Coaching

Eskimo Rescue is a technique used by a capsized paddler to right the boat with the assistance of another paddler. There are two methods of Eskimo Rescue, bow presentation and paddle presentation (there are other less unorthodox methods such a stern presentation/arm presentation etc that will be touched upon later).

The Eskimo Rescue is part of the BCU 2 star award. Candidates will be assessed on their ability to rescue a capsized paddler and their ability to right themselves using the Eskimo Rescue.

The animation to the right illustrates the bow presentation method of Eskimo Rescue, illustrating the importance of the 'hip flick' to right the boat (note the paddlers head is the last thing to exit the water!).

Righting a Capsie Using Eskimo Rescue

Bow Presentation

The following is a guide on what the 'victim' or capsized paddler should do for the Eskimo Rescue, bow presentation technique.

Paddle Presentation

The following is a guide on what the 'victim' or capsized paddler should do for the Eskimo Rescue, paddle presentation technique (this is almost identical to bow presentation).

Common Mistakes

By far, the most common mistake is that of trying to get your head out of the water as fast as possible. Rushing for that gasp of air and getting upright as soon as possible results in the hip-flick being next to useless. Commonly, when coaching Eskimo Rescues, I advise that the 'victim' has a rest on the bow of the rescuers boat before completing the final hip-flick required to right the kayak.

Coaching Tips

Below are some coaching tips that have helped me and many students in the past: