September 2017 Beginner Program

Click here to view our Intro to Outrigging Info Pack 2017 for the Beginner Program!

What is outrigger canoeing?

In simple terms, outrigger canoeing is a water sport for individuals and/or teams.  Outrigger canoes come in many shapes and sizes for 1, 2, 4, 6 or 12 people.  The most common type of paddling is done in 6 man canoes.  Paddling is a sport for life and is enjoyed by children as young as 8 and adults over 70.  Paddling has been a traditional part of many cultures around the world for thousands of years but it was only recently introduced as a sport in Australia in the 1980s.  Outrigger canoeing demands not only physical strength and technical expertise but mental toughness and intuitive skills.

What’s so great about outrigger canoeing?

Outrigging means different things to different people.  For some it’s a hobby, for others it’s a way of life.  Outrigging can be described as a semi-adventure sport for fanatics who get a kick out of big waves, endurance racing and travelling for paddling purposes as opposed to business or pleasure.  While for others, it’s a a way of keeping active with your mates and enjoying the serenity of the great outdoors.

Outrigger canoeing is great for people who have done team sports like rugby or netball in the past but need something softer and kinder for their joints!

Why are we running the program?

Outrigger Caloundra is seeking competitive members to join our growing club!

We currently have over 70 members aged from 13 to 76.  The club has undergone significant growth over the past 3 years and we are hoping to keep this momentum going.

We introduced juniors to our club in September 2016 and we are hoping to see this program grow and thrive!

This year we are targeting juniors aged 13 years and over.  We are seeking juniors who have a competitive spirit, a love of the ocean and enjoy team sports.  Parents are also welcome to join in the fun and paddle alongside the kids.

We also have a group of competitive senior members aged over 19 who travel throughout south east Queensland, interstate and overseas for races.  We are always looking for paddlers who share our hunger for racing and challenging themselves.

What’s happening?

We will be running a 4 week Beginner Program in September 2017.  The program will kick off with a “Come and Try Day” on Sunday 3 September at 9am including a Fathers’ Day BBQ; if you like it, join us for the next three Sunday’s in September from 9-10:30am to learn about the traditional, safety and technical elements of outrigger canoeing.

What to bring

Paddles and safety gear will be provided.  You will need to bring:

• a hat
• water bottle
• clothes that can get wet
• footwear to protect your feet from cuts on the boat ramp.

Where to go

Meet us at our Golden Beach club house on Short Street, Leech Park at 9am for all Sunday sessions.

Costs

The program is free for the 4 Sunday sessions in September.  However, if paddlers choose to join us throughout the week for extra club sessions, you will be asked to join our governing body AOCRA for insurance purposes and join up as a member of the club.

Membership fees are $100 for your first year and $200 per year thereafter.

Contact

Please contact our Head Coach and Junior Coach Adam Joyce for more information 0417 471 426 or Heeni our assistant coach on 0438 744 971.