LOCALadk Magazine

Spring 2020 LOCALadk Magazine 19 LOCALadk Whether you choose a kayak, canoe, pack boat, or SUP (stand up paddle board"), there is simplicity in powering yourself to glide across the water. It is what draws so many of us to paddle sports, just you and your craft—maybe some friends— enjoying the peace found in being on the water. Embarking on any new sport, we often don't know what we don't know and forge ahead in a manner that is inefficient and may become unsafe. Are all the paddlers out on the wa- ter (including you) having the best experience possible with- out prior formal instruction? It is with this in mind that the "Adirondack Paddling Symposium" was founded in 2019. We are excited to be back in Old Forge, New York, June 19-21 at Mountainman Supply Company. The goal is simple: for paddlers to learn skills that will fur- ther their enjoyment on the water. With so many amazing places to explore by paddle power, the more efficient and confident you are, the farther you will go and the bolder you will be in planning adventures. The event philosophy focus- es on beginner to intermediate paddlers. Patient and caring instructors create an environment that encourages and chal- lenges ever yone to learn. It's this level of paddler that has the most to gain from instruction, to understand how the body and boat/board work together to get the most from the craft, and to get the most from yourself. This year, we have added classes for more advanced pad- dlers as well, with the hope of giving return participants a way to grow with the event. The symposium will have a track for kayakers, canoeists, pack boaters, and standup paddlers. Included with the classes will be morning yoga and catered meals on the banks of the Moose River. Our evening presen- tations will follow dinner and take place fireside with a few beverages. The Vendor Village will allow you to interact with manu- facturer representatives, talk shop, play with boats, boards, and gear, and even tr y new equipment and watercraft in your classes—the ultimate way to demo. There will also be a rent- al option for those who have not made the jump to buying their own craft. In addition to the Symposium taking place June 19-21, there will be an add-on option to put your new skills to the test with a variety of guided tour options, so we encourage you to take the four-day weekend to get the most from the experience. Learn more about the event at AdkPaddlingSymposium. com. The Adirondack Paddling Symposium: Teaching the Value of Paddle Sports Instruction. By Danny Mongno

• Cover