Learn from the pros! One- to
five-day
kayak and
canoe clinics.
DemoFest 2007 Clinic Offerings
Also Check Out:
The schedule of mini clinics is below. For descriptions click on the title of any clinic. Mini clinics are booked on a first come-first served basis. Space is limited. All mini clinics are subject to change. Please check in at morning registration.
Introduction to whitewater kayaking
Prerequisite – none
Learn key flatwater techniques that can lead to success in the sport of whitewater kayaking and the design elements that make a good introductory whitewater kayak. Techniques to be taught include self rescue and specific paddle strokes to move your kayak gracefully.
The balanced paddler and edge control
Prerequisite – class II experience
Are you jittery or unstable in your boat? Learn to use the three key attributes of a well-balanced paddler: good posture, body mechanics and edge control. This clinic will also address proper boat fit which is critical for fine edge control.
Stroke timing and efficiency
Prerequisite – class II experience
Do you feel like you’re fighting to get anywhere on the river? Better stroke timing will give you that extra finesse you need to improve all your river maneuvers as well as make your paddling look great!
Freestyling the Dryway
Prerequisite – class III-IV experience
Join top Team Z and other pro team paddlers on a freestylin’ run of the Dryway. This is for paddlers who are proficient in the fundamentals of playboating and want to take it to the next level. We will bring a variety of freestyle designs and encourage paddlers to switch between them during the run.
Creek boat demos and skills on the Dryway
Demo a creek boat and sharpen up your creek boating skills.
“Paddle like a girl with grace and finesse” - women’s clinic on Zoar Gap and the Dryway
Women, come join forces to paddle and discuss boat designs that fit particularly well, techniques that highlight our unique abilities and the state of the art of women’s paddling. Rock on, Girlfriend!
Open paddling with Team Z and other pro paddlers on the Dryway and Zoar Gap
Do you just want to get out there and paddle with the best in the business? Here’s your opportunity to get to know pro paddlers and get feedback on your own paddling. This is also a great chance to paddle and get expert advice on a variety of boats.
Open Canoeing with finesse
Get some paddling tips from the pros and try out the latest designs from Esquif Canoe.
Extreme Racing/Wildwater Tips
Test a variety of designs and learn race-winning strategies on a mini-extreme race through Zoar Gap.
Kid’s clinic – beginner
Prerequisite – min age of 10
This flatwater program will give kids 10 – 14 a chance to get in a whitewater boat and learn the basics of paddling and have fun too. This is a great opportunity to figure out which boats fit your favorite paddling kid.
Improve your Roll
If you have a roll that needs fine tuning, our skilled instructors can help troubleshoot the problem.
Parent/child river run
Prerequisite – both parents & kids should have class I – II experience
Meet other families that love to paddle together. We will paddle a short class I-II together. This is not a lesson but a time to network with other paddling families.
Intro to Freestyle
Prerequisite - A good roll is recommended for this class
We will give you some basic drills to help in your quest to “toss ends”. If you’ve never done this before or you only have half a cartwheel, come out and play with us. This clinic provides a great way to test out the latest playboat designs while improving your freestyle skills.
Transitioning to a more aggressive boat
A more aggressive boat design enables you to reach new heights in your paddling but demands more precise technique. We will take this opportunity to evaluate your skills and give you feedback on the key elements needed to make this transition smoothly.
If you would like to demo a new kayak or canoe and get some free instruction from some of the best paddlers in the country, mark your calendar for Demofest - June 22-24, 2007.