You may have some friends that you would like to introduce to this great sport. Once they have completed our two day course, they should be ready for any Novice (Class I) or Practiced Novice (Class II) runs with other paddlers. Take your time developing your skills on these runs and get a variety of rivers/rapids under your belt before moving up the difficulty scale. Most streams have alternate routes that are far more challenging than the typical lines and this is a great way to build solid boating skills. Learn how to lead when running rivers, not simply following someone's PFD through the rapids. Not only is this more fun, leading forces you to read whitewater which is a very critical skill.

Class II+ and III- runs in training classes are also suitable after you get several successful runs under your belt. All of the local canoe clubs offer these classes from time to time. A good skill to learn before "stepping it up" is a whitewater roll, either the C2C or the Sweep roll. Clubs and commercial outfitters teach this skill throughout the year. This enables you to perform a self-rescue and will make paddling a lot more enjoyable.

Once you are very confident in class I/II river runs, pick a favorite and organize a trip. Trip leading teaches very valuable skills and is a great way to meet other paddlers. More experienced paddlers often tag along on these trips and will definitely take notice. If you are fortunate, several may mentor you.

Here is a list of local runs that you may enjoy:

• Old Anglers, Maryland Chutes
• Seneca and GW Canal
• Muddy Creek
• Cacapon
• Antitiem
• The Needles section of the Potomac
• Upper Gunpowder River
• The Feeder Canal
• Mather Gorge on the Potomac
• Rappahonock River
• Passage Creek (lower Levels)
• Sideling Hill

Check your club's website for scheduled trips and call the trip leader to ask to join them and have a fun run.