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S ea Kayaking Skills and Adventures, Ltd.

2008 Instruction

Class Type Class Title & Link to Description Class Duration 2008
Dates
Flatwater
Kayak
  ACA - Quick Start Your Kayak:   Description 3 hours many see below
  ACA Level 1- Introduction to Kayaking:   Description 6 hours many see below
  SKSA - Beginning Kayaking (Pool):   Description 9 hours Start dates 6/24 or 8/19
Advanced
Flatwater
Kayak
  ACA Level 2 - Essentials of Kayak Touring   Description 12 hours 6/28-7/19
  ACA Level 3 - Coastal Kayaking
  Basic Strokes, Rescues & Recoveries   Description
8 hours TBA
  SKSA - Intermediate Kayaking (Pool)   Description 9 hours Start date 7/22
Inner
Coastal
Kayak
  ACA Level 4 - Coastal Kayak
  Strokes & Maneuvers Refinement   Description
8 hours TBA
  SKSA - Coastal Kayak
  Basic Open Water Skills   Description
12 hours 7/26, 8/2
& 8/9
Open Water
Coastal
Kayak
  ACA Level 4 - Coastal Kayak
  Open Water Skills   Description
8 hours TBA
  ACA Level 4 - Coastal Kayak
  Surf Zone   Description
8 hours TBA
  ACA Level 5 - Coastal Kayak Rough Water
  Maneuvering, Towing and Rescues   Description
8 hours TBA
Specialty
Kayak
Clinics
  SKSA - Kayak Rescue   Description 3 hours many see below
  SKSA - Advanced Kayak Rescue   Description 3 hours TBA
  SKSA - Advanced Strokes   Description 3 hours TBA
  SKSA - Basic Small Boat Navigation   Description 3 hours TBA
  SKSA - Cold Water Paddling   Description 3 hours TBA
  SKSA - Traditional Paddle Making   Description All Day 5/30
  ACA - Traditional Skills   Description All Day 5/31
Kayak
Rolling
Clinics
  ACA - Basic Kayak Rolling   Description 3 hours TBA
  ACA level 4 - Basic Kayak Rolling (Pool)   Description 3 hours 7/15, 8/12, 9/9
  SKSA - Braces & Rolling   Description 3 hours Many see below
  SKSA - Advanced Rolling   Description 3 hours By req.
  SKSA - Native Rolling Description 3 hours By req.
  SKSA - Rolling Development and Refinement   Description 12 hours TBA
Kayak
Racing
Clinics
  SKSA - Starts and Sprints   Description 3 hours By req.
  SKSA - Marathon Racing   Description 6 hours By req.
  SKSA - Adventure Racing   Description 16 hours By req.
  SKSA - Race Coaching   Description weekly By req.
Instructor
Training
  ACA - Open & Basic Coastal IDW   Description 3 day 4/19 - 21
  ACA - Open & Basic Coastal ICE   Description 3 day 5/23-25
  ACA - Open Coastal IDW   Description 3 day TBA
  ACA - Open Coastal Update   Description 1 day TBA
  ACA - Open Coastal ICE   Description 3 day TBA
  ACA - Triditional Skills Endorsement   Description 1 day 6/1
  ARC - Instructor Workshop   Description Full
Weekend
TBA
Private
Lessons
  SKSA - Custom classes to fit your needs   Description Var. By
Appt.
Pool
Classes
  Indoor Pool: ACA - Intro to Kayaking   Description 9 hours 2/17,24,& 3/2
  Indoor Pool: SKSA - Beyond the Basics   Description 9 hours TBA
  Indoor Pool: ACA Level 4- Kayak Rolling Description 3 hours 2/10
  Outdoor Pool: SKSA - Beginner, 3 classes   Description 9 hours TBA
  Outdoor Pool: SKSA - Intermediate, 3 classes   Description 9 hours TBA
  Outdoor Pool: Basic Rolling   Description 3 hours TBA
  Outdoor Pool: SKSA - Beginner, 3 classes   Description 9 hours TBA
  Indoor Pool: Self Practice   Description 3 hours TBA
Basic
Requirements
  Student Responsibilities for Classes Requirements Any All
Class
Locations
  Locations of Regularly Held Classes   Directions Var Var
Guest
Instructors
  Armand Mikune-Santos (ACA ITE)   Description Full Day 4/19-4/21
5/23-5/25
  Wayne Horodowich   Description Full Day TBA
  Chris Raab   Description Full Day 5/30-6/1


Winter Paddle


SOME SKSA CLASS LOCATIONS

Class Site Location Directions Map
West Sayville
Maritime
Museum

86 West Ave West Sayville NY 11796, The entrance is located South of Montauk Highway on West Ave Just east of the West Sayville golf course.

