On Sunday I raced my last paddling race in Hawaii. And I cried.
I had absolutely no idea it would affect me that much. In fact, I nearly didn't race that day. I almost stayed home to read a book and pack up the apartment. But my loyalties to the club won out and I dragged myself down to Ke'ehi Lagoon near the airport.
When we first moved here there was a massive sewage spill in Waikiki that drastically polluted the waters of Waikiki (oh, isn't Hawaii lovely) so our club moved our practices to Ke'ehi Lagoon. Ke'ehi Lagoon is dull, flat, ugly, and cold. But that's where I learned to paddle.
So as I drove into Ke'ehi Lagoon on Sunday afternoon I remembered those early days of paddling. Days when I didn't know anyone but desperately wanted to be invited to join in the fun. Days when I flipped-flopped between loving and hating paddling. Days when Hawaii was so new to me it really hadn't even sunk in.
My race on Sunday wasn't that great. I was in terrible shape to race. I was physcially and emotionally exhausted. I had just eaten a Subway sandwich, and hadn't really warmed up at all. But I truly gave it my all. And because I blessed to be racing with some of the best women in my club, we easily won. I am so honored to walk away with a gold medal.
As we slowed after the finish line one of my beautiful, bubbly and incredibly buff paddling friends piped up from the front of the boat, "Jenni James is that your last race?" And I responded, "It was, thanks for the great ride." Then I paddled on with a big smile.
It's customary after a race to hug all your fellow paddlers. And that's when it hit me. Paddling has been as much as my life in Hawaii as Bryan has. All of my closest friends have come from paddling. Much of my growth as a person is a direct result of paddling. I truly love this sport. And I really, really love the girls.
As I gave each girl a hug the tears started to well up more and more until I couldn't keep it in. I am so incredibly sad to leave this. I truly don't believe I will find this again in my life. I am letting myself mourn it, and honor it.
And I'll cry it out. I will miss paddling. I will miss my paddling friends. And I will miss my Hawaii life so terribly. So, so terribly.
Showing posts with label paddling. Show all posts
Showing posts with label paddling. Show all posts
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Life Interrupted
For the past six months my life was dominated by paddling. I practiced at least three times a week. I was in a canoe about 6 hours a week, in the ocean and feeling the saltwater regularly, and in a bathing suit more than in jeans. And it abruptly came to a halt three weeks ago.
Why?
Molokai.
Three weeks ago last Sunday was the grand finale, the Molokai race. Even looking back on it, it's hard to tell you about it. It was pretty amazing. I went in stronger and more confident than I've ever been. I know I paddled well. And maybe it's for those reasons that this particular race wasn't quite as dynamic as my past ones. Or it could simply be that the conditions were flat, we had no drama and therefore it wasn't quite as exciting. Regardless, I'm extremely proud of myself that I did it.
We finished in 6 hours and 18 minutes. 42 miles. We came in fairly far back in the pack but the pack was much smaller this year than in years past. Our first crew finished 3rd which is their best finish in this race and an amazing accomplishment.
It's very possible that this was my last Molokai race, maybe even my last canoe race. I definitely feel some sadness about that. This sport has been so incredibly good for me. Socially, physically, mentally. It's been one of my best life lessons.
Anyhow, on with the pictures! Starting from the sunset in Molokai (looking towards Oahu) on Saturday night, and wrapping up as we approach Diamond Head for the end of the race. I'm easy to spot because I'm the only one in a white t-shirt and a white visor.
Thank you for all your support with my paddling. Thank you for letting me feel it all again in this blog.
Why?
Molokai.
Three weeks ago last Sunday was the grand finale, the Molokai race. Even looking back on it, it's hard to tell you about it. It was pretty amazing. I went in stronger and more confident than I've ever been. I know I paddled well. And maybe it's for those reasons that this particular race wasn't quite as dynamic as my past ones. Or it could simply be that the conditions were flat, we had no drama and therefore it wasn't quite as exciting. Regardless, I'm extremely proud of myself that I did it.
We finished in 6 hours and 18 minutes. 42 miles. We came in fairly far back in the pack but the pack was much smaller this year than in years past. Our first crew finished 3rd which is their best finish in this race and an amazing accomplishment.
It's very possible that this was my last Molokai race, maybe even my last canoe race. I definitely feel some sadness about that. This sport has been so incredibly good for me. Socially, physically, mentally. It's been one of my best life lessons.
Anyhow, on with the pictures! Starting from the sunset in Molokai (looking towards Oahu) on Saturday night, and wrapping up as we approach Diamond Head for the end of the race. I'm easy to spot because I'm the only one in a white t-shirt and a white visor.
