On Sunday the 9th of August we met at Hurley Carpark for a Paddle Safer award course, this was a multi craft award delivered by Dave over a 4-hour session, 10am until 2pm.
With 5 sign-ups and a 6th at the last min on a hot day in the 30”s we arrived early, Parked and proceeded to the water, all the time under the watchful eye of Dave who pointed out anything safety related that may cause a hazzard.
Once on the water we had a short paddle to the meeting point that had been agreed, a lovely grass bank with a big Oak for shade and some benches to relax and sit on.
Despite all the research no one knew that on this day there was a Thames swimathon also going on, Marlow to Hurley.
It was decided to share the water and do what we could, (mostly discussions) on the bank, leaving the waterway free for the swimmers, so we exited and relaxed in the sunshine.
After a brief into by everyone, we covered: crafts, clothing and equipment, additional safety equipment, and the weather, then went on discussing Sheltered water, the dangers, the wind and locations for information, as well as variations and support.
We also discussed the fundamentals of planning, not paddling alone, the environments, research, a plan b and land-based contact.
Then it was time to (as the last swimmer passed us) to get on and in the water.
As an experienced paddler with many, many miles and races under his name, Graham F was assisting Dave with some tip’s, tricks and general knowledge of the SUP scene, this was highly appreciated as there was so much learnt by the paddlers.
We all had a fun and spent an enjoyable hour plus falling in, self-rescuing, rescuing others and learning, Top tips, conditioning, and great company made the day and course.
Write up by DH
Photos will be in our gallery here