Map
Dowling
College
Dock

Dowling College is located at 150 Idle Hour Boulevard, Oakdale, NY 11769. On Sunrise Highway (route 27) take exit 47 onto Montauk Highway heading east. Just after crossing the railroad tracks turn right onto Idle Hour Boulevard and proceed south following Idle Hour as it bears right at the 5-way intersection. Stop at the security booth and inquire for parking directions as this may change from session to session. The dock is located at the far end of the parking lot beyond the security booth.

Map
Brookhaven
Town
Pool

Brookhaven Town Pool is located at the Brookhaven Ecology Site, 249 Buckley Road, Holtsville, NY 11742. On Sunrise Highway (route 27) take exit 52A onto Waverly Avenue (route 19) north. Turn right onto Buckley Road and follow is approximately 1 mile to the Brookhave Ecology Site. Turn into the entrance road and in approximately 500 feet enter the parking lot and go all the way to the back where you will find the entrance to the outdoor pool.

Map


Flood tide begins at Orient Point, NY

Flat-water Classes

Quick-Start

Is kayaking for us? Will we enjoy the sport? Should we invest in a boat and equipment? What is the best gear to choose? This class will help decide.

Topics covered: basic equipment; carrying; launching and landing; hypothermia; basic strokes: forward, reverse, stopping, turning; wet exit.

Environment: flatwater
Prerequisites: none
Equipment needed: properly outfitted kayak and related paddling and safety equipment, paddle, PFD sprayskirts, paddle float, bilge pump, sling, clothing appropriate for immersion. (no cotton), water shoes.

Duration: 3 hours
Cost: $75 class ($75 an hour private lesson)*
(Private lessons can always be arranged)
Venue: Suitable flatwater environment

Location: Empire Kayaks. Call 516-889-8300 to register
Dates: Sundays 5/4 & 18, 6/22, 7/6&27, 8/17&31, 9/21, 10/5
Time: 9:00 - 12:00 pm

Location: West Sayville Maritime Musium. Call 631-HISTORY to register
Dates: Saturday 6/28, 7/26, 8/30
Time: 4:00 - 7:00 pm

Location: Captain Kayak.
Dates: Fridays 6/20, 8/1
Time: 9:00 - 12:00 noon

Next step: Introduction to Kayaking
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* This course follows a standard American Canoe Association course plan.
ACA Registration and Certification Card may be provided for a $15.00 processing fee.

"At Empire"

Introduction to Kayaking

You like kayaking, but before you commit to a boat and gear you want to get started with a comprehensive course of instruction. This course will start at the beginning and give you a sound foundation in basic skills. At this stage training makes a huge difference in the type of boat you can be comfortable in.

Topics covered: basic equipment, carrying, launching and landing, hypothermia, basic strokes: forward, reverse, stopping, turning, draws, sweeps, wet exit, capsize drills, recovering from a capsize, how to empty a capsized boat.

Environment: flatwater
Prerequisites: none
Equipment needed: properly outfitted kayak and related paddling and safety equipment, paddle, PFD sprayskirts, paddle float, bilge pump, sling, clothing appropriate for immersion, (no cotton), water shoes.

Duration: 6 hours
Cost: $150 class ($75 per hour - private lesson)*
Rental: $20 for boat and gear (per class)
Location: Captain Kayak (or other suitable flatwater environment)
Dates: 6/27 & 7/11 or 8/8 & 8-15 (Private lessons can always be arranged)
Time: 9:00am - 12noon

Next step:"Coastal Kayaking: Basic Strokes and Rescues, and Recoveries"

* This course follows a standard American Canoe Association course plan.
ACA Registration and Certification Card may be provided for a $15.00 processing fee.

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"Intro to Paddling"

Advanced Flat-water Classes

Coastal Kayaking Basic Strokes, Rescues, and Recoveries

Lets get serious about training. We want to paddle, be safe, have fun, and not work too hard, and really begin to learn the sport. This course will give confidence in our boat, our abilities, and help make our paddling look and feel easy and relaxed.

Topics covered: proper fit and adjustment of kayak for effective control and comfort, entering and exit kayak from shore, wet-exits, paddle control, basic strokes, basic assisted and unassisted recoveries, influence of weather, tides, rules of the road, understanding personal limitations and skill level.

Environment: advanced flatwater
Prerequisites: none
Equipment needed: properly outfitted kayak and related paddling and safety equipment, paddle, PFD sprayskirts, paddle float, bilge pump, sling, clothing appropriate for immersion (no cotton).

