nonprofit and for-profit instruction. cations where instruction is offered adverse requirement. However, the for a fee. process takes several months and involves completing multiple steps, Click here to Dillon asks the question, “Is the forms, and requirements — often captain’s license requirement for at considerable expense (from $400 Read the issue recreational powerboat operation to more than $2,000 when travel is paid instructors holding us back?” required). OUPV requirements may

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | March 2017 | Page 33 ACA Outfitter, Livery & Guide Spotlight

Gravity Trails is a multi-sport adventure tour company based in Door County, Wisconsin and New Orleans, Louisiana, that offers zip lining, kayaking, sunset tours, swamp tours, stand-up paddleboarding/surfing and multisport tours. Their northern outdoor recreation spot is in the northeast corner of Wisconsin known as Door County, Wisconsin.

Why choose Gravity Trails? • Beginner friendly tours • No extra state park fees • Reasonably priced • Centrally located on the peninsula Find an ACA outfitter • Sandy beach kayak access near you using the convenient search tool on our website! Page 3434 | | PADDLE PADDLE | March | March 2017 2017 www.americancanoe.orgwww.americancanoe.org wernerpaddles.com

When you purchase a Werner Paddle you are helping to support our non-profit partners through Werner’s Healthy Waters program. Healthy Waters, helping to protect the places we all paddle. Page 36 | PADDLE | March 2017 www.americancanoe.org Member Photo of the Month

This could be you!

If you'd like to see your photos in upcoming issues of Paddle, send them (along with a brief description) to ACA Paddle eMagazine Editor Kimberly Jenkins at [email protected] for a chance to be featured.

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | March 2017 | Page 37 COMPETITION

Page 38 | PADDLE | March 2017 www.americancanoe.org Oceania Championships kick off international racing season COMPETITION By Arron Mann, U.S. Canoe/Kayak Communication Director

With many of the world’s top competitors in atten- as he finished fifth overall. Qualifying for his first-ca- dance, this year's international racing season kicked reer senior final, Tyler Smith had a strong performance off in late January during the 2017 Oceania Champi- of his own to finish ninth overall. Finishing first was onships at the brand-new Vector Wero Whitewater Ryan Westley (GBR) with Matej Benus (SVK) coming Park. in second and Martin Thomas (FRA) in third.

Coming off qualifying for The junior K1 Women represent- his first-career Olympic ing the U.S. at this event put Team, Michal Smo- their potential on full dis- len looked to be in play as they all finished peak form as he inside the top-20. took home his first win of the Leading the way season in the with a 13th K1 Men’s cat- place finish egory. After was 2016 finishing U.S. Junior first in the National preliminary Team mem- heats, Smo- ber Sage len easily Donnelly, advanced who also to the fi- finished 16th nal with his overall in fourth-place women’s C1. semifinal finish. Nashville’s own Avery Davis put In the finals, Smo- together some sol- len laid down a blis- id runs on her way to tering run that proved finishing 14th overall. to be enough to claim vic- In her first competition tory. Finishing in second place representing the US, Ria Sribar was 2016 Olympic finished 16th overall. Champion Joe Clarke Michal Smolen (center) took first in the 2017 Oceania Championships, (GBR) with Lucien with 2016 Olympic Champion Joe Clarke (GBR) taking second and For complete results Delfour (AUS) round- Lucien Delfour (AUS) rounding out the podium in third. from the 2017 Ocea- ing out the podium. nia Championships, visit http://www.tea- In the C1 Men’s category, Zach “Bug” Lokken showed musa.org/USA-Canoe-Kayak/Features/2017/Janu- that all of his hard work this winter is paying dividends ary/30/2017-Oceania-Championships.

