Paddler Info

Practices
  • Monday and Wednesday. 5:30-7:00pm, beginning Monday, May 14th, 2012.
  • Stones Marina (see below)
  • Practice begins at 5:30 pm; we recommend arriving 20-30 mins early to ensure you are parked, geared up and warmed up in time.
  • Contact: Barb Fehr or Susan Szucs prior to noon on the day of practice if you are not able to attend.


What should I bring to practice?  
(some of which will stay in the vehicle)
  • Water bottle with a lid (Note: bottom of the boat is not clean).
  • Towel and change of clothes, especially if the weather is cool or it is raining.
  • Drink and nutritious snack for after the practice.
  • Waterproof sunscreen; sunglasses; lip balm.
  • A good grip on your paddle is essential.  If you don't wear gloves, you may wish to bring Dr. Zod's Sex Wax or Salamander Sticky Stuff available at outdoor stores or board shops.
  • Note: If you must bring a cell phone or a pager on the boat, a zip lock bag or a dry bag to secure it induring the practice.


What should I wear to paddle?
  • Loose fitting clothing for ease of movement, dries quickly, wicks moisture away. No cotton.
  • Capris or shorts work well. Some paddlers prefer cycling shorts. Long pants may be preferred early in the season or for cooler weather conditions. Layers.
  • Long-sleeved shirts, or very short-sleeved; mid bicep length sleeve tends to cause chafing.
  • If it is raining, wear rain gear but remember it must fit under the PFD.
  • Supportive footwear with good treads that will grip well. These can be old running shoes or water shoes. Remember they will get wet. No flip flops or crocs. Wetsuit booties or sandals/wool socks work well.
  • Hat (Note: baseball caps may blow off or impede your paddling).
  • Sunglasses: the kind you don't mind losing in the water.
  • Paddling gloves if you use them, but they are not essential or needed by everyone.
  • No loose/valuable jewellery.


Info for new paddlers
  • The team captain is Barb.  Coach is Maureen.  Communications is Susan.  Land Manager is Jovita.
  • If you have email, please let Susan know and we can add you to the info distribution list.
  • Safety issues: A PFD must be worn at all times when on the dock or in the boat. If you have CPR or FA training, please identify yourself to the captains and coach. Medical issues must be made known to the coach and captains. 
  • Paddles and PFDs: Supplied by KVL Kruisers.  If you like the sport, you may wish to buy your own perfectly fitted for you, available from sporting stores such as Alberni Outfitters.
  • Season Expenses:  $200 for membership, plus time spent helping with fund-raising events.


Marina Information
  • Stones Marina is at 1690 Stewart Avenue.  Here is a Google Map.  Zoom in to get a visual. 
  • Please note:  There is a daily ferry sailing leaving Departure Bay at 5:20 so in order to arrive on time, you may wish to drive parallel to Stewart Avenue rather than right on Stewart.
  • Parking:  At Miller's Pub or rental available near Muddy Waters pub in the WHITE parking spots.  Red and green parking spots are reserved, so please don't use them.

Festivals
Saturday, June 23
Nanaimo Paddlefest
Fundraiser for Breast Cancer

July 6 - 8
Nanaimo Dragon Boat Festival
Theme:  The Sixties