Duration: 8 hours
Cost: $150*
Rental: $20 for boat and gear (per class)
Location: TBA ( suitable advanced flatwater environment)
Dates: TBA
Time: TBA

Next step: "Essentials of Kayak Touring"

* This course follows a standard American Canoe Association course plan.
ACA Registration and Certification Card may be provided for a $15.00 processing fee.

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"Foggy Day"

Essentials of Kayak Touring

Want to go out in more advanced environments than lakes and ponds? Want to be able maneuver our kayak with confidence, take care of ourself, and support other paddlers with us? Want to learn something about waves, wind and current? How do these factors effect our kayak and how do we handle them? How do we plan for a safe and enjoyable trip? Let's find out!

Topics covered: personal preparation, equipment, kayak carries, car topping, launching and landing, wet exits, basis strokes, assisted and unassisted recoveries, hypothermia/cold shock, risk management, group management, communication, rules of the road.

Environment: advanced flatwater
Prerequisites: "Coastal Kayaking Basic Strokes, Rescues and Recoveries"
Equipment needed: properly outfitted kayak and related paddling and safety equipment, paddle, PFD sprayskirts, paddle float, bilge pump, sling, clothing appropriate for immersion (no cotton).

Duration: 12 hours
Cost: $225*
Rental: $20 for boat and gear (per class)
Location: Dowling College - Call 631-244-3420 to register.
Dates: 6/28 7/5,12,19 (Private lessons can always be arranged)
Time: 9:00-12 noon pm

Next step:"Coastal Kayak Strokes & Maneuvers Refinement"

* This course follows a standard American Canoe Association course plan.
ACA Registration and Certification Card may be provided for a $15.00 processing fee.

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Inner Coastal Classes

Coastal Kayak Strokes & Maneuvers Refinement

For students working to refine strokes in order to perform maneuvers with decision and assurance in order to prepare for more demanding trips and crossings and to meet more challenging conditions such as wind and current. Graduates of this course may desire to re-take the course at any time to further refine techniques and develop style and form.

Topics covered: development and refinement of strokes and maneuvers in a sea kayak, including bracing, low/high brace turns, bow rudder, side slips and stern rudder.

Prerequisites: "Essential of Kayak Touring"
Equipment needed: properly outfitted sea kayak with bulkheads or floation and related paddling and safety equipment, paddle, PFD sprayskirts, paddle float, bilge pump, sling, clothing appropriate for immersion (no cotton).

Duration: 12 hours
Cost: $225*
Rental: $20 for boat and gear (per class)
Location: TBA - Call 631-244-3420 to register
Dates: 8/4,18,25 (Private lessons can always be arranged)
Time: 9:00 am - 1:00 pm

Next step: "Coastal Kayak Basic Open Water Skills"

* This course follows a standard American Canoe Association course plan.
ACA Registration and Certification Card may be provided for a $15.00 processing fee.

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"Per Lanch Talk"

Coastal Kayak Basic Open Water Skills

So we want to go out in the bay or sound? Now we need to know how to handle rougher water. This course will increase efficiency, fluidity and control. We will also get comfortable with edging, leaning and bracing and develop our supportive strokes to improve confidence in wave environments.

Topics covered: forward and reverse strokes, sweeps, beam draws, bracing, rudders strokes, hanging draws, assisted recoviers, towing, understanding wind and waves, basic navigation.

Prerequisites: "Essential of Kayak Touring"
Equipment needed: properly outfitted sea kayak and related paddling and safety equipment, paddle, PFD sprayskirts, paddle float, bilge pump, sling, clothing appropriate for immersion (no cotton).

Duration: 12 hours
Cost: $225*
Rental: $20 for boat and gear (per class)
Location: Dowling College - Call 631-244-3420 to register
Dates: 7/26,8/4,9 (Private lessons can always be arranged)
Time: 9:00 am - 1:00 pm

Next step: "Coastal Kayak Rough Water Maneuvering, Towing and Rescues"
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"The Crossing"
Open-water Classes

Coastal Kayak Rough Water Maneuvering, Towing and Rescues

This course is for intermediate and advanced paddlers who want to improve their skills and better understand the marine environment. This course will prepare you for rough water rescues and recoveries and prepare you for functioning as a supportive member of a group in inner coastal areas.

Topics covered: Advance strokes, plan a rough water outing, decision-making process to manage risk, rough water re-entries with loaded boats, rough water towing, proper equipment, group formations and communicate in rough water, launching and land througth moderate surf, understanding tides and currents and how to deal with it, common injuries & avoidance,

Equipment Requirements: properly outfitted sea kayak and related paddling, safety and navigation equipment, paddle, PFD sprayskirts, paddle float, bilge pump, sling, clothing appropriate for immersion, deck mounted compass.

