Doing Something Useful - For a Change!

Things have been moving quickly since I last posted.  

I have received the Australian Canoeing Sea Skills Accreditation, which was a great feeling and sense of achievement! Thanks go to all those who have assisted in the learning and up skilling process. In particular a huge thank you goes to Colin Priest for his time and patience in passing on his knowledge and skills. It has been a great privilege working with him, and his time and effort in assisting me in achieving this accreditation can not be overstated. My aim is still to work towards the Sea Guide accreditation, and I feel that it is now within my grasp!  "Oh, What A Feeling!"

Yes, I know. I've always said I'd never be involved in instruction again............ 

Most paddlers that know me will be surprised at this development.

Having spent years as an Advance Instructor with the British Sub - Aqua Club, I realised instructing wasn't all that it was cracked up to be. I'd grown tired of doing "novice dives".  So what on earth made me sign up for the Level 1, Flat Water Instructor Kayaking course?  Well, to be honest I'm not sure. Whether it was the challenge or just that for the first time in my life I've got time to do things (retired), or maybe, that Gill had completed the course recently and had been enthusiastic about it.

Anyway, early on Monday morning I found myself sitting having coffee at Kathy's cafe at Ascot, awaiting the start of the Instructors Course. 

The wise Jerry Alderton, and budding Instructors Helen, Ben, Sandy & Jamie

For two days, I and four others, spent an enthralling time with Instructor and Assessor Jerry Alderton going through the instructors syllabus. I honestly didn't think it would be fun, but it was. I was amazed at how much knowledge I had acquired over the years. What the course did was to make me think about the most basic of strokes, as teaching others really does ensure that you do it properly. I even had to brush up my presentation skills, but it was all worthwhile.

Jerry, still smiling after two days of instructing!

Sandy in Instructor Mode.

To anyone unsure of taking part in any of the Australian Canoeing accreditation courses or skills programs, I'd can only pass on my personal experiences, which have been positive and worthwhile. Should you every need any assistance in deciding, contact Rosalie or Zac at Canoeing WA, they will assist.