Results of our sea kayaker skills survey with a total of 9 responses shows clearly that the club must concentrate on some specific areas of paddler training.
Not surprisingly, most of the replies had some comments to make as well as answering the questions on the form. In general, there is a perceived need for instruction in the bracing and rolling department and several people pointed out that group rescues are only useful if the group is in a position to help you.
| Experience | Percentage |
|---|---|
| 1-5 years | 25% |
| 5-10 years | 25% |
| 10+ years | 50% |
| Craft Paddled | Percentage |
| Sea kayaks only | 25% |
| White water boats | 75% |
| Swimming | Percentage |
| Poor | 25% |
| Good | 50% |
| Strong | 25% |
| Skills | Percentage (of participants responding Yes) |
| Paddling | 100% |
| Turning | 90% |
| Bracing | 75% |
| Rolling | 40% |
| Rescue | Percentage |
| Self | 60% |
| Group | 50% |
| Exit | 90% |
| Surf | Percentage |
| Launching | 100% |
| Small | 100% |
| Medium | 75% |
| Experience in variety of Conditions | Percentage |
| Open waters | 100% |
| Enclosed waters | 100% |
It would seem that we should be looking at basic paddle skills in rough conditions and on self-rescue techniques at our future training days.
NSW Sea Kayaker 