Thank you for all your support with my paddling. Thank you for letting me feel it all again in this blog.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
My Mom is Coming to Town
She arrives tonight!
We're going wedding dress shopping on Thursday and Friday. Then on Sunday she'll meet me on the beach after I finish the 42-mile Molokai race.
Life has been racing by me lately. I feel like I'm constantly looking behind me to remember where the time went. The last month of my life? Lots of paddling, some wedding planning and, uh? I have no idea!
This week should be pretty incredible. I keep tripping out on the fact that I'm cramming two seriously life-changing events into one long weekend. Wedding dress shopping? That better only happen once. I imagine it will be emotional, overwhelming and memory-making. My third Molokai race? Probably will be my last. And probably will kick my butt. Should be emotional, overwhelming, memory-making and very empowering.
I'll keep you posted on how it all goes.
We're going wedding dress shopping on Thursday and Friday. Then on Sunday she'll meet me on the beach after I finish the 42-mile Molokai race.
Life has been racing by me lately. I feel like I'm constantly looking behind me to remember where the time went. The last month of my life? Lots of paddling, some wedding planning and, uh? I have no idea!
This week should be pretty incredible. I keep tripping out on the fact that I'm cramming two seriously life-changing events into one long weekend. Wedding dress shopping? That better only happen once. I imagine it will be emotional, overwhelming and memory-making. My third Molokai race? Probably will be my last. And probably will kick my butt. Should be emotional, overwhelming, memory-making and very empowering.
I'll keep you posted on how it all goes.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
On Paddling and Life
On Sunday I had a few of those life changing moments. Where you sort of sit up and look around and think "oh my god, this is my life."
It was during our race as I sat in seat one of the canoe (hardest seat, remember). I could hear the rest of my team cheering me on from the escort boat, I felt strong and I knew I was doing a good job. As I looked ahead of me I only saw the tip of the canoe and miles of blue ocean. I must have had a huge grin on my face and I just kept thinking "I've come a long way."
In the two and half years that we've lived in Hawaii, there have been a lot of sacrifices. We gave up a lot to leave our home and follow a dream I had. I have missed my friends more than I have ever let on. I have felt lost and wondered why I needed to be here. We've both worked jobs that would have paid us considerably more on the mainland, all the while everything costs more here. We've missed parties and weddings and baby get-togethers. We save every day of vacation to visit friends and family. There are many times that I wonder why I needed to be here. And if I've getting out of it more than I'm putting in.
Somehow on Sunday it became clear what I've gotten out of my time in Hawaii. This will sound corny and cheesy but I'll say it anyway, more for myself than for any of you. I have really grown here. I've become someone I didn't know I could be. And I like her. I've pushed so many of my comfort levels. I've made friends that are different from the people I've know throughout the rest of my life. I'm determined and dedicated and I'm proud of what I've done - in the canoe and out.
I have a feeling that when I'm 80 and look back on the chapters of my life, the one about Hawaii and paddling will be one of the best.
It was during our race as I sat in seat one of the canoe (hardest seat, remember). I could hear the rest of my team cheering me on from the escort boat, I felt strong and I knew I was doing a good job. As I looked ahead of me I only saw the tip of the canoe and miles of blue ocean. I must have had a huge grin on my face and I just kept thinking "I've come a long way."
In the two and half years that we've lived in Hawaii, there have been a lot of sacrifices. We gave up a lot to leave our home and follow a dream I had. I have missed my friends more than I have ever let on. I have felt lost and wondered why I needed to be here. We've both worked jobs that would have paid us considerably more on the mainland, all the while everything costs more here. We've missed parties and weddings and baby get-togethers. We save every day of vacation to visit friends and family. There are many times that I wonder why I needed to be here. And if I've getting out of it more than I'm putting in.
Somehow on Sunday it became clear what I've gotten out of my time in Hawaii. This will sound corny and cheesy but I'll say it anyway, more for myself than for any of you. I have really grown here. I've become someone I didn't know I could be. And I like her. I've pushed so many of my comfort levels. I've made friends that are different from the people I've know throughout the rest of my life. I'm determined and dedicated and I'm proud of what I've done - in the canoe and out.
I have a feeling that when I'm 80 and look back on the chapters of my life, the one about Hawaii and paddling will be one of the best.
Tuesday, September 02, 2008
Third Kona's a Charm
This past weekend I was on the Big Island for the infamous Kona weekend of paddling. The weekend kicks off with an 18 mile race and typically concludes with a hangover.
