Kayak Water Polo

Place:  Hood River Aquatic Center
Directions: http://hoodriverparksandrec.org/aquaticcenter.htm
Cost:  $5 per session or $30 per season pass (10 Tuesday’s)
Bring: PFD, kayak and paddle, full face helmet are provided

Now days we have gotten a bit smarter after getting whacked too many times in the faces with the paddles.  This time around everyone has to wear full face helmets, which is great because this allowed us to ditch the jerseys and go with colors helmets to represent each team, and of course everyone’s safety. 

It seems as if the intensity of the game has amplified…but there is a peace of mind knowing your face is protected.  Around October, before the start of a Tuesday Kayak Polo session, I explained the concept of the game to an older man who was inquiring to the experience.  I told him to imagine playing with 20 brothers and sisters on the court…there is no mercy…and you have to be tough. 

I was tackled last week…twice.  The first time I had to swim out of my kayak, which is so embarrassing.  The second time, I found a kayak to bow rescue off of.  The next day I was in the pool working on my hand roll!! 

Kayak polo, or water polo as Zach Collier says, is one of the best training for kayaking during the winter.  The game keeps you stretched out and in kayaking shape.  Winter is cold…even owning a dry suit, I still find it hard to get out on the rivers to paddle.  Kayak polo gives the community the ability to get in their kayaks, paddle around in a warm pool after work, hang out with their bro’s/bra’s, meet new paddler’s, and have fun!!

Contact:

Amy Besch
Alder Creek Kayak & Canoe
amyannbesch@yahoo.com

Scott Baker
Hood River Parks & Recreation
parkprograms@gorge.net
541 386 1303