Wednesday, 20 July 2022

My time on the Ottawa - Dash Hall

Being a first time Keener I came into the program with only the knowledge that I’d be paddling on the Ottawa. I was welcomed by friendly faces, and smoothly introduced to the schedule with ease. Then came time to hit the water.

The Ottawa happens to be one of the most unique rivers in the world. Having massive amounts of water running through it, multiple different channels to choose and run, water levels that change every 2 hrs, and endless waves to surf. The Ottawa is a play boaters' dream river, while also being a great place for improving beginner kayakers.

The Keener program seeks out the most fun way to play in any rapid instead of just bombing an hour lap. Keeners works every last wave to the bottom teaching you kayaking skills along with play. Keeners makes the most out of every feature, whether it be jumping off a rock into a rapid, practicing rescue drills, playing in whirlpools in the eddy line for an hour, or trying to take out your boat at an island in the middle of the river.

The best feeling is coming off the water after a long day and stuffing your face with food. Following this you sit down and eat dinner with your coaches and friends and review footage like a football team from your paddling that day. Keeners is one of the best places to improve your kayaking, and make some great lifelong friends.

No comments:

Post a Comment