Outrigger Canoe Steering Clinic

[@gregwebster8784]

I'm really glad I got to be there that day. I saw Dennis on a walking path in 2012 while recovering from a shoulder injury, and asked about paddling (he had an IMUA shirt on). He told me to show up the next day at 3:30, and the rest is history.

[@JamesHunterRoss]

I was a novice steersman for Dana in the 2022 Iron season; there is a lot of good information in this session. It's so nice to hear things that I thought were "just me", like the "mental fatigue" and and how fast the boat can "get away from you". The advice about communicating with other steersmen in the turn is great; I had no problem yelling over to state my intentions so that all boats come through the turn fine. (My bigger problem is the amount of "on the left" work that is required. It's pretty easy to strain yourself; I had an "intercostal tear" from hanging out left and pulling like my life depended on it. It took forever to heal.) Also, once I felt that I could control the boat well in both easy and harsh conditions, then the "real work" began; how to control AND not drag the boat more than necessary. You have to control AND add power AND watch conditions AND be prepared to lead. One season was a great introduction, but there is so much to learn and perfect before becoming a respected steersman.

[@gregwebster8784]

Were you there that day too?

[@JamesHunterRoss]

@@gregwebster8784 No, I just watched the video, but thought it was very good.