Prerequisites: all of the above
Duration: 8 hours
Cost: $150
Date: TBA
Location: TBA
Time: TBA

Next step: any of our specialty clinics.

* This course follows a standard American Canoe Association course plan.
ACA Registration and Certification Card may be provided for a $15.00 processing fee.

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"Democrate Point"

Surf Zone

This course is for intermediate and advanced paddlers who want to improve their skills and better understand the surf zone.

Topics covered: Surf zone dynamics, etiquette, and hazards, group communication and safety in surf, swimming in surf, brace in breaking waves, launching and landing techniques, basic boat control and positioning on the wave.

Equipment Requirements: properly outfitted sea kayak and related paddling, safety, paddle, PFD sprayskirts, paddle float, bilge pump, sling, clothing appropriate for immersion.

Prerequisites: all of the above
Duration: 8 hours
Cost: $150
Date: TBA
Location: TBA
Time: TBA

Next step: any of our specialty clinics.

* This course follows a standard American Canoe Association course plan.
ACA Registration and Certification Card may be provided for a $15.00 processing fee.

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Specialty Clinics

Kayak Rescue

In the event of a capsize when out in a kayak, knowing your rescue skills is especially important so you can help yourself, or someone else. There is no better time than now to develop or refine your rescue techniques.

Topics covered: assisted and unassisted (self rescue) techniques.

Prerequisites: any introductory flatwater course.
Equipment needed: properly outfitted kayak and related paddling and safety equipment, paddle, PFD sprayskirts, paddle float, bilge pump, sling, clothing appropriate for immersion. (no cotton)

Duration: 3 hours
Cost: $75 class (3 or more); private lessons can always be arranged $40/hr semi-private; $75/hr private.
venue: suitable flatwater environment

Location: Empire Kayaks call 516-889-8300 to register
Dates: Sundays 5/18, 6/22/7/20,8/24, 9/14
Time: 9:00 - noon or 12:20 - 3:30 depending on day call to varify time

Location: Captian Kayak
Dates: Fridays 7/18, 8/22
Time: 9:00 am - 12:00

Location: West Sayville Maritime Museum . Call 631 HISTORY to register.
Dates: Saturday 7/19,8/9, & 9/6  
Time: 4:00 an - 7:00 pm

Next step: "Coastal Kayak Strokes and Maneuvering"

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"Simple Recoveries"

Advanced Kayak Rescue

Rescue skills are only as good as the conditions you practice them under. This class is as real as it gets. Here is your chance to practice your rescues under real-life conditions, in simulated scenarios, under the supervision of certified instructors.

Topics covered: assisted and unassisted (self rescue), tandem rescue, towing, multiple rescues, and more.

Prerequisites: "Coastal Kayak Strokes and Maneuvering"
Equipment needed: properly outfitted kayak and related paddling and safety equipment, paddle, PFD sprayskirts, paddle float, bilge pump, sling, tow belt, clothing appropriate for immersion. (no cotton)

Duration: 3 hours
Cost: $75 class (3 or more); $40/hr semi-private; $75/hr private.
Location: Empire Kayaks (or other suitable flatwater environment)
Dates: 7/8 or 9/23 (private lessons can always be arranged)
Time: 9-12pm

Next step: "Open Water Coastal Kayaking & Navigation"

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"Advance Recoveries"

Advanced Strokes

Learn to paddle more efficiently as you refine and combine your strokes. If you don't like working hard and want to maneuver your kayak with ease - this is the clinic for you.

Topics covered: we will develop efficient forward stroke, advanced maneuvering strokes and balancing outside the cockpit.

Prerequisites: one or both of our advanced flatwater courses
Equipment needed: properly outfitted sea kayak and related paddling and safety equipment, paddle, PFD sprayskirts, paddle float, bilge pump, sling, clothing appropriate for immersion,(no cotton), water shoes.

Duration: 3 hours
Cost: $75 class (3 or more); $40/hr semi-private; $75/hr private.
Location: to be announced (suitable flatwater environment)
Dates: April 8 again October 8 (private lessons can always be arranged)
Time: 10:00 am - 1:00 PM

Next step: "Coastal Kayak Open Water Navigation and Touring"

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"Extended Paddle"

Basic Navigation

Compass, charts, tide tables, what do they all mean? How do you use them to plot a course and navigate your kayak to the destination? Come and find out how to do just that.

Topics covered: We will discover the fun of chart work and kayak navigation through this guided experience. Recommended for intermediate and advanced paddlers.

Equipment needed: properly outfitted sea kayak and related paddling, safety and navigation equipment, paddle, PFD sprayskirts, paddle float, bilge pump, sling, clothing appropriate for immersion (no cotton), water shoes.

