May Monthly Training -- Greenland Fun for Everyone!

May Monthly Training -- Greenland Fun for Everyone!

Trip leaders: Tom Malone (tjmalone@verizon.net) and Scott Jantz (scottjantz2@gmail.com).

Ten TBSK members attended TRAQS - Traditional Qajaqers of the South May 1-4. This is a wonderful symposium focused on Greenland style paddling held annually in Florida.  We want to share with you some of the things learned there.  

Options!: We'll have a couple of leaders so we can divide into groups based on interest.  

1. Paddle! One option will be to focus on techniques for using a Greenland paddle. But, all paddle types are welcome. Many of the principles underlying a Greenland style paddling stroke are easily transferred to "Euro-blades."   
2. Roll! Another options is Greenland-style rolling. For some, this may be just an introduction to rolling, while others may be refining or playing with their existing rolls.

Location: We will meet on the Gandy Causeway, near the Urban Kai and The Getaway. Google address is "Gandy Beach Mangroves" at 13498 Gandy Blvd N, St. Petersburg, FL 33702.

Schedule: We will start at 10:00 a.m.  Please arrive early enough to be "paddle ready" when we do our welcome and orientation.

Difficulty: All skill levels are welcome.

Required / suggested / restricted:

• Required: 14-foot kayak or longer with bulkheads or flotation, PFD w/whistle attached worn at all times, paddle, spray skirt is recommended. 
• Suggested: Quick dry clothing that protects you from sun,  secure water shoes (no flip flops), hydration sources, sunblock, sunglasses, emergency medications.  
• Optional: snacks, camera, etc.  Rescue kit for aspiring trip leaders.