Kayaking is one of the coolest things families can do together in New Mexico.  Kids love it because it's a new way to play on the water.  Parents love it because it builds courage, confidence and character.  It's great exercise and gets kids active and away from idle activities like television and video games, and reconnects them to nature and non-material things.  As their skills improve, kayaking becomes a great way to explore the outdoors, access new campsites, hiking trails or fishing holes. 

This was my second time in this class in a months' time. Although I enjoyed the first class, I felt like all the pieces began to fall in to place the second time around. I felt my skills improved exponentially. The instructors were very skilled and helpful in zeroing in on specific needs of those in the class, and were there to roll you (back up) when necessary. Loved it.

Chip Berglund  -  Semi-retired

My girls were Brownies. From a leader perspective, I wanted to see something fun, and that would build confidence. This was one of our first real "outings" as a Girl Scout. I was looking for something "different", something with a sense of adventure/out of the ordinary (something they don't do everyday) but controlled and safe. I also wanted something a bit challenging - physically, but also something they hadn't done before, something that would build confidence. This really fit the bill perfectly. They didn't' want to get out of the pool!

Kathleen Tighe-Smith  -  Troop #10228, Brownies, Albuquerque, NM

more

Kayaking is one of the coolest things families can do together in New Mexico.  Kids love it because it's a new way to play on the water.  Parents love it because it builds confidence and courage.  It's great exercise and gets kids active and away from idle activities like television and video games, and reconnects them to nature and non-material things.  As their skills improve, kayaking becomes a great way to explore the outdoors, access new campsites, hiking trails or fishing holes. 

Kelly is a great tactician with a keen ability to break the rivers' energy into a series of teaching moments that were both appropriate for our varying skill levels and allowed each of us to build confidence at every stage throughout the weekend.  My goal is to be able to manipulate the river, and all of its energy, with the grace and finesse that Kelly has!

Chip Berglund  -  semi-retired

Kelly has a way of transferring his passion for kayaking to everyone who attends a talk, lesson or paddles with him.  A very patient and conscientious instructor, I always feel safe during lessons on and off the river.  Not only does Kelly teach the sport, he finds ways to help you find your niche and meet others who share the same interest.  In addition, the other instructors he brings along are equally as knowledgeable and helpful.  If you haven't tried kayaking or want to hone your skills, this is a great place to start.

Susan Brockway  -  Los Alamos National Laboratory

more