Trying to learn to roll...

In August, 2000 I dragged the boat (then my Dagger Savannah) to my buddy Richard's place to try to learn to roll it. I'd read up on the topic, but didn't have any practical experience. Richard seemed to think I was most of the way there, but I never did get the boat upright.

Last year (2006) I took an open-water safety course from (ACA Certified Instructor) Steve Cramer. He managed to get me far enough down the line that I was able to do a "Re-enter and roll" with the boat upside down and full of water. Let me tell you it is a real rush when you finally get the boat right-side up yourself for the first time.

This is most of the way there, and it probably just will require time and practice to do a proper roll. I haven't been back in deep enough water this year to get it happening.

So I still can't quite roll, but I'm getting there. Maybe I'll have pictures when I do.

People who have learned and written about rolling will tell you that the hip-snap at the end is the crucial skill. They're right, from what I can tell.

Steve Cramer was a great and patient instructor - highly recommend him!