Prerequisites: "Essentials of Kayak Touring" or equivalent experience.
Duration: 3 hours
Cost: $75 class (3 or more); $40/hr semi-private; $75/hr private.
Location: Connetquot River (or other suitable environment)
Dates: TBA (private lessons can always be arranged).
Time: TBA

Next step: "Coastal Kayaking Strokes & Maneuvering" or "Coastal Kayak Open Water Navigation & Touring" depending on skill level.

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"Navigation Tools"

Cold Water Paddling

Are you ready? Cold weather is coming but that does not mean the paddling season is coming to a close. With proper clothing and training your paddling experience can be extended throughout the year.

Topics covered: hypothermia, clothing, safety equipment, cold water rescues, communications, essentials of group management.

Prerequisites: "Coastal Kayak Basic Strokes, Rescues and Recoveries" or equivalent experience.

Equipment needed: closed-cockpit kayak with a spray skirt,PFD, paddle, paddle float, pump, and proper immersion clothing (call).

Duration: 3 hours
Cost: $75 class (3 or more); $40/hr semi-private; $75/hr private.
Location: Connetquot River
Dates: October 28
Time: 12:00 noon - 3:00 pm

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"It's all About The Gear"

Braces & Rolling

To roll you need a good brace. We will fine tune your braces and then work on developing a bombproof roll! Being able to roll builds on fundamental support skills that often make rolling non-essential, giving us great confidence.

Topics covered: draw strokes, low-brace, high-brace, development of hip-snap, rolling the kayak.

Prerequisites: "Coastal Kayaking Basic Strokes, Rescues, and Recoveries"

Equipment needed: closed-cockpit kayak with a spray skirt, PFD, paddle, and proper immersion clothing.   boat and gear rentals on request.

Duration: 3 hours
Cost: $75 class (3 or more); $40/hr semi-private; $75/hr private.
Venue: suitable flatwater environment
(Private & group lessons can always be arranged)

Location: Empire Kayaks. Call 516-889-8300 to register and for directions.
Dates: Sundays 5/4,7/20,8/24 or 9/14
Time: 12:30-3:30 pm

Location: Captian Kayak . Call for directions.
Dates: Fridays 7/25,8/29  
Time: 9:00 an - 12 noon

Next step: "Basic Rolling"

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"Ready-for-Brace"

Basic Rolling

We want to flip that thing over, and come up again without getting out of our kayak. Rolling is the ultimate in self-rescue and one of the "coolest" maneuvers. Being able to roll builds on fundamental support skills that often make rolling non-essential, giving us great confidence.

Topics covered: review of support and recovery strokes, development of hip-snap, rolling the kayak.

Prerequisites: "Coastal Kayaking Basic Strokes, Rescues, and Recoveries"

Equipment needed: closed-cockpit kayak with a spray skirt, PFD, paddle, and proper immersion clothing.   boat and gear rentals on request.

Duration: 3 hours
Cost: $75 class (3 or more); $40/hr semi-private; $75/hr private.
Location: suitable flatwater environment
Dates: TBA   (Private & group lessons can always be arranged)
Time: TBA

Next step: "Advanced Rolling"

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"Sweep Roll Collage"

Advanced Rolling

We can roll. Maybe our roll is not "bomb proof", maybe it is. Perhaps we want to do develop some advanced rolls, maybe even a hand roll. Lets make it happen!

Topics covered: the "on-side: & "off-side" roll; different rolling methods extended vs standard paddle rolls, hand-rolling.

Equipment needed: closed-cockpit kayak with a spray skirt, PFD, paddle, and proper immersion clothing.   boat and gear rentals on request.

Prerequisites: "Basic Rolling"
Duration: 3 hours
Cost: $100 class (3 or more); $50/hr semi-private; $100/hr private.
Location: Lake Ronkonkoma, pool (or other suitable flatwater environment)
Dates: 10/8   (Private & group lessons can always be arranged)
Time: 10:00 am - 1:00 pm

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Native Rolling

The natives people of Greenland and North America had almost lost most of their traditional skills when Edward Pawlata visited them and began to bring kayak rolling back to Europe. Today we are seeing a resurgence of interest in Native Communities and all over the world in traditional techniques.

Topics covered: native boats, native paddle building, traditional rolling techniques.

Prerequisites: "Advanced Rolling"

Equipment needed: closed-cockpit kayak with a spray skirt, PFD, paddle, and proper immersion clothing.   boat and gear rentals on request.

Duration: 3 hours
Cost: $100 class (3 or more); $50/hr semi-private; $100/hr private.
Location: Lake Ronkonkoma, Pool (or other suitable environment)
Dates: by appointment   (Private & group lessons can always be arranged)
Time: appt.