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | March 2017 | Page 39 2017 National Canoe Poling Calendar Dates Event Location Contact/Host Phone Saturdays Texas Canoe Poler Activities Central Texas Doug Ebeling 713-725-9851 Jan 21, Feb 4, Feb 18, [email protected] Mar 4, Mar 18, Apr 1 March 1, Saturday San Marcos River Cleanup Central Texas Doug Ebeling 713-725-9851 [email protected]

April 1, Saturday, Eastern CT Wildwater Poling Clinic Natchaug River, Natchaug Nelson Walker 860-429-8711 10 a.m. State Forest, CT 198, [email protected] Eastford, CT April 2, Sunday, Tenandeho River White Water Derby, Coon's Crossing off Rte Scott Stepenuck 518-885-4098 register 9-11 a.m. 4.5 miles downriver. 67, Mechanicville, NY [email protected] race starts at 12 noon April 8, Saturday NH AMC event Class II Upper Contoocook River Marshall Moore 978-343-8824 7 mile downriver Jaffrey, NH [email protected] http://activities.outdoors.org/search/ index.cfm/action/details/id/93609 April 15, Saturday NH AMC event Class I-II Piscataquog River South Marshall Moore 978-343-8824 8 mile downriver Branch [email protected] http://activities.outdoors.org/search/ New Boston, NH index.cfm/action/details/id/93579 April 22, Saturday NH AMC event Class I-II Ashuelot River Jason Little [email protected] 4 mile downriver Gilsum, NH http://activities.outdoors.org/search/ index.cfm/action/details/id/94060 April 22, Saturday NH AMC event Class I-II Ottauquechee River Marshall Moore 978-343-8824 9 mile downriver West Bridgewater, VT Or [email protected] http://activities.outdoors.org/search/ Jean Gerber index.cfm/action/details/id/93608 April 29, Saturday ACA New England Canoe Poling Farmington River Nelson Walker 860-429-8711 Races start 10:00 AM Championships Route 4 bridge [email protected] Unionville, CT

May 6, Saturday NH AMC event Class II, White River Marshall Moore 978-343-8824 11 mile downriver trip. Stockbridge to Bethel, VT or [email protected] http://activities.outdoors.org/search/ Carl Shepardson index.cfm/action/details/id/93513 Cruise on Punch Brook section of Farmington River Matt McKay 860-940-1765 May 21, Sunday Farmington River. Burlington, CT [email protected] 10:00 AM If low water, move to Satan’s Kingdom area May 27, Saturday ACA National Canoe Poling Wire Bridge Chip Cochrane 207-280-0191 Championships Carrabassett River [email protected] New Portland, ME or [email protected] June 3, Saturday Great Rappahannock Rappahannock River Chris Stec (540) 907-4460 x110 Whitewater Canoe Race Fredericksburg, VA 828-329-3404 [cell] http://www.americancanoe.org/events/ [email protected] EventDetails.aspx?id=320924&group=

October 14, Saturday, Upper Farmington River, Old Route 8 Bridge, south Matt McKay 860-940-1765 11 a.m. New Boston, MA of Route 8 Bridge, above [email protected] Bear Trap Rapid, New Boston, MA November 5, Sunday NH AMC Quickwater, Upstream pole Souhegan River, Marshall Moore 978-343-8824 After AMC meeting and return ~3 miles Amherst, NH [email protected]

www.canoepoling.org

Page 40 | PADDLE | March 2017 www.americancanoe.org World Championship trials scheduled for May This year, the Federation World Championships are being held in Decin, Czech Republic, August 23-27. If the schedule remains as in previous years, paracanoe events will take place Aug 23-25.

Trials for the 2017 Paracanoe World Championships will be held, along with the able-bodied trials, at Lanier Canoe and Kayak Club in Gainesville, Georgia, May 20-21, 2017.

USA Canoe/Kayak’s 2017 Sprint National Championship will be held in Cl- ermont, Florida, August 2-5. This will the first time the event has been held in Florida. The 2016 national championships were held in Oklahoma City. Collegiate Race Series National Championships Mark your calendar for the ACA’s Collegiate Race Series Nation- President Perurena continues to lead al Championships this fall. This is the premier event for colleges and International Canoe Federation universities from across the coun- try to compete in canoe, kayak, and SUP racing. There will be individual as well as team races in SUP, kayak and both solo and tandem canoes. Whether you have an experienced paddling program or one that is just starting up, attendance at the National Championships will provide cama- Jose Perurena’s (ESP) leadership of the International Canoe Federation will raderie, networking, and of course continue for a third term following a vote of confidence at the XXXVI ICF all the fun associated with racing! Congress in Baku, Azerbijan.

