Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Onancock Challenge Kayak Race Sept. 10 2011


SouthEast Expeditions’ 14th Annual Onancock Kayak/Canoe Challenge has some new divisions and pre-race clinics to give you a competitive edge. The race is Saturday, Sept. 10, 2011, at 9 a.m. during Onancock’s Harborfest, a festive weekend of food, music and water fun on the Eastern Shore of Virginia.


The weekend starts on Friday with two pre-race clinics led by Chuck Conley, instructor and winner of last year’s race. The morning session, 8 a.m. to noon, features racing strategy and boat control. The Forward Stroke Clinic (with video critique) will be from 1-5 p.m. Cost for each session is $55 with your own kayak (add $20 to rent one), or both sessions for $95 (add $30 to rent a kayak)

Afterwards, relax during Onancock’s Second Friday Art Stroll, 5-8 p.m. and the kick-off of Harborfest with live music on the wharf at 7:30 p.m.

The 9 a.m. race on Saturday has 5 & 10 KM courses on beautiful Onancock Creek. There will be new divisions this year for Kids 8 years and up and Stand-Up Paddlboards. It is a great event for paddlers who are serious about enjoying their time on the water as well as those who want to test their skills against the best racers in the region, including the legendary Olympic Champion Frank Havens, fastest octogenarian on the water!


Pre-registration is $15; $20 the day of the race and includes a T-shirt. Some rental kayaks will be available by reservation. Download the registration form for both the race and the clinics, print and mail in to save time on race morning.

For more information, call SouthEast Expeditions at Onancock Wharf: 757-354-4FUN, email mary@southeastexpeditions.com., and sign up for updates on Facebook.

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

Why I Heart Kayaks




I'd like to reflect upon how much easier kayaks are to paddle than canoes.

For one thing, kayaks are studier and heaps easier to balance in. I noticed this while seeing my boyfriend nearly bucked out when he stepped from the dock into a seemingly innocuous canoe.

Also, canoes are more difficult to propel through the water. You have to switch hands when you paddle on different sides and canoe hulls are wide and cumbersome. You feel like you're dragging the boat though slippery mud.

Now, what I want is a slick, slim-lined fiberglass kayak that skims the water like a dragonfly. I want my strokes to be executed with a fluid roll of my wrists and shoulders. Man, I love kayaks.

By
Alex Rich
Southeast Expedition Enthusiast and Shop Assistant