Wednesday, May 23, 2012

Backband Repair

So, I went out for a paddle the other day and was bummed to find out part of one ratchet on my backband had broken off.  As a result, the band would not stay where I wanted it to, obviously leading to a somewhat uncomfortable trip.
Broken Ratchet










 Thankfully the Immersion Research website had new backbands for sale, as well as replacement parts for original ones.  So, I took a chance, figuring I could fix it myself, and ordered two new ratchets (plus a t-shirt of course).  That was on a Friday.  Amazingly, the new parts were at my doorstep the very next Monday!

With the new ratchets in hand, the next step was to peel the neoprene cover back enough so that I could drill out the rivets holding the old ratchets in place. 
After drilling out the rivet
 Then, I used a stainless bolt, putting it through the hole in the ratchet, small washer, nylon strap, large washer, and backband, and threaded a stainless nut on the end.  Because some of the foam had been compressed by the nut, I cut some small pieces from old foam I had laying around and filled in the depression, covering it with a tiny bit of good 'ol duct tape.
Nut and bolt, as seen from the front

Foam patch and duct tape cover
All that was left was to pull the neoprene cover back over the band and put it back in my boat.  
 

My foam patch might be a bit too thick, but I was expecting it to compress a bit with use.  If it doesn't, I can always remove a bit of it and make it flush with the original foam.  Quite a nice fix if I do say so myself!



Friday, May 18, 2012

WABC Interview

Here's a link to the interview I did with Lauren Glassberg for WABC News.  I think it came out pretty well!

Monday, May 14, 2012

TV Interview

Tune in to WABC News tonight at 5 pm to watch an interview I did with Lauren Glassberg, their "Lifestyles" reporter, about kayaking on Long Island and my new book.  I took her paddling in Cold Spring Harbor last weekend and had a blast doing the interview!  Check it out tonight on Channel 7 (in the Long Island/NYC area).




Thursday, May 3, 2012

Constitution Marsh Paddle Challenge, June 2nd

I recently received an email from this event's organizers asking if I'd be willing to spread word of it.  It does sound very interesting and so, here is info. about it.  Not sure if I can attend but I'd sure love to!

On June 2, 2012, twenty lucky challengers will have an exclusive opportunity to conquer a 19 mile paddle through the Marsh and on the historic Hudson River. Kayakers of all levels are welcome to join us at this high-end event. Paddle alongside expert Audubon Naturalist and REI instructors (Recreation Equipment Inc.). All gear, equipment, breakfast, snacks and lunch will be provided.

The paddle begins at 6am at the Marsh, continues into the Hudson to Little Stony Point, Newburgh, Moodna Creek, Storm King Mountain and ending back at Constitution Marsh Audubon Center. Space is limited to 20 paddlers. Cost of the event is $250 Registration Gift and a minimum fundraising goal of $500. there will be great incentives and gifts for the highest fundraisers! Funds raised are tax deductible and will benefit the Constitution Marsh Audubon Center and Sanctuary. To register or for more information please contact Ashia Sheikh at asheikh@audubon.org or call 212-979-3034. Also those unable to participate can still donate, and all donations over $150 will be invited to a Post Paddle Wine Reception and a walk to the Marsh boardwalk on June 2, 2010.

The overall purpose of the event is to raise money for the continued conservation and stewardship of Constitution Marsh. We would greatly appreciate your help in promoting this event to your followers through your New York Outdoors Blog. If you have any questions please feel free to contact me. Also here are some links to the Audubon Center & Sanctuary website, the event webpage, and donation webpage.
http://www.constitutionmarsh.org/index.html
http://constitutionmarshaudubon.blogspot.com/
http://www.crowdrise.com/CMPaddleChallenge/fundraiser/nationalaudubonsocie1