Sixteen new members arrived at Silversands, Aberdour at 1000 to meet the leader group for the first introductory paddle of the year. Introductions and boat exchange/loans sorted, we briefed on time (!) and split into three groups of roughly the same size, with some rough-looking leaders allocated to each.
After some preliminary practice/sussing-out in the bay, all three groups took advantage of the benign conditions, with only a slight breeze, to paddle round Hawcraig and make their way past Aberdour to Port Haven beach and beyond for lunch. Coaching took place along the way and after a visit to Aberdour harbour to weave amongst the yachts and throw drier (wetter?) balls at each other to improve our manoeuvring skills, we returned to the Hawcraig to practise contact tows.
Back in the bay, a surprising number volunteered to brave the still chilly water with some assisted rescues and self-rescue techniques – impressive commitment from the first-timers!
A great turnout and an excellent introduction to the club for our new members. All made possible by the support and co-operation of the leaders on the day: Dougie Williams, Chris Gordon, Rob Burgess, Graham Bailey, Dave Bertram and Andy Young
Pathway paddle 29 May 2022
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