TBSK Training Day: Tow, Tow, Tow My Boat...

TBSK Training Day: Tow, Tow, Tow My Boat...

When: 10 Jan 2026 10:00 AM 
Where: EG Simmons Park in Ruskin 

EVENT DETAILS:

Instructors: Jill Lingard (352-665-1776) and Scott Jantz (386-853-5159).  

Description:  How powerful is your forward stroke?  Because Jill and Scott are feeling a little tired and might need a tow...  

One way to viscerally understand the power of your forward stroke is to tow another paddler.  So we'll spend a little time powering up our forward strokes before launching into various towing systems, including contact tows, short tows, and long tows.  If it's not too chilly, we can also experiment with swimmer tows/carries and/or anchor tows during an assisted rescue.  If time and conditions permit, we can also turn our forward stroke/towing practice into an exploration of the park's paddling trail.  

Location: EG Simmons Conservation Park, located at 2401 19th Avenue NE in Ruskin. We'll meet at the kayak launch.  NOTE: There is a $2 parking fee for vehicles with rooftop kayaks.  Vehicles with trailered kayaks will be charged $5.  

Schedule: Meet at 10:00 AM, unload boats and gear, and be ready to start class by 10:30.  We should finish up around 12:30-1:00 PM.

Additional information:

• This training is open to all levels of paddlers.  
• If your kayak lacks fore or aft bulkheads, be sure to add flotation.
• If you have short or long tow systems, bring them.  We can also loan ours out.
• As usual, participants must wear PFDs.  Spray skirts are a good idea too, though not mandatory.
• It can be nippy this time of year.  Dress accordingly.
• Pack lunch snacks and plenty to drink. 

If you have any medical issues that might impact your paddling, please notify leaders before the trip so that they can be best equipped to assist you as needed. 

If your plans to participate change, please cancel on the website or app so that people on the waitlist can join us.