Overview:
The BWA beginner clinic is open to anyone who wants to learn how to kayak or canoe on moving water.
You will receive whitewater kayaking instruction from enthusiastic, experienced instructors on class II and III sections of the Pigeon River, approximately 3 hours travel from Lexington, KY. Whether you're an absolute beginner or you already have a few trips under your belt, we build our classes around our students' needs and keep class sizes small so you get plenty of personal attention.
It is recommended that, at a minimum, you attend some of the BWA's rolling sessions before the clinic so that you have the basics of rolling, wet exiting, and adjusting your boat to fit before the clinic. You do not need a perfect your roll to participate, but you'll get more out of the clinic if you are at least familiar with the basics of rolling.
Clinic registration includes:
Weekend camping
River shuttles
3 meals
Gear loaning as necessary
2 days of river instruction
Memories that will last a lifetime!
Important Information:
All students must join the BWA to participate in the clinic. Membership is $20 a year for individuals and $25 for family membership.
Early bird registration (before April 1st): $100
Standard registration: $120
Registration Deadline: Friday, May 5th
Clinic Dates:
Saturday and Sunday May 13th and 14th 2023. Arrive Friday night to camp. Instruction starts Saturday morning.
FAQ
What if I just want to hang out and not be a student or volunteer?
There is a separate registration for non-students and volunteers
Non-Student (1 person): $50*
*Covers 2 nights camping, and 3 meals. Children under 5 are free. Contact clinic organizer if you need to bundle more than three kids at Clinic@BluegrassWildwater.org and we'll work something out.
What if something comes up? What about refunds?
The clinic is a big undertaking and requires a lot of planning and money out of pocket, so it's important for us if you must cancel that you do so as early as possible. Please email the clinic organizer, Ben Mudd, at Clinic@BluegrassWildwater.org and let us know what your situation is. Full refunds will be issued to anyone cancelling by April 1st, 75% by April 15th, 50% by May 1st, 25% by May 7th. No refunds will be issued after May 7th.
Do I need a special kayak or other special gear?
Recreational kayaks are inappropriate for whitewater. Most of the local sporting goods stores (Dicks, Cabela’s, Bass Pro-Shop, etc.) sell ONLY recreational kayaks. Whitewater kayaks can be purchased or rented locally. Canoe Kentucky in Frankfort (502-227-4492) offers a large selection of clothing, whitewater equipment, and new and used Jackson kayaks. They also usually have a special rental package for our clinic, but they are limited to their inventory. Call and ask for details. J&H Lanmark Store in Lexington (859-278-0730) is clearing out their inventory of Dagger whitewater kayaks and also carries whitewater clothing and accessories. If you have specific questions about new or used kayaks, these stores can offer excellent advice. Please let these retailers know that you will be attending the BWA clinic so that they can better assist you. BWA members get a 10% discount at these locations, so be sure to mention this if you are a member.
Is there a way to borrow gear for only the clinic?
Borrowed equipment (boats and gear) is provided by BWA members on a first come/first served basis. The sooner you return your application, the easier it will be to get borrowed gear. If you buy gear for the clinic, it is recommended to begin with a PFD, helmet and/or sprayskirt since these pieces of gear are critical and must fit properly to work properly. YOU WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY GEAR BORROWED. Take good care of borrowed gear and know who to return it.