West Coast Sea Kayaking Symposium Attracts Several Hundred Paddlesport Enthusiasts to the Pacific N

Three days of water classes, product demos, industry speakers and film screenings foster paddling culture among novices and seasoned paddlers

[USPRwire, Mon Oct 06 2008] The Trade Association of Paddlesports (TAPS) hosted several hundred participants at its 25th Annual West Coast Sea Kayaking Symposium (WCSKS) in Port Townsend, Wash., September 19-21, 2008.

Amid the brisk northwest coast weather, more than 60 exhibitors, nearly 600 attendees and several volunteers gathered at the Fort Worden State Park to participate in paddling classes of all levels.

“Between the location, the organization and the enthusiasm of the instructors and volunteers, our 25th anniversary was a smashing success,” said Michael Pardy, executive director of TAPS. “Whether I was in the middle of a rolling class, watching the Reel Paddle Film Festival or listening about Jon Bowermaster’s adventures, it was wonderful to reunite with long time enthusiasts and connect with first time attendees as well. I am already looking forward to next year’s event.”

In addition to advanced classes, the festival also provided several beginner classes for novice paddlers who were interested in trying their hands at paddling and evening events for attendees who wanted to be exposed to and participate in paddling culture.

“As recent transplants to the Olympic Penninsula, my family and I came to the event as complete novices,” said John Barimo of Port Angeles, Wash. “We were quickly taken to the First Strokes class and were soon paddling up and down the shore in the provided demo boats. I think our family has found a new activity to keep us together in our leisure time.”

WCSKS attendee Roger Wells of Victoria, BC equally appreciated this event. “As a first-time participant, I was really impressed by the efficient, friendly, energetic and responsive organizers and their staff of volunteers. They solved problems with a smile and made the weekend memorable.”

Those who exhibited and attended the event were greatly impressed by the organization and enthusiasm of the TAPS staff.

“The West Coast Sea Kayak Symposium was our west coast debut for the Suspenz Kayak Storage Racks and the best venue we could have chosen,” said Lauri Crowe, president of Suspenz Kayak Storage. “The sea kayak community is a friendly, knowledgeable and sophisticated group. We thank the many volunteers who made this symposium a successful experience for all and the attendees who gave us outstanding reviews. Suspenz will return next year and continue to support this outstanding event.”

Next year’s West Coast Sea Kayak Symposium will be held September 25-27, 2009 at Fort Worden State Park, in Port Townsend, Wash. More information, including class schedule and speakers for the event, will be posted to www.wcsks.org.

About TAPS
The Trade Association of Paddlesports (TAPS) is a non-profit trade association supporting the paddling industry in North America and the world. TAPS' members are industry leaders and are dedicated to providing paddlers with the best in equipment, services, and experiences. TAPS represents manufacturers, retailers, outfitters, instructional centers, publications, and more throughout the paddlesports industry, encompassing canoes, touring kayaks, whitewater kayaks, and rafts. www.gopaddle.org

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