Details:
Become a Confident Paddler
Ready to transition from flat-water basics to technical river navigation and open-water endurance? Outdoor Recreation’s Master the Water Series is an expertly designed, 4-week progressive program built to develop your outdoor skills, physical readiness, and water safety.
• The Ultimate Reward: Participants who challenge themselves and complete all 4 weeks of the series will receive an exclusive “Panhandle Four” graduation t-shirt and certificate at our Week 4 graduation ceremony!
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Weekly Training Schedule & Progression
Week & Date Route & Location Distance Logistical Type Primary Training Focus
Week 1: July 5 Bonita Bay (Riverwalk Park) ~2.0 miles Out-and-Back Intro to Kayaking: Flat-water stroke mechanics, 3-point contact, and wet-exit safety protocols. (Required to progress to Weeks 2 & 3)
Week 2: July 12 Holmes Creek (Cotton Landing) ~4.5 miles Point-to-Point Shuttle River Fundamentals: Reading gentle currents, ferry gliding, and hazard identification. Features a rest stop at Cypress Springs!
Week 3: July 19 Econfina Creek (SR 20 Launch) ~6.0 miles Point-to-Point Shuttle Technical Paddling: Navigating swift currents, tight limestone curves, and advanced boat control. Features Sylvan & Gainer Springs!
Week 4: July 26 Merritt’s Mill Pond (Jackson Blue) 3.0–4.0 miles Out-and-Back Endurance & Open Water: Forward stroke efficiency, wind drafting, and the 6-Spring Trail. Concludes with a graduation pavilion lunch!
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What’s Included & What to Bring
• Kayaks, paddles, and USCG-approved PFDs • Sturdy water shoes (mandatory)
• Large cooler with ice & water for bottle refills • Rash guard / quick-dry clothing
• Round-trip shuttle transportation (Weeks 2 & 3) • Hat, sunglasses, bug spray, & reef-safe sunscreen
• Jackson Blue Springs entry fee & graduation lunch (Week 4) • Packed lunch & snacks in a dry bag
• Graduation T-Shirt (for 4-week completers) • Snorkel and mask (highly recommended for spring stops!)
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Daily Timelines
Weeks 1 & 4 (Local Loops)
• 0800: Meet at ODR / Gear Issue & Safety Briefing
Advanced Event Data:
Event Data Sourced From:
iCal:https://tyndallfss.com/events/?ical=1
Event Tags:
class,fun,graduation ceremony,hot events,kayak training,odr kayak training 4-week progressive series,outdoor recreation,physical readiness,water safety
Event Categories:
Classes/Workshops,Outdoors
Event ID:
6a59025e256ce084b16610f9
