Experience the fun and exciting challenge of paddling a kayak. GOLS introduces participants to this
exhilarating sport with an emphasis on fundamental skills and safety techniques. It is tailored to help beginners, or those who have paddled from time to time but want more instruction, develop the ability to paddle with greater confidence.
Roll Clinics
Rolling a kayak is as much science as it is art. You should not expect to execute a roll your first session although we have several who do (that's just how good we are at what we do!). Our instructors will spend time teaching a variety of techniques and will find one that will enable you to right an upside down kayak. Then under close supervision you will be given the opportunity to practice until perfection is reached. It is our recommendation that participants either enroll in Kayaking 101 first or have previous whitewater experience to participate in the roll clinic.
Kayaking 101Clinics
We will be learning the basic strokes and maneuvers of kayaking that are adaptable to all levels and styles of paddling. This clinic will prepare you for your first time on the river this upcoming spring. We will discuss basic equipment and their functions, basic strokes and maneuvering, wet-exiting, and other kayaking essentials to get you ready and more confident for your first whitewater encounter in the comfort of a heated pool. No prior experience
necessary.
Lake and River Trips
Location: Lake Jocassee, Lake Bowen, Tyger River, Lawson's
Fork
Cost: $35.00 per person
(includes gear)
with a minimum of 6 people
$25.00 per person (with
own gear)
Please register by
calling GOLS at 529-0259
Private Instruction
Cost: $35/hour (kayak instruction)
Private instruction for individuals or small groups can be arranged by contacting GOLS at 529-0259.
Kayaking is an inherently dangerous sport that is only made safe by the proper use of learned techniques and above all good judgment. With that in mind please do not register for any clinic or trip that is above your experience level. If you feel that at anytime you are in the wrong experience category then let the instructor know immediately, for your own safety.
Rapids explanation
Class I - Small rapids with low waves and no obstructions.
Class II - More frequent rapids with few or no obstructions.
Class III - Waves up to four feet, with some maneuvering around obstructions.
Class IV - Long and difficult rapids. Large waves unavoidable. Complex course. Scouting is a must.
Class V - Extremely long/violent rapids. Rolling skills a must. Possible risk to life with mishaps.
Class VI - Maximum difficulty. Involves serious risk of life.
****GOLS is in the planning stage of "developing" the greenway that will be a point-of-entry for kayakers and others trying out water sports. Tell us what you think about the proposed shelter and put-in.
Put-In
