ODR Kayak Training 4-Week Progressive Series

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! ________________________________________ 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! ________________________________________ 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!) ________________________________________ Daily Timelines Weeks 1 & 4 (Local Loops) • 0800: Meet at ODR / Gear Issue & Safety Briefing • 0830: Depart ODR for launch site • 0900: Launch / Paddle session begins • 1200: Land / Load gear • 1230: Arrive back at ODR (Week 4 includes graduation pavilion lunch until ~1330) Weeks 2 & 3 (Shuttle Trips) • 0730: Meet at ODR / Load Van & Trailer / Safety Briefing • 0800: Wheels up from Tyndall AFB (45-60 min transit) • 0900: Arrive at Launch Point / Unload & Stage • 0930: Launch / Paddle session begins (includes swim & lunch stops at the springs) • 1330: Land at Take-Out Point / Load Van & Trailer • 1400: Transit back to Tyndall AFB • 1500: Arrive at ODR / Gear wash & dismissal