I learned the "basics" that I "thought" I knew - after kayaking for 10 years, I realized I should have taken this course years ago…in addition to the "basics" I was amazed at the techniques I learned regarding paddling, strokes, maneuvers, rescues, navigation and expedition planning!
On June 3rd, Kelly Gossett of New Mexico Kayak Instruction (founder of
the Santa Fe Kayak meetup) will teach a 3hr Intro to Kayak lesson for
Santa Fe Singles at the Chavez Center's indoor pool. We'll learn the
basic strokes that will allow us to safely paddle lakes and easy rivers
later on as a group. Kelly will also show us simple 2-person rescues and
other team-building skills that are great with a partner, so bring a
date, or find one at the event.
I wanted to say thank you for the entire Pilar trip. It was a small class and you could have rescheduled but you didn't. I really learned a lot! Because of that weekend, I'm excited about the sport. I've been talking to my wife and friends about it nonstop! I'm trying to get others to sign up for your class. You do a really good job! Thanks again!
I love this meetup group. Kelly has done a great job of building a foundation or respect, camaraderie, and skills so that everyone has fun. Thanks Kelly for all you do!
Kelly is very articulate with great attention to detail. He comes highly recommended by those who have attended his courses.
I just took Kelly's Intro to Kayaking class at the Chavez Center in Santa Fe and really enjoyed it. He was able to work with all levels (I'd never been in a kayak with the skirt on before) and even helped me overcome my fears after the initial freakout of being strapped to my boat underwater. Great teacher, I'm looking forward to the roll class!
I am impressed with organization and professionalism of Kelly's operation. The teaching methods are good and are reassuring to the extent they convey that the ability to kayak is within the reach for just about anybody (including not-so-young people like me!)
I chose NMKI because of Kelly's professionalism and strong attention to detail. I find this very important as it relates to safety. I would never trust anyone other than Kelly to provide instruction to myself or for my 12 year old son, Navada. We felt very safe and well guided under the direction of Kelly. I would tell others if they ever hesitated to try kayaking, River Boarding or any kind of paddling to first take a course with Kelly and rest assured they will be in good hands.