This time of year, many of us shy away from practicing "wet" skills like rolling and rescues due to chilly Gulf waters. So we've reserved the pool at Bill Jackson's for a warmer experience!
Training coordinator Tom Malone and several TBSK coaches will be on hand to work with paddlers on skills such as rolling, self- and assisted rescues, and use of rescue aids like paddle floats and stirrups. Our tentative schedule is 10:30AM-12:30 for roll practice, and 1:00-3:00PM for rescues and other skills. A maximum of four kayaks can fit in the pool at the same time, so we'll need to stagger our activities throughout the day. You can come for the whole day or just the portion of the day which interests you, and we can adjust the schedule as needed to best accommodate the group's interests.
Cost: ~$15.00 per member paid to TBSK. We’ve negotiated a flat fee of $75.00 for the pool rental so our plan is to divide that evenly amongst the attendees. For example, if we have 5 attendees the per member rate will be $15.00 if we have 10 attendees (not including the trainers) each member will pay $7.50. I’ll communicate with the group as we get closer. Tentatively I’m thinking we should cancel if there are not at least 5 attendees signed up so the per member cost doesn’t exceed $15.00. For reference, we were originally quoted $25.00 per member paid to Bill Jackson’s so it’s a significantly lower rate.
Location: 9501 US Highway 19 North in Pinellas Park.
What to bring: In addition to your boat, paddle, and PFD, bring a spray skirt, paddle float, and stirrup if you have them. (Instructors can bring extras to loan out.) Those wanting to work on rolling may find a face mask or nose plugs helpful. Bring a water bottle and some snacks if you plan to stay a while.
Important note: Bill Jackson's staff has asked that we CLEAN OUR KAYAKS and dry them before carrying them through the store to the pool area. A hose is available at their front entry, but we suggest participants take care of this step at home before loading their boats onto vehicles. We can help each other carry boats through the store--they'll need to be lifted over 5' tall merchandise racks and through sliding glass doors to the pool. So when participants arrive, they should walk through the store back to the pool area to seek assistance with the boat carry.
Questions: Contact Tom Malone at tjmalone@verizon.net or 410-977-7785.