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"Beginning of roll"
"End of the roll"

Rolling Development and Refinement

Many people will not pick up rolling after one class. Even after your first roll the skill will come and go in an elusive way. Even if you have a decent roll you can still work to make it bombproof, develop an off-side roll or pick up a few new rolls. This intensive 4-class 12-hour course will allow the time needed to culture training to your specific needs. We guarantee you will be a much better paddler after this class.

Topics covered: foundation skills, rolling development and exercises, C-to-C roll, Sweep/Screw roll, Extended Paddle techniques, Native rolling, rolling refinement, bombproofing your roll, trick rolls.

Prerequisites: "Basic Skills: Bracing"

Equipment needed: closed-cockpit kayak with a spray skirt, PFD, paddle, and proper immersion clothing.   boat and gear rentals on request.

Duration: 12 hours
Cost: $225 class
Location: TBA
Dates:TBA (Private & group lessons can always be arranged)
Time:TBA

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Racing Clinics

Starts & Sprints

Getting ready for the coming race season? Many a race is lost at the start line. Come join us and learn how to get off to a good start.

Topics covered: Starts, sprinting, boat control, forward stroke, training drills.

Environment: flatwater
Prerequisites: racing experience
Equipment needed: properly outfitted kayak and related paddling, and safety equipment, paddle, PFD, sprayskirts, clothing appropriate for immersion (no cotton)

Duration: 3 hours
Cost: $120 class (3 or more) $50/hr semi-private $100/hr private.
Rental: $45 for boat and gear (per class)
Location: Lake Ronkonkoma (or other suitable flatwater environment) call for directions
Dates: by appointment
Time: appt.

Next step: "Advanced Racing Skills"
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"The Key is a Good Forward Stroke"

Marathon Racing

Marathon racing is a skill rarely taught. This day-long clinic will provide an in-depth look into the many details of marathon racing from the viewpoint of a five-time US Marathon Sea Kayak Champion and avid ICF Competitor.

Topics covered: Starts, burns, boat control, group maneuvers, tactics, portages, training techniques.

Environment: flatwater
Prerequisites: racing experience
Equipment needed:properly outfitted kayak and related paddling, and safety equipment, paddle, PFD, sprayskirts, clothing appropriate for immersion (no cotton).

Duration: 8 hours
Cost: $320 class (3 or more); $50/hr semi-private; $100/hr private.
Rental: $45 for boat and gear (per class)
Location: Lake Ronkonkoma (or other suitable flatwater environment). call for directions
Dates: by appointment   (Private & group lessons can always be arranged)
Time: appt.

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"Racing Start"

"Coming to Finist Line"

Adventure Racing

Adventure Racing is growing in popularity, but is an extremely demanding pursuit with diverse requirements of racing, navigation and open-sea skills. This 16 hour course of instruction will provide an in-depth look into the many details of Adventure Racing from the viewpoint of a five-time US Marathon Sea Kayak Champion and Skills Trainer.

Topics covered: starts, burns, boat control, group maneuvers, rescues and recoveries, tactics, portage techniques, training techniques. Navigation techniques, understanding tides and how to read tide charts, common injuries & avoidance, weather, risk management.

Environment: open water
Prerequisites: sea kayaking and/or racing experience
Equipment needed: properly outfitted kayak and related paddling, safety and navigation equipment, paddle, PFD sprayskirt, paddle float, bilge pump, sling, clothing appropriate for immersion,(no cotton), water shoes.

Duration: 16 hours
Cost: $480 class (3 or more); $40/hr semi-private; $80/hr private.
Rental: $45 for boat and gear (per day)
Location: Great South Bay (or other suitable open water environment). Call for directions
Dates: by appointment (private and group lessons can always be arranged for all or part of this class)
Time: appt.

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"Adventure Racing Training"

Race Coaching

Development as a racer is dependent on a consistent training program. Many times we cannot see the mistakes we are making or understand how to overcome the errors in our technique. This is where regular contact with a good coach can aid in our development.

Topics covered: regular weekly assessment of skills and on-water coaching and training exercises.

Environment: open water
Prerequisites: racing commitment
Equipment needed: properly outfitted kayak and related paddling and safety equipment, paddle, PFD sprayskirts, clothing appropriate for immersion (no cotton).

Duration: 1-3 hour sessions
Cost: rates negotiable based on number & length of sessions.
Rental: $75 for boat and gear (per session)
Location: Lake Ronkonkoma (or other suitable flatwater environment). call for directions
Dates: as needed
  (group can also be arranged)
Time: appt.

