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Paddle to the metal
Lanier clubs Come Try Its let novice kayakers take the lake
0630tryits
Kayakers can try their hand at the sport during Come Try Its at Clarks Bridge Park.

Come Try Its

What: Lanier Canoe and Kayak Club offers novices a chance to paddle on Lake Lanier.

Where: Clarks Bridge Park, 3105 Clarks Bridge Road

More info: 770-287-7888

Lake Lanier is an area of many summer attractions, including the opportunity to paddle kayaks and canoes on some world-class open water.

The Lanier Canoe and Kayak Club is offering "Come Try Its" for people who want to get some paddling experience.

"That's exactly what it is, a chance to come out and try it," LCKC office administrator Brenda Miller said. "It's not necessarily a class. An instructor will be present to give tips and help you get started."

Instructors include members of the national and international competition teams from the LCKC and consider the Olympic venue at Lake Lanier their training grounds, Miller said.

"These people are first-class athletes, and some of them are trying to qualify for the 2012 Olympics," Miller said.

Members and staff at LCKC hope to share their passion and turn community members on to the thrill of the sport.

"This is a great way for someone who just wants to try out kayaking. From what I've seen, it's been a really successful program," LCKC day camp director Diane Duffy said.

Miller and the rest of LCKC hope to see participants really become passionate about the sport and continue to develop their skills.

For those who just want to enjoy a day out on the lake, the "Come Try Its" provide that opportunity.

"It's something that families can do together. And it's low impact," Miller said. "It's relatively cheap. You can come out, kayak, have a picnic, and at the end of the day, you haven't spent too much."

Children must be at least age 15 to go out on the lake solo. Younger children can go tandem with a parent in double boats.

"Come Try Its" are set for 1-6 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays through Sept. 1. The program last about an hour and costs $15 per person.

The LCKC boathouse is located at Clarks Bridge Park, 3105 Clarks Bridge Road. You can call the club at 770-287-7888 or visit www.lckc.org to find more information, get directions, and find out what events are coming up.