PADDLER 40
River Vyrnwy at New Year . Paddling with a lovely bunch that I met on the day ! Photo : Tom Clare
PADDLER 40
5 . BRING SNACKS !
I don ’ t think this one needs much explanation . People like people who have food . Nothing is better after a long , cold day on the river than someone offering you a cookie . Those people get invited back again !
6 . ASK !
I have paddled with many people I have not met before and have concluded that asking is the best way to find a paddling buddy . Ask broadly – in a group or a paddling chat . Stating the day , location , and grade / river often works best . For example , ‘ A friend and I are looking to paddle the river Vyrnwy this Sunday at about 10:00 as it releases . Would anyone be keen to paddle with us ?’. If people can consider this option without being put on the spot , you are much more likely to get someone who wants to paddle with you .
This option doesn ’ t always result in someone saying yes , but it is an excellent way to broaden your paddling group . Some of my now regular paddling buddies I have met in this way .
DEL READ HTTPS :// DELKAYAKS . CO . UK @ DEL _ LIKES _ KAYAKING
TOM CLARE WWW . FACEBOOK . COM / TOMCLAREMEDIA @ TOMCLAREMEDIA
Oops , I ’ m out of my boat ! Who cares ? Photo : Tom Clare
This option does require you to be online and part of online groups . Facebook is great for access to local , national or even international groups ! You might find that there are already established meetups in your local area that you could join .
Equally , the good old joining a club and meeting people in person also works . The bonus is that the people you meet should live relatively near you , making car sharing to the river easier , not to mention the additional benefits of joining a club , like access to gear and the wisdom of other members . If you are new to paddling , this is my recommendation .
I hope you enjoyed this , and happy paddling !
River Vyrnwy at New Year . Paddling with a lovely bunch that I met on the day ! Photo : Tom Clare