Combination lake lesson / R1

You must have completed the swim test before this trip. That is the only prerequisite. The lifeguards at the Memorial Union swimming pier are able to conduct swim tests. Please visit the Outdoor UW office to get details on how to complete your swim test. 

I can open this to a few more participants if we get more drivers. This event is primarily for getting Outdoor UW staff updated on Outing ratings, but we may have a bit more space to fit more boaters. Sign up on the wait-list, and I will expand the trip as we are able to haul more boats. The limit will probably be six participants, unless I can find another instructor. 

Meet at the boathouse at 12:30pm on Thursday June 20th. We will drive to a local small river; either Badfish or Black Earth Creek most likely. Will return in the evening. 

We will cover lake lesson essentials, including wet exits, strokes, and rescues, then move to R1 skills. I hope to bring both kayaks and canoes to this event, but we will focus on kayaks first. If time allows, I would like to then run the section again in canoes, covering the R1 skills. 

R1 skills: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1MHcPVknxweXlAot_40ZBr3tez7v33QnN3-ygPyaHtks/edit?usp=sharing

Please recognize that the R1 is not a guaranteed outcome of the trip; we will introduce the concepts, but earning the rating will require demonstrating both understanding and boat control to execute the maneuvers. 

Please bring: 

- shoes that will stay on your feet when swimming. While I prefer closed-toed shoes, a sport sandal like Chacos will work as long as it has a sturdy sole and stays on. 

- clothing that is appropriate for being in and out of the water frequently (bring warm-when-wet layers if it is cold or windy)

- a change of dry clothing, including shoes if needed

- a towel 

- a bag to contain your wet stuff

As always, weather permitting.