NYCkayaker Introductory kayaking classes - Riverbank State Park pool

[Graeme Birchall]

Greetings;

The Downtown Boathouse is offering introductory kayaking classes (i.e. 
paddling and maneuvering a kayak) in conjunction with the Aquatics 
Department at the Riverbank State Park swimming pool during the winter 
of 2006/2007.  These introductory classes are an ideal way for people 
who are new to the sport to learn the basics of the kayaking during the 
off season.

WHO CAN PARTICIPATE:  All persons are welcome.  No prior kayaking 
experience is required, but one must know how to swim.  All children 
(i.e. persons under 18) must be accompanied by a legal guardian who must 
stay for the duration.

REGISTRATION:  All participants must register with Riverbank State Park 
before participating in the class.  Go to the Park office and get an 
identification card (cost $9), which is needed for any class in the 
park.  Then pay the class registration fee (cost $3).

CLASS DATES/TIMES:  Each class section runs on either a Saturday or a 
Sunday, for four weeks - with gaps for holidays.  The first two sections 
start this coming weekend – on Nov 4 & 5.  Classes continue through till 
March of 2007.  Each class starts promptly at 4PM, and runs for two hours.

In order to allow as many people as possible to take a class, please do 
not sign up for more than one section (i.e. month/day combination) at a 
time.  Each class can take a maximum of 20 students.

EQUIPMENT USED:  The boats are whitewater kayaks.  There are boats for 
almost all sizes. Lifejackets are supplied, and must be worn at all times.

DIRECTIONS TO PARK:  The nearest subway stop is the 1 train at 145th St. 
and Broadway.  From the subway, walk west on 145th St, across Riverside 
Drive, and into the park.  The pool is on the harbor side of the sports 
field.  Allow ten minutes to walk from the subway.  The M11 bus runs 
directly into the park.

WHAT TO BRING:  Bring swimsuit, towel, padlock, park registration card, 
and your receipt for the class.  T-shirts, cutoff jeans, and leotards, 
are not allowed.

Graeme Birchall
Downtown Boathouse