First-time kayaker killed
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One kayaker was killed and another injured in an accident over Memorial Day weekend, Channel Islands National Park officials report.
The Coast Guard plucked Ying-tzu Huang, 26, from the ocean May 29 after she suffered head injuries and hypothermia. She died that evening. A big wave swept her and a friend, both Taiwanese nationals, and their tandem kayak into rocks on the east end of Santa Cruz Island. They had been camping with a group at Scorpion Bay, and it was their first time kayaking.
Park Service spokeswoman Yvonne Menard advises kayakers to check wind and swell reports, file a float plan and paddle within their abilities.
She recommends that beginner paddlers go with a guide.
-- Gary Polakovic
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