A common query from adults who come to my kayaking sessions is whether they have to try going upside down in a kayak… the answer when you come out with me is NO! When I set up my business I identified that a number of people have a fear going back to earlier days of …
Here’s some of my tips for looking after your wetsuit after being out on the water. Rinse your wetsuit both inside and out with fresh water as soon as you can, particularly if you’ve been in the sea. The salt water can cause zips to jam etc. Also letting your wetsuit marinate in saltwater in …
I’m sure we all know that by looking up at the clouds we can have an idea of what the weather has in-store for us, but how well do you know the different types of clouds and what they indicate? Have a quick read of my guide here. Cirrus Clouds Cirrus clouds are light and …
Phase 1 out of lockdown allows some personal paddling to take place. But have you thought about what you should take with you to help keep yourself safe? Have a read on to see what I’d recommend… (1) BUOYANCY AID For me this is the most important item to take with you, and you shouldn’t …
Well the last couple of days have not exactly been favourable in terms of the weather! I was out on the River Tay kayaking from there to Caputh over 2 days to gain my Multi-Day Touring Award. The first job for the trip was getting all my stuff into drybags and making sure it would …
The sun shone for us at Lochore last week, with a group of us out for the Adults’ Wednesday night session. We had a trip around the island and played a game too. The water was a balmy 17C and we also jumped off the pier for the first time this season (not compulsory!). This …
Deaf Awareness Week ran 6th -12th May 2019. It was an opportunity to raise awareness of hearing loss to the wider public. I already have my British Sign Language Level 1 qualification however I took this opportunity to attend a deaf-friendly aquatics workshop run by the National Deaf Children’s Society. During this workshop I learnt …
I am always looking to update my qualifications and I’m pleased to announce that I am now a qualified Paddlesport Leader through the new British Canoe Union qualifications pathway. This qualification allows me to lead multi-craft journeys. You can read about my other qualifications by clicking here.
Och Aye Canoe is now an approved activity provider for Fife schools. Today some pupils from Auchmuty High School in Glenrothes enjoyed sessions of kayaking and paddleboarding. The pupils did well, with 3 managing to stand up on the paddleboard without falling in! If you would like to organise a similar session with Och Aye …
Congratulations to Murray (aged 10) who became the first person to achieve the Paddle Start Award with Och Aye Canoe! He knew what equipment was needed for a safe trip out on the water and he was able to demonstrate basic paddling skills. We also talked about safety on the water, and we even managed …