The last two times I've been to Kona to paddle, I've suffered through the race and thoroughly enjoyed the rest of the weekend. This year the events were a little more evenly matched. I really, really enjoyed the race.
I sat seat 1 in our 5th crew. By far, the hardest seat to sit, especially in this race. But I had an awesome crew and went into the race determined to stay strong through the end. We completed the race in 2 hours and 33 minutes which is pretty darn good. I think we came in 34th (but I don't know how many boats there were overall). I paddled consistently and strongly and am really proud of myself. About two-thirds of the way through my energy dropped a bit and a bunch of boats passed us which was crazy frustrating. My entire team was really supportive of me and it made me realize how far I've come in this sport. Two years ago I really barely completed this race. This year, I led my boat. Rock on Jenni.
Of course, as much fun as I had in the race, the rest of the weekend is really what it's all about. I met my friend Jaisy for lunch, napped a little, cruised Kona a little, and then hit the town with the team for drinks and dancing.
The next morning I jumped in the ocean, cheered on our team in the doublehull, rehashed crazy stories from the night before, and took it easy until it was time to fly home.
Also, big kudos to our team. Our womens first crew won the race, a first for us.
Here I am enjoying Saturday night:
The last two times I've been to Kona to paddle, I've suffered through the race and thoroughly enjoyed the rest of the weekend. This year the events were a little more evenly matched. I really, really enjoyed the race.
I sat seat 1 in our 5th crew. By far, the hardest seat to sit, especially in this race. But I had an awesome crew and went into the race determined to stay strong through the end. We completed the race in 2 hours and 33 minutes which is pretty darn good. I think we came in 34th (but I don't know how many boats there were overall). I paddled consistently and strongly and am really proud of myself. About two-thirds of the way through my energy dropped a bit and a bunch of boats passed us which was crazy frustrating. My entire team was really supportive of me and it made me realize how far I've come in this sport. Two years ago I really barely completed this race. This year, I led my boat. Rock on Jenni.
Of course, as much fun as I had in the race, the rest of the weekend is really what it's all about. I met my friend Jaisy for lunch, napped a little, cruised Kona a little, and then hit the town with the team for drinks and dancing.
The next morning I jumped in the ocean, cheered on our team in the doublehull, rehashed crazy stories from the night before, and took it easy until it was time to fly home.
Also, big kudos to our team. Our womens first crew won the race, a first for us.
Here I am enjoying Saturday night:
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
I am Hardcore
I am giddy over these pictures I just got from our race this past weekend.
Check 'em out.
I'm in the boat on the left with the white visor on.
Check 'em out.
I'm in the boat on the left with the white visor on.
Monday, August 25, 2008
From Elegant to Extreme
This weekend was an excellent example of the two sides of my life...
On Saturday I met my friend Jaisy and her parents for a very nice brunch at Longhi's. Over yummy food we shared great conversations about life, families, and wedding plans. We laughed and hugged and had a great time. Then later in the day I met two of my co-workers for afternoon tea at the Moana Surfrider to celebrate one's upcoming wedding. We talked about our relationships, our future plans, our wedding details. We exchanged gifts, gossiped and relaxed.
On Sunday I was up before the sun and paddled with nine other girls for 3 hours and 41 minutes along 26 miles of Oahu's coast. I sweated and grunted and winced in pain. We yelled and cheered on our crew. I ended the day with a cut thumb, a bruised left elbow and right leg, and an unfortunate sunburn.
In my mind, a very perfect weekend. And very true to my life here.
On Saturday I met my friend Jaisy and her parents for a very nice brunch at Longhi's. Over yummy food we shared great conversations about life, families, and wedding plans. We laughed and hugged and had a great time. Then later in the day I met two of my co-workers for afternoon tea at the Moana Surfrider to celebrate one's upcoming wedding. We talked about our relationships, our future plans, our wedding details. We exchanged gifts, gossiped and relaxed.
On Sunday I was up before the sun and paddled with nine other girls for 3 hours and 41 minutes along 26 miles of Oahu's coast. I sweated and grunted and winced in pain. We yelled and cheered on our crew. I ended the day with a cut thumb, a bruised left elbow and right leg, and an unfortunate sunburn.
In my mind, a very perfect weekend. And very true to my life here.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Equally Fantastic Weekend, A How To
You thought it couldn't be done but I managed it: two awesome weekends in a row!
First, host a girls night at your house. Food, wine, friends, wine. Laughter, cattiness and fun should result.
Next, a full day of a paddling regatta. Paddle your first one-mile race and WIN! Be rewarded with a medal on a ribbon and generally have a great time.
