Words and photos : Jamie Greenhalgh
The switch from river leading to river mentoring and why it ’ s important .
After a long lockdown hibernation , it ' s time for us to shake off our cobwebs and get ready for what might be the most significant influx of paddlesport newcomers that we have ever seen . Many will come with zero experience , and we as a paddling community are about to have a big job in welcoming them and creating memorable experiences that will make these new paddlers into addicts , like you and I .
Designing and leading a trip for developing paddlers is an enjoyable and fulfilling thing to do . My aim with this article is to invite you to go out , have a great time on the water , lead by example and share the sport we love . I also aim to challenge you as a leader . In the game of paddling adventures , the most experienced paddler typically holds all the cards . Show your hand wherever possible , and give your cards away regularly as it is safe to do so .
Last summer was big . Fresh from their first-ever national lockdown , the UK ’ s public got out on the water in greater numbers than ever before . Watersport retailers reported record-breaking sales ; activity providers were run off their feet . Areas of natural beauty such as beaches , rivers and national parks were regularly filled with people taking advantage of the freedom and their new lease of life . If the summer paddling boom of 2020 is anything to go by ( and I believe it is ), then our sport is about to be hit with a mad rush of newcomer uptake .
JAMIE GREENHALGH
Jamie is a passionate river guide , kayaking coach and people person . He runs two kayaking businesses : Paddle365 , for cutting edge white water skills coaching , and Dee River Kayaking , dedicated to giving the best possible introductions for regular people into the sport .
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