Wednesday Fitness Paddle
Last night we had a record for the number of people who showed up for the fitness paddle this year. There were five of us: Dave H., Bob M., Wayne, me, and a new guy, Glen, who had been lurking for about a year and finally decided to join us.

Although hot, it was a nice evening. There was some nice chop to work through at the arch rock. Occasionally, a set of waves rolled in and we rode them a ways to get a nice little push. We all took a break and regrouped at the turn around point, which is the village at Crystal Cove. Then it was a beautiful paddle back into the sunset.

Glen said he was glad he finally came and really enjoyed it. Again, how fast you paddle isn't important. What's important is getting some exercise. By the way, Glen and Wayne are in SOTs, so don't think you have to be in a sea kayak to join us.

Duane

Glenn Calloway adds...

I discovered the CKF website about two years ago and have probably read every trip report since that time. I was hesitant to paddle with CKF because of my limited experience and because I owned a SOT kayak. It was interesting to meet some of the people that I have enjoyed reading about. I was very impressed with the friendly welcome I received from Duane, Dave #2, Bob and Wayne. Actually, I met Wayne three weeks ago. It was then that he convinced me to come out and join them.

Wayne and I headed out first in our SOT's towards the harbor entrance. At the entrance, we headed southbound towards the "Village." The conditions were excellent. It was high tide with a moderate swell. There was virtually no head wind and it actually got quite hot on the way down. Everybody paddled at their own pace. The group got spaced out, but we could all keep a visual on each other. We regrouped and took a break out in the water at the south end of the Village. I have done most of my paddling solo. Being with a group, just makes the whole kayaking experience better. We headed back into the sunset with a little bit of a head wind that felt really good. Watching the sunset was awesome. I was really focused on getting a work out, but I did notice a few pods of dolphins and a few seals. Though, I don't recall seeing any jellyfish. We regrouped at the harbor entrance and paddled back to Coast Guard Beach.

This paddle was just a great time and a good work out. Thanks to all the guys who made me feel so welcomed.

Submitted on July 28, 2005