Wrap it all up with a kick-ass night of costume karaoke in honor of a good friend leaving Hawaii. Scrounge your closet for a random collection of clothes that leave you sort of looking like an Axl Rose or Brett Michael groupie. Sort of. Have a great time yelling at the top of your lungs to the songs you know.
Finally, sleep in a bit, go shopping in Waikiki, clean the house, paddle, and reunite with Bryan.
First, host a girls night at your house. Food, wine, friends, wine. Laughter, cattiness and fun should result.
Next, a full day of a paddling regatta. Paddle your first one-mile race and WIN! Be rewarded with a medal on a ribbon and generally have a great time.
Wrap it all up with a kick-ass night of costume karaoke in honor of a good friend leaving Hawaii. Scrounge your closet for a random collection of clothes that leave you sort of looking like an Axl Rose or Brett Michael groupie. Sort of. Have a great time yelling at the top of your lungs to the songs you know.
Finally, sleep in a bit, go shopping in Waikiki, clean the house, paddle, and reunite with Bryan.
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Feels Good to be a Gangsta
When Gansta = Winner
First paddling regatta of the season and my boat won our race. Woot! Woot! Our team also did very well overall.
That's all I've got. Sorry I've been so quiet.
First paddling regatta of the season and my boat won our race. Woot! Woot! Our team also did very well overall.
That's all I've got. Sorry I've been so quiet.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
A Proud Moment
On Sunday we had our "end of the season" paddling party. Really just a chance for us to all get together again and to give our coaches thank you gifts. To my surprise, the coach also awarded gifts to four paddlers that he thought stood out. To my absolute amazement, I got the "Most Improved" award. I was so honored! It felt awesome to be recognized and to know my efforts didn't go unnoticed.
A nice shiny star to hang on top of an excellent season.
A nice shiny star to hang on top of an excellent season.
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Monday, September 24, 2007
Loving It More Than Ever
Yesterday I paddled the Kaiwi Channel from Molokai to Waikiki in six hours and 30 minutes.
It rocked. I loved it, absolutely loved it. Everyone who has paddled for a while considers this the race to race. And it's not just because it's the longest or hardest race around. There's something about the channel that gets you. It's magical somehow. The six and a half hours went by in a flash. It felt like maybe three. My body didn't hurt too much. My mind was sharp. It was amazing.
They also say you go through every emotion in a race like this. From happiness to frustration, to sadness and glee. I was up the whole time. I had nerves in the beginning, complete exhilaration when we neared other boats, a headache in the middle I had to fight, and a total perma-grin when we crossed the finish. As we approached the finish we could hear the announcer calling our boat in with each of our names, "Waikiki Beach Boys.... Jenni James". My name clearer than anyone else's. And I almost cried from complete happiness.
The down emotions didn't get me until today. This has been an incredible paddling season for me. I am so proud of myself and I have gotten so much out of it. And I'm sad it's over. It concluded with this monumental race. I thank all of you for your support and best wishes. I wish you were all here so I could get hugs and smiles. I don't have too many folks here in Hawaii to share this with. Most of them paddle so that's sort of an even trade. A few friends offered to meet me at the finish and I turned them down - which was stupid, I won't do that again. And almost everyone else I know is at work. They weren't interested in my race. It was like something I had just done over the weekend. It's been hard not to share it with people through the day. However, paddling is not something I ever did to impress anyone else. It has always been about my own enjoyment and growth. It's good to reflect on it personally. It's good to share it with the world (or my tiny world) with this blog.
We ended up in 42nd place, 15 minutes faster than last year. I had honestly thought we would finish better. It felt like we were flying every minute of the race. And the conditions were working in our favor, good current, waves, and the wind pushing us in. However, this was the most competitive race in many years. There were a record-setting 83 boats entered in the race, with all of the top crews in the world represented. Aussies, Kiwis, Tahitians, Californians, even some Canadians and mid-westerners (they paddle in lakes). A predominantly Hawaii crew finished first. Our first boat got 5th and our second boat got 17th. So a very, very impressive finish for the Waikiki Beach Boys.
When we neared Oahu I felt like I still had hours of paddling left in me. At one point in the race our coached called a change for me to get out of the canoe and I thought "I don't want to get out, I'm not tired, I'm having too much fun." I hope every Molokai race in my future has some of that too it.
It rocked. I loved it, absolutely loved it. Everyone who has paddled for a while considers this the race to race. And it's not just because it's the longest or hardest race around. There's something about the channel that gets you. It's magical somehow. The six and a half hours went by in a flash. It felt like maybe three. My body didn't hurt too much. My mind was sharp. It was amazing.
