Upper Yough Training

This program answers the question, “how can I be really confident on class IV rivers?” In this program, we combine, strength training, stroke work, and comfort in heavy whitewater.   All of these are needed to paddle the solid class IV+ Upper Yough.

Starting in May and June, the program consists of:

1. Slalom workouts on weekday evenings, every Wed. 6-8 PM, to build strength and precise stroking. (Total of 8 – 2 hr. workouts)

2. Workouts at Dickerson, on Saturday afternoons, for boat control and quick recovery in powerful water. (You will need a membership card from PWRC). (Total of eight Dickerson workouts).

3. One day trips to the Upper Yough on first Saturdays of each month or on Mondays, to master the lines and build your confidence. (total of 3 trips to the Upper Yough – check the calendar for dates).

The Blue Card is issued by PWRC for those well-experienced paddlers who would like unrestricted access to the Dickerson Whitewater course.  Applicants pass a vigorous test to qualify for it.  The test will also help you evaluate your skills, and show you where you need work.  It is about the equivalent in skill of running the Upper Yough, and we use it to evaluate when you are ready.

The program is limited to 12 paddlers. The cost is $420 for the 2 month program.  Please consult the calendar for dates and times.

In late July, there is a race on the Upper Yough.  For past years’ race info click here.

All plans are weather and river level dependent, so we have to stay in touch. We communicate with the group using Google Groups.  When you sign up we will add your email address to the Google Groups list-serv.

Tom McEwan, co-founder of Liquid Adventures, has spent over 40 years paddling and racing in the DC area.