Presidents Message

            It has Arrived—–Paddling Season!

In my mind the Jersey Paddler show is the beginning of the season. It was a great show, we were able to meet and network with the many manufactures and paddlers there. I was like a kid in a candy store looking at all the new boats & gear. The lectures were very informative from; Greg Barton-forward stroke, Ben Lawry – boat handling (in the pool), Wayne Horodowich -how to paddle in a straight line, to yoga and stretching before paddling. Once you found out how and what to paddle you could attend talks on where to paddle.

OK, so get all you gear out and check it carefully. You want to install new batteries in all your equipment and confirm it is in working order. Look over your deck lines, bungee cords, rudder, and skeg. Replace all parts that are worn and make sure all cables are free and did not rust over the winter. Make sure all your straps, zippers, whistle, etc., on your pfd are in working order. Give your boat a good cleaning and a coat of wax on your composite boat  (it will paddle quicker) Remember most of us have not been paddling all winter and the last thing you need is an equipment failure the first time out.

Most importantly of all, even though the air is warmer the water is still COLD, dress for immersion (the water temperature) and start paddling.

We have scheduled paddles, training, peer practices, and assessments, and you will find a schedule in the newsletter. Contact Colin or Roy with additional trip requests. The schedule will be posted on our web site so please check it often, as it is constantly being updated. If you are a member or a friend of NACK you will get emails of any updates. If you want to be added to our NACK note list please send me your email address.  And if you want to be notified of new postings on this website use the “Sign Me Up” link here or on the top right of this page.

Get Ready, Get Set, and Go Paddle

John Weickert, Jr.

President

Bluek@weickert.com