HCKC Pool sessions at Thatcher are organized to allow HCKC members and guests to learn and practice paddling skills in a safe environment with other paddlers, some of which are ACA certified instructors but we all try to help each other get better and safer for when we venture out to the water!  These pool sessions are focused on skill refinement and individual practice for all paddlers - whitewater kayakers,  whitewater and open canoeists, recreational kayakers, and sea kayakers - seeking to practice bracing, rolling, open water reentries, etc.   The pool is also popular with freestyle play boaters who want to learn flat water moves such as cartwheels, squirts and stalls and with sea kayakers wanting to refine their roll or work on open water rescues.  It is also a great place to meet other paddlers, find out about upcoming trips, and try out different boats and paddles. Participants often go out for refreshments afterwards to swap paddling stories and watch videos.

HCKC POOL POLICIES

• Participants must sign in each session and pay $10.00 per individual or $15 per family per session to cover pool rental.
• Please make certain your boat is clean and free of debris inside and out before bringing it into the pool.
• First time participants must check-in with the pool coordinator before entering the pool.
• Participants must be able to swim.
• Participants must have the ability to self-rescue (wet exit at a minimum). 
• First time visitors must demonstrate this ability.
• Participation is restricted to HCKC members and their one-time guests.
• Participants must maintain control of their boats and equipment at all times.
• Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
• There will be no swimming or diving.
• Participants are expected to be courteous and safety conscious at all times.
• Indy Park Rules require that no one or their equipment is allowed on the pool deck before the designated start time and that all boats and gear must be removed from the pool deck promptly at the designated end time.

As the colder months approach (quicker than expected), numbers at the pool typically grow. In an effort to accommodate club members and guests new and old we feel that it is necessary to instill some ground rules to ensure everyone has a fun and safe experience while sharpening our skills! Please see the following additional requirements while participating in the club pool sessions at Thatcher:

Anytime while at Thatcher

No standing a watercraft on end to exit the edge of the pool. Example is standing a kayak on end and the paddler does a push down motion and does a twist to flip boat on to the deck of the pool.

If there are more than 5 or more boats in the water

No swimmingNo climbing of the climbing wall

No tricks that stand a kayak or watercraft on end

No tricks like cartwheels, etc so the watercraft is trading ends

No individuals flipping watercraft over by standing another watercraft on end to “trash” themNo standing up in your watercraft

Watercraft means a kayak, canoe, stand-up board, or craft that is used on a body of water that we paddle.

Designated Certified Instructors can be in the water to assist others with paddling

We look forward to seeing everyone at Thatcher as we begin the winter season on Saturdays from 10am to Noon! If you have any questions about the pool program, or if you have specific goals you'd like to work on in the pool - please feel free to reply to this email!

See you soon!

Toni Harris and John Gates

HCKC Thatcher pool coordinators

If you plan on coming and/or bringing your family for instruction or need gear, please let us know so we can be sure to have everything ready! This is a volunteer effort and appreciate your understanding!!