Werner Paddles welcomes sea kayaker and coach John Carmody to the team in 2010.
We caught up with John recently and got a taste of what he has been up to this winter. Here are some photos and his tales from his navigation classes this winter
"As the cold of winter turns the liquid H2O to solid, it’s hard to think about getting on the water. The ocean temperature is hovering around 38 degrees and the prevailing Northwest winds have settled in. It’s a great time to think about Kayak Navigation. On January 16th, I ventured up to Lachine, Quebec to work with Sylvain Bedard, www.kayaksylvainbedard.com and a great group of paddlers. Sylvain is one of the most qualified Sea Kayak instructors in Quebec’s FQCK being a Level IV Coach and a Level I, II & III Trainer in their scheme. I presented the BCU Coastal Navigation and Tidal Planning course. It’s a very concentrated course covering the practical aspects of weather, tides and currents, charts and compass and trip planning and is the safety pre requisite for the new 4Star Sea Trip Leader Award.
There was a large range of experience in the group and many personal experiences enabled us to put some practicality to the subject. The group is hoping to get together on a regular basis and challenge their navigation skills. We took over Sylvain’s home for the day and had a great time. Thanks."
Keeping busy indoors is a valuable skill as a kayaker when you live in Maine in the winter. Here John hits the road again, this time in New York.
"Next up was Voorheesville, NY to do another Coastal Navigation and Tidal Planning Course. The Course was organized by John Ozard, UKCC Level 1 Coach. We had a great venue in the old Library, now the Old Songs Inc. It’s now used for musical events and dances and was a great spot to spread out the charts! Again, the experience of the participants was varied, but Pete Devitt, UKCC Level 1 Coach, Alan Mapes, UKCC Level 2 Trainee, Cheryl and Anthony were a great help to everyone. Thanks, again."
"Navigation and seamanship are passions of mine. It’s what gave people the ability to cross oceans! It has a basis in science, but, especially in a sea kayak, is an art. I encourage you all to practice over the winter. Take out a chart of an area that interests you, look at the tide and current tables, read the cruising guides and plan a trip! It’s a great way to go to on to an exotic destination without venturing too far from the woodstove!!"
Thanks John, this is great stuff.
If you are interested in learning more about the art of navigation you can find John on our blog through out the year giving tips and of course get a closer look at his class offerings at www.seacliffkayakers.com
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