Frequently Asked Questions
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The program in which you decide to participate will depend most importantly on your comfort level in the water that you may be interested in paddling. The American Whitewater Association ranks water from Class I to Class VI. The WTC program paddles ONLY on Class I, Class II and/or Class III water.
Class I: Flat to gentle moving water with riffles and small waves. There are a few obstructions, all obvious and easily missed with little training. Risk to swimmers is slight; self-rescue is easy.
Class II: Straight forward rapids with wide, clear channels which are evident without getting out of your boat (scouting). Occasional maneuvering may be required, but rocks and medium sized waves are easily missed by trained paddlers. For new paddlers, swimming is expected. Swimmers are seldom injured. Group assistance from experienced paddlers is occasionally needed.
Class III: Rapids with moderate and irregular waves which may be difficult to avoid. Maneuvering in fast current with good boat control in tight passages or around ledges is often required. Large waves, rocks or strainers may be present but are easily avoided. Strong eddy lines and powerful currents are abundant, particularly on large-volume rivers. Scouting is advisable for inexperienced paddlers. Injuries while swimming are rare. Self-rescue is usually easy but group assistance may be required to avoid long swims.
Essentials of River Kayaking is done on flat and Class I water.
River Kayaking is done on flat and Class I/II water.
Whitewater Kayaking is done on Class II/III water.
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If you have participated in another paddling club’s or outfitter’s program and it is equivalent to a WTC course, then it is up to the discretion of the Wilmington Trail Club Whitewater Training Committee (WTCWTC) to make the decision on what courses you need to complete
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This is fine as long as the equipment meets the proper standards for your particular kayak program.