One might not expect the Kayak Club to have much action during the winter season, but this is not the case. The Kayak Club runs all year round, with competitions throughout the months when the weather permits.

The club is not only for experienced athletes in the sport. “Many of our members are actually first-time kayakers that get to learn many important skills throughout the year,” club secretary Madelyn Kavalieros said.

Adding to this, Club Treasurer Emily Dotson said, “The kayaking club is completely beginner-friendly. Our practices kick off with a quick 20-minute session on essential safety skills, ensuring you feel completely at ease in the water. After that, most skills are challenged by choice — you set the pace of your kayaking experience.”

The club, which is preparing for Spring Quarter trips, holds practices every week on Tuesday and Wednesday. Members must attend a minimum of five practices per quarter in order to attend a trip but are welcome to attend a practice anytime their schedule permits.

“The more often you join us, the better your skills will get, but we get that people are busy. Given the weather, this is the perfect time for members to get in the pool and really hone in on those critical skills to be out on the river,” said Dotson.

Dotson spoke of the community itself, and the camaraderie that comes with the sport of kayaking. 

“DU Club Kayaking encourages its members to be productive team members, leaders and role models. Our club prides itself on its close-knit community and shared love of the outdoors.”

Anybody interested in joining can register online on their website. Practices take place every Tuesday and Wednesday from 8:30-10 p.m. in El Pomar Natatorium in the Ritchie Center, and trips out to whitewater will start in April.