One-day Flatwater/Basic Canoeing Course – Level D/4

This one-day course is designed for the canoeist who has mastered the tandem skills taught in Levels A/1 to C/3 and would like to learn how to paddle their canoe solo. It is also for the ‘self taught’ or more experienced canoeist who would like to improve on their solo skills. For those who are interested in working in the canoeing business, this course is the first step to becoming a certified instructor or guide.

Participants will learn solo canoeing. Emphasis throughout the course is on safe canoeing practices while mastering the fundamentals. We have lots of fun, too!

Successful participants will receive certification for Basic Level 4 by the Ontario Recreational Canoeing and Kayaking Association.

Prerequesites: Participants in this course must meet the requirements for Levels 1 to 3 before being accepted into the course.

Skills Taught:

Safety

• Review of safety items (Flatwater A, B and C)
• Swimming and treading water
• Retrieving a swamped canoe
• Canoe over canoe rescue
• Re-entering canoe

• Launching and removing canoe
• Entering and exiting canoe
• Paddling positions and trimming
• Sideward displacement
• Forward straight line
• Inside and outside turns and circles
• Stopping
• Inside and outside landings
• Reverse straight line
• Lifting, carrying and transporting the canoe

• Review of theory items (Flatwater A. B and C)
• Canoeing history

• At least 2 litres of water per person per day for a hot day. Less will do on a cooler day, but it's always better to have too much than not enough! For the sake of the environment, we encourage you to bring a refillable water bottle. Clean drinking water is available at the park.
• Lunch
• Snacks. Trail mix, salted nuts, dried fruit, fruit and granola bars are all good.
• Water shoes, sturdy sandals or running shoes. Bring an extra pair to be kept dry to change into if necessary
• Warm clothing. You can get cold even on a hot day if you are wet.
• Complete change of clothes. Keep a dry set in your vehicle.
• Rain gear. The course runs regardless of weather (within reason)
• Sunscreen
• Hat and sunglasses
• Bathing suit and towel

60 William St Paris ON Canada N3L 1L5 | 519-442-5471
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