The difference from first to last was under 50 seconds an amount easily accounted for by some bad luck verses good luck on wave sets. Next time maybe we'll run the course both directions to average things out a little more. Speeds and times included waiting for the right wave to get through obstacles, surf launchings and landings, etc.
Jon & Steve B 40:05 @ 4.49 KTS Don & Micco 40:35 @ 4.44 KTS Duane & Steve W 40:53 @ 4.40 KTS
There were a couple of minor scrapes (I'd call them bo-bo's) incurred at boulder beach and the Marine Land landing, but nothing that could be called an injury.
With the level of organization we had at this race, we probably could have handled up to two more teams without descending into chaos. For the next race we're hoping to put at least a couple of more teams on the course. Vickie said she wished she had done the race and she is hoping there will be at least a couple of female competitors next time.
We had a great team of on water helpers which Jack organized including getting the fishermen to stay out of the way:
Luckily the safety backups were not needed and instead were able to enjoy watching the race. Jeff was out on the water to watch and Don's sister and brother in-law were watching from shore and possibly taking pictures as well.
Andrea Timing & Photos (He volunteered to wait at Marine land for timing while the rest of use paddled - Thanks!) Brian Safety backup Dave Timing and safety sweep Jake Photography Jack Safety rover & Management (as far as I know he didn't have to fire anyone :) Vickie Safety backup and fooooood Victor Safety backup
Brad did an excellent job taking a video of the race. We loved watching it because we were in it, but its worthwhile watching for any who have never done any paddling "up close and personal" on a rocky coastline.
After the race we met up at our house for food, a slide show of the race, Brad's video, and some kayak surf videos. Altogether we had a great time today with a surprising number (17) turning out.
In a few days I'll post a link to a web page with some more details of the race and some photos.
Steve Brown
I want to thank Steve B., Vickie, Don, Jack and everyone else who helped with the rock garden race. I had a lot of fun at the race practice sessions, and racing with my teammate, Steve W., was even more fun. It was also cool hanging out and talking with everyone before and after the race, and later at Steve and Vickie's house, which I think we should convert into the Southern California version of the The Anglesey Sea and Surf Centre.
I look forward to the next race and encourage other paddlers to share in the fun.