We arrived today with the haze of rain threatening, but we had a perfect morning paddling on beautiful flat water with barely a ripple.
George Louie from DSA very kindly swept for us and gave feedback to Pearl. For those who don’t know George, he has been paddling for 35 years and has coached and swept both nationally and internationally. He is, as you can imagine, very experienced and for many years ran a squad for paddlers wishing to paddle for the State and Australia. He is passionate about the sport and has very kindly offered to help us when we need it.
The boat lifting went very well because Sharon and Hayley’s husbands, Steve and David, came in especially to help us. I hope they were treated to a big breakfast! Huge thanks to them both. Different Strokes were also there to help and we were on the water in no time at all.
We also welcomed a newbie, Janet, who I am pleased to say “is a natural” and did very well for her first session. Hopefully we will have her permanently in the boat before too long.
The session was the longest we have done so far and, under Pearl’s capable guidance, we almost completed her programme. We did a couple of emergency stops to refresh our abilities in that area. We should all remember that WE are the brakes on the boat and if we don’t react quickly in situations it will be to our detriment.We also brushed up on our pause paddle technique which, as it turned out, was badly needed. Paddles were hitting the water before, after, and in the middle of the strokes setting the pace!!! (tee hee …..I was hopeless!) That’s one exercise we haven’t done for a while and probably needs to be included regularly. It was just lovely today…..so wonderful being back on the water.
After breakfast a few of us went to a “Flowers on the Water” for Geri Hill, a very valued member of DAS. Geri’s partner, Graham, members of her family and friends also attended. Carol Fentoulis and Eugenia were also there and Carol sang for us. It was very moving and thanks must go to Elaine for organising it. Vale Geri.
Vicki
