N TUESDAY, July 2, 2019, the
Yonkers Paddling & Rowing Club (YPRC) received a Certificate of Appreciation from the Coast Guard Auxiliary, 1st District Southern Region, Division 06, Flotilla 06, for their commitment to furthering safe boating on the Hudson River.
The recognition was recommended and delivered by Barbara Schultz, a Vessel Examiner for the Coast Guard Auxiliary, during the club’s Tuesday evening member paddle. Schulz visits YPRC annually to certify members’ kayaks. The comprehensive checkup includes an assessment of each kayak’s hull, hatch seals, and deck lines. Paddlers are also checked for necessary equipment including a life jacket, weather/VHF radio, towline, whistle, and sponge.
Schulz described the award as a special thank you to YPRC for all that they do to promote safe boating on the Hudson.
“YPRC is a key, growing club on the Hudson River,” said Schulz. “Their instructors stress safety and training and their members are always looking to learn more. YPRC knows that kayaking is more than social – it’s a survival sport.”
House Captain Frank Horvath and Commodore Bill Dennison accepted the award for YPRC. Dennison expressed his appreciation for the work of the Coast Guard.
"While the Hudson is a commer- cially important mode of transport for our region, the U.S. Coast Guard and Coast Guard Auxiliary do a great job in also making sure it’s safe for recreational boating both here in Yonkers and throughout New York Harbor,” said Dennison. “The cooperation we receive from the Coast Guard helps make our annual Gerry Blackstone Manhattan Circumnavigation -coming up on July 20 - a safe and successful event."
Each kayak that passed the safety check received a U.S. Coast Guard / Auxiliary Decal. Schulz also gave YPRC 50 whistles to be used on club boats and the promise to come back soon.
Yonkers Paddling & Rowing Club Recognized by Coast Guard Auxiliary for Commitment to Safe Boating
Lenore Person - Yonkers Paddling & Rowing Club
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