Author Archives: Jay Murdock

John O’Hagan’s Memorial Paddle

-by Jay Murdock, a friend of John

Saturday, November 19th we gathered to remember and honor the memory of a great friend and fellow paddler. John’s wife Dorothy, and many of his long-time friends were there. Both Doug Drake and Louis Greco spoke after the paddle, and part of those speeches are in this article. We paddled just around Mariner’s Point so those on shore could observe the scattering of flower petals and some ashes. Dorothy spoke how much this event meant to her and told us a few memories she has of John. It was a perfect morning on the water.

Photo by Jon Brindle
Photo by Jon Brindle
Photo by Murdock
Words after the paddle
Vicki and Louis Greco, Dorothy, Doug Drake

John was far too young when he died of a heart attack while on a day hike. But he was in good hands that day, having made the most important decision of his life years before: He chose life and the Author of life by accepting that promise found in scripture – John 3:16, and John O’Hagan was changed forever. God’s love and grace touched John, and he passed it on to whoever he met on many occasions. While he was a great outdoorsman, he was also a stellar person, taking the time to help others and bless those around him (more on this is in the article written in July of 2021, just scroll down to find that).

Albert Einstein said “There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle.” John discovered, that by turning his life over to the Creator, the miracle of grace transformed him.

Doug Drake spoke to us after the paddle, that “when someone we love passes, it’s as if we have lost a part of ourselves. Living without your child, spouse, parents, or John, is very much like losing an irreplaceable part of yourself. It’s not something we get over or get back to normal. It’s a loss that endures a lifetime. As C. S. Lewis, the person whose life the amazing movie ‘The Most Reluctant Convert’ is based on said ‘The death of a loved one is an amputation, and the pain I feel now is the happiness I had before’.”

Louis Greco then said “I have had the blessing to know John for over 30 years. I consider him one of my best friends, as I am sure many of you do as well. John seemed to know someone wherever we went. He lived up to his nickname ‘coach’, and was a great coach to me, always available to listen, advise and encourage. As a great leader he would often do a reconnaissance mission to a future campsite, checking important factors such as the availability of water and trail conditions to assure a successful trip. John has now gone ahead of us… to scout out the perfect heavenly campsite.”

Well said Doug and Louis, very well said.

So, this Thanksgiving I am thankful to have known John, to have received the blessing of his playful smile, his great compassion, and for God’s grace channeled through this wonderful man.

Fall Colors Sierras Trip Report

-by Jay Murdock, SDKC Safety Editor and Trip Leader

“On Solo” at June Lake

October 7-10, 2022 was our 8th trip to the June Lakes Loop, north of Mammoth, and we had ideal weather. No wind, daytime temps in the mid-70’s, and night temps in the low 40s, with just a few sprinkles on our hike and the last night after we were in our tents. Now that is how it’s supposed to work for an easy car-camping trip.

Heading to the Lake
Doug and Louis on June Lake
Sheri on Silver Lake
Smelling the bark of a Jeffrey Pine…vanilla!
Sheri and Dave on Silver Lake
Hike to Parker Lake
Charles on Rush Creek Canal (upstream from Silver Lake)
Joe paddling on Silver Lake

After the snow and cold of last year’s trip, some people had second thoughts about going this year, but the nine who went this time all had a wonderful experience.  We hope you can join us next year!

Sheri and Jay near Parker Lake
Doug on Silver Lake
Joe and Jay on June Lake
The Gang on Rush Creek Canal (Kevin-yellow boat, Britt-orange/red boat, Dave-not shown)

Jake Stachovak – In Remembrance

-by Jay Murdock and Others

Photo of Jake Stachovak for Linked by Water expedition – by Michael Paul Franklin

Jake recently lost his battle with cancer, and people near and far who knew him have lost not only a wonderful friend, but a great person who just happened to be one of the best paddlers we’ve known. Yes, Jake was all that and more. Everyone who knew him liked him. He had this wonderful soft nature and calmness about him, but also a confidence and warmth that made you instantly like the man.

Jake’s paddling skills went far beyond most of us, as you will read in the following comments by some who paddled with him, but you would never suspect that in talking with him. He was both kind and gentle in helping us gain a greater skill level in our sport, and it seemed his patience never ran out. He had this ever-present smile that drew us in, a smile that was unassuming and humble, yet conveyed a strength that gave us courage to go beyond our comfort level.

