In keeping with providing resources to our OSSCC members to prepare you for the upcoming canoe season, here is a short film from the late canoe guru Bill Mason and his son Paul where they demonstrate the basic doubles paddling strokes and how to apply them in various combinations. It is interesting to see how the strokes are applied in faster moving water as well as still water, however, the emphasis is always on working as a well-coordinated team. Although the film, is circa 1977 from the National Film Board of Canada, the information provided is still pertinent. Enjoy!
Path of the Paddle: Doubles Basic, Bill Mason, provided by the National Film Board of Canada
Great video! Fine coordination between bow and stern paddlers. Notice the subtle, but essential, application of speed control by father and son. I liked Paul’s use of the active and stationary draws at the bow. It’s no surprise that Paul went on to become a champion whitewater competitor and a respected instructor.
Larry M