Not so with kayak touring. I'm thinking about both ACA and BCU training this summer. I want to get my forward stroke down and more efficient, learn a few more of the tougher Greenland rolls, and maybe pass a bit of knowledge on to others. I also want to paddle some big swells on Lake Superior and hone my surfing skills at the same time.
Why the difference in the two disciplines? I'm trying to figure that one out myself. Maybe I've been at the skiing thing so long that I'm content with where I'm at. I notice my speed did pick up a bit with the helmet, although as JJ led me through the 'easy glades' I kept humming "I Got You Babe" as I thought of poor Sonny and his tree encounter (CK: "She took you guys down that crap?"). Those trees just don't move much when you hit em. Maybe in the sport of kayaking I see the potential to paddle more water in more conditions, become more a part of the boat, and also help a few other folks get introduced to the sport. Plus I have a bunch of friends with the same attitude and drive to get better; peer group pressure can be a powerful motivator. It is also just plain fun. Not that skiing isn't but spending all day on the bumps is tough on the ancient knees and joints.
With any weather cooperation at all we should be on Superior in the next couple weeks. the Apostles might take another month or so. Once that paddle dips in fresh water for the first time this season look out! I'm hoping for a great year on the water and continuous improvement over the course of the season as well as that good, clean fun we all crave.
4 comments:
Sounds like a good time in Loveland! I hope to someday get some skiing in out West. For the near future though ... it's about time for the off-season to end, and the paddling season to begin! I'm with you on the BCU stuff, lets make it happen.
I'm waiting to hear from Mr Blades, who will be here for Outdoor Expo. Lets see who else we can round up.
I thought you were skiing just fine. Most fellows your age have resigned themselves to something else. I have always been around people that just kept skiing no matter how old they were. I think skiing is just one of those sports that you have to keep doing no matter what. It doesn't matter how good you are or how far you went but that you just got out in the woods. It's an addiction, much like kayaking the great lakes. It's probably an exhilaration that you cannot explain but you don't ever want to give it up for the world. I still cannot figure out how you do the lay back sow cow thing on your kayaks. In your earlier blog, you mentioned the roll was all your stomach muscles, yoga moves and luck? OK, what if you have had about 8 beers and you try this manuever. Is it still a snap to do or do you have a buddy that comes and saves you if you are stuck with your hull skyward? I am sure the great lake kayakers have some protocols for safety measures but after growing up in MINNESOTA,I know cold water and I would suspect that even if you have a roll mastered in a swimming pool, it must be a different story in the frigid waters of Superior. Good Luck on the water this summer. JJ
Hey! Altitude, telemark skiing and steeps don't always mix on the first day in the high country if you are from low country but you did fine. I have been following Jimmy the Kid around for about 15 years and speed, bumps, and steeps are his passion. I either keep up or get left in the powder dust!But, I feel that if you are outside anywhere having a good time that is what matters. Keep up the good work with kayaking! You seem to really enjoy it and that is what matters most. Have fun! Colorado Kid
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