Grade 2 Certificate Refresher

The Grade 2 Certificate (G2C™) is a requirement for participating in the kayak stage of New Zealand’s famous Coast to Coast multisport race. This certificate ensures participants possess the necessary kayaking skills to safely navigate the river section, particularly the Waimakariri River, known for fast-moving water, rapids, and hazards.

Purpose of the Refresher Course:

The refresher course is designed to:

• Update skills for paddlers holding a Grade 2 Certificate (G2C™) who haven’t recently kayaked on moving water.

• Specifically prepare paddlers for the Coast to Coast kayak stage, enhancing river reading, rapid navigation, and rescue techniques.

• Ensure paddlers meet safety standards, confirming fitness and competence for race conditions.

Technique-driven paddlers (e.g., chasing sub-5-hour kayak splits) and budget-constrained or weekend-only learners will particularly benefit from our structured syllabus. With over 20 years of coaching experience, we emphasize a small-group focus for personalized attention.

Online-Theory training course components: save time and skip the in-person theory for more river time and skill acquisition by to the academia at home: click HERE

Key Skills Covered:

• River Reading: Identifying efficient lines through rapids.

• Paddle Stroke Efficiency: Maximizing endurance and boat control.

• White-water Technique: Eddy turns, ferry gliding, boat edging, and bracing for swift-water safety.

• Rapid Negotiation: Confidently navigating Grade 2 rapids.

• Rescue & Rolling Drills: Capsize recovery, including assisted re-entry.

• Swift-water Safety: Hazard avoidance, throw rope usage, and comprehensive safety techniques.

• Group Paddling: Effective paddling in group scenarios to enhance safety during races.

Course Structure:

1-Day Refresher:

• Target Audience: Experienced paddlers with recent river exposure or strong confidence on Grade 2 water.

• Overview: Intensive, fast-paced session focusing on river-based drills.

• Key Benefit: Quick validation of skills for those actively paddling.

2-Day Refresher:

• Target Audience: Paddlers needing extensive practice or lacking recent experience.

• Overview: Day one focuses on reviewing flat-water fundamentals and basic white-water skills; day two involves extended river sessions refining technique.

• Key Benefit: Extended practice boosts confidence and ensures thorough race preparedness.

Location:

Courses typically occur on rivers like the Mohaka, Waioeka, Whanganui, and Tongariro, offering manageable yet challenging Grade 2 rapids ideal for intermediate paddlers.

Add-ons and Extras:

• Fast-track Certification available for paddlers seeking quick and efficient course completion.

• Gear hire & transport add-on available for convenience.

• Elite kayak coaching and kayak assessment packages for intensive skill enhancement.

• Additional flat-water coaching in Auckland can be arranged for comprehensive training.

Actionable Next Steps:

• Book your Grade 2 Certificate (G2C™) course today.

• Secure your Coast to Coast spot early.

• Enrol now – limited seats available.

• Get certified in just 3 days.

• Receive a race-ready training plan included with instant confirmation email upon booking.

Whether you’re preparing for the longest-day race, looking for elite kayak coaching, or seeking a weekend-intensive multisport kayak school, our carefully structured courses and clinics are designed to meet diverse needs, ensuring paddlers are fully prepared for the Coast to Coast kayak stage.