May 3rd Class: Learning to Paddle
If you’ve ever sat on the banks of the Grand River and wished you were out there—but felt held back by a lack of experience—this is your invitation to the water.
On May 3rd, I am hosting a comprehensive Learning to Paddle clinic designed to take you from “never-held-a-paddle” to “confident-river-traveler” in a single day. We have spots available for both canoes and kayaks, so you can choose the craft that fits your adventure style.
This isn’t just a quick lesson; it’s a progressive, full-day curriculum designed to build your skills and your confidence.
The Three-Phase Learning Formula:
Phase 1: The Foundation (Dry Land Training)
We start on solid ground. I’ll walk you through the anatomy of the boat, paddle physics, and the essential strokes required to direct your craft with ease. No jargon, just practical “Systems Thinking” applied to the water.
Phase 2: The Laboratory (On-Water Lake Training)
Once the basics are locked in, we move to a calm, “lake-like” section of the Grand. This is where you develop your muscle memory. Without the pressure of a current, you’ll practice turns, stops, and straight-line tracking. It’s the perfect environment to make mistakes and master your technique.
Phase 3: The Graduation (The River Trip)
After a break for lunch, we move the operation up to Paris. This is where the magic happens. We’ll embark on a genuine river trip, putting your new skills to the test in a real-world environment. You’ll navigate the gentle flows and beautiful scenery of the Grand with an expert guide nearby to ensure you’re reading the water like a pro.
Why Join Us on May 3rd?
- Zero Experience Required: We provide the gear, the instruction, and the safety.
- Small Groups: You’ll get personalized feedback to ensure your form is correct and efficient.
- Complete Outfitting: Your registration includes the boat (canoe or kayak), paddle, PFD, and shuttle.
The river is the best classroom in Ontario. Don’t spend another season watching from the shore. Space is limited for this clinic, so grab your spot today and start your 2026 season with absolute confidence.