I have just returned for the 5th annual Downeast sea kayak symposium run by Mark and Mel Rice-Schoon at Carpe Deim Kayak Company and it was a blast ! The event drew participants from throughout the Northeast of U.S.A. and Canada, and as far away as California.
Like most symposium’s this event focuses on skill development at all levels. Mark and Mel have created a symposium which provides exceptional balance for all participants. The range of skills offered through the sessions at this symposium ranged from basic strokes, navigation to technical rock and ledge paddling skills and tidal currents.
In addition to being able to participate and teach several of these skill clinics, I was also able to paddle my newest P&H Sea Kayaks team boat – the Cetus LV if you a smaller paddler this is the boat for you. I had a great play in the tidal race and around the rocks. Love the new day hatch, great for your camera and extra bits.
The wide range of skills that were offered through the sessions at this symposium is only possible due to the expansive pedigree of the coaches involved. Mark and Mel brought in some exceptional talent for this year’s event. Nigel Robinson from Wales, P&H Team members – John Carmody, Steve Maynard, Russell Farrow and Suzanne Hutchinson (P&H team member and Kokatat New England representative). Along with the coaching staff, the volunteer efforts of Warner Moss, Nate Hanson and several students from the expedition planning program at Plattsburg University has certainly not gone unnoticed, great job everyone !.
If you have not had the chance to paddle in the Bar Harbor area I would highly recommended it. You can find many day trip areas In and around Mountain Desert Island. The coast line is littered with larger rock cliffs as well as rock outcroppings, which provide ample opportunity for skill progression and fun. For those of you interested in tidal paddling, the tidal stream at Sullivan Fall’s is well worth the trip. The falls forms standing waves on both the ebb and flood. One cannot forget Acadia National park and everything else the Bar Harbor area brings with it, great pubs, local beer and great people. This area was featured in Eastern Horizons http://reelwaterproductions.com/ a paddling film produced by Bryan Smith Team Kokatat and P&H team paddler.
From the feedback I received, people at the event were very pleased with the clinics offered, the atmosphere and the overall logistics and organization of the symposium. At the end of the event I know many people were tired but content. On behalf of P&H Sea Kayaks and Kokatat, I join Mark and Mel in thanking all the sponsors for their gracious support of this symposium and the advancement of the sport of kayaking. A full list off the sponsors can be found at. Carpe Deim Kayak Company
Highlights of the event:
BAR-B-QUE at Mainely Meats, Great Weather, Great people, great paddling
Submitted by Christopher Lockyer
P&H Sea kayak Team Member
Kokatat regional representative
Owner of Committed 2 the core Sea Kayak coaching www.committed2thecore.com
