The Science of Canoeing By Richard Cox

happen to the 500m specialist who has over burdened the lactic system before reaching the finish. The secret of
racing both sprint distances is to know exactly what the fastest pace you are capable of sustaining is, without
building too great an oxygen debt before you have crossed the line.
In marathon racing, the paddler must be more flexible in his tactical approach. He may have a preferred strategy
to racing distance events but the nature of the venue and the strengths and weaknesses of the opposition may
preclude this from being the most efficient course of action to take. A distance race with a portage, shallows, a
weir shoot, or sharp bend not far from the start may demand a very fast start in order to secure an advantageous
position for tackling the forthcoming obstacles. A paddler with limited anerobic power will be dropped by the
leading group very early in the race and may be disadvantaged to such a degree that he is never able to catch
them up again. It is difficult to climb over washes and fight one's way up the field of competition to the leading
group, no matter how well developed one's endurance abilities are.
Just as in horse racing there are "horses for courses", in marathon racing there are courses better suited to one
paddler's strengths than another's. If the race is an important one the paddler may have to deviate from his
preferred strategy and attempt to overcome his weaknesses as best he can. This is why it is always important to
have contingency plans at hand.
The first rule of distance racing strategy is to establish a good position on the start line. If there are obstacles
ahead, then you should be in line with the shortest route to tackle them. It is always advisable to survey the first
part of the course before taking your position on the start line, so that any hidden rocks, pilings, etc. are noted
and you know how the river behaves beyond the first bend. Naturally, other paddlers will be jockeying for a
good position on the start line and you cannot always guarantee that because you were there first, your place is
secured. Some paddlers will attempt to prevent you getting on the start line, whilst if you are already in position,
others may push in from behind or in front. One simply has to stand one's ground without getting upset or
ruffled by what other competitors say or attempt to do. If you are determined to be with the leading group, then
it is usually advantageous to line up alongside someone who you know is likely to set the pace, at least during
the early part of the race. This will help pull you away from the rest of the field, by offering you a wash to take
advantage of. It will also help you avoid getting caught in the confusion and turbulence created by other
competitors.
It should go without saying that once you are on the start line, regardless of whether it is a sprint or distance
event, you should be alert, aware of what is happening around you, (do you still have room to plant your blade?,
is your boat pointing down the lane?, is the line moving forward, etc), and conscious of the starter's instructions.
The period immediately following the "go" signal can be a harrowing time although you should endeavour to be
positive in your actions. Attempt to dictate circumstances to your strengths, ensure that you concentrate on your
own start and are not unduly disturbed by what is happening around you, especially if it is not likely to detract
from your own performance. If you are thrown slightly off course or someone catches your paddles in a distance
race, keep calm and in control of the situation. Do not give up paddling, do not get angered or retaliate; reserve
your energy for propelling the canoe forward.