A Foundations Core Testimonial
I recently asked a newer Foothills Paddling Club member, Lesslie Crossley about her experience in the Foundations Core program last year and here is what she had to say.
“My love for the river has been in me since I was a child. When I was 16 I was introduced to rafting the New River Gorge in West Virginia. I had never seen such beauty and felt such exhilaration. I rafted at many other opportunities and I would always watch the kayakers thinking they are the cars and we are the bus lol I wanted more freedom on the water.
I came across Foothills Paddling Club webpage and immediately joined when I saw the focus was clear, FPC is all about getting beginners into this sport. I signed up for the Foundations of Whitewater Kayaking class and went to the season opening meeting.
The members were very welcoming to me as a newbie. Everyone encouraged me along the way. From the moment I attended the first class of the Foundations program it was clear I made a good decision. The passion these instructors have for passing on their knowledge is amazing. As the series progresses, you have the opportunity to work with many different certified instructors teaching various elements of kayaking. I really am impressed that this group is blessed with as many knowledgeable and caring instructors as they have.
After six progressive classes of kayaking principles there is a graduation trip weekend. This was definitely the highlight for me. The Nantahala!!!! From March of 2023 to July of 2023 I learned to kayak up to class II+ rapids, which is no small feat. With FPC you can too! I’ve never felt such a sense of accomplishment! I would highly recommend anyone on the fence about learning to kayak to come on out with FPC and let the professionals show you how it’s done. ”
As an instructor in Foundations Core, I can say that it filled me with genuine pride to watch Lesslie grow over the course of the program. She overcame fear and self-doubt to achieve a long time dream of paddling her own craft down some challenging water and I am thankful that myself and the other instructors got to be a part of that journey.
We are truly excited for what the 2024 Foundations Core program has in store.