TAKE THE PLUNGE
WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU FIRST COME ALONG TO PINKSTON
We are really lucky to have Pinkston Watersports on our doorstep. We run club nights 3 Tuesdays each month (1st, 2nd and 4th Tuesdays usually), running 7-8.30pm at Pinkston.
We have a container on site with all the club kit, access to changing rooms and showers and plenty of parking.
Coming along for the first time
Coming along for the first time can be daunting, but there’s nothing to worry about! Pinkston is a very safe environment to practice in. There’s a flat water area to warm up in, some moving water to build your confidence, and when you’re ready, the whitewater course to have fun and develop more.
Before coming along
Before becoming a member, you can come along to 3 of our sessions before deciding if you’d like to join the club (the first one is free, then £12pp thereafter). Send us a message on our joining page to let us know you’re coming along, and we’ll email back to confirm and let you know who to ask for when you arrive.
When should you arrive?
Come before the session start time - 6.30-6.45 is ideal. There’s usually people getting ready in the car park. Everyone there should be able to point you in the direction of the right person to welcome you.
Getting your equipment
We can provide you with a wetsuit and cag (a top to wear on top). We’ll find a boat for you, get you a paddle, helmet and your spray deck.
You should bring a towel and shoes you don’t mind getting wet (old trainers do the trick). In the winter, a flask with a hot drink is also advised!
Getting on the water
Glasgow Kayak Club is run by volunteers and we are not a commercial coaching school. This means that support is unstructured, and may vary from session to session. While our members often kindly give up their time to coach, you should be prepared to practice on your own/in a peer group at Pinkston. For brand new kayakers, the best option is to take a few of the courses Pinkston offer, as these are progressive and led by qualified instructors. This is by far the fastest way to get the basics so you can start having fun! These are bookable directly on their website.
