Kayaking
New sport for Charles County in 2003

Special Olympics Maryland is proud to present the new sport of kayaking. This sport is a very fast growing sport. In the two years that Maryland has had athletes training it has grown from two athletes training to more than twenty-five across the state. Kayaking will be a demonstration sport at the 2003 World Games held in Ireland. This year will be the first year that the state of Maryland has offered competition for kayaking. The State competition is scheduled for July 26-27, 2003, at St. Mary's College in St. Mary's City, Maryland.

This program is in the early stages of development, yet has gathered momentum since its first introductory session in Carroll County. Interested volunteers, coaches, athletes, and parents have been focusing on the benefits of offering a paddling program to all eligible athletes.

Our program will be focusing on flat water kayaking. On land training will take place for safety, paddling skills, and knowledge of equipment. There will be a ration of one coach for every two athletes on the water.

Volunteer opportunities are available for this program. We are looking for Volunteer Assistant Coaches and Life Guards to work with our athletes. Call our office for more information.

Equipment
Special Olympics Charles County currently has one kayak. We are looking for donations or reasonably priced used equipment such as kayaks, curved paddles, helmet, PFD's, safety lines, etc. Your donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law. See our support page, for tax rules.

Events
Special Olympic kayakers will be competing in two medal events: 125 meter straight to an ending point race. 250 meter kayak race (125 meter out past bouy, 125 meter back from bouy).

Kayaking will be contested at the Summer Sailing Regatta in August. See the calendar page for training dates and location.