They also say you go through every emotion in a race like this. From happiness to frustration, to sadness and glee. I was up the whole time. I had nerves in the beginning, complete exhilaration when we neared other boats, a headache in the middle I had to fight, and a total perma-grin when we crossed the finish. As we approached the finish we could hear the announcer calling our boat in with each of our names, "Waikiki Beach Boys.... Jenni James". My name clearer than anyone else's. And I almost cried from complete happiness.
The down emotions didn't get me until today. This has been an incredible paddling season for me. I am so proud of myself and I have gotten so much out of it. And I'm sad it's over. It concluded with this monumental race. I thank all of you for your support and best wishes. I wish you were all here so I could get hugs and smiles. I don't have too many folks here in Hawaii to share this with. Most of them paddle so that's sort of an even trade. A few friends offered to meet me at the finish and I turned them down - which was stupid, I won't do that again. And almost everyone else I know is at work. They weren't interested in my race. It was like something I had just done over the weekend. It's been hard not to share it with people through the day. However, paddling is not something I ever did to impress anyone else. It has always been about my own enjoyment and growth. It's good to reflect on it personally. It's good to share it with the world (or my tiny world) with this blog.
We ended up in 42nd place, 15 minutes faster than last year. I had honestly thought we would finish better. It felt like we were flying every minute of the race. And the conditions were working in our favor, good current, waves, and the wind pushing us in. However, this was the most competitive race in many years. There were a record-setting 83 boats entered in the race, with all of the top crews in the world represented. Aussies, Kiwis, Tahitians, Californians, even some Canadians and mid-westerners (they paddle in lakes). A predominantly Hawaii crew finished first. Our first boat got 5th and our second boat got 17th. So a very, very impressive finish for the Waikiki Beach Boys.
When we neared Oahu I felt like I still had hours of paddling left in me. At one point in the race our coached called a change for me to get out of the canoe and I thought "I don't want to get out, I'm not tired, I'm having too much fun." I hope every Molokai race in my future has some of that too it.
Friday, September 21, 2007
Thursday, September 20, 2007
It All Comes Down to This
It's that time of year again....
Molokai.
The Molokai race is the SuperBowl of paddling. And it happens this weekend. 42 miles from island to island. Yikes!
Last year I went into it completely blind. I'd never done a race like that before. I just put my faith and trust in my coaches and teammates and I held onto my firm belief that I deserved it and I could do it! And I did.
This year is completely different. This year is much, much more competitive. And I know what to expect so I'm all anxious. I've had anxiety for the past week. I was worried I wouldn't make our third crew - I did. I wondered how I'd get to Molokai - I'm taking a catamaran. I worried if I'd be as strong as I have been - probably not, I got sick yesterday. I wondered if I would have fun or if it would feel like torture - guess we'll see. Anyhow, it's been in my head every minute of everyday. And it ends on Sunday.
Anxiety aside, I'm pumped for this. I think it will be fun. I know I'll have a good crew. And I know this is a very special event. Very few women get to do this event. And some travel across the ocean to do it.
So please wish me luck!
Molokai.
The Molokai race is the SuperBowl of paddling. And it happens this weekend. 42 miles from island to island. Yikes!
Last year I went into it completely blind. I'd never done a race like that before. I just put my faith and trust in my coaches and teammates and I held onto my firm belief that I deserved it and I could do it! And I did.
This year is completely different. This year is much, much more competitive. And I know what to expect so I'm all anxious. I've had anxiety for the past week. I was worried I wouldn't make our third crew - I did. I wondered how I'd get to Molokai - I'm taking a catamaran. I worried if I'd be as strong as I have been - probably not, I got sick yesterday. I wondered if I would have fun or if it would feel like torture - guess we'll see. Anyhow, it's been in my head every minute of everyday. And it ends on Sunday.
Anxiety aside, I'm pumped for this. I think it will be fun. I know I'll have a good crew. And I know this is a very special event. Very few women get to do this event. And some travel across the ocean to do it.
So please wish me luck!
Monday, September 10, 2007
32 Miles of Fun
My goodness, another paddling post? I swear, that's all I do with my life. I paddle and I work. And work is more boring than paddling.
Anyhow, yesterday I participated in the E Lau Hoe race (I have no idea what it means). It was a 32 mile race along the south part of the island, like the entire south side and plus some. My boat completed the race in 5:35. So, yeah, a very long race. But I had fun. I find that amazing. How can I have fun for almost six hours of the same activity? How can something that makes my shoulders ache so bad and creates enormous blisters on my hands be enjoyable? I really don't understand it. It's funny, the very first leg of the race was torture for me. I was tired and my arms hurt and I was miserable. I figure my brain sort of said "What the hell Jenni? You're going to keep doing this for five more hours?! I'm going to start telling you this is fun. No point in being miserable for six hours." Whatever it was, it worked. I had a blast.
