CLUB RACING

This year's race schedule includes three club committed races, two long distance change out races, a possible sprint race and two fun club BBQ events. We have set aside race specific training, as well as some afternoon downwind runs when conditions on the Columbia River are right. All members are encouraged to race at a level in which they are comfortable. 

In addition to race practices, we encourage additional training and clean nutritional eating habits to achieve your best performance:

• Paddling Outrigger Canoes, Surfskis, Kayaks, SUPs at least four days a week
• Cross training once a week
• Strength training once a week
• Stretching daily 

RACE PRACTICE MEMBERSHIP -  Anyone can race! Club race practice fee of $75 enables paddlers access to: 

• All race practices
• Regularly scheduled club practices
• Special club paddle events including Ohana Race Days

While every effort is made to offer opportunities for racing to those that are interested, Race Practice Membership does not include race day fees nor translate to race event participation. The HROCC Race Committee is responsible for establishing race eligibility criteria for the season and coaches are responsible for seating the boats for races. Race practice fees will be collected by our coaches.

Seating crews for race boats is always a puzzle, but our coaches will follow established criteria as it will be the deciding factor. Remember, a success for any of our boats or paddlers, is a success for us all. We are one as a club and the strength of our team comes from us all truly putting the whole team ahead of ourselves. Each race will have a criteria level assigned to it and we will strive to seat as many boats as we can with the club members that are available, motivated and qualified to paddle safe and inspiring race.

CREW SELECTION CRITERIA

Level 1 (Rusty Iron, RATI Races)

• Technical practice-type race including all levels of paddler from experience to novice.
• Commitment: All paddlers are encouraged to sign up (Early in the season)

Level 2 (Rooster Rock Race, Sprints)

• Age group
• Technique: Consistent, correct use of the club designated, Puakea Tahitian technique (video evidence)
• Blending: Timing, body movement, power and teamwork meshes with other crew members (video evidence)
• Commitment: Evidence of commitment thru regular attendance to club and race practices and effort to always improve
• Attitude: Maintain a positive attitude and spirit of Ohana at all times, with all members

Level 3 (Gorge DW Challenge, PNW Challenge, Catalina Crossing, Kona Races)

• All Level 2 criteria met
• Physical fitness for endurance evidenced
• Seated for best results with crews that blend well in strength, timing and skill
• Time trials in an OC1 or OC2 if needed for final selection
• Two or more races completed within the last few seasons
• One or more downwind specific practices in strong winds completed for downwind races. 
• Successful Bracing and Huli experiences and ability to easily re-enter the canoe from the water
• Commitment: Attend three practices a week for the previous month and all race practices the week or two prior to race day

“When we are in the canoe, we are one paddler, one heart and one spirit. It is rare to achieve this, but when it occurs, effort becomes effortless and one transcends the limitations of the ego. All becomes one and the true essence of paddling is experienced.”

COACH'S CORNER

How to set for turns in Outrigger Canoes by Gabriel Jaramillo article

Race Sprint Turns video by Coral Sea OCC Steering Clinic

1500 Outrigger Canoe World Sprints Finals technique video