For our newer boaters:  Okay, you’ve been to Paddle school; you’ve been on a few training trips; you’ve been on the water and are getting a feel for your boat, the paddling skills you need, and are starting to get into this new sport.

 …but you and your new paddle buddies have had a few ‘close calls’ (probably swimming or helping your buddy) and you really didn’t know exactly how to handle that.

NO PROBLEM…IT’S TIME FOR YOU TO ATTEND TVCC’s RESCUE RODEO!

This is a one-day course, taught on the Hiwassee that is designed to give the new paddler some BASIC RIVER RESCUE SKILLS and MAKE YOU A MORE CONFIDENT BOATER! We put this event on each year in the middle of the paddling season just for you.  IT WORKS and IT’S FUN!

We will go over:  Basic First Aid and Rescue Breathing, Deep Water Boat Reentry & Recovery, Properly Towing a Swimmer, Proper Equipment Recovery Techniques,  Properly Throwing/Catching a Rescue Rope, Proper Wading Techniques, Boat Based Rescues, Proper Rafting-Up techniques, and YES — Whitewater Swimming, (you will swim Devil Shoals – on Purpose!)  All classes are taught in a ‘challenge by choice’ style.

When:  Saturday, 23 July, 8:30 AM

Where: Hiwassee Outfitters, Campsites 46 & 47

What:  1 Day Course, Cost $5.00 (ACA Insurance Fee)

Details:  We will have shore-based classes that morning, grab a quick lunch, and hit the river.  Bring all you paddling gear or make your own arrangements to borrow what you need on your own. You will be assigned to a expertly-led group and paddle to different training stations on the river & practice a certain rescue skill.  At the end of the day, we’ll have an awards ceremony, Grill some Hamburgers & Hot Dogs, and swap lies until it gets late! Bring a side dish to go with the Club-Provided Meat and Buns.

Camping at Hiwassee Outfitters is available by calling the outfitter store:  423-338-8115