More importantly, once a student The Spaniard, who stood unopposed, spoke passionately about his vision experiences the fun and excite- for the future of the sport and demonstrated his ability to deliver organi- ment of paddlesports they will sational change with his proposed new governance structure gaining the be able to carry those skills and backing of his peers. enthusiasm past their collegiate years and develop it into a family “I have been involved in canoeing for my whole life and it’s a great honour to be chosen to lead this sport through the next Olympic cycle as we move and lifetime activity. towards Tokyo 2020,” said Perurena. For more information, visit http:// www.americancanoe.org/Colle- "This Congress has shown that our sport is in good hands and that admin- giate_Nationals. istration is open minded and keen to progress.

www.americancanoe.orgwww.americancanoe.org PADDLE | March 2017 | Page 41 Save the Date! 2017 Manhattan Kayak Circumnavigation takes place July 15

Registration opens April 1, 2017!

The 13th Annual Manhattan Kay- zations including the New York pose the paddlers. Safety of the large ak Circumnavigation sponsored by City Watertrail Association, the group is enhanced via general ma- the Yonkers Paddling and Row- Inwood Canoe Club, Long Island rine radio use; safety boat and per- ing Club will take place on Satur- City Community Boathouse, the sonal watercraft escorts and Coast day, July 15, 2017 (Rain date: July Village Community Boathouse, Guard notification. Kayakers can 16, 2017). The Hoboken Cove Communi- socialize, exercise and take pictures ty Boathouse and the Long Island during this amazing 30-mile excur- From the first circumnaviga- Kayaking Enthusiasts. sion around Manhattan Island. tion in 2004 organized and spon- sored by Yonkers Paddling and Other support, including liability Registration for the 2017 Manhat- Rowing Club members Steve insurance, has been provided by tan Circumnavigation will open Blumling and Jerry Blackstone, the ACA. April 1, 2017. The registration fee the event has grown each year. (non-refundable) is $100 for ACA The circumnavigation is open Members and $105 for non-ACA The paddle has come to represent to all who qualify based on their Members (this includes purchase and celebrate the public’s increas- paddling abilities and experience. of ACA $5 single-day insurance). ing interaction with a more envi- Specific qualification requirements Please visit www.surveymonkey. ronmentally healthy New York City will be detailed in the application com/r/ManhattanCirc2017 to reg- waterfront and Hudson River. Last questionnaire. Club membership ister. Upon successful registration, year we had over 150 participants is not required, and out-of-towners you will receive a link for PayPal from the local area and from three are welcome. payment and a link to sign an ACA different countries. waiver online. Careful planning means that the Support of the circumnavigation tidal currents help rather than op- Questions or comments can be sent has broadened to include several to: manhattancircumnavigation@ other NYC area paddling organi- gmail.com.

Page 42 www.americancanoe.org| PADDLE | March 2017 wwwwwwPADDLE.americancanoe.org.americancanoe.org | March 2017 | Page 42 Make your events easier with online waivers!

If you are an event organizer and interested in using our online waivers as part of your online registration process, please email the Insurance Coordinator for more details.

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | March 2017 | Page 43 Ready, Set, Mark Your Calendars!

Don’t miss these upcoming races... (click race name for more info)

March 17-19, 2017 Missouri's 50th Annual Whitewater Championships Ironton, Missouri March 24-26, 2017 Santa Cruz Paddlefest Santa Cruz, California

April 22, 2017 Paddle the Kayaks Fishing Tournament Cocodrie, Louisiana

May 27-28, 2017 South Dakota Kayak Challenge Yankton, South Dakota

June 3, 2017 37th Annual Great Rappahannock Whitewater Canoe Race Fredericksburg, Virginia

June 3, 2017 Rock the River Fredericksburg, Virginia

Page 44 | PADDLE | March 2017 wwwwww.americancanoe.org.americancanoe.org INTERNATIONAL

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | March 2017 | Page 45 International Whitewater Hall of Fame seeks nominations for 2017 candidates

