GRADE TWO KAYAK CERTIFICATES AND KAYAK INSTRUCTORS Kayaking Certificates All new competitors must submit a copy (not the original) of a completed Grade two Kayak Certificate. A description of the certification requirements is given below. Kayak certificates can be obtained from a kayak instructor anywhere in the world. New competitors have until November 30th to complete their certificate. Competitors from previous years need only state on the entry form the year(s) they have competed in the SPEIGHT’S Coast to Coast. They do not have to send in another kayaking certificate. A thorough and accurate assessment of competitors' kayaking skills is an important step in managing their safety. By completing a Grade two certificate, the kayak instructor is testifying that the competitor involved has the necessary skills and experience to negotiate grade two water and to manoevre the river section of the Speight's Coast to Coast safely in their race boat or boat of similar stability and performance. Grade Two Kayak requirements General knowledge: In discussion with the kayak instructor the competitor should show good knowledge of the following: Personal kayaking and safety equipment, river dynamics at grade two level, hazards associated with kayaking including broaching, strainers and foot entrapment and the actions taken to avoid or minimise these hazards, tying kayaks onto roof racks and trailers, and the symptoms and treatment of hypothermia. Moving water skills: Competitors must demonstrate competence in the following skills in their event boat or boat of similar stability and performance in grade two water: Capsize in a grade two rapid and self rescue by actively swimming with all equipment to an eddy, forward paddling, forward and reverse sweep strokes, low brace, break in / break out of eddies, ferry glide, identifying a safe line and manoeuvring down grade two rapids. Participate in Rescue Skills: The competitor must be able to competently participate in the following rescues: Receive a throw bag, be carried on the stern of a boat and deep water rescue. While the ability to perform an eskimo roll is not a compulsory kayak requirement, we strongly encourage competitors to attain this skill. Click here for the full list of Kayak Instructors, International Kayak Hire and Canoe Clubs. Click here for a Grade two kayak certificate - there are sections to be completed by the kayak instructor and the competitor. COMPETITORS MUST SUBMIT A GRADE TWO KAYAK CERTIFICATE FROM A KAYAKING INSTRUCTOR FROM ANY CLUB, ASSOCIATION OR COMMERCIAL OPERATION. ANY INSTRUCTOR WISHING TO BE PUT ON THIS LIST SHOULD E-MAIL THEIR PARTICULARS TO info@coasttocoast.co.nz