Jake’s Farewell paddle upon leaving for Wisconsin in 2017 -photo by Murdock
Working at Aqua Adventures with Jen Kleck, owner back then -photo by Murdock
With the Wednesday morning paddlers -photo by Murdock
Helping launch the Wednesday morning paddlers in PB -photo by Murdock
At the farewell paddle in 2017 -photo by Murdock
Black Canyon trip – photos by Thom Underwood

Comments from Others:

“Jake and I were paddling buddies and like many kayakers in San Diego we paddled together often.  Thanks to Aqua Adventures and in particular Jen Kleck, we paddled the San Diego coast, from North County to the Coronado islands.  Further south in Baja we paddled the coast south and north of La Bufadora and out to Todos Santos.  Up the CA coast we paddled Point Lobos, Golden Gate, and the San Juans, and who doesn’t have fond memories of paddling the Colorado river and Black Canyon.  In Scotland we paddled the Pentland Firth, where in a tide race I had to self-rescue from a wet exit because Jake was busy rescuing our ‘group leader’ who was being tested for BCU level 5 accreditation – he failed!  From there we paddled the western coast of Scotland and the Isle of Skye (the wildest tide race I ever paddled) and several isles in the Outer Hebrides.  Jake was always there with a smile and confidence that inspired. 

Most of all we were surf buddies, out on the water 2 sometimes 3 times a week.  Jake somehow pried me out of a warm bed way too early for any sane person to consider and convinced me to throw myself into the cold Pacific.  Jake coerced me out in conditions I would never consider myself and once saved me (and my surf boat) from the rock jetty at South Mission beach (I was trying out a new paddle that was beyond my skillset). 

But my most memorable outing with Jake was one surf morning at LJ Shores when I never even got on the water!  We had arranged to meet at the usual ungodly hour but had failed to consider the predicted fog, a weather condition that rarely happens in San Diego.  When I arrived, the fog was so thick (visibility easily less than 10’) that I could barely see a parking spot let alone find Jake’s truck or see Jake on the beach.  After half an hour of searching for Jake and his truck, I assumed he had had the good sense to either not show up that morning or had returned home after seeing the fog conditions.  But before leaving, directed by the sound of the surf, I felt my way across the beach.  To my total surprise, just as I approached the water’s edge and still unable see the surf, out of the fog and the surf walked Jake, surf boat on his shoulder and that big Jake grin on his face.

Jake had a way that made each of us feel we had his undivided attention and always an abundance of good will.  I missed Jake when he moved back north but Jake had a way of staying with you even when he wasn’t present.  I miss him even more now he is gone even though he will always be with me”.    -Thom Underwood

Jake, Jane Hardy, and Mike Franklin -photo by Franklin

“Jake was my first “real” kayak teacher helping me to overcome my fear of tipping over my kayak and paddling in on the ocean.  One fine day Jake took me on a paddle from Aqua Adventures way out past the jetty, over to Ocean Beach Pier, the next thing I know Jake has me riding the back of a wave all the way to shore.  Wow! What an exhilarating experience and Jake made it happen.  That was Jake, “exhilarating”, full of life and ready for the next adventure. He took us all along on his “Portage to Portage’ paddle, what great memories he shared along the way.  Remembering- Jake performing headstands on his kayak and fun times out on the water.  Thank You Jake, for sharing your Joy of living radiating from your bright shiny eyes and your beautiful smile.  Cherishing fond memories close to my heart”.      -Jan Jensen

Honoring Jake, Mission Bay -photo by Franklin

“Jake was great to paddle with.  He was always happy & smiling.  I can’t recall ever seeing him upset.  I recall paddling from Harbor Island to the Coronado’s with him and 3 other guys.  He also taught me how to fix Valley skeg mechanisms (thank you!).  One thing that bugged me was seeing him do a headstand in a Nordkapp.  Oh, come on!  Darned showoff.  I felt so inadequate!   Fair winds and following seas Jake.  You are missed”.         -Gary Billick

“I’m saddened by this news. I learned much from Jake’s kayaking teaching”.             -Vicki Ardoin

In Baja -photo by Franklin

So sorry to hear about Jake!  I have such great memories of paddling with him guiding the meetup group paddlers on the AA social hours Thursday evenings and seeing him around the shop.  Best memories are of the jokes he would pull on the gang at the shop as well!  I still laugh when I think of them 🙂            -Miki Golden

Showing us how to surf a kayak -photo by Franklin

Jake was a paddling buddy a great friend and one of the best people I have ever known. We shared a lot of campfires, paddled together in Baja, along the San Diego coastline and the Colorado River and he always made a great experience that much better just by his presence. Jake accomplished an amazing kayaking feat with his Portage-to-Portage trip where he paddled 5,740 miles down rivers through the Gulf of Mexico and up the Atlantic Coast to loop around the Eastern United States but that pales in comparison to his legacy of friendship and kindness, he left to all of us.

