Qajaq USA

Posted by Greg on April 16, 2008

Qajaq USA is a nonprofit membership organization that is officially recognized by Qaannat Kattuffiat (The Greenland Kayaking Association). Qajaq USA is committed to supporting Qaannat Kattuffiat and their efforts to preserve, study and promote the traditions and techniques of Greenland kayaking while seeking to further the appreciation and development of Greenland-style kayaking in the United States.

I am excited by all aspects of paddlesport, and in particular the fusion of ideas between the different “camps” and disciplines. Although I experiment with a variety of paddle types, including wings and spoons and even canoe paddles, I keep coming back to the Greenland paddle and Greenland technique. I am attracted to the minimalist philosophy, the performance and feel of the paddle (especially in very heavy conditions), the feel and performance of the low-volume, custom tailored kayaks, and the rich history and culture behind the techniques. If you think that Greenland kayaking is just about rolling, then you are missing the entire point of this growing style.

I lobbied for the creation of Qajaq USA when I met with the Qaannat Kattuffiat officials on my first visit to Greenland in 2000, during the first open Greenland National Kayaking championship. Qajaq USA has been a large part of my life for the past eight years. I am fortunate to work with a supportive and talented board of directors. If you are interested in Greenland-style kayaking then please visit the Qajaq USA website to learn more. The volunteers at Qajaq USA are a small but passionate group dedicated to fulling the mission, above.

On the Qajaq USA website you will discover a forum, technique video clips, Greenland kayaking technique information, Greenland kayaking Events, a full color Newsletter, articles, references and more.