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Special Guest Instructors

Armand Mikune-Santos - ACA ITE

We have formed an association with Armand Mikune-Santos an American Canoe Association Instructor Trainer Educator. He will be joining us for a variety of Advanced Level courses on challenging local waters. TBA Keep checking this spot for lates information. The Classes that are being offered are

ACA Open Water Coastal Instructor IDW/ICE   Apr 19 - 21 & May 23-25
Duration: Full Day
Cost: OWCK $450 for IDW - $450 for ICE - OWCK $800 for Both
BCK $650 for both
Location: West Sayville
Dates: IDW: 4/19-21 ICE: 5/23-25
Time: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

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Chris Raab - ACA IT From Tuktu Paddles

We have invited Chris Raab an American Canoe Association Instructor Trainer. For a
Triditional Skills Weekend. You may enroll in one or all of the classes and for those of you who are ACA instructor you can finish your week end getting your Traditional Skill Endorsement. The Classes that are being offered are:

Traditional Paddle Making
In this class we will be learning how to contruct our own Inut paddle from a cedar blank. We will provide the blank and instruction. You provide the tools and desire. Dates: May 31
Duration: Full Day
Cost: $150
Location: West Sayville LIMM
Requirements:
Required Tool- Bring work gloves to protect your hands from blisters and splinters. You will need a small sharp block plane with a sharp blade. Both Stanley and Buck make a good 6” plane that may be purchased at home depot for about $20.00
Optional tools – A spoke shave, electric sander with sand paper, a small picnic table bench “my favorite work surface” or other comfortable work surface to sit and work on. (We have all the tools required for this class however I strongly advise that you bring your own tools if you have them. This way when you need a tool it will be at your disposal and you will not need to wait for someone else to finish with it.)
Clothing-We will be OUT SIDE ALL DAY RAIN OR SHINE. If it is raining we will be under a large tent or under a pavillion depending upon the location, but we will be outside so dress for the weather

Triditional SkillsTraditional Skills course is an 8-hour course designed to introduce students to the techniques used in kayaks by Arctic peoples. The course is limited to sea kayaks with bulk heads or flotation in calm conditions. The skills to be covered are unlimited rolling, stroke techniques, and history of kayaking.
Dates: May 31
Time: Full Day
Cost: $150
Location: Connetquot River
Requirements:Sea Kayak, skirt and PFD

Triditional Skills Endorsement
Dates: June 1
Time: Full Day
Cost: $150
Location: TBA
Requirements: Must be an ACA Coastal Instructor

Cost for full weekend all 3 classes $325 any 2 classes $250

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"Making a paddle"
Private Lessons
Trained by the
American Canoe Association

Click to go to American Canoe Association Website
* Open Water Coastal Instructor

Private Lessons

Contact us for private lessons, custom training and advanced topics year round.
Available at many locations around Long Island or at your request. Travel fees apply outside central Long Island.
Call 631-563-6654 for scheduling and directions

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General Requirements

Gear and Equipment Requirements

Summer Classes and Pool Classes require minimal personal gear. All necessary equipment is provided for you, including kayak, paddle, PFD, and spray skirt. We suggest that you bring the personal accessories needed to maximize your comfort in the water. These might include eye goggles, nose clips, ear plugs, etc. Bring a bathing suit and submersible footwear, such as "water shoes" or neoprene booties (no sandals). Spring or fall classes may require a wetsuit.

Coldwater Outdoor Classes (November-May) require specific gear. Minimum requirement is a wetsuit/paddle jacket combo or dry-suit. Detailed gear requirements must be reviewed with the instructor in advance of the lesson.

Specialty Clinics & Classes may have special gear requirements. Consult class descriptions for details.

Kayaks and other equipment are available for rent for any of the instructional programs.

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Trained by the
British Canoe Union

Click to go to BCU Website
* Certified: 3-Star Skills
* Certified: Canoe Safety
Pool Classes & Open Pool
Student in pool,

SKSA student practicing recoveries".
(Indoor Pool,2005)

Winter Indoor Pool:
Skills and Practice

Pool sessions are popular but difficult and expensive to arrange. We make every effort to keep practice time accessible for our students and friends.

Indoor Open Practice:

Our Winter 2007/08 Open Pool Sessions TBA.

Open session is for self-practice of paddling strokes, rescue and rolling skills (etc). Come join us in the pool for some fun and exercise!

Contact us to reserve a spot for your winter practice and training and stay in condition for next summer! Pool practice generally requires smaller boats that we can provide (Boat & gear: $15.00). Let us know if you wish to bring your own kayak (must be clean inside and out). SKSA Approved Instruction available on request.

Duration: 3 hour session
Cost: $?? each session. Discounts available for multiple sessions.
Dates: TBA
Time: TBA

Call for registration and directions: 631-563-6654


Indoor Classes:

Introduction to Kayaking and Recoveries This is a 9 hour course covering the basic strokes and what to do in the event of a capsize.

