It’s the Deception Pass Dash Winter Paddlefest!
Saturday, December 3rd, 2011 – Bowman Bay
Saturday, the day before race day, is an informal, free, low-key festival at Bowman Bay. We’ll have Dash sponsors with displays, boat and gear demos, and last-minute items you need to buy… PLUS:
1:30pm: Perfecting the Forward Stroke, led by Dan Henderson, internationally known kayak & canoe racer and owner of Dash Sponsor Cascade Canoe & Kayak. Dan’s racing experience and his years of scientific analysis of the forward stroke give him a terrific perspective on maximizing your efficiency and power on the water. On-land course. Meet at the Cascade Canoe & kayak tent.
2pm: Rescue practice, for the Dash safety team and all interested observers & participants. Led by Bob Burnett of Dash Sponsor Rogue Wave Adventures and Rob Avery of Valley Kayaks, plus SUP author and Dash Sponsor Rob Casey, this quick refresher will build the skills to assist racers in trouble, whether they’re paddling kayaks, outriggers, SUPs, or surfskis. Jump in your boat or watch from the pier.
2:30pm: “Reading moving water for racers” led by George Gronseth of Dash Sponsor The Kayak Academy. Meet at the Kayak Academy tent for some overview words and a walk to the Pass to check out the dynamics of the ebb. This is a land-based clinic.
3pm: “Dynamic self-rescue techniques for kayakers” by Leon Somme of Dash Sponsor Body Boat Blade International. Leon will demonstrate and assist in numerous proven, quick ways of getting back in your kayak and on your way with the least possible trouble. Essential skills for open-water racers! Get in the water with Leon or watch from the pier.
Noon til dark: Displays and demos from:
- The Kayak Academy
- Eddyline Kayaks, with the booth manned by your local Eddyline dealer, Bellingham’s Yeager’s Sporting Goods
- Perfect Wave Surf Shop
- Cascade Canoe & Kayak, featuring Epic Kayaks
- Valley Sea Kayaks
10am til dark: Drop off your boat or board at Bowman Bay so you don’t have to mess with it on Sunday morning. We’ll have security there all night. This is a free service.
10am til dark: Check in for the race, sign your release form and pick up your boat number.
6pm: come to the Cornet Bay Retreat Center (across the Deception Pass Bridge, left on Cornet Bay Road, and watch for the hidden driveway on the left) for an awesome Hawaiian dinner of kalua pork, rice & macaroni salad — just what you need to make it an awesome race on Sunday! Please sign up for the dinner in advance – cost $12.
Bedtime: Don’t forget bunks are available at the Retreat Center for $20, while they last. If you need a little more privacy for your Dash Beauty Sleep, check out our Dash lodging specials from participating hosts in the area.
