On the Wolf River

Over the weekend Charlie and Ben, Activity Staff Coordinator and Canoeing Instructor, led a trip for those in SLS who had been working on canoeing and kayaking throughout training.

Charlie (Activity Staff Coordinator) surfs a wave on the Wolf River

After warming up with the basics, we walked the river to check out the various elements and review safety procedures. The section of the Wolf River that HoneyRock uses for these trips has a slight U-shape, which enables people to run the section at their own pace. With water flowing at nearly twice the normal level, there were new places to avoid and more spots to play and surf. We spent about three hours on the river, working on strokes, rolls, surfs, and braces, and then packed up to head home.

 

Ben (Canoeing Instructor)

As a trip tradition, we debriefed the time we had on the river as we drove back to HoneyRock, talking about the highs and lows and how we saw God. The “lows” were primarily directed at the anxiety felt before getting on the river or the cloudy weather while the “highs” ranged from running the river without making a wet-exit to seeing confidence grow in the first-timers. 

Stephen (AC Unit Leader) takes a run down the river

While reflecting upon how we saw God, Charlie pointed out the community that this small group of 13 made for the day. In our time at the river, we were able to come together to support and encourage, learn and teach. Throughout the day it was common to see one come alongside another and give a high-five or share a tip to make the next roll or brace better. 

Charlie instructs Jeremy (SLS, left) and Cole (Archery Instructor, right)

In the coming weeks, all Advance campers will go rafting on the Wolf and several Res campers will have the opportunity to work on their canoeing and kayaking skills for their award requirements. There will be many highs and lows, requirements passed and failed, lessons taught and learned - all a part of challenge that is naturally and purposefully infused into canoeing and kayaking. All in all, we are thankful for a challenging, fun, and safe trip to the Wolf and can't wait for campers to share in the experience!

Check back today as we update the blog (around 6pm) after campers arrive at HoneyRock with the details of their first afternoon!