By Tina Kalenits
Jambar Contributor
While some students relaxed over fall break, others gathered for the Fall Colors Paddle and Picnic and set sail for an early kayaking excursion across Mosquito Lake.
Twelve students and members of the community, with the help of R.J. Markowitz and student workers Bailey Simon and Matthew Evans, set sail for a 3-mile trip on the lake courtesy of the Andrews Student Recreation and Wellness Center on Oct. 15.
Markowitz, coordinator of adventure recreation, said this was a great recreational activity but also an opportunity to learn how to kayak correctly.
Kayaking is a water sport that involves paddling and using a double-bladed oar on a small boat.
“We want everyone to have fun, but another side goal is education. We begin with a brief education to kayaking so they can have fun and be educated,” Markowitz said.
Simon, a junior marketing major, said kayaking is a friendly enough sport for everyone to get involved.
“This is a great way to learn about kayaking and start doing things like this, so we encourage everyone to try this out,” she said.
Evans, a senior nursing major, said he was pleased that 12 people signed up this year.
“I did not expect such a high turnout. This is a lot more than we had on past trips,” Evans said.
Attendees caught glimpses of a bald eagle’s nest before reaching the end of the kayaking excursion.
At the end of the event, they gathered together for a picnic provided by YSU nutrition students before making their way back to YSU.
This event cost $25 for YSU students, $30 for faculty and staff members, $35 for alumni and affiliate members and $45 for non-Andrews members. This price included boat rentals and traveling fees.
The Andrews Student Recreation and Wellness Center has the following events planned: a crate stacking competition on Nov. 24, the Top Rope Climbing Competition and a toy drive on Nov. 16 and open hours for the high ropes course on Nov. 21.
Since the winter months are coming soon, Markowitz said in the spring semester, people can expect more outdoor excursions.
