Splash Into Spring highlights paddle sports

Outdoor Chattanooga will host its annual paddle sports festival and demo day Saturday. Splash Into Spring is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the TVA recreation area at Chickamauga Dam.

Experts on kayaking, canoeing, standup paddleboarding, dragon boating, sailing and other human-powered water sports will be on hand.

Newcomers can "participate in clinics, demos or just come to see what is available in the area," according to a news release.

Among those represented are retailers Rock/Creek and SUP Paddleboards, boat manufacturers Jackson Kayak and Mohawk Canoes and outfitter River Canyon Adventures.

The Chattanooga Dragon Boat Club will offer free demonstrations, and the Privateer Sailing Club will have information on introductory events.

Participants will be helped with boat selection and fit, paddling techniques and other basics. Short kayak trips on Chickamauga Lake will be available.

"Most of these sports are very easy to get into with a minimum of instruction," said Terri Chapin, Outdoor Chattanooga's recreation programs coordinator. "We'll be there to help people get started."

Admission is free. To learn more, email terri@outdoorchattanooga.com; call her at 643-6888; or visit www.outdoorchattanooga.com/2907.htm.

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