Every coach or leader of sea kayakers on the water is faced with a dilemma as to where to position themselves in relation to the rest of the group when journeying. Experience has shown that there are no right or wrong answers just a range of options depending upon the prevailing weather conditions, challenge of the environment and nature of the group. When heading out for a paddle, with a group, it is important to have a number of solutions available. Over the next few weeks will be considering a range of scenarios and the options, which are available.

Following sea and wind

When I have been leading groups, one of the most challenging situations is when there is a following wind and sea. The more skilled members of the group are able to surf the waves and accelerate away whilst the less experienced will be attempting to control their kayaks by using reverse strokes to reduce their speed. The inevitable consequence is that within minutes it is possible to open a gap of several hundred metres between the first and last members of the group. In this scenario communication is virtually impossible and so the potential for an incident developing is quite high.

It does not matter how often you tell people to check on the position of the other members group and to adjust their paddling accordingly, so that the group stays together, it is likely that the group will split up. Many paddlers find it difficult to look over their shoulders, to monitor the group unless they have received coaching on that specific skill. Therefore the only place that the coach can be to ensure that the group doesn’t split up is at the front of the group, unless they have highly competent assistant. They are able to control their own speed through the water and as such are able to slow down the group if necessary.

The group leader is highlighted

Communication is also much easier. The coach, at the front, is able to turn their kayak to face the group and so is able to satisfy himself or herself that the group have heard and understood their instructions. In certain situations the coach could also paddle in reverse for a short distance, maintaining visual contact and ensuring the safety of the group. This is can lead to potential conflict though, somebody who is struggling to control their kayak in what they perceive as challenging conditions may not feel to good about themselves if they see the coach paddling backwards. Our role is to develop confidence not squash it! So use this technique with care.

The group leader is highlighted

Before undertaking a paddle in a following wind it is important to assess the skill level of the members of the group. It is worth asking as to whether they can look over their shoulders, being able perform a stern rudder is pretty essential as are support strokes. With a more experienced group then edging to control direction is important. Paddlers of all abilities should be aware of the need to have a variable forward paddling rate, increasing as they feel the stern rises and decreases as settles down into the trough of the wave. Ensuring that maximum benefit is gained from the following sea.

Using a following wind a group is able to travel large distances in a relatively short space of time with a minimum of effort. With this bonus comes the potential for a relatively difficult situation to develop rapidly. The role of the coach is to ensure that the group is able to benefit from the conditions without safety being compromised.

Kevin Mansell

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