Re: [Paddlewise] Outrigger Canoe Deaths

From: Kirk Olsen <kork4_at_cluemail.com>
Date: Mon, 29 Mar 2004 13:07:46 -0500
On Mon, 29 Mar 2004 10:43:07 -0500, "Joseph Pylka" <jpylka_at_earthlink.net>
said:
> >  Not wearing PFDs appears to be a "cultural" thing.  When
> > I did my an outrigger race last year I believe I was the only person in
> > any of the 6 man outrigger canoes who was wearing a PFD.  
> >
> 	I believe that outriggers and flatwater canoe/kayak racers are exempt from
> USCG suggested requirements for wearing pfds. 

racing canoes and kayaks are exempt.

from http://www.uscgboating.org/safety/fed_reqs/equ_pfd.htm

"Federal law does not require PFDs on racing shells, rowing sculls,
racing canoes, and racing kayaks; state laws vary. Check with your state
boating safety officials. " 

> They're both racers and can
> generate a great deal of body heat during competition. -- So much so that
> it could become a liability.  However, I believe the rules also state
> that a Chase boat Must be present and nearby at all times....

If the race has insurance it's frequently a requirement that PFDs be
worn.

Which can be big surprise to professional canoe racers.  I saw one
Canadian gentleman
do the Run of the Charles(Boston) 26 mile race wearing a small horse
collar
PFD - because without a pfd he would not have been allowed to start the
race.
I can only imagine the chafing on his neck by the end of the race...

Kirk
-- 
  Kirk Olsen
  kork4_at_cluemail.com
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Received on Mon Mar 29 2004 - 10:07:55 PST

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