One highlight of the race was some really messy water we encountered when I had to stay on the left side to keep the boat from flipping over. I started to study the swells and actually learned enough that I could predict the waves and really help the boat.
Bryan also had a sports filled weekend. He played softball and basketball on Saturday and then joined his old co-workers for an evening of John Madden Football.
Anyhow, yesterday I participated in the E Lau Hoe race (I have no idea what it means). It was a 32 mile race along the south part of the island, like the entire south side and plus some. My boat completed the race in 5:35. So, yeah, a very long race. But I had fun. I find that amazing. How can I have fun for almost six hours of the same activity? How can something that makes my shoulders ache so bad and creates enormous blisters on my hands be enjoyable? I really don't understand it. It's funny, the very first leg of the race was torture for me. I was tired and my arms hurt and I was miserable. I figure my brain sort of said "What the hell Jenni? You're going to keep doing this for five more hours?! I'm going to start telling you this is fun. No point in being miserable for six hours." Whatever it was, it worked. I had a blast.
One highlight of the race was some really messy water we encountered when I had to stay on the left side to keep the boat from flipping over. I started to study the swells and actually learned enough that I could predict the waves and really help the boat.
Bryan also had a sports filled weekend. He played softball and basketball on Saturday and then joined his old co-workers for an evening of John Madden Football.
Tuesday, September 04, 2007
Good Times in Kona
This weekend was an absolute blast! I was in Kona for a paddling race and had one of the best weekends ever. More than ever before I felt very much part of the group with my paddling friends and just really had a great time.
We were up early on Saturday four our 18 mile race down the coast. I was in our 5th crew, but decidedly our nicest crew. I did this race last year and was pretty much miserable for the entire length of it. I was so happy to enjoy it this year. We were positive, we were moving great, it was terrific. We passed boats left and right and had our 4th crew boat in our sights the entire way. We ended up only 45 seconds behind our 4th crew, and 35th out of the total 140 boats entered. It rocked.
I got out of the boat and felt awful. I was so sore, so blistery, so out of my mind. It's an odd emotional race. It gets in your head. I wanted to cry when I was done. But a shower, a sort-of nap, and some food later, I was 100% and ready to hit the town with the girls.
Best night I've had in ages! I felt like I was back in college. We were all drinking and stupid and having a blast. Everyone got hugs, everyone was giggling. We made it to LuLu's for the paddling party and everyone was dancing and drinking. I let it all go and had a really great time. At one point I think I told my coach I needed a hug. And I managed not to feel embarrassed about that the next day.
Miraculously, I woke up the next day feeling pretty good. A bagel and a Chai latte and I was ready for our double hull race. This was sort of a re-do of last year's race where we spun out. We were in it to win it this year. We didn't win. Oh well. I'm over it. Last double hull race for me.
I wrapped up my Kona trip with a veggie burger and a cruise through town. Bryan picked me up from the airport, we went to dinner, and yesterday we went for a great hike.
Bryan spent his weekend with a few different friends, on his computer, and taking a few runs.
We were up early on Saturday four our 18 mile race down the coast. I was in our 5th crew, but decidedly our nicest crew. I did this race last year and was pretty much miserable for the entire length of it. I was so happy to enjoy it this year. We were positive, we were moving great, it was terrific. We passed boats left and right and had our 4th crew boat in our sights the entire way. We ended up only 45 seconds behind our 4th crew, and 35th out of the total 140 boats entered. It rocked.
I got out of the boat and felt awful. I was so sore, so blistery, so out of my mind. It's an odd emotional race. It gets in your head. I wanted to cry when I was done. But a shower, a sort-of nap, and some food later, I was 100% and ready to hit the town with the girls.
Best night I've had in ages! I felt like I was back in college. We were all drinking and stupid and having a blast. Everyone got hugs, everyone was giggling. We made it to LuLu's for the paddling party and everyone was dancing and drinking. I let it all go and had a really great time. At one point I think I told my coach I needed a hug. And I managed not to feel embarrassed about that the next day.
Miraculously, I woke up the next day feeling pretty good. A bagel and a Chai latte and I was ready for our double hull race. This was sort of a re-do of last year's race where we spun out. We were in it to win it this year. We didn't win. Oh well. I'm over it. Last double hull race for me.
I wrapped up my Kona trip with a veggie burger and a cruise through town. Bryan picked me up from the airport, we went to dinner, and yesterday we went for a great hike.
