Race Portages

Wednesday July 21st 2015

Portages can be critical moments in a marathon race. There is no wash to ride when you are running so teams will often use the portage to try to break up a pack or otherwise gain an advantage on their competitors. While being able to run fast is never a bad thing, there are many other aspects of a good portage that can enhance your running advantage or make up for lack of running speed.














Tips for a good portage:

1. If possible, scope out the portage before the race. Inspect the take out and put in looking for any obstacles or areas that could lead to footing problems. Determine your first choice put in/take out spots as well as back up plans if they are blocked by other boats.
   
2. 5 - 10 minutes before reaching the portage (especially if you've been paddling a long time) start to move your legs around in the boat to get the blood flowing so running won't be so awkward. Remember to do this gently so you don't affect the boat run.
3. As you approach the portage try to make your way to the front of the pack. Most teams will be thinking similarly so don't be surprised if the pace picks up significantly before the portage.
4. Communication is critical at the take out and put in. Each paddler must communicate what they are doing so their partner is aware.
5. If stowing your paddle (easier to run especially over longer distances, but adds some time), the bow paddler normally does this first unless it's a dock portage in which case both paddlers may stow at the same time).
6. Exit the boat quickly and smoothly once you've reached your take out point - often bow paddler will do so first. The bow paddler normally grabs the boat and picks it up checking to make sure the stern paddler is ready. The stern paddler raises their end and the team starts running. Unless the portage is very short move the canoe up to your shoulder. (Alternatively, on uphill sections the bow paddler may hold the boat low and on downhills the stern paddler may hold the boat low.
7. While running, keep the boat as flat as possible on your shoulder. Pump your free arm to help generate speed. Keep looking ahead for any obstacles or poor footing. The stern paddler may have trouble seeing due to the boat blocking their view - the bow paddler can call out information to the stern paddler.
8. When approaching the put in, move the boat to the water-side shoulder so that you can enter from the shallow side or a dock.
9. If entering from the water you can get in side saddle style or straddle, whichever you are comfortable with. Do this as quickly and smoothly as possible and immediately grab your paddle if stowed. The stern paddler should tell the bow paddler when they are in and both paddlers start paddling.
10. Get back into the current as soon as possible. Do not adjust your drink/seat/cover/etc. on shore - do it once you've got back in and the boat is moving.
11. Find your paddling rhythm as quickly as possible. Your heart rate and breathing rate will likely have spiked from the run so try to get them under control as soon as you can.

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