He was strong but gentle, he was confident but never arrogant. He was kind but never weak. He was wise but always open. He cared about other people and always looked for the good in them. He was loyal to his friends. He was resolute and when he said he was going to do something he did it. He has been a great example of what a good human should be. He had a Zen like calm but was always up for some fun. His wide smile was contagious. I can’t think of a time I ever heard him say a harsh thing about anyone. Even his huge expedition to do the Portage-to-Portage trip was understated. Adventure Kayak magazine called it the Anti – Expedition. Jake described it as a bunch of backyard paddles put together but it was much more. Anyone who was lucky enough to meet Jake could bask in his calm strength and feel the peace inside him. He was always the first to jump in and help when things went sideways and was extremely capable. I value the time I got to spend with him especially on the water. I would paddle with him as he was training for his trip and enjoyed that quiet time with a good friend so much.

I hadn’t seen him in a little over 10 years as he moved back to Wisconsin, and I moved overseas, but his friendship was incredibly valuable to me. He will not be forgotten because he was a rare and special person. Now that he is gone, I will try to focus on the good he left in his wake and not on the sadness, but it will be difficult at times. I know I have tried to be a better person because of his example. If you want to do something good for the world, try to follow his example and be more like Jake.          -Mike Franklin

That smile -photo by Franklin

“Jake, Steve Wilson, and I went out to Catalina Island to paddle and camp. The next morning Steve and I got up at sunrise, thinking how manly we were getting up so early. As we stepped outside our tents, we saw Jake coming out of the cold water bare-chested, holding a large fish he just caught. We thought to ourselves that this guy is just not human to be able to pull that off”.      -Duane Strosaker (at the memorial paddle)

His Skill Level:

The following photos show his incredible skill level. During a paddle, Jake could get out of his cockpit and move about the kayak with ease, do a headstand, and even perform a roll using only his hands. Yes, we witnessed that with eyes and mouths wide open with awe.

Jake taking a haystack on the Great Lakes with finesse and confidence – photo by Bill Thompson
Performing a role with half a paddle – photo by Murdock
An amazing ability to balance -photo by Franklin
Surfing was a favorite with Jake -photo by Franklin
He could do this with ease -photo by Murdock
Then he would do this on occasion -photo by Murdock
Performing a role using only his hands -photo by Murdock

Our farewell:

Thirty-two paddlers turned out for Jake’s memorial paddle in San Diego on February 26, and went out beyond the jetty, where his wife, Marit, scattered some ashes. Afterwards we gathered for a time to visit, hug each other, and listen to the great music of Steve Wilson.  

Marit preparing the kayak -photo by Dana Voss
Heading out -photo by Voss
Spreading some ashes at sea -photo by Voss
Saying goodbye -photo be Voss
Steve Wilson singing after the paddle -photo by Murdock

The High School Principal where Jake taught the last four years spoke eloquently of him at his memorial service in Wisconsin: “Jake was an exceptional human being, and those who knew him were lucky to have met him. He had an infectious, joyous smile, and truly found joy in experiencing life to the fullest. Jake cared about people, connected with others, and brought joy to those around him. He embodied the qualities of love, family, and selflessness”.

Who Jake Was:

Those of us who spent time with Jake knew his face conveyed the essence of who he was. The fact of how one’s inner character can be seen through their face was recently summed up by President Zelenskyy of Ukraine after accepting the likelihood that soon he may be killed: “Everyone’s face shows his or her life, their whole life path, as well as the end of one’s life”. We were able to see who Jake was, and how he was able to face his death with courage. Thank you, Jake, for being there for us, for giving so much of yourself to us, and for being a great friend. We will not forget you.

-photo by Murdock

June Lake Fall Colors Trip Report – October, 2021

-by Jay Murdock, SDKC Safety Editor

Gull Lake (photo by Kirk Rozelle)

This was the 8th time we have gone up to the June Lake Loop to paddle, hike, and see the wonderful fall colors of the Aspens. Because of health, work, and weather issues, we lost more than half the sign-ups, but those who went kept warm and enjoyed the crisp air. There were new people on this trip, and a couple from Arizona drove over to join us. We even experienced a taste of winter, with snow and 14-degree temperatures on two nights.

Camping at Reversed Creek, Kirk making coffee
Friday morning snow and 14 degrees (cold, what’s cold?)

