WHAT DOES IT MEAN???
Like all sports, canoe and kayak have its own terminology. There are always people around willing to answer questions, but some of the standard terms you will hear include the following:
Sprint racing – a competitive flatwater program for high performance athletes. Racing categories include single (C-1 or K-1); double (C-2 or K-2); four person (C-4 or K-4) and 15person (War Canoe).
C= Canoe. Canoe requires athletes to paddle while on one knee (on a foam block) while in a lunge position. Athletes paddle on one side of the boat only.
K= Kayak. Kayak athletes are seated with legs facing forward and feet controlling the rudder. Athletes use a double edge paddle.
WC= War Canoe. Athletes in this 15 person canoe are required to kneel on one side of the boat only, seven per side. War canoes are sterred by a cox who stands at the rear of the boat. Different positions in the boat are referred to as the Stroker, Engine room…..
KNOW YOUR EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS:
WHAT IS A REGATTA?
A Regatta is a full day/multiple day event of competitive races, held rain or shine. Races typically begin around 8:30 am and are scheduled to go to 4:30pm. Races can be psotponed or delayed in the event of lightning, and other delays often can happen. Racing schedules will usually be available a day or two before a regatta, and can always be purchased at the food tent the day of the event at a nominal price. Worse case, ask to share someone else’s.
Athletes in the bantam age group and below usually race on Saturdays while those in older age brackets can race any day of the event. Athletes must ensure they have a singlet with the Club logo on it to wear for all of their races. Make sure you bring one with you. Many athletes who plan to use a Club lifejacket during a regatta will bring them home after practice the night before, so they are sure they have everything they need to compete. Boats and paddles will be brought to the regatta using the Club truck and trailer. Athletes are expected to help load and unload the boats.
Most clubs who host a regatta will have a food tent, and standard fare for sale at such events include muffins, burgers and hot doags, back bacon, water and other drinks. Food may or may not be readily available when and where you want it, so plan to take at least some healthy snacks and water. Proper nutrition and hydration is very important for our athletes. There will usually be a lunch break scheduled for one hour in the middle of the day.
Bring lawn chairs, blankets and even small tents to be comfortable, and look for the Missy athletes and parents so we can cheer on our team together. Bring binoclulars and a camera too. Please submit your best phots to mcccommunications.ca to share with our group. Bring lots of sunscreen and extra dry clothes, and be prepared for changes in the weather.
Please try to arrive by the time your coach asks and check in with the coaches at least 45 minutes before your first race, so they know you are there and can properly organize the athletes for the days’ events. Please plan to stay until the end of the day as race schedules can change, delays can happen, and athletes need to help load the boats back onto the trailers for the trip home.
Officials will be at every regatta to judge the competition and ensure that the event runs smoothly. Results will usually be posted within hours of a race being held. Although officials try their best, it is not uncommon for races to fall behind for unexpected reasons as the day progresses.
Safet boat operators will be out on the water whenever a race is underway, to ensure the safety of all athletes, and to pull in those who tip and go into the water.
Regattas are run by volunteers. Please be patient. Better yet, please consider volunteering yourself. It’s a great way to learn more about the sport!
Regattas are a lot of fun for the whle family, especially if you come prepared!!!!!!
