university edventures - fall 2007

Beginning Kayaking

Kayaker in waterLearn the basic skills needed to safely enjoy the wide variety of rivers, lagoons and beaches that make Humboldt County “kayak heaven.” The Six Rivers National Forest, which contains one of the world’s largest variety of watersheds, is a Mecca for some of the best kayakers in the country. Within a two-hour drive from Arcata, there are over 100 established river and creek runs. Because of this unique combination of an extended rainy season and summer dam releases, it is possible for a paddler to enjoy the rivers all year round. In fact, Arcata was named one of the top ten paddling towns in the U.S. by both Paddler and Outside magazines. This spectacular coastline for sea touring and the beaches for kayak surfing are proof that the term “kayak heaven” is no exaggeration. An additional fee will be charged for students who do not provide their own equipment.

Oct. 15-Dec. 14:
45092 .......... Mon. .......... 5-9 p.m. .......... Pool, Forbes Complex
                      Wed. .......... 7-8 p.m. .......... West Gym 122
                      Sat. .......... TBA .......... Local Destinations

42040 .......... Optional Equipment Rental

fee............... $335 includes credit. $40 add'l for optional equipment rental.

instr............... Dick Wold

course...............REC 110, 2 units

Dick Wold is one of the leaders of the sport of kayaking, the major passion and focus of his life for over 30 years. He has been involved with almost every aspect of doing, teaching, and promoting the sport. He has run first descents on over 30 of the most challenging sections of whitewater on the North Coast and has been a member of the U.S. Surf Kayaking team since its inception. He was the five-time U.S. surf kayaking champion and the world champion in 1993. He placed in the World Titles held in Ireland and Costa Rica. He has designed and built his own surf kayaks, and has worked as a design consultant for major kayak manufacturers. He was also the senior editor of the “Surf Zone” for Paddler magazine from 1993-2001, and still contributes articles on surf kayaking to the magazine. He has taught classes in surf kayaking all over the country.