Bellingham Wa Surfski Paddling Group; Comments by David Jacobson -US Slaom Paddler!

Saturday, September 19, 2009

Feedback from Brent Reitz Clinic: 9/13/09

Today about ten on us took part in a paddling clinic coached by Brent Reitz. After reflecting on the clinic, I was VERY impressed with the class. As a paddler who formerly was a top US slalom racer (though I did not always feel like that while watching video today) for about a decade, I have worked with many national and international coaches. I would say Brent did a first class job articulating, selling, and teaching the forward stroke. Making the transition to a wing blade and onto the surf ski has been fun, but like many of you with different paddling backgrounds, I have not always had a clear concept of an efficient stroke for a ten-twenty-plus mile paddle/race. Brent did a GREAT job laying the foundation, working on improving common bad habits, and articulating some of the more subtle aspects of the paddlestroke. Talk has already started about getting him back up for a clinic in early spring for a touch up session, and hey, maybe a big wave trip to his neck of the woods would be worthwhile (maybe a Wildside “ Big Wave Clinic", US Champs Road Trip? hey, let me dream). I highly recommend Brent and big thanks to LG for being the organizer and video operator!