The season has gone by so fast and you’re probably amazed that your first 9-man race is here. The following are just a few reminders, tips and pieces of advice to help you prepare for what lies ahead. Before you know it, the season will be over, so have fun, learn lots and kick ass!
9 Man races (distance races as called in Hawaii) are just that. Longer distance races with 9 paddlers, with 3 paddlers following on an escort boat to relieve those paddling on a regular basis. Changes happen in the water in real time, with relief paddlers climbing in, while those being relieved jumping out.
Many people find these races the most enjoyable due to the fact they get to see the drama of the race unfold as they move in and out of the canoe. There is also the strategic aspect of these races as the competing crews watch for signs of bad changes, or combos. These races are longer than the other races prior, but if you've done your homework, you will be rewarded.
What To Expect
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Paddler Safety and Courtesy on Escort Boats |
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Courtesty of "Skipper Rich"
Rich Lagrand,
Flotilla Commander
US Coast Guard Auxiliary
District 11(sr) , Division 2, Flotilla 9
One of the unique “challenges” of
9-man racing is finding good quality escort boats with safety
conscious and experienced skippers. Because we often do not know the
skippers we recruit, nor their experience level both as a
recreational boater and as a canoe escort, it’s important that we
be aware of certain safety rules that we should always follow –
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