Because of the snow, most of us went to see the Tufa’s at Mono Lake, then drove over to Mammoth for the day on Friday.

Mono Lake and Tufas (photo by Susan Stiver)
Early snow near Mammoth (photo by Susan Stiver)
The drive to the Mammoth ski lifts (photo by Kirk Rozelle)
Mary at…Lake Mary
A winter wonderland

Saturday had great weather (sun and mild breezes), and we took advantage of that with a fun paddle on Silver Lake.

Launching from the Silver Lake dock, Mary and Kirk
Up the creek…with paddles
The turnaround point, Lynne, Susan, and me (photo by Kirk Rozelle)
Britt, Clear water and fall colors (photo by Kirk Rozelle)
Mary and Kirk in an Innova kayak (photo by Susan Stiver)
A beautiful place to paddle
Lynne at the dock
Kevin looking good

Some of us then hiked around Gull Lake, where we took some amazing photos of the trees and lake. We ended the day with a wonderful dinner together, then a warm campfire. The mountains are beautiful in the fall for those who are willing to experience the wonder.

Hiking around Gull Lake
Aspens near Gull Lake (photo by Susan Stiver)
Dinner at Eagles Landing

Staying Healthy While Being Active in These Uncertain Times

-by Jay Murdock, SDKC Safety Editor

Tall Ships Paddle 2015

Over the past year some people have expressed concern to me about participating in paddling and other outdoor sports, and especially going to indoor social events. We are hearing different, and often conflicting advise on how to keep ourselves healthy, and a lot of it is unfortunately political in nature. From the start of the Covid-19 spread, I was determined to find truth in what works to help me from getting sick, and how to continually stay healthy. I also decided not to let undo fear control my thinking and my life. The right kind of fear– having a healthy respect for things to avoid — is part of our nature, placed there to keep us safe. We are blessed with incredible bodies having amazing immune systems… we are “fearfully and wonderfully made” and have the ability to learn what is best for us. 

As an appraiser, I’m trained to weed out false information from the data. When you have opposing claims to the “facts”, by examining each for flaws in consistency, and errors, you can eliminate the implausible, and arrive at a point that makes sense. You then apply comparative analysis in order to form an opinion that correlates with reality…the truth. Using those tools for staying healthy, I have recently researched (because “science” changes and evolves over time) primary data (not someone’s article or interpretation about that data) to get answers. It takes considerable time to search deeper for truthful information, but your health and safety are worth it. The key is to find sources that do not have a political axe to grind, that publish original clinical research that has been peer-reviewed. The following information is based on several articles published in 2020 and 2021. The pertinent sources are referenced at the end of this article. 

Therapeutics for Covid-19

Given the facts that the Covid virus can morph into different variants, that face masks cannot effectively stop the virus (even the N-95 mask, which filters 95% at .3 microns can leak, or the virus can even enter the body through the surface of the eye), that vaccines can lose potency over time, our best defense is to bolster the body’s ability to prevent the virus from replicating inside us. The following is what works for me. You want to decide for yourself, and/or consult with your doctor to see what you should do. 

The American Journal of Medicine, January 2021 issue states that Zinc is a known inhibitor of coronavirus replication. Clinical trials of zinc lozenges in the common cold have demonstrated modest reductions in the duration and or severity of symptoms. By extension, this readily available nontoxic therapy could be deployed at the first signs of COVID-19. Lost in all the controversy over Hydroxychloroquine is the fact that it simply aids in the body’s ability to absorb zinc, which the Journal goes on to explain.  

I take 80 mg of zinc per day, which I get in AREDS 2 by PreserVision. Included also in those supplements are vitamins C, E, along with copper, lutein, and zeaxanthin. Taking these pills for the past 3 years has effectively stopped the progression of AMD in my eyes, and unknowingly, most likely helped to keep me from contracting Covid. You may consider taking them even if you do not have AMD if you are over 40, in addition to other supplements. They contain essentials for a strong immune system and eye health.

Updated on 2/13/2022:

I also take 10,000 IU of vitamin D3, which has been found to benefit the body’s immune system. This vitamin, magnesium, and zinc may be the most important therapeutics to take daily to strengthen your body against the virus. Copper and vitamin C have also been linked to cellular health and may be helpful in preventing a virus infection. A baby aspirin a day helps fight inflammation, which the Covid virus brings on. Vitamin K2 helps the body safely use the large dosage of D3, and recent news says that antihistamines may be effective in treating Postacute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (“long COVID”).

In summary, it is up to each of us to take charge of our health, so we can be active and fully participate in life and experience the joy of relationships.

