Learn to look after yourself and others while kayaking. Join a swiftwater rescue course. more»
Esprit promotes "Leave No Trace" practices on all our training programs. more»
Classic Clinic - 2 Days
This 2-Day intro to whitewater kayaking is the perfect getaway for anyone looking for a fun, active and challenging adventure!
The 2-day format offers beginner paddlers the opportunity to discover the fundamental strokes and maneuvers of whitewater kayaking starting in a flat water environment and progressing into class I-II moving water.
Courses are based at the "Pointe", Esprit's riverside lodge on the banks of the Ottawa River. The Pointe is ideally located close to great learning spots for beginners on the Ottawa and Coulonge Rivers.
All Esprit courses follow the proficiency guidelines set forth by CKC (Canoe/Kayak Canada) and Paddle Canada. The Classic Clinic focuses on the a skills set for the Proficiency Level A and introduces the moving water skills from the Proficiency Level B.
For more information on these skill levels,
please
download the Classic Clinic Skills Progression pdf document.
Availability & Costs 2011 |
| Dates |
Location |
Costs |
| May 14-15 |
Esprit |
$300.00 |
| June 18-19 |
Esprit |
$300.00 |
| July 16-17 |
Esprit |
$300.00 |
| Aug. 13-14 |
Esprit |
$300.00 |
| Sept. 17-18 |
Esprit |
$300.00 |
| * Additional dates may be available upon request for groups of 4 or more. |
 |
Book a 2011 Classic Clinic Course and receive a $100 Gift Voucher for a Mexico Week of Rivers trip!
Classic Clinic Itinerary
The "Classic Clinic" beginner kayak course is designed to introduce the fundamental strokes and maneuvers essential to your success paddling in class I-II whitewater.
|
| Day 1 |
8:30 am |
Meet your guides and fellow paddlers |
| |
9:00 am |
Boat and equipment outfitting |
| |
10:00 am |
Flat water instruction, basic strokes and techniques |
| |
12:00 - 1:00 pm |
Lunch break |
| |
1:00 - 4:30 pm |
Introduction to moving water (location will depend on water levels) |
| Day 2 |
8:30 am |
Depart for river |
| |
9:00 am |
Warm up, review strokes and techniques |
| |
10:00 am |
Hydrology talk, scouting rapids, choosing lines |
| |
11:00 am |
Fun, guided descent of rapids |
| |
12:00 pm |
Lunch break |
| |
1:00 pm |
Work on skills and techniques, additional river rapids |
| |
4:00 pm |
Take out |
| Note: Trip timing may vary depending on water levels. |
| |
What's included in your course
All courses include your paddling equipment (kayak, skirt, paddle, lifejacket, helmet and wetsuit), certified kayak instructors, and river transportation. Meals and accommodations are not included in the course cost.
Optional Add-ons
Customize your day trip with Esprit by adding any of the following options:
|
| Accommodation: |
|
Camping
Cabin Tent Rental
Hostel |
$10.00/night (bring your own tent)
$10.00/night
$25.00/night |
| Meals: |
|
Breakfast
Lunch
Ultimate BBQ |
$8.00
$12.00
$25.00 |
| |
What you should bring for your course
Swimsuit, quick dry shorts, warm fleece/wool sweater, polypropylene/synthetic long sleeve shirt & tights/leggings (ie. long underwear), water sandals/shoes/socks for use in water (preferably nothing too bulky so that you can wear them inside your kayak), personal paddling gear you may already have, noseplugs (highly recommended for new kayakers!), sunscreen, bug repellent, towel, bag to carry wet gear to and from river. If you are camping you will also need to bring a tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad and flashlight.
Testimonials
Don't just take our word for the fact that Esprit provides excellent kayaking instruction! Here is what others who have experienced a Classic Clinic have to say:
"It was a pleasure for my family to learn the basics of whitewater kayaking. We will definitely be back!"
Stacey
"Came up for the beginner 2-Day course and had an awesome time! My instructors were amazing. Thank you for such a memorable weekend!"
Eric, Stittsville