Narrows-Linkhorn Bay 9-17-13

We met at the Narrows in First Landing State Park. As the paperwork was completed we carried our boats down to the beach to prepare for launching. What a sight the thirteen kayaks made lined up ready for launching. I believe we had boats of every color in the rainbow. Paddling away from the beach we started up Rainey Gut towards Crystal Lake. On our right we passed a helicopter on its landing pad. The owner has a nice way to commute to work. Continuing down Rainey Gut instead of going into Crystal Lake we explored the canals on the left. We saw countless beautiful waterfront homes on the two branches of the canal. Retracing our path we paddled to the beach at the Narrows for lunch. After lunch Bill B, Vic, and John F demonstrated their kayak safety skills. John started the demonstration showing us a wet exit and reentry using the Rescue Stirrup. John and Bill B then showed us the two boat technique of reentering your boat in deep water. Vic showed off his reentry technique using a paddle float. Bill B demonstrated the Paddle Brace. Pretty soon all three were in and out of their boats. Everyone enjoyed and appreciated their efforts. We are now all a little safer kayakers. Special thanks to John F, Bill B and Vic. You guys are the best.

After the kayak safety demonstrations we loaded our boats and adjourned to Tini’s for our ice cream treats. Great times with good friends thus ended another fabulous day with the Tuesday Group.

John F provided the link for the Rescue Stirrup: http://northwater.com/html/products/sea_kayak/SKsubdirectory/SeaTec-Rescue-Stirrup.html

Bill B's picture Links:

Kayak Safety Demo: https://picasaweb.google.com/b.billings/TuesKayakSafetyDemoSept172013?authkey=Gv1sRgCNzLlL-H9PfK9AE&feat=email

First Landing Crystal Lake: https://picasaweb.google.com/b.billings/FirstLandingCrystalLakeSeptember172013Ellis?authkey=Gv1sRgCOHunLaekrzjJg&feat=email