Kayak seminar deemed a success

Rainy Lake Boatworks hosted its first kayaking seminar Sunday afternoon with successful results–and they’ll do it again next year.
The seminar was led by experienced kayaker Darrell Makin, who kicked things off by saying the skills of paddling and rescue are probably what those on hand would get the most out of.
About a dozen people were led through basic paddling maneuvers and rescues from 1-6 p.m. in a mixture of homemade wooden, plastic, and fibreglass kayaks.
“This is the first class that we ever put on,” noted Caren Fagerdahl, who runs Rainy Lake Boatworks with her husband, Eric. “Makin has done a number of classes all over Canada and the U.S. We were very lucky to have him.
“This was getting our feet wet,” she added.
“He taught me how to Eskimo roll, it was pretty fun,” enthused David Fagerdahl, 13.
After a video and some basic preparation and safety tips, Makin led the class out on the water for a few hours of practical instruction, including self rescues and partner rescues.
“When you get into a dangerous situation, you’re afraid, but your body just reacts and does what it’s supposed to,” said Makin.
Most of those attending the seminar have had at least one kayaking class with Rainy Lake Boatworks but took the opportunity to build on what they’d already learned.
“All of these skills they can have wonderful technique but when it comes right down to it, everyone has their own way of doing things. It’s more fun than science,” Makin noted.
Makin has promised to return and teach a full two-day seminar next summer.