Monday Morning Wave

Photographer: Alex Laurel

You cannot discover new oceans unless you have the courage to lose sight of the shore

- André Gide -
novelist, symbolist, social surfer

Long Term Student Development – Day 2

Location: Porth Eilian and Point Lynas, Anglesey.

Students: Richard Janes, Paul Williams

Student Goals: RJ and PW both interested in turning skills. RJ wanted to improve ability to make crisp, sharp turns. PW focus to improve turning in windy conditions.

Coaching Points:

Outside edge turn - whilst holding edge, return for further sweep strokes with paddle skimming water (similar to low brace position). Stable and uses short waterline length for fast turn. If necessary include paddle stroke on ‘upside’ to maintain stability and speed. (“Eureka” moment for RJ)

Inside edge turn - don’t lean heavily on paddle which will slow boat down and be ready to propel boat forward as momentum is lost

Outside edge used with bow rudder - worked well for PW with wind assistance to push bow around

Breaking in / out of flow at Point Lynas - further practice using boat edges. In this situation speed and angle are key elements when sweeping bow into flow and initiate turn. Reverse sweep to continue turn, pivoting on eddy line. N.B – Low angle approach means less edge. Conversely high angle entry needs more edge.

Exercise to improve boat handling skills - Paddle tight box around partners kayak, each direction and reverse. Useful exercise to develop sharp turns and control for use in (eg) rescue situations.

Long Term Student Development – Day 1

Location: Little Orme, Llandudno Bay

Students: Richard Janes; Paul Williams

Student Goals: Paddle to Rhos Bay using conditions for specific coaching points

Coaching Points:

Group Leadership - Paddling in turbulent water. Look for signs of tension within group such as focussed, “wooden” and overly upright paddling style. Consider strategies to help individuals within group to relax. Early explanation of expected conditions, stay reasonably close, words of encouragement / praise

Personal Skills - Forward paddling for power: high angle paddle blade. Enter as if “spearing a fish” Worry less about paddle exit, concentrate on entry and catch. Forward paddling for cruising: low angle. Enter water further away from hull. Mentally consider blade moving diagonally away from hull.

Further considerations - Whenever possible, allow time for mental and physical warm up before paddling more challenging conditions. Tensions may be present for multitude of reasons (Perhaps group member swam previous trip?)