by Judith Roinich

Created on: August 24, 2008   Last Updated: November 01, 2008

My story begins with a decision by my husband and I to not "go down gracefully". We had turned fifty, we were too young, we would wear out, go down kicking and screaming. On weekends we began to introduce ourselves to activities that would keep our bodies working. We bushwalked, we sailed, we hiked, we cycled and had a great time but on 23 March 2002 we discovered kayaking.

On that day, in hired double kayaks we cautiously paddled out into a mangrove lined river. I was a little nervous, praying that my lifejacket would keep me safe, that my husband would match my paddle stroke evenly and that we would not end up upside down in the river. Gradually our paddles moved in tandem we moved quickly and quietly over a calm sea. We had to hurry as the tide was low and the only time we could travel to an inlet where the mangroves merged overhead into a natural ceiling. It was an awesome environment, it was surreal, then, as the incoming tide began to trickle through we slowly paddled out. Curious dolphins frolicked near our kayak on the way back and I was hooked.

We became more adventurous. We went out on the open sea and entered sea caves hidden beneath rolling hills feeling both scared and excited. We beached our kayaks in an isolated cove then paddled back safely as grimacing storm clouds threatened above.

Our confidence was growing. It was time to look around for our own boat and before too long were the proud owners of a bright yellow double sea kayak. Not just any sea kayak but a modular take-apart for easy transportation kayak. I could barely manage the shopping bags let alone a heavy boat so one that would separate into smaller sections for easy transportation was right for us.

Getting out of my kayak was a constant source of amusement for nearby onlookers. Its not so easy when the bones are stiff and sore and the body tries to fit in places its not meant to go. Sometimes even getting into it brought about gales of laughter - like the time when I routinely stepped into the kayak only to be unceremoniously flipped out the other side into some very cold water. Restoring my dignity meant immediately getting back in and paddling off with head held high while quietly watching in horror as the kayak slowly filled with water leaching from my sodden clothes.

I tried a sit on top inflatable kayak, easy to get on, easy to get off. It was easily transportable in the trunk of the car and great fun in mild weather and on flat water. I reached another milestone, not only was I kayaking at my age but I was doing it solo. It felt great to pack it, inflate it and paddle it without having relying on anyone else. My weight dropped, my bones ached less and my independent spirit was fired up.

Strangely kayaking had never been on my "to do" list. Perhaps you too may wish to try new activities, experiment with sports or hobbies. One of them will grab you, enhance your social contacts, improve your health and generally enrich your life. But if you want to join this exclusive club you have to be fifty something and loving it!

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