The Turkeys were again represented at the US Nationals as two members of the Ventura Canoe & Kayak Club went to Cincinnati, Ohio, for the competition the first week of August. Drew Story and Ed Goldthwaite, both Masters, competed in the canoe singles, doubles, and fours. Unfortunately, neither Ed nor Drew reached a podium at this regatta. The Masters division was more competitive than it has been in many years! (See the post we did about what to expect at Nationals.)
Regardless, Ed and Drew enjoyed being with friends they’ve had for more than 40 years and the regatta was well run and the race conditions were mostly good. As always, heat and humidity played a factor, but so did a lightning storm forcing races to be delayed near the end of the four-day regatta. Still, the lane lines were complete, straight, and the race site was comfortable.
The rebuilding of the club began this summer in earnest. Covid-19 has been forcing delays over the past two years but this summer we were able to offer a six person, six week class for youth 12 to 18 years of age. Of the six athletes that came down, four have found sprint canoe and kayak to be “their sport” and have joined the club in earnest. Hopefully next summer, Ed and Drew will have company at the Nationals!
As noted in our Annual Board Meeting Minutes, we’ve acquired some “new” (new to us) K-1s that are intermediate in their stability scales making them great for our young beginners. We’ve also had some large donations from both Tyler Marlof and Patagonia. We are very grateful!
Before the days get so short we’re paddling in darkness, we are meeting two afternoons each week after school lets out and on Saturday mornings for a longer paddle. This has been a very good summer for the club.