Supporting Primary Data:

Pathophysiological Basis and Rationale for Early Outpatient Treatment of SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Infection – The American Journal of Medicine (amjmed.com)

Vitamin D and Its Potential Benefit for the COVID-19 Pandemic – PubMed (nih.gov)

Evidence that Vitamin D Supplementation Could Reduce Risk of Influenza and COVID-19 Infections and Deaths – PubMed (nih.gov)

Serum zinc and copper in patients with COVID-19 and zinc supplementation in parenteral nutrition – ScienceDirect

Masks Don’t Work: A Review of Science Relevant to COVID-19 Social Policy | River Cities’ Reader (rcreader.com)

Ophthalmic Manifestations Of Coronavirus (COVID-19) – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf (nih.gov)

New Research Suggests Magnesium and Vitamin D Can Help Reduce COVID-19 Infections | Saint Luke’s Health System (saintlukeskc.org)

Antihistamines for Postacute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 Infection – ScienceDirect

Vitamin K2 D3 Supplements – Benefits & Side Effects – eNutrition

Note: While the article on masks is an opinion piece, the primary clinical research is presented as the foundation for those opinions, for you to read and decide for yourself.

John O’Hagan – In Remembrance

-by Jay Murdock, a friend of John

John looked like a giant to us, sitting in our kayaks

We have lost a wonderful member of our kayaking and hiking community, and a dear friend to many of us. John suddenly passed away a few weeks back while hiking with his dog, doing what he loved to do. This unexpected event has left those who were privileged to know him in shock and sadness. Those of us who knew he was a man of faith, know he is now in a better place…but we still miss him.

Taking a break while Nordic skiing
With his wife Dorothy at Laguna Meadows

Off Pt Loma and a Saturday morning (John is 3rd from left)

As Lori Nickerson said, “We just saw him on his paddle board on a Wednesday morning paddle a few weeks ago.  We used to see him fairly often way out in the ocean… a speck in the distance, so tall with a distinctive stroke. ‘Oh, that must be John!’  We’d paddle towards each other and chat for a while before going our separate ways.  Such a fine and gentle soul”.

With Bob Jones on a hike…that playful smile is what we always observed
It was a joy to ski with John
Getting back on his kayak after a “nature break”, causing some of us to always get a good laugh…but he never capsized

John was only 62 when he set out to hike that day, not knowing what the future held, but he knew the One who held his future. He loved the woods in all seasons, and used to solo camp in the back country in this “secret spot” amongst the pines. But John also loved to be with others in all the sports he aggressively participated in. A great companion to have on any paddle, hike, pack trip, or Nordic ski, he was always strong and confident in what he was doing. On one Yosemite pack trip, John took the pack of a gal who could not hike the rest of the way to base camp, quickly hiked up the trail, and then returned to get his pack. We were all amazed at the strength of this man, and the humble and cheerful way which he conducted himself. But that was John, always giving to others.

Looking dapper in his kayak outfit on a Saturday paddle
On a pack trip up Mt San Jacinto with other kayakers (John on far right)
He had a smooth and natural Nordic style

John was a good and loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend. His faith and the relationship with his Maker were the guiding forces in his life, and he understood that life is a precious gift with purpose and meaning. Of all the great attributes that could be said about him, the one that stands out as the pinnacle, is that John was simply, yet profoundly “One of His”.  James Dobson once said “At the end of our lives, what really matters is who we love, and who loves us”. As John moved through life, he left a large “wake” of people who knew his love, and loved him back. And what a tribute that is. Well done, John.

John and Dorothy

Jane Hardy – 2021 Kayaker of the Year

-by Jay Murdock, SDKC Safety Editor

It is long overdue to give tribute to a great kayaker, an early SDKC leader, serving many years as the club president, and valued member of our kayaking community. Jane has been a leader and helper to many on trips and numerous skills sessions she has led… and a great friend to many of us. In putting this article together, it was decided to ask several people to contribute photos and comments. You may learn, as I have, some new things about Jane. She is an accomplished world traveler and adventurer, going to many wonderful destinations for hiking and kayaking. People from as far away at the UK sent some amazing photos (and a video, which will be posted at a later date). Looking through all the photos, it is a trip down memory lane, covering a time-span of several years with old friends. And what a pleasure it is to know her, because the best part of life is who we have the privilege of knowing.

