Tai’s kayaking journey started when he was eight years old. His grandfather – a seasoned kayaker in his own right – took Tai out to Kinderhook Lake, put him in a nylon dress that hung to his feet, gave him a PFD that was entirely too large, and taught him (in the shallows) how to do a wet exit. Tai promptly practiced this new lesson.
In the middle of the lake.
Poor granddad didn’t know how to get an eight year old kid back into a boat… so Tai was towed back to shore, with the other boat. Despite this misadventure, Tai was hooked… and hasn’t stopped paddling.
Along the way, he’s earned ACA certification as both an Instructor and an Instructor Trainer, and has teaching certifications in three paddling disciplines. Tai feels very strongly that one of the best things in life is to see the lightbulb go on over a student’s head… for them to make that connection… There is nothing like it.
Tai is always willing to talk shop, whether it be about gear, venues, access, skills… drop him a line.
And yes, it’s very strange to talk about myself in the third person.
What People Say
Excellent instruction – fun and engaging!
– Linda Cuevas Horton
Tai gave clear, concise information, and made sure we all understood it; everyone was engaged.
– Gary Archer
Very engaging; clear demos, excellent comments and instruction.
– Lenore Person
Liquid Sky Kayaking 