Introduction to Kayaking for our youngest paddlers
Ages: 8-11
Mondays & Wednesdays, 10am-2pm
2024 Dates
Session 1: 7/1-7/12
Session 2: 7/15-/26
Session 3: 7/29- 8/9
Session 4: 8/12-8/23
Program Description
The Muskrats program is designed to introduce young athletes to kayaking and the river environment. This program is for first time and younger paddlers with a focus on FUN and SAFETY while working on basic paddling instruction. In a safe and fun environment, we introduce the skills necessary for future development in moving water and river running. Athletes should be able to swim and have some comfort level in the water. Emphasis is placed on games and technical drills on flat-water days and free paddle & river safety/awareness on moving water days. Muskrats will use area pools to gain comfort getting out of the kayak, followed by flat water sessions at Slide Lake and R Park, and will practice moving water skills on Flat Creek and the Snake River. On average, JHKC athletes spend 2 summers as Muskrats.
Specific Skills Focus
On-water safety; exiting a kayak with/without a skirt; maintaining a strong, balanced body position; learning edge control and boat stability; proper paddle strokes; paddling straight; practicing eddy turns to enter/exit a river current; swimming in moving water; and stronger understanding of river ecosystem and environment
Program Fee - Includes use of kayak, paddle, sprayskirt, helmet, splash jacket and PFD
Single Session Registration: $405