The International Whitewater Hall of Fame is accept- fantastic opportunity for instructors and individuals ing nominations for the Class of 2017 through March seeking training and certification to witness the in- 30, 2017. Selected honorees will join an esteemed duction, and meet revered whitewater heroes.” group of the world's most accomplished whitewater pioneers, explorers, champions, and advocates. The IWHOF nomination form asks for a connec- tion to an IWHOF Affiliate Organization, whose "We are excited to host this year’s nomination, selec- leaders may confirm the integrity of the submit- tion, and induction with our partners at the ACA,” ted materials. Screening and electorate voting to se- said IWHOF Board of Governors Chair Risa Shimoda. lect honorees will occur April-May 2017. IWHOF “The nomination process offers time to submit a com- Class of 2017 honorees will be announced June 2017. pelling nomination before the busy paddling season kicks in, so we encourage whitewater fans whose he- Submissions should illustrate nominees' accomplish- roes and heroines have not yet been considered to take ments with documents, articles, photographs, and the time to honor them with a nomination this year.” video. These materials will be used to produce the an- The Class of 2017 Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony nual video highlighting honorees’ achievements to be will be held in Bryson City, N.C., in conjunction with screened at the induction ceremony. the annual ACA National Paddlesports Conference. Nomination forms, instructions, and the election pro- “As the International Whitewater Hall of Fame, we cedure and timeline are available online at the IWHOF recognize the size and importance of our interna- website, along with videos about each Class of Honor- tional membership base,” said IWHOF board mem- ees. Past nomination submissions remain valid for a ber Pamela Dillon. “Holding the ceremony in con- six-year period; individuals who have submitted nom- junction with the annual paddlesports conference at inations before 2010 are encouraged to update their a familiar international paddling venue provides a prior submissions. Page 46 | PADDLE | March 2017 www.americancanoe.org Fearless in foreign waters This spring, two ACA members Their upcoming expedition, dubbed ing advanced kayaking skills, like and kayak instructors are embark- Fearless Formosa, will involve surfing and rock gardening, ing on the trip of a lifetime. Kelly kayaking 250 miles of Taiwan’s lush but also furthering female outdoor Henry and Laura Zulliger will kay- and mountainous eastern coastline leadership among Taiwanese women ak 250 miles of Taiwan’s coastline, from late April through early June. paddlers. They will document their teaching along the way. Along the way, Henry and Zullig- journey online at www.fearlessfor- er will teach a range of classes in mosa.com with frequent posts, vid- Henry and Zulliger met during collaboration with local paddling eos, and guides for others to use in their ACA Level 4 Open Water clubs and organizations. creating their own adventures! Coastal Kayaking Instructor De- velopment workshop in 2014 and Passionate about empowering fe- In February, the ACA signed on as struck up a friendship. The two male paddlers and bringing more an official Fearless Formosa Drag- have been paddling, teaching, women into the sport, their instruc- on Sponsor, the expedition’s high- and scheming together ever since. tion will be aimed not only at teach- est sponsorship level.

This spring, Kelly Henry and Laura Zulliger will kayak 250 miles of Taiwan’s coastline, teaching along the way.

www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | March 2017 | Page 47 Switzerland to host annual Europe Paddlesports Symposium

Mark your calendar! The eighth annual ACA Europe Paddlesports Symposium will take place on Lake Constance in Kreuzlingen, Switzerland, October 27-29, 2017.

In addition to the European Division’s business meetings, a wide range of educational sessions will be offered both in the classroom and on the water. The symposium provides opportunities for paddlesports continued education, instructor updates for canoe, kayak, SUP, and rescue skills! Not to mention the vast amount of opportunities for networking, meeting professionals, and making new friends.

To learn more, and to register, check out this link: www.americancanoe.org/ EuropePaddlesportsSymposium.

Page 48 | PADDLE | March 2017 www.americancanoe.org Paddling History

In 2004, working with numerous partner organizations, the ACA assisted with the removal of the Embrey Dam on the Rappahannock River in Virginia.

Each issue, we’ll bring you an interesting paddling photo from the ACA archives. We hope you enjoy these little glimpses of paddling past.

To learn more about ACA history and the early days of paddlesports, visit: www.americancanoe.org/History www.americancanoe.org PADDLE | March 2017 | Page 49 www.americancanoe.org