surfski novice

I am mostly a surfski paddler... similar to a K-1 but for the ocean.  I have raced for many years and every year I learn more and more about my stroke.  I also race OC-1, OC-6 and Dragon Boats.  In this article, we will only address kayak, K-1 and Surfski paddling stroke style. Last year, I realized that I needed to focus on sprints to get a better race start.  This year, I believe I am focusing on an even more important and more basic part of the stroke, the catch, stroke and release . My stroke was not clean enough, not generating as much power as some of my fellow paddlers paddling at the same pace.  Their boats were going faster!  I recognized something was wrong so I went to work fixing it.  It took nearly 6 months of focused work. Steps to an efficient paddling stroke used by the pros: 1) One of my training partners said it best, "draw your paddle like a bow and arrow."  To draw this bow you must turn your entire upper body and keep your lower arm fully exten

Paddling Pasco Bluesway Program is offering a group paddle on July 6th 2013 for experienced paddlers.  Paddling from Hudson Beach, Florida USA north 5.3 miles to the future Sunwest Park.  The trip will be in open water, mostly shallow.  Launch 2pm so please drop off boats to the southwest parking lot area of Hudson Beach no later than 1pm.  Vehicles will need to be parked at the exit location, the future Sunwest Park by 1:30pm.  Shuttle will be provided to get you back to the launch location.  There is no charge for this trip. This is not a beginners trip to the open gulf and length of trip.  Paddlers are encouraged to pay close attention to weather, heat and wind conditions.  Please bring water, a snack, pdf, whistle, etc.  We will maintain an easy but steady 3 knot pace with a break or two. Additional info:  The future Sunwest Park is located north of Hudson Beach on Old Dixie Highway.  There will be some directional signage to help.  The entrance to the park property will