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Ask the Paddlers…

Kurt is our interviewee for March 2003. He paddles in the engine room.

Q: Why do you like to paddle? What magic does it hold for you?

Kurt: I am attracted to paddling because of the challenge it holds, and the opportunity to contribute to the success of a world-class organization; plain and simple.  I have participated and/or competed in individual and team endurance sports for quite some time: downhill skiing, mountain climbing, bicycling, marathons, and ice hockey. 

For me, although I have been a member for less than six months, dragon boat racing combines the intrigue and discipline of an individual endurance sport along with the discipline and focus required of a team sport. Not only is working to master the complex paddling technique an exhilarating challenge; I find timing and blending with 19 other paddlers in a confined space a tremendously demanding adjustment. The frustration of realizing an error has been committed can only be released by refocusing, and applying the energy of frustration to the water. There is no room to "air it out", so to speak. In addition, I love being on the water. The weather doesn't bother me; and, to me any time we are in the boat is a great day to paddle.

What's magical is the dynamic of working with 19 other paddles in unison to make the beautiful boat skim across the water! In the words of my 11-year old daughter - "That's awesome!"

Q: How do you mentally prepare for competition?

Kurt: First of all, I tell myself, after devoting the time to training for the event, that I am adequately prepared. Not having that confidence can be self-defeating, and I find that if I have any doubts regarding my preparation, and the opponent appears to be "bigger-than-life," my lack of confidence will inflate their image and prevent me from performing to my maximum potential, regardless of my opponent's capabilities. 

Second, I do my best to calm my nerves. Of course, I don't want to kill all the butterflies; that would mean that there is no excitement, no adrenaline, no endorphins, no drive, no desire, which simply is not the case! Finally, I review technique, and/or the responsibilities of my role. In this case, I picture myself paddling and executing the correct technique. I do this to help me focus on the event, and eliminate distractions so that I am not subjected to outside influences that could make a dent in my confidence. Of course, I don't want to become so focused that I miss the call for the next race!

Q: What do you eat before a workout or to refuel afterward?

Kurt: I eat a couple of bananas and drink at least a half-liter of water. I drink at least a half-liter of water afterward, but wait an hour before I eat. Again, bananas are a favorite after a work out, and I do my best maintain a balanced diet of protein and carbohydrates; but it isn't always easy.

Q: How do you control your weight without compromising your nutrition?

Kurt: To be quite honest, I don't pay much attention to my weight as I am careful about what I eat and have been working out in one form or another since I was 15 years old. If I do find myself in a situation, or schedule, where I cannot exercise, it seems as though I can feel the excess weight pile on. It usually isn't long after that that I get back on track!

Q: What kind of training do you do in the off-season that helps your paddling?

Kurt: I swim 1,000 meters with hand paddles before I go to work on Monday and Wednesday. On Monday evening I do upper body weight lifting; on Wednesday evening I do lower body weight lifting. Tuesday and Thursday mornings are aerobics training sessions before I go to work. And, I play ice hockey on Friday evening. This is where I get to "air out" some of the frustrations I alluded to in my answer to the first question!

Q: How to you balance an over-demanding schedule?

Kurt: I live to paddle, and paddle to live!! Seriously, I have a wonderful and understanding family. We prioritize our activities and set our schedules accordingly. Oh yeah, somewhere in there I manage to go to the office!

Q: Do you have any advice for new paddlers?

Kurt: This is going to be a fabulous experience! Paddling dragon boats feels awkward at first; but everyone else in the boat with you went through the same feelings you have. Over time, and guided by excellent coaching, they developed; and so will you. Continue to come out, ask questions, and take in the camaraderie. As a team, we all help each other, and we will help you. It's a great day to paddle!!

This page was last updated on 02/20/08.

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