Bryan spent his weekend with a few different friends, on his computer, and taking a few runs.
Friday, August 31, 2007
Weekend of Firsts, 3 of 3 (last one!)
Okay, so this is the biggie. And I'll keep it short.
This past weekend our canoe club WON OUR FIRST LONG DISTANCE RACE. This has never been done in the history of our club. It is a very, very big deal. And we were psyched.
To be clear, I was not in the winning boat. We entered three boats - #1 won, I was in #3. I am so, so, so happy for the girls in the winning boat.
We hope that this newly blessed and undefeated canoe keeps all its good mojo and wins again this weekend in Kona.
This past weekend our canoe club WON OUR FIRST LONG DISTANCE RACE. This has never been done in the history of our club. It is a very, very big deal. And we were psyched.
To be clear, I was not in the winning boat. We entered three boats - #1 won, I was in #3. I am so, so, so happy for the girls in the winning boat.
We hope that this newly blessed and undefeated canoe keeps all its good mojo and wins again this weekend in Kona.
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Weekend of Firsts, 2 of 3
The second new experience of the weekend was a complete honor and, of course, paddling.
I was designated to sit Seat One in our race on Sunday. Seat One is pretty much considered the hardest seat in the boat. You're right up front and it's both physically and and emotionally draining. In the first seat your paddle hits the water before it's moving in the right direction so your muscles feel it. And you're right up there so you set the stroke rate and have no one to follow. I was completely floored when I found out I'd be "stroking" the boat (don't really know why it's called that, but Seat One is the "stroker"). It's emotionally draining because you're sort of disconnected. You can't see the other people in your boat. You can't feel if it's going well. In fact, I kept my head down almost the whole time so I had no idea what was going on.
When I found out they wanted me in Seat One I thought they were joking. I've never stroked a race, I've barely sat there in practice. But they think I'm good at it and I figured I could do it. I did. I did the whole thing. It was a long distance race so 10 of us swapped in out of the six seats of the boat. I kept waiting for our coach to pull me out but he never did. I figure I did about 40-45% of the race. It was a 25 mile race so I'm pretty darn proud of myself. I gave it 100%. Which is funny to think about. I don't really often give 100%. Not at work, not grocery shopping, certainly not cleaning. But I can say with certainty that I didn't leave more in me than a percentage or two.
The race course was absolutely gorgeous. From Kailua to Waikiki. Along beautiful beaches and cliffs and around Diamond Head. At some points our canoe was less than 15 feet from the cliff walls with blue and water swirling around. It was a true experience.
I was designated to sit Seat One in our race on Sunday. Seat One is pretty much considered the hardest seat in the boat. You're right up front and it's both physically and and emotionally draining. In the first seat your paddle hits the water before it's moving in the right direction so your muscles feel it. And you're right up there so you set the stroke rate and have no one to follow. I was completely floored when I found out I'd be "stroking" the boat (don't really know why it's called that, but Seat One is the "stroker"). It's emotionally draining because you're sort of disconnected. You can't see the other people in your boat. You can't feel if it's going well. In fact, I kept my head down almost the whole time so I had no idea what was going on.
When I found out they wanted me in Seat One I thought they were joking. I've never stroked a race, I've barely sat there in practice. But they think I'm good at it and I figured I could do it. I did. I did the whole thing. It was a long distance race so 10 of us swapped in out of the six seats of the boat. I kept waiting for our coach to pull me out but he never did. I figure I did about 40-45% of the race. It was a 25 mile race so I'm pretty darn proud of myself. I gave it 100%. Which is funny to think about. I don't really often give 100%. Not at work, not grocery shopping, certainly not cleaning. But I can say with certainty that I didn't leave more in me than a percentage or two.
The race course was absolutely gorgeous. From Kailua to Waikiki. Along beautiful beaches and cliffs and around Diamond Head. At some points our canoe was less than 15 feet from the cliff walls with blue and water swirling around. It was a true experience.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Weekend of Firsts, 1 of 3
This weekend was chock-full of new experiences. All of them were paddling related, but what's new?
On Saturday morning I was in Kailua for our new canoe blessing. You can't imagine how exciting it is for our club to get a new canoe. The blessing itself was relatively low-key but pretty fitting in that we're all low-key and we were on the beach. A Hawaiian kahuna* joined us and spoke of how important paddling and canoes have been to the Hawaiian spirits. He spoke about how paddling promotes important Hawaiian ideals of health, teamwork, and culture. He splashed koa water to signify the original material of the canoe. He sprinkled Hawaiian salt because Hawaiians consider salt the essence of life. I might have this all a bit wrong but this is what I took away from it. Then he asked us to hold hands in a circle around the canoe and thanked all those involved in the creation of the canoe and bless all those that would paddle in it. He asked for health and success. He asked us to lay hands on the canoe as he said his final blessing. He then asked our coaches and club president to wrap a maile lei around the nose of the boat. I think he also gave the boat a Hawaiian name which I have not yet memorized.
