Participants: Bryon Howard, Andy Murphy, Kipp Lemke, Jenn Henry, Jane Toombs, Neills Kristensen, Kenny Singleton Darcy McCourt, Sharon MacDonald, Scott Stewart, William Stewart, Darcy Flynn, Don MacDonald, Alfred Gallant, Clara Jean Howard, Shirley Wright, Robin and Jacob Howard and Calvin Gallant.

Experience Level: From beginner to advanced.

Weather: Cloudy light wind … amazing sun set while sipping tea on patio.

Animals: 3 Piping Plover, Black Bellied Plover, Opsprey, Great Blue Herrons

Personal Thoughts / Reminders / Memories: Folk starting appearing around 5:45 until 6:45. Scott and William had to paddle a canoe because every boat was out by the time they arrived. However, messing around in small boats is fun - no matter the design. Jacob and I shared a Wilderness Systems Bandit … a K1 Recreational boat … which was great fun. (I sat on back deck … looked as if my kayak was 'supped-up' and racing ready.)

We met in the Bull Pen at approximately 6:30 and Don demonstrated his 'running draw'. A great stroke for moving side ways with speed. (Useful in getting to a dock, rescuing an overboard hat from your buddies boat, … or even rescuing another paddler.)

Darcy did a short talk on his Greenland style paddle that he made from a $2.50 two by four. (Don't tell anyone you can make a paddle for $2.50 … my cheapest paddle is $80 and run up to $350!) He then spoke about his self-made South West Greenland style boat. It's a beauty. When asked how he choose to that particular design he responded, "I wanted something to go with my paddle."

Most everyone enjoyed the surfing near the harbour entrance. Jane & Clara Jean practised self and assisted rescues while Scott, William, Jacob and I floated about.

Future Plans:

• On Sat Sept 1 we are planning a Paddle Fest. There will lots of used gear for sale … kayaking demonstrations, a competitive race (5 km +), a fun umbrella kayak race (4th annual), and soo much more. Please mark your calendars - event to begin at 10am.
• We'll hold your kayak until 6pm. After that it can go to who ever arrives. If you don't plan on attending - please call us. If you will arrive after 6 pm - please call (before 5 pm please). Best to call head office at 963-3366, second best is NR office at 963-3112.
• The 2002 PEI Senior Games (55+) are in June in Victoria Park, and the Canada National Senior Games are in Summer Side in August. Presently, kayaking is not included in the games … but the administrators of the games are keenly interested in including sea kayaking. We want to assist! We are encouraging 55+ folk to get involved. Stay tuned for more details. In the meantime, if you know anyone 55+ who may be interested in participating in kayaking - please have them leave contact info with us.
• We plan on selling used kayaks soon. We plan to be at Farmers Market August 25 with a trailer full of used gear, and selling at the Paddle Fest, Sept 1.