Right Side Phil's... duh, duh daa...
Simply put, Right Side Phil's generates fear and anxiety. It's a big, fast, sticky and thrashing hole that will likely surf you for just under a minute (including face surf time). The funny thing about it is the less skill you have the better you will do in Right Side Phil’s.
If you are a talented kayaker that is a shame for you as you may need to invest some time in working on Right Side Phil's Skills.
Skill #1 - Ignore All Risks
As a new kayaker you are often unaware of some of the risks on the river and overcoming fears can be easier. In other words, as you sit in the eddy before your trip into Right Side don’t think about it and just go for it. Don’t worry about not hitting Right Side Phil’s. If you are like me and hitting the tongue is an event that is worth having a party for, you are most likely going to land in it anyways based on your lack of experience.
Skill # 2 - Lamp Shade
The lamp shade technique is a fundamental skill for surfing Right Side. To gain an appreciation for Phil’s speed simply place your paddle on the upstream side of your boat. You will then violently face plant into the water. No need for the spa as your nostrils will be cleaned very effectivly. Then just as violently the water will catch your paddle and you will once again be violently ripped back out of the water. Practice makes perfect. Insure that you consistently practice your lamp shade and try creating a combo with face surfing for optimum results.
Skill # 3 - Face Surf
Unlike the lamp shade you do not need to worry about the face surf rolling you back up. Taken from the Webster's Dictionary of Imaginary Words, Face Surf: is to utilize the facial structures to continuously guild the movements of ones body in a disastrous and violent manner while surfing. Appreciate your nose as it naturally works as a keel to insure your face surf is straight and orderly.
Skill #4 - Waiting
Right Side Phil’s has a mind of its own. You may be flushed immediately if he likes you. On the other hand you may spend many minutes in his loving embrace. Waiting is all about resisting the urge. You may be tempted to swim or take a breath. Keep in mind that though breathing in water is really good for cleaning out your lungs it’s not a very efficient way to breath and I would suggest breathing less humid oxygen. The key is to wait out his rath in your boat. Swimming will lead to a lot of work for you and your friends.
If you are new to kayaking or you train hard developing Phil’s fundamentals you may just have what it takes to Surf Right Side Phil’s. Good luck my friends!
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