£1.00
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Description
Windermere open event available to non members only. If you are a BLDSA member please use the members only button
Kayak Support
Paddler competency
- Paddlers should be experienced and confident in paddling in open water. (For some swims the course will be well in excess of 200m from the shore.)
- Paddlers must have the experience and be competent to remain by the side of a swimmer within 1-3m, be able to move away from the swimmer if they come towards the boat and be able to steer a straight course in tail, side and head As such they should be able to paddle forwards, backwards and sideways under full control.
- Paddlers should be able to perform an effective support stroke to prevent capsize.
- Paddlers must be able to stop paddling in order to pass food/drink to swimmers.
- If paddling a closed cockpit kayak the ability to exit a capsized boat with spray deck in place is essential.
- Paddlers of sit on top craft should be able to self-rescue.
- On many of our longer lake/sea events, paddlers will need to be skilled and experienced to handle wind and associated waves up to approximately Force 4.
- Paddlers must be able to navigate using maps/landscape features to ensure the correct course is followed.
- In the event of a capsize paddlers must be able to float effectively, keep hold of their boat and paddle and be able to attract attention of the safety boats.
- Paddlers must be able to stay on the water for an extended period of time. (Event organisers can advise on estimated times for individual swimmers.)
Please be aware that paddlers who appear to lack the necessary skills to stay with their swimmer will not be allowed to continue, and the swimmer will be removed from the water by safety officials.
