This has probably been posted before, but I am looking for suggestions on where to take a swift water rescue class not too terribly far from Denver. If you know a good place or instructor to take the class with I would appreciate any input.
My buddies and I did a weekend class with Nick early this season and it was great. Took a "standard" rescue class before, but learned a lot in Nick's class and have put a bunch of it to use this season.
How do you get out of your boat in a one boat eddy next to a cliff thats too deep to stand up in and your boat will wash downstream as soon as you get out? Nick will help you figure it out!
The class was worth it just to see Nick thow himself in any and every rapid (sans boat) on waterton at 1400 cfs. Fun times.
I'll third the Wigston recommendation. He did an excellent job and focused more on the practicality of SWR for kayakers. He puts more of an emphasis on being logical about the situation and a little less emphasis on the intense ropework side of things.
COUNT
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"The world would be a better place if everyone kayaked."-Brad Ludden (Valhalla)
"You only get one chance to run a drop blind."-DD
http://www.matherrescue.com/I was in a course with Mike Mather last weekend and I thought it was frickin' outstanding. Best one I've ever been in. Don't know what Mike's schedule is like, but he said he is usually only in CO in June. He has been doing this for 17 yrs., so he has lots of stories and experience.
I hope to have Mike back next year for a course in the Denver area.
Last edited by rwhyman; 07-12-2007 at 09:31 AM..
Reason: forgot link
Check out the Colorado Whitewater site (and join). I just took a kayak oriented 2 day course in Buena Vista offered through them, taught by Miah Wheeler, and it was excellent. Very practical and hands-on.
not sure if there is still room, but I am teaching with Mike Mather for two advanced swiftwater rescue classes. You can sign up for them through CW's website. coloradowhitewater.com
the class dates are last weekend in july and first weekend in august.
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