SRT is surpising!!! By Julia Frangenberg

     We recently began swiftwater rescue training, and I must admit that I was very nervous. But when we had a briefing by our teacher, Matt, I was more comfortable knowing what safety material we'd be learning. The first thing we learned was how to use a throw rope, and although I didn't throw far enough on most of my attempts, I certainly learned something. Next, we went to a small chute where Clay and Matt had set up a really cool log that was worn down so that it didn't have any branches that were sharp. We learned some useful techniques on how to get yourself out of a strainer using your feet and hands. I succeeded in getting out of the water by bracing my feet against the log and climbing out of the water. While I didn't manage to get over the log or complete all of the drills without going under the log, I had so much fun and have gained a lot of knowledge that I will keep and refresh. Although the idea of SRT can bring anxiety to many people, what I will say is that it's not half as scary as it looks. The most amazing part about this experience was probably overcoming that fear the first time I went under the log, and knowing that although right this instant you probably haven't saved anyone truly in distress, I feel comforted knowing that just taking this class could be saving someone's life in the future someday. Thank you to all my instructors who have helped me become a better, safer kayaker!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!