Photo by: John Cheney/Clarion

EXPERIENCED AND NOVICE kayakers alike finally have a club here at DU to offer a network of boaters and instructions on flat-water moves.

Before last April, DU did not offer a kayaking club.

Josh Wilson, president of the kayaking club said, “DU students have occasionally attended and dominated state-wide rodeos (kayaking freestyle competitions) for years.”

Now with a team and a network of boaters, Wilson wants to make it known that DU boaters are “the best” and wants to attend these rodeos consistently. With so many talented boaters at DU having trouble finding others to go kayaking with, the club was a natural solution.

However, Wilson said, the club is not restricted to experienced kayakers and welcomes students of all levels looking to have a good time.

Free lessons are offered every Tuesday and Wednsday. evening from 8:30 – 10 at the El Pomar Natatorium at the Ritchie Center. Novices will be taught flat-water moves including rolling.

Experienced boaters are also welcome to practice at the lessons.

So far, about 290 people have attended meetings or lessons, and have shown interest in joining the club. With the help of Mountain Miser, and other sponsors, equipment for all lessons is offered free of cost.

No trips have been planned to date, due to low water levels in Colorado rivers because of the drought, but springtime trips may happen after the snow melts. Trips will be oriented toward all skill levels.

“Kayaking is a great way to get into the wilderness and have fun after the snow melts,” Wilson said. “It can be the most intense experience of your life, or a relaxing day on a calm river without any worries.”

For more information on the kayaking club, check out their website athttp://www.recreation.du.edu/clubs/stuClubKayaking.html or e-mail Josh Wilson directly at jowilson@du.edu.