The Start & DISCOVER Award -1 star course is run on the River Dee. . This is a fun  safe introduction to the sport.This (Start Discover-1 star course includes paddling skills with forwards, backwards, turning, stopping and sideways strokes and getting in and out of the boat safely.We look at correctly fitting buoyancy aids, helmets and spray decks, how to adjust boat fittings and learning about different paddles and boats.Pre-Requisites – None required1 star assessment- STAR – Requirements –

1. Lift, carry and launch the kayak or canoe

2. Forward paddling over a distance of 100m with correct posture

3. Steering and controlling the boat. Stopping both forwards and backwards within 4 strokes. Rotate boat 180 degrees with forward and reverse strokes. Reverse paddling of 5 m to a fixed point.

4. Return to bank and get out in a controlled manner

5. Capsize and be rescued or swim to shore 15m from the bank

6. Empty boat with safe lifting

7. Theory questions

8. Provide evidence of 1 hour journey (3km) duration