Recreation paddling to racing is a major leap? Maybe not.

 

The Texas racing community is friendly and inviting as well as competitive. Showing up at a race and paddling down the course for the first time can be intimidating for some and the intent for this guide is to give you the confidence you will be showing up to the race with a goal in mind for how you intend to interact at the event: Racing. Spectating. Cooking post race hot dogs. There's something for everyone wanting to stand out in Texas Sun forever to get a glimpse at racers for 30 seconds.

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Keep in mind that at any phase of this stepped process there are multiple communities and mentors within those communities that can help you along the way. Use links in this section to reach out to the larger community and find someone you can interact with 1:1 to make the canoe racing experience even more enjoyable and successful.

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Step 1

Find a boat you would like to bring to the race or find a person who owns a boat you want to come race with. Can also rent a boat from local outfitters for races. See Options Here

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Step 2

Pick a race and distance you would like to try out. Some races are shorter, some require shuttling from put in to take out location. Suggestion for first time racers is to keep it less than 10 miles, but really any distance can be completed with enough grit involved. See list of Events on the Calendar 

 

Step 3

Decide if you would like to paddle the race course prior  showing up for the race. If so, go out and get acquainted with the course. Facebook groups like HTX (Houston), ATX (Austin), MAC (Martindale/San Marcos), or DTX (Dallas/Fort Worth) abound with groups going out and paddling often. See Options Here

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Step 4

Bring enough gear for the race. Typically the minimum gear will be as follows: See Visuals/Links Here

1. Canoe

2. Paddle for each racer + 1 spare paddle

3. Life jacket for each racer (Type 2-4 recommended)

4. Water holder (typically in a jug or bike bottle that is stored in the boat)

5. Canoeing clothes (water shoes, hat, light weight shirt, tights or shorts)

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Step 5

Plan on transportation to and from the race. Ability to tie the boat down on your vehicle or if renting a boat from a supplier then coordinate drop off and pick up location.

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Step 6

Register for the race before deadline or wait until race day if race day registration is only option (details on how to register should be included in the calendar events on this website).

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Step 7

Show up and race. Be early. Hang out with other racers before getting in the water. Attend safety briefing.

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Step 8

Eat post race food, tell the stories, and dread the drive home on a sore butt.

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Step 9

Recover and repeat!