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FSRT and Coach Update

by Northern Kayaker - 13:47 on 24 April 2012

 

This weekend saw a visit to Kirkwall by two top level scottish paddlesport coaches, to run two courses for local paddlers that would otherwise involve an expensive trip south.  Steve Mackinnon and Mags Duncan of H2O Outdoors, both Aspirant BCU Level 5 coaches based in Nairn, delivered an FSRT test on Saturday and a Coach Update on Sunday.

The FSRT is  the Foundation Safety and Rescue Test and teaches paddlers about safe methods of rescue of people in the water and of paddlers of various types of craft.  It is a prerequisite to undertaken the UKCC Level 1 coaching course but is also a great course for anyone who wants to learn more about safety on the water.  Twelve paddlers were in attendance, with all of them enjoying the opportunity to learn new skills and to refresh old ones.  After spending several hours swimming around in the cold waters of the marina rescuing each other and being rescued, everyone was glad to finish the day and get a chance to warm up!

Sunday saw ten of Orkney's coaches, together with a couple of other interested paddlers gather at Hatston Slip for a Coach Update day.  All coaches are required to update every 3 years to remain valid, meaning that those who passed their UKCC L1 in Orkney in 2009 now need to update.  The Coach Update day updates everyone in wider changes in the coaching world, in terms of coaching scheme changes and other such aspects, as well as discussing and reviewing recommended coaching techniques.  Best practice for teaching the various skills necessary for the 1 and 2 star personal skills awards were also discussed and demonstrated.  All coaches in attendance found the refresher very useful and although there was a cool breeze, enjoyed the chance to be out on the water in the sunshine.

Thanks must go to Steve and Mags for again coming up to deliver the courses "on island" and to Kirkwall Marina and the Sailing Club for allowing the kayak clubs continued use of their facilities for paddlesport coaching and training activities.

KKC outdoor kayak sessions start at the beginning of May and OSKA sessions started in April.  Check the Kirkwall Kayak Club and Orkney Sea Kayaking Association websites for details.

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