Team 6: Week 7 Report

Just a few weeks back I did a search on paddling and unfortunately did not find exactly what I was looking for. I was hoping to find information on that fun filled, exciting and well loved sport we are all familiar with in Hawaii. What had I found? Tons and tons of information on Kayaking. Everything you ever wanted to know about kayaking and all the places one can participate in it.

This week however, I found a new wonderful doorway to what I was actually looking for. I proceeded by doing a info seek search on paddling in Hawaii. Naturally the listings were extensive including links to that kayak stuff and other Hawaii links, but low and behold I got my hands on Paddling. I found a link to Outrigger Canoe Club's homepage. It had a lot of what I was looking for. It listed racing results, special events, club listings, and places of interest.

Finally I had found information on paddling in Hawaii. Unfortunately it's contents wasn't very relevant to traffic psychology. However, as both a ex-paddler and an avid spectator I know that accidents do happen out there in the ocean and a lot more often than not. While watching races I have seen canoes bang into eachother, nearly cause an accident, sometimes even flip over. Why do these things happen? Simple, sometimes the water conditions are really bad, or the steersmen are not very experienced. Other times in order to avoid being run over canoes have to maneuver themselves out of the way often causing harm to both the boat and the paddlers. Paddling a canoe is very much like driving a car or riding a bike. It takes a great deal of skill and concentration. Each and every person must constantly be aware of their surroundings, yet remain focused on driving. It's a very complex situation, one that takes patience, and a great understanding of safety.

Another link that I explored was about Surf Paddling FAQ's. This link addressed everything from when is the best surfing and do I need any gear like life jackets to how do I exit a boat gracefully when landing? It's great! It details everything. My personal favorite is the section called How do I catch waves to surf for sport (as opposed to trying to just get in safely)? In this section the article discusses steps to a safe and fun ride. It says one should first get into a position that is clear of other surfers and swimmers, also, they should watch out for rocks, piers, and coral reef formations in one's path. Once all of these factors have been noted, you're all set. Watching for a good set and clean wave is all you have left. This is important to traffic psychology because it talks about watching out for others, taking safety precautions and knowing your surroundings. Recognizing any safety hazards around is essential to a safe ride as well as a safe drive.

All in all a ride on the waves is equally as risky as a ride on the roads.

Paddle on by and leave me a note!
Braden Kato's Week 7 Report

Aaron Takahashi's Week 7 Report