Re: [Paddlewise] The need for speed!

In a message dated 8/8/99 10:28:52 AM, paddler_at_loxinfo.co.th writes:

<< Here's my Top 10 List:

1. Paddling hard against a rip with good sized waves so as not to get 
backsurfed.
2. Paddling hard against a strong current to make progress.
3. Paddling faster to beat bad weather.
4. Paddling faster to beat darkness.
5. Paddling fast to beat a changing tide which will make paddling much more 
difficult   later if you don't.  Or paddling to make it to a beach before the 
tide exposes the reef.
6. Paddling hard to get out past the impact zone in big surf.
7. Paddling hard to tow a paddler who is sick or incapacitated.
8. Paddling fast to get assistance from the Coastguard or other authorities.
9. Paddling fast to impress the opposite sex.
10. Paddling fast to catch the jet ski that just sprayed you (and then ran
out of gas) so you can whack 'em with your carbon fiber paddle!

Did I missed any? >>

The very first thing that comes to my mind is crossing boating channels.
The next one is to catch the runaway hat/glove/whatever that is on it way to 
somewhere you didn't intend to go.
The next one is because some people get a tad irritated if you can't keep up 
with them.

It feels good to use my strength and I like the feeling of the breeze on 
still days and the sound of the water on the bow. My other main reason for 
being able to go faster than my usual pace is just so that I can if I need 
to. 

The DC police were out checking motorboats for all the various rules they can 
break. I heard the officer ask on guy with a JS what the horsepower of his 
craft was. I heard him say 130. That made me wonder how much horsepower one 
human female  is rated at. Odd thought while paddling.

Joan
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