Downwind Skills Workshop
Downwind Skills Workshop
Welcome to the Downwind Skills Workshop: Master the Art of Surfski Paddling!
Are you ready to harness the power of the wind and waves and take your surfski paddling to the next level? Join us for an exhilarating adventure as we dive deep into the art of downwind paddling. This workshop is designed to help you develop the skills and techniques necessary to conquer the open water with confidence.
What to Expect:
Expert Instruction: Our 2 hr workshop is led by a team of experienced and passionate surfski paddlers who have mastered the art of downwind paddling and the skills required to paddle in rough conditions. They will guide you through every step of the process, providing valuable insights and personalized feedback to help you refine your technique.
Practical Training: Get ready to hit the water! We believe that the best way to learn is by doing. You'll have ample opportunities to practice your skills in real-life downwind conditions, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of how to read the waves, position yourself in the swell, and maximize the power of the wind.
Tailored Curriculum: We understand that each paddler is unique, with varying levels of experience and specific goals. Through a combination of on-land discussions, on-water drills, and personalized coaching, we'll ensure that you receive the guidance you need to make significant progress.
Safety First: Your well-being is our top priority. We'll cover essential safety protocols, including how to navigate challenging conditions, manage unexpected situations, and make informed decisions while on the water. Our team will provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to paddle responsibly and confidently in any downwind scenario.
Community and Camaraderie: Connect with fellow paddlers who share your passion for surfski paddling. Our workshop fosters a supportive and inclusive environment, allowing you to build lasting relationships and expand your paddling network. Share stories, exchange tips, and inspire each other to push beyond your limits.
Online Platform: Continue your learning through exclusive access to our online platform, which all participants get free access to.
Venue: We will meet in Stevenson or Home valley, depending on the conditions. We will start on the land, followed by on-water instruction and practice. As this is a group environment, we will do our best to give individual instruction, but we will need you to stay close to your instructor on the water to be able to hear their helpful feedback.
What We Expect From You:
To be able to swim 1km with all of your gear. To be able to paddle for 60 minutes continuously. To be able to remount your surfski in any conditions.
Unlock the thrill of downwind paddling and embrace the power of the elements. Join us for the Downwind Skills Workshop and embark on a transformative journey that will elevate your surfski paddling prowess. Whether you're chasing personal bests, preparing for competitions, or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, this workshop will equip you with the tools to take on the open water like never before.
Who Are Your Coaches?
Michele Eray is a Surfski World Champion, Olympian and World Class Coach who has spent the past few years refining her coaching method to enable her paddlers to learn most effectively.
Maggie Hogan is a world class paddler and water sports specialist who has competed at the highest level in many paddling sports, the pinnacle being the Olympic Games.
For more info on our coaches, please see below.
Once you have signed up, a member of our team will reach out to discuss date and time options and get you scheduled in - we run workshops on Saturdays, however we can work with special requests. We can also come to you - please contact us below to check availability for your group.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation Policy
Full Refund: We reserve the right to change any itinerary to match existing conditions. If we must cancel due to unsafe or unsuitable weather or water conditions (as determined by our qualified staff), you will have your choice of credit, or a full refund. We are not responsible for non-refundable hotel or transportation costs.
Full Refund: If you cancel more than 24 hours before your session, you will receive a refund or credit (your choice).
No Refund: No refund or credit will be given if you cancel less than 24 hours before your session for any reason, including those beyond your control. You may substitute another paddler provided they meet any skill or experience requirements.
Requirements
Requirements
You need to have your own boat and safety gear (unless pre-arranged).
You should be able to swim for 1km in your gear, and you should be able to self-rescue, and remount your boat in any conditions (unless this is the novice Intro To Surfski session).
What To Wear
What To Wear
Depending on the season and water temperature, we recommend dressing for immersion.
Thermal, quick-drying top (neoprene, rash guards, fleece, polypropylene, or other synthetics are best. Cotton makes you cold).
Neoprene or yoga pants, board shorts or any quick drying pants.
Booties or barefoot, depending on the season, and a hat and sunscreen are recommended.
Meet Your Coaches
Michele Eray
One of the few multi-discipline paddlers to have succeeded on the world stage in Canoe Sprint (Olympic finalist), Canoe Marathon (World Medalist), Surfski (World Champion), Surf Lifesaving (World Medalist) plus winner of mulitple River races, Michele brings over 2 decades of first hand athletic experience at the very top.
Over the past 15 years Michele has coached athletes to World Championship medals, and was also team USA Olympic Coach in 2016. A life-long learner and curious mind, she recently completed her MSc in Sports Performance Coaching.
Maggie Hogan
Maggie competed at the 2016 Olympic Games in the highly competitive Women's K1 500m. Over her Canoe Sprint career, she earned medals at the World Championship and World Cup level. She represented the USA in 24 World Championships across 5 different water sports. She has won over 40 National titles.
Getting her start as a collegiate D1 swimmer, Maggie has a background as an ocean lifeguard.
She brings a wealth of experience and technical knowledge to her coaching and has a knack for making the complicated paddle stroke a simple and easy thing to understand.
FAQ
Who is this session for?
Anyone who wants to improve their paddling! We cater to beginners through to the expert level.
I experience pain with paddling and battle with injuries, will this session help?
Our experienced instructors will teach you the optimal paddling technique, which will prevent injuries and help you move better. We can do a mobility assessment if needed and help guide you towards better movement.
Do you provide surfski's for the session?
We can if needed.