Aloha,
Starting this Sunday November 13, at 10 a.m. we'll be enjoying winter paddle practice (from now until about the end of February or early March, excluding Christmas Day and possibly New Year's Day this year) in one oc12 and/or one oc6 on the Foss waterway, rain or shine. All paddlers new and old (ha) are welcome. Myself, Uncle Pete, will be responsible for the safe and orderly conduct of this evolution. Use the blog to let coaches know you will show up.
The first hour will routinely be inside the Foss waterway...nothing past the last Marina and all canoes together. Primary goal will be to have a fun endurance paddle with occasional short sprints to keep the old fast twitch muscles firing. At some future time we may begin to venture the first hour into the Sound in winter, but that will require a review by the President and very strict compliance with the Kikaha Puget Sound Paddling Plan. The second hour this season will be devoted to New Zealand paddlers preparing for the World Sprints in March 2006, and these runs may extend into the Sound under favorable conditions, but in strict compliance with Kikaha Puget Sound procedures and policies.
Dress appropriately for winter on Puget Sound where wind chill in calm conditions may on some days occasionally dip into the 30s. So it's essential to wear layers of synthetic material clothing that have designed thermal warming and moisture wicking properties, one light and one medium layer, and a wind/rain breaker shell. A beanie or hat with similar properties is also important. Neoprene booties and similar type gloves are highly recommended. Heavy clothing and cotton wear are not recommended as they will make you sweat sooner, will not wick moisture, and you'll probably get you cold and stay that way the whole time.
Speaking of moisture, remember to pre hydrate, even in cooler temp conditions, and as a general guideline you may want to bring a 16 oz bottle of water along to stay hydrated along the way.
Lifepreserver policy for winter requires you wear one only when outside the Foss Waterway, as long as a suitable one is on board for each paddler/observer on board. Additional requirements are in the Kikaha Lifepreserver Policy.
Scott Moody and Irene McKamey have brainstormed to set up the sign up/info blog to post expressed paddling interest and any updates to the practises. Use the blog to let coaches know you will show up. This platform can be an invaluable way to communicate paddling interests, and plan your day. But it's mostly for you folks, because I'll be there regardless of the count. If for any reason no one shows, I'll be oc1'ing, so absolutely no worries. Any questions or concerns for me, please email or my cell is 253-709-7954.
Each winter in the Northwest brings a wealth of opportunity to get outside and have fun
. Looking forward to seeing anyone interested enjoy the run.
. Looking forward to seeing anyone interested enjoy the run.
Hui hou, Pete
ps - Thanks eh Scotty!
