Picture
Listen to Uncle Sam! 
We've adopted themes to make Take the Lake unique and fun each year, and for 2011, we're paying tribute to active duty and veteran military members. So, please forgive us if we sound a bit like a drill sergeant...
Picture
Picture


The Take the Lake Paddle

Sunday, September 4, 2011 at 8 a.m.
Report in: Dale’s parking lot, from 7:15–7:45 a.m. 
Briefing begins at 7:45 a.m. sharp

Paddle Training schedule

By July 1: 
Paddle for at least 30 minutes 
in a single outing at least once.

By Aug. 1: 
Paddle for at least one hour 
in a single outing at least once.

By Sept. 1: 
Paddle for more than one hour 
in rough water in a single outing.

SAFETY NOTE: Updated N.C. boating laws require everyone in a canoe or kayak to have access to a 
Type I, II or III personal flotation device (cushion, ring or vest, etc.) and everyone under age 13 to wear a vest. 
N.C. Wildlife rangers will be on hand to enforce boating laws.

But, can you do it? 
Do not attempt this Personal Endurance Challenge if you cannot easily: Paddle for one hour, and paddle in rough water.

The above schedule is a minimal training estimate for an average person and it in no way guarantees success. Always consult a health or fitness professional before embarking on a new exercise regimen.

Mission Guidelines

  • Children under age 16 will not be allowed to paddle on their own, and must have an adult who is a capable paddler in their boat or a second boat. 
  • An underrated paddle, with three zones of interest as you voyage past civilian homes on the northern and western shores, along wilderness of the state park, and on the peaceful eastern shoreline.
  • Up to two registered participants in a craft. Each must provide "their share" of the effort. This is not a leisurely family outing, and children under age 8 are not permitted. 
  • You will receive final orders on the fleet’s direction of travel shortly before mission launch, based on wind conditions.llKeep your craft between the “no-wake” poles and the shore; if you venture outside this zone, you will be AWOL.
  • If you must bivouac, make camp on the nearest pier. Be respectful of the civilian owners and attempt to get authorization.
  • Kayaks are the crafts of choice; canoes are popular, but will make victory more difficult, and paddleboats will result in mission failure.
  • Volunteer civilians will patrol the lake, should you need support.
  • Depending on your craft, skill and pace, this sortie should last between 3-6 hours.