Paddling Pastimes

Adventures on rivers and at baseball stadiums, there is no set time to each experience, no two are alike in dimensions, each river and ballpark visit is excitedly anticipated, and (except for a few enclosed exceptions) weather conditions can impact the adventure. Canoeing and kayaking down a river and an afternoon at the ballpark are both important to our spiritual well-being. Pittsburgh, Minneapolis, Chicago, Milwaukee, Cleveland, Detroit. All are major Midwestern cities that evolved on the banks of the rivers that flowed through them: the Allegheny, the Mississippi, the Chicago, the Milwaukee, the Cuyahoga, and the Detroit. Six rivers that were critical to six Midwestern towns in their discovery, development, transportation, commerce, and enjoyment. Paddling trips down each of the six rivers, at least the segment of the rivers flowing through these big cities, are wide, deep, slow-moving affairs —not your usual canoeing and kayaking rural, backwoods adventures—that combine the joy of paddling with fascinating glimpses of history and architecture on the riverbanks. With backgrounds provided by river tour guides and history books, we’ll share with you the unique view from the water, in words and photos, of each city’s riverside landmarks. One of the landmarks each city has in common is a major league ballpark either along or near the river. Coinciding with the 1800s industrial development of these six Midwest cities was the birth of our national pastime, the grand old game of baseball. Baseball was the balance needed to counteract our country’s often turbulent shift from a society of primarily family farmers to Industrial Revolution clock-punchers. The beauty of the hit-and-run, the green grass of a sunlit field, a ballpark frank and a cold beer, brought the same smile and serenity in the 1800s as they do today. To the River of No Return, Doc Fletcher

Streams of higher education illuminate 20 river/college unions flowing through Michigan. Each union gets its own chapter featuring the river's history, suggested day trip, degree of paddling difficulty, wildlife and landmarks sighted along the water's journey, the college history and what makes the school unique, and readers Degree of Riverology is sealed at a campus-area tavern.

Ultimate Paddling Adventures takes you on a thrilling tour around the world's best paddling spots – from the frozen expanses of Alaska to the tropical rivers of South America. Explore the rivers and seas of Europe and visit the stunning waters of the Far East, Australasia and the Pacific. There are exciting adventures that will appeal to everyone from novice to expert. Stunning, full-page photographs put you at the heart of the action, while inspirational descriptions allow you to dream of being there. It's perfect for planning your next paddling adventure, or alternatively allows you to indulge in some armchair paddling in places to which only the most adventurous will go. From a leisurely SUP in a breathtaking Swedish archipelago, where you can stay in the King of Sweden's bed (for free!), to an adrenaline-fuelled whitewater kayak down Chile's Inferno Canyon, this book has it all. This includes gentle lakes and rivers, crashing surf, dramatic coasts and the oceans beyond them. All types of paddle craft are included from canoes and kayaks to SUP boards and packraft. Every continent is covered, so expect to find places you've paddled alongside those you never knew existed. Each entry is accompanied by useful information such as the experience required, how to get there and what else to do once you are there. Discover where you will paddle next – in reality or in your imagination.

Welcome to Water Sports and Activities - A Practical Guide to Aquatic Hobbies, Pastimes and Recreation! your manual to exploring the exhilarating world of aquatic adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned water sports enthusiast or a newcomer eager to dive into new experiences, this booklet is your passport to a world of excitement, challenge, and discovery on or in the water. From the serene tranquillity of stand-up paddle-boarding to the adrenaline-fuelled thrills of windsurfing and wakeboarding, this book covers a wide range of water-based activities suitable for all ages and skill levels except the most advanced. With detailed descriptions, practical tips, and expert advice, you’ll learn everything you need to know to get started, improve your skills, and make the most of your time on or in the water. Discover the basics of each sport, from equipment essentials to fundamental techniques, safety considerations, and advanced manoeuvres. Explore popular destinations, hidden gems, and must-visit waterways around the world, and gain insights into the rich history, culture, and community surrounding each activity. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, fitness, competition, or simply a new way to connect with nature, “Water Sports and Activities” has something for everyone. So grab your gear, dive in, and prepare for an unforgettable aquatic adventure!

The space is outdoors. The experience is personal and the journey can be solitary or take place in groups. Informal or formal the places visited are sites of learning. Locked in memory our experiences in the outdoors are a constant source of wonderment and food to replenish our sense of wellbeing. Our experiences in the outdoors can endure in the abstract as ideas for developing a sense of a well lived life. They can also draw us back to places and reenergise the body. Physical and emotional wellbeing collides in the unexpected events that flourish in the outdoors. Our readiness for enjoyment and personal development are subjective states which this book challenges. Traversing the landscape of the outdoors the collection of chapters contained range from the theoretical to the practical including strategies for teaching and learning that are transdisciplinary. With ideas for practitioners as well as thoughtful reading for readers of diverse ages and interests this book includes contributions from Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, United Kingdom and Canada.

Embark on an exhilarating journey towards mastery with 'Mastering Kayaking: A Comprehensive Guide to Excellence'. Whether you're a novice paddler seeking to navigate your first river or an experienced kayaker aiming to refine your skills, this book is your ultimate companion. Dive into ten meticulously crafted chapters, each brimming with expert insights, practical advice, and step-by-step instructions to elevate your kayaking prowess. From choosing the perfect kayak and mastering essential paddling techniques to navigating diverse water bodies and honing advanced skills, this guide covers every aspect of the kayaking experience. Discover the secrets of mental preparation, environmental stewardship, and physical conditioning, while delving into the art of kayak fishing and building a vibrant kayaking community. With 'Mastering Kayaking', you'll not only become a skilled paddler but also immerse yourself in the exhilarating world of kayaking with confidence, mindfulness, and a deep appreciation for nature's wonders.