Outdoor Pursuits Tackles Whitewater

The ODP class recently paddled a section of the Upper Cowichan River. The weather provided the group with warm sunshine, rain showers, wind and even a little hail. We began at the Duck Pond Park in the village of Lake Cowichan, and paddled through a 6 kilometer section of class 1 and 2 whitewater. This was the first experience in moving water for most of the students, and reactions ranged from terrified to exhilarated. Inherent with any first time whitewater kayaking is the risk of flipping and swimming - but despite the presence of 11 novices, the afternoon only saw three swims (two of them from the same, anonymous, faculty member).

Students were introduced to their friend PAT (Power, Angle, and Tilt) and how to apply it to eddy turns. They paddled through many small waves and had a chance to view some excellent scenery from the water. The instructors also used this experience to point out risks such as sweepers and rock obstructions, so that students have a better understanding of river safety.

Following this expedition, ODP students were asked to choose their area of specialty for the term - five students chose whitewater kayaking, while the other 11 chose rock climbing. The rock climbers will spend their Thursdays at the climbing gym, while the whitewater group will paddle on various sections of the Cowichan River.
Mr. Dan Norman, ODP Coach
Photo credit to Greg Nosaty of Cinemontage