It is natural for Jane to be a Sea Kayaker, as she has salt in her veins. She grew up in New England, often helping her dad on his lobster boat. You have to work fast and efficiently on those boats, often in rain, cold and wind, all while watching your feet so the line does not wrap around them and drag you overboard to the bottom. She is very comfortable in sea conditions that would turn back many of us, and is always willing to try new experiences to test her skills and ability. And that is how she has become a very accomplished kayaker. She is in a relatively small group of kayakers who have paddled the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon. Jane also loves the mountains, and is a great person to have on any trip. She has hiked and kayaked in at least 12 countries, and several states, including Alaska. I’m sure that if we could see all the photos of her on these trips, they would fill several albums. The following photos and comments are randomly presented. So, we raise our glass to you Jane…

Baja – Photo by Donna Sylvester
Whale watch paddle in 2009, La Jolla Shores
Hebrides, UK – Photo by Steve Banks

“I would suggest changing the award to Kayaker of the Decade. No one’s resume comes close to the things Jane has experienced over the last few years. Northern California/SF Bay, Fort Bragg, Channel Islands, Kern River, Grand Canyon, UK, countless hours of BCU instruction, and Croatia, are just a few of Jane’s adventures that come to mind. I suspect there are many more I am not even aware of. Not to mention all she has done for San Diego and So Cal. paddling.”      -John Brindle

Colorado River, Grand Canyon – Photo by Teresa Boli
Grand Canyon – Photo by Teresa Boli

“My awesome trips with Jane as illustrated by these photos (above) from Grand Canyon, circa 2009.  She was always geared up, organized, and rarin’ to hit the water. Photo of rapid descent (you can imagine how big the Grand Canyon rapids are): she would attack challenges like whitewater kayaking the Grand Canyon with a positive attitude and always set her sights on improving her skills.  Photo of waterfall: Jane is always so much fun out of a kayak, too. A kayak trip with Jane is always fun, full of learning, excitement, and fun.”   -Teresa Boli

Mission Bay Skills Practice – Photo by Joe Morin
Sierras 2013
Colorado River below Hoover Dam 2009
“Perching”, Mendocino 2010 – Photo by Dennis Hyndman

“I first met Jane in 2005 and have shared a number of great times on the water with her. She was then, and continues to be, someone who is always improving her skills in order to tackle anything the ocean can throw at her. More importantly, she has the competence to enjoy the ocean in all its moods.  Jane was a much better surf kayaker than I ever could hope for.  On a Mendocino trip, I remember trying to figure out the surf in my small boat, just to see Jane gracefully surfing to perfection.  I didn’t spend a lot of time with her in the surf, but that moment has stuck with me as she was, once again, pure calm and having fun on the water.”     . -Dennis Hyndman

Dore Holm, Shetland 2015 – Photo by Steve Banks
Cuba 2017 – Photo by Lori Nickerson

“You will often find me hanging out with Jane, because she’s usually right in the middle of where the fun is happening!!”     -Lori Nickerson (Cuba, 2017)

Wednesday Morning Paddle 2012
Shetland UK – Photo by Steve Banks
Skills Practice 2013 – Photo by Joe Morin

“Jane Hardy is as bad-ass as they come! She’s kayaked the Grand and all through Europe: and she’s hiked all over the world. She’s led skills sessions encouraging all to try their best. San Diego is lucky to have her!  There is no mountain too high and no body of water too full of motion for Jane. I’m happy and proud to call her a friend and mentor. Big Hugs.”  -Sheri Belling

Sierras 2012
Shetland 2018 – Photo by Steve Banks
Papa Stour, Shetland UK -Photo by Steve Banks

“Croatia, May of 2010, one of the many ‘excellent adventures’ I’ve had the privilege of going on with Jane.  You couldn’t ask for a better travelling companion.  When Jane has the helm, you know you’re in good hands.”       -John Nickerson

Off Point Loma 2009
Sierras 2012
Hanging out at Aqua Adventures 2007

“I met Jane many years ago when I was taking my first ever kayak lessons. They were in San Diego with Jen Kleck. One day Jen sent us out to do rescue practice with Jane and your group. She welcomed us and included us in her skills practice. Since then, we became good friends, have taken many kayak courses and joyfully paddled together in many parts of the world. Jane is the most positive person I know. She always makes the best of every situation. I’ve never heard her say anything bad about anyone or any place. Fortunately for all of us, her positivity is contagious. I have a ton of photos of Jane from Wales, Ireland, Scotland, Norway, Iceland, Croatia, Baja (Pacific and Sea of Cortez), San Francisco, Redding, Mendocino and who knows where else. I have many stories, but just say Donna said “It’s your turn, Jane”. She will laugh.”           -Donna Sylvester