Our top paddlers then took the canoe for its first official spin. When they got back we all got a chance to paddle it. I thought it felt like any old canoe but the energy still made it very special.
* I don't really know for sure that he was a kahuna, I just don't know a better word. He's sort of a Hawaiian minister of sorts.
On Saturday morning I was in Kailua for our new canoe blessing. You can't imagine how exciting it is for our club to get a new canoe. The blessing itself was relatively low-key but pretty fitting in that we're all low-key and we were on the beach. A Hawaiian kahuna* joined us and spoke of how important paddling and canoes have been to the Hawaiian spirits. He spoke about how paddling promotes important Hawaiian ideals of health, teamwork, and culture. He splashed koa water to signify the original material of the canoe. He sprinkled Hawaiian salt because Hawaiians consider salt the essence of life. I might have this all a bit wrong but this is what I took away from it. Then he asked us to hold hands in a circle around the canoe and thanked all those involved in the creation of the canoe and bless all those that would paddle in it. He asked for health and success. He asked us to lay hands on the canoe as he said his final blessing. He then asked our coaches and club president to wrap a maile lei around the nose of the boat. I think he also gave the boat a Hawaiian name which I have not yet memorized.
Our top paddlers then took the canoe for its first official spin. When they got back we all got a chance to paddle it. I thought it felt like any old canoe but the energy still made it very special.
* I don't really know for sure that he was a kahuna, I just don't know a better word. He's sort of a Hawaiian minister of sorts.
Friday, August 24, 2007
For the Love of the Ocean
This morning I attended a memorial service for Dukie Kauhulu. I didn't know him but he's the man who founded my canoe club and he was one of Waikiki's most famous beach boys. He taught many people to surf Waikiki's waves and to paddle outrigger canoes. We paddled our club canoes over to his beach service in front of Duke's and then paddled out past the surf to spread flowers as they scattered his ashes.
I'd imagine you don't spend most of your life at the beach in Waikiki teaching folks to love the ocean unless you're a really cool person. From everything I can tell, this man was pretty remarkable. His pictures show a man with terrific smile and a very deep tan. His wife made it clear he had insisted on a party. There were casual clothes, laughs and songs. And when we got out on the ocean folks started passing Bud Lights, no doubt in tribute to Dukie. The final moment was when they sunk a koa paddle as his tombstone to rest at the bottom of the ocean. As we paddled back to Waikiki, the clouds came in and the rain started, a definite Hawaiian blessing.
This week our club purchased a new canoe! No small feat for a club our size with such poor members. Tomorrow we're conducting a Hawaiian blessing ceremony so we can race it on Sunday with the Hawaiian spirits on our side. I'll also take part in my first canoe rigging and hope to learn something good.
It's funny because we're a club of mostly white folks who are in it for the sport. We're competitive and we don't often incorporate much culture or tradition in our ways. But when I stop and think about it, I'm participating in an activity that is essential to the entire Pacific region. Canoes and paddles are what spread people and culture throughout the entire Pacific Rim. I'm just doing my part to keep the torch burning.
I'd imagine you don't spend most of your life at the beach in Waikiki teaching folks to love the ocean unless you're a really cool person. From everything I can tell, this man was pretty remarkable. His pictures show a man with terrific smile and a very deep tan. His wife made it clear he had insisted on a party. There were casual clothes, laughs and songs. And when we got out on the ocean folks started passing Bud Lights, no doubt in tribute to Dukie. The final moment was when they sunk a koa paddle as his tombstone to rest at the bottom of the ocean. As we paddled back to Waikiki, the clouds came in and the rain started, a definite Hawaiian blessing.
This week our club purchased a new canoe! No small feat for a club our size with such poor members. Tomorrow we're conducting a Hawaiian blessing ceremony so we can race it on Sunday with the Hawaiian spirits on our side. I'll also take part in my first canoe rigging and hope to learn something good.
It's funny because we're a club of mostly white folks who are in it for the sport. We're competitive and we don't often incorporate much culture or tradition in our ways. But when I stop and think about it, I'm participating in an activity that is essential to the entire Pacific region. Canoes and paddles are what spread people and culture throughout the entire Pacific Rim. I'm just doing my part to keep the torch burning.
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