Thanks for the feedback. Here is a pic of the offending paddle. What is the verdict oh wise kayak gurus?

Thanks,
JJ

: Paddles can break anywhere, and at anytime.

: If you are worried about strength, put a patch of two layers of 4 ounce glass
: cloth over the hole, and extending about 2 inches in all directions from
: it. That should be more than strong enough to bridge the area, and tansfer
: any loads to stronger parts of the shaft.

: It is possible that you are paranoid, but you would have to pay for me to go
: through med school before I'd be qualified (and licensed) to give you a
: definite yes or no on that point

: If you can post a picture of the area we might have a better idea of what is
: going on. Obviously, if you rout out a big enough area and patch it with a
: wood piece glued in with epoxy it will be as strong as any other wood
: joint on the paddle.

: PGJ