Mission Bay 2008
Christmas paddle 2019 – Photo by John Vermeule

“Having done 4 Star training with her, I recall Jen one day calling me at home and saying there was a small craft advisory for the following day with gale force winds.  Did I want to go out and work on our rough water skills?  I jumped at the opportunity and was glad to see a group of very accomplished paddlers when we launched from Mission Bay.  The day was a bit crazy as we didn’t get out of the channel before someone capsized and then one paddler got seasick north of the PB Pier.  We had to call the life guard to remove him from the water.  After towing an empty boat and practicing various tows scenarios we landed on a crashing beach at the Marine Room.  I remember that Jane said it was good to have her friends on the water with her that day.  I seconded the thought.”        -Dennis Hyndman

Orkney Island, Scotland – Photo by Donna Sylvester
Ireland 2015 – Photo by Donna Sylvester
“At the Helm” – Photo by John Nickerson

“I first met Jane paddling in Baja when I was over in San Diego and filled in for an absent staff member on a trip.  Jane then put me and my partner Ursula and then baby son Ralf up for 3 months in 2011 whilst I was conducting research in California.  She has since been over to stay with us on about 10 occasions and has joined about the same number of sea kayak trips which I run.  Like all the other folk who repeatedly come on my trips, Jane has fallen in love with the NW of Scotland, including Skye and the Hebrides in particular. Shetland however, takes the prize for most outstanding paddling destination on the planet (I’m biased but not much!).  Shetland has many of the world’s biggest and longest sea caves and has hundreds of miles of coastline which are a ‘Swiss cheese’ of stacks, cliffs and caves packed with amazing wildlife. All Jane’s British paddling friends send their regards and missed her on the recent trips.” -Dr. Steve Banks, UK

Baja 2014 – Photo by Steve Huemmer
Baja 2014 – Photo by Steve Huemmer
Baja 2014 – Photo by Steve Huemmer
Baja 2014 – Photo by Steve Huemmer

“I can only echo what others have said:  wonderful companion on all paddles and adventures, always curious and determined to improve her paddling skills and knowledge, and to generously share it with others.  It is safe to say that the Club owes its continued existence to her consistent efforts and leadership.” -Steve Huemmer

Wales – Photo by Donna Sylvester

“Stay Ready” – Increasing Your Odds of Keeping Safe

-by Jay Murdock, SDKC Safety Editor

I recently heard a great message by David Jeremiah about the human condition, which some elements have direct applications for our sport. It examined the fact that people tend to live for the moment, responding to the immediate and not the important, and put off those things that will prepare them for future events and uncertainties. I’ve expanded on that message to fit our needs.

Our nature is to avoid making hard decisions, those that may increase the level of stress in our lives. This is why we don’t go to the doctor when we should. Part of our make-up is something called the “Normalcy Bias”, the survival mechanism in our DNA which causes us to think everything is ok when confronted with danger of any form. What typically comes to mind is how unprepared people are for natural disasters, like a hurricane. Having not prepared well in advance, they are not staying ready for the event, then have to scurry at the last minute to get ready, often falling short of what is needed for survival. But this is also what keeps us from being prepared for every day occurrences that put us in harm’s way. This is why we have to learn how to be a defensive driver. Learning to be afraid of, or having respect for something that has not yet happened is what changes us from careless behavior to wise and cautious people.

The old adage of “trusting your instincts” only applies when you have developed wise and careful instincts to begin with. We learn as kids to not touch hot objects, but we can also learn vicariously what to avoid. Too often I have read of the tragic consequences of someone venturing into the wilderness or on the water, and not heeding the warning signs of danger. We are out to have fun, and our “guard is down” of paying attention to those signs. Learning to recognize, analyze, then act on those signs will increase the odds of our staying safe. It is one thing to sense danger; it is another to act on that.  

It is better to over-prepare for any event, making careful plans, leaving your itinerary with someone back home, bringing the right equipment, and so on. But the most important thing to take on any outing is a prepared mindset. Go over in your mind every possible danger that may occur on the trip, and think about the safest action to take if that happens. This will give you the ability to act quickly and decisively. That is why going over first aid and safety procedures at the start of the trip is so important. It gets everyone on the same page in thinking about safety, and how to respond as a group. This is why it is critical to know who you are trusting to venture out with. Does that person (especially the leader) have the right mindset for safety.

But there is another aspect of this, one that is related to the Normalcy Bias, and that is the tendency to “freeze up” in the face of immediate danger, and how to better your chance of this not happening to you. Why this is so important can be demonstrated by three examples I have personally witnessed.

