The University’s Student Recreation Complex is making waves this summer with its first-ever instructional clinics. The premier event, Canoeing 101, pushed off Wednesday evening at Milford Wampold Memorial Park.
A small but diverse group braved the hot, humid weather and gathered near the University lakes to learn how to paddle. Some members were seasoned canoers, while others were novices getting in the boat for the first time.
The tandem canoeing class was instructed by Chris Bullard, UREC coordinator of adventure education, and Stephanie Linares, a bioengineering senior.
Bullard said there was a demand for the class, so the UREC was there to supply.
“We want to get the students and staff involved,” Bullard said. “The aim is to develop a curriculum with these series of clinics.”
Bullard said the idea for the clinics prospered from “trip programs” that began last spring.
He explained that this clinic is an intermediate step for students to be introduced to the equipment, learn skills and put those skills to practice.
The lesson began with a brief history of canoes and an explanation of different parts of the boat.
“Canoes are one of the oldest types of boats in the universe, if not the oldest,” Bullard said. “We’re using the same type of transportation as the settlers.”
Bullard and Linares went over basics, such as distinguishing the bow in the front from the stern in the back. They also shared lesser-known facts, such as the black outer rim of a canoe is called a gunnel, and – as its name suggests – it was used by pioneers as a place to rest their guns while paddling.
Elizabeth Pendleton, a painting and drawing senior, attended the workshop. She said she had previously rented a canoe from the UREC and was ready to learn more.
“I love boats, and this was a convenient way for me to experience canoeing since they have everything already set up and provided,” Pendleton said.
The team then went over safety tips and proper life jacket sizing and usage. Next, participants were taught how to pick the correct oar based on size.
“The way to know if your oar is the right size is by taking the grip of the handle and placing it to your armpit,” Linares explained. “With your arm down, there should be room in between your hand and the throat of the oar.”
Bullard and Lineras then demonstrated how to correctly board a canoe, and then went over some paddling techniques for each partner in the boat.
Bullard emphasized maintaining a box shape with one’s body while canoeing. He said it’s important to keep elbows straight, an upright spine and to twist the torso.
Eventually, the entire class was in the water, and the participants glided in harmony across the glistening lake. The UREC will continue these seminars all summer long.
The clinics include lessons in kayaking, climbing and biking. Bullard said current and incoming students are strongly encouraged to attend. All clinics are free and open to the public.
 
____ Contact Taylor Schoen at [email protected]