ACA Introduction to Kayaking
 
Duration: Three 3-hour sessions for a total of 9 hours
Cost: $200 Bally members $215 non-members includes all equipment
Location: Bally Total fitness Lake Grove
Dates: 2/17,24 & 3/2
Time: 3:00 - 6:00 pm
Call Bally Total Fitness to registration and for directions: 516-582-2980

Rolling Clinic What better place then in a pool to learn to roll or learn and develop new ways to roll?

ACA Rolling Clinic  
Duration: 3 hour session
Cost: $90 Bally member $110 non member
Location: Bally Total Fitness Lake Grove
Dates: 2/10
Time: 3:00 - 6:00 pm
Call Bally Total Fitness to registration and for directions: 516 582-2980


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Student's first roll, Holtsville Pool, 2004

SKSA student performs her "first roll".
(Brookhaven Town Pool, summer 2004)

Summertime Outdoor Pool

What better place to end a hot summer day then in a pool?
What better place to learn kayaking skill then in a pool?
So why not combine the two and learn to paddle in the cool of the evening in a lighted pool?

Introduction to kayaking: Never been in a Kayak before or missing those fundemental skills then this is the class for you.
Beyond the Basic Class: equivalent to ACA Basic Strokes and Recoveries.
Both Classes: taking both classes is equivalent to ACA Essentials of Kayak Touring.

Come join us, as we once again offer Kayaking Lessons in conjunction with the Town of Brookhaven Departments of Parks, Recreation and Sports, and Cultural Resources, at the Holtsville Pool Complex. Boats, paddles and gear are provided.

Environment: Outdoor pool
Prerequisites: none
Equipment needed:Clothing appropriate for immersion,(no cotton), water shoes.
Duration: 9 hours
Cost: $190 Per person Non resident $200
Rolling: class 3 hours
Cost: $85
Location: Holtsville Pool Buckley Rd, Holtsville
Dates:
Session 1: June 24, July 1,& 8th Introduction to Kayaking
Session 2: August 19,26 a& Sept 2nd Introduction to Kayaking
Session 3: July 22,29 & Aug 5th Beyond the Basic
Basic Rolling July 15th or August 12 or Sept 9th
Time: 6:30 pm - 9:30 pm
Registration: Call Brookhaven Town at 631-451-6135

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Trip Leader Training
Certified by
American Canoe Association

Click to go to American Canoe Association Website
* Open Water Coastal instructor
Coastal Kayaking Day -Trip Leader Assessment

Coastal Kayaking Day-Trip Leading is intended to provide the minimum skills and training necessary for an adult leader possessing basic paddling skills to lead a trip for participants with beginner level paddling skills, in gentle conditions, with apparent wind not exceeding 10 kts, waves not exceeding 1 foot and currents to 2 kts. The emphasis of this course is trip leading, safety education and rescue, not paddling instruction. The content is relevant for clubs, camps, scouts and other entities providing trips. This is an Assessment Course with a written Examination. Those desiring certification to teach kayak paddling should get ACA Instructor Certifications

Location: Connetquot River
Date: April 26 and 27, 2008
Cost: $250
Registration: Call Elizabeth at 631-563-6654 for Details

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Instructor Certification Classes
Certified by
American Canoe Association

Click to go to American Canoe Association Website
* Open Water Coastal instructor
ACA Coastal & Open Water Coastal Kayak
Instructor Development Workshop
(IDW)


followed by

ACA Coastal & Open Water Coastal Kayak
Instructor Certification Examination
(ICE)

This workshop is designed to perpare you for becoming a Coastal Kayak Instructor. IDW is mandateted pre-requisite to ICE participation. Detailed information can be found on the ACA web-site

Location: Great South Bay
Instructors: Armard Mickune-Santos ACA-ITE
Elizabeth O'Connor Open Water Insructor
Date: IDW April 19-21, 2008
ICE Coastal May 23-24 2008
Open Water May 23-25, 2008
Cost:   Open Water IDW or ICE = $450 each Both = $800
Coastal Kayak IDW and ICE $650
Registration: Call Elizabeth at 631-563-6654 for Details

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ARC Certification Classes

This course designed to certify camp counselors in basic paddling skills to lead youth groups in protected waters. Prepare for a full weekend of instruction: Friday evening to Sunday. June 13 - 15, 2008.

Location: East Hampton

Registration: Call Elizabeth at 631-563-6654 for Details

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Certified by ARC
Suffolk County Red Cross
Click to go to Suffolk ARC Website
* Wilderness First Aid, CPR
* Basic River Instructor
* Kayak Instructor Trainer


Moriches Bay sunrise

 
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