While ocean fishing years ago I had three others in my boat and we were trolling for albacore several miles south of San Diego on a calm day. I let someone else steer the boat, who also owned a boat and was familiar with ocean fishing. Suddenly we spotted a six-foot-high breaking wave coming at us off the right side of our boat. At that instance, he froze and did nothing to save us from the likelihood of being capsized by the wave hitting us broadside. I had to physically pull him off the helm, turned the boat into the wave, and pushed the throttle full speed. We were able to punch through the wave, but the boat was half full of water. Keeping the speed up while turning on the bilge pump eventually drained the water out.  

The second instance was being driven home by a friend at night, and we were on the I-8 freeway when a car in front of us clipped another in the rear bumper and it rolled upside down. My friend froze at the wheel while we sped toward the accident. I shouted at him to stop, which jolted him out of that trance, and we narrowly avoided hitting the upside-down car. He later admitted the accident did not look “real”, and he was mesmerized by what was happening. He was mentally unprepared to deal with something out of the ordinary. This explains why some people get up out of their seat in an airplane accident to exit the plane, while others who are able to get up stay put in a bewildered trance. They have not mentally rehearsed that emergency scenario in advance.

The third experience was in a float plane on the Alaska Peninsula during a moose hunt. We did an emergency landing at a remote hunting lodge on the Stony River when we could not get through Merrill Pass to get back to Anchorage. Having stayed overnight, we boarded the plane, pushed out into the river going downstream, and the pilot pulled the throttle cable to increase engine speed. Suddenly the cable broke with the RPM at half throttle. He looked at the broken end and handle in his hand and screamed “look at this”. Then he froze, just staring at the handle. We were still on the water, going really fast, and heading toward a sharp turn and several trees. Disaster seemed eminent, then my brother-in-law (who was also a pilot) reached over and turned off the magneto, stopping the engine. While our young pilot was very experienced in the bush, a broken throttle cable had never happed to him, and he was not prepared for that specific event; the shock of it froze him. Something that older pilots do is go over various emergency scenarios, and the actions taken to avoid disaster. And they do this over and over again. By doing this they develop the ability to focus, think and solve problems under extreme pressure, which transfers to new situations.

It is mental training before something occurs that makes the difference. And through that training we become consistent in our response in an emergency. By repeating that mental training, we gain “mental and muscle memory” which lets us respond to a crisis without stopping to think about it (our mind and body acts automatically). The goal is to be “consistently consistent” through discipline and repetition, and by that we are staying ready for any emergency.

Learn from your mistakes, and take action to not repeat them! I’ve made some notable errors on trips I’ve led, and after each trip have evaluated the event, researched the remedy for not repeating that mistake, then shared that info with the group. While these events and evaluations are serious, finding humor in them also helps to move beyond them, while not allowing trauma to paralyze us. “To err is human, to forgive divine”.

One last element that is essential for a quick response to an emergency is confidence. We gain confidence through that mental preparedness and compliance to the essentials of what is important to know and act on. That confidence gives us the courage to act through the fear of the moment. During the war in England the famous preacher G. Campbell Morgan saw that people were fearing the invasion from Germany, and wanted to bolster their confidence. He told them that all around England were “Strong Men” of consistent action and focus on what is important, and that the “fixed heart is one of courage”. Churchill was giving the same message, and the country became resolved to fight on at any cost.

Be prepared, be brave, stay safe…

December 5th Ocean Paddle

Jane Hardy led a group of 13 paddlers out of Aqua Adventures on a crisp and calm morning up to the Pacific Beach Pier.

Jane sporting our cool club hat
Jane sporting our cool club hat
Dana Voss
Other paddlers not shown in photo
Thanks to Dana Voss for the last 7 photos – Come join us on the next paddle!

October 31, 2020 Skills Session

-by Jay Murdock, SDKC Safety Editor

Jane Hardy has been leading weekly skills sessions, with consistently good turn-out. Fourteen paddlers showed up for this one, and the weather and water temp were nice. Thank you Jane for your contribution and leadership in this effort.

Jane on a roll / past photo

Our website contains considerable information on kayaking skills, presented in step-by-step procedures. Click on the Skills tab at the top of this page to view that.

Debbie, Dave and I took a few minutes to discuss some up-coming paddles for the club, and we’ll let you know about those in the future. In the meantime, Dave is still leading the Wednesday evening paddles out of AA, and you are welcome to join in. They launch at 6pm, and you can rent a boat from AA in advance if needed.

Debbie and Dave