Events

From the organizers of Yak Jam, Norwalk, CT August 12, 2011

Yak Jam 2011 is the fourth annual Kayaker Jamboree spearheaded by SKG (Stamford Kayak Group) founder Peter Cloudas. The mission of the Jamboree is to promote unity and harmony among fellow kayakers from around the region. The weekend’s events range from paddling demonstrations and safety presentations to raffles and an island cleanup on the final day of the event.

Kayakers have been invited from across New York, Connecticut and New Jersey to come for the day, the night or the entire weekend for paddling, swimming, food, and to make new friends.

There are numerous locations in the Connecticut area for planning a kayak event, but Yak Jam 2011 has once again chosen Shea Island of the Norwalk Islands for its scenic location, paddling conditions, inexpensive camping and plentiful wildlife. Parking and access to the island are easy, with main event parking at Calf Pasture free for the entire weekend.

For those with knowledge of the route admittance to the Jamboree starts anytime from Friday at 4PM. Those who do not know the area are advised to contact the group through their meetup page (http://www.meetup.com/StamfordKayakGroup/) for a guided paddle to the location on any of the three days.

The highlight of the weekend is Sunday’s island cleanup and raffle, where attendees armed with large garbage bags will spend the afternoon cleaning up garbage which has been deposited on the island from storms and tidal currents throughout the year.

Mike Mocciae of the Norwalk Parks and Recreation department applauds the conservation efforts of the event, which promotes environmental awareness and protection.

This event is open to kayakers of all levels, as well as those interested in the sport and waterway conservation. From the group at SKG, we hope to see you all there.