Message Board Archive -- thru 2/20/08

[Ray Wirth]

The MaCKRO Forum 1.0 (earlier version) is at mackro.org/forms/board/mess_board.htm

A copy of the message thread from that forum is below:

_____________________________________________
Paula Lunt
[e-mail]
02/18/2008

No Pemaquid Lake Challenge unless someone else is doing it.

john a
[e-mail]; [e-mail]
02/18/2008

Paddlers: We had our annual meeting last on the tenth and will be publishing the minutes here in the next few days. alot of good ideas were shared and our organisation soldiers on! Right now I am pulling the fw race schedule together. I f anyone reading this is putting on a race this summer please contact me with the details. I am trying to contact all the contact people on the old schedule so you may have heard from me already. The following fw races were on last years schedule but not held (i think).does anyone know if they are coming back to life? pemaquid lake challenge, bangor harbor race,mousam river race; fort knox festival; marsh island; the greatest race?; help me out here if you can. thanks ja

Ray Wirth
[e-mail]
02/15/2008

Thanks for the positive comments on the website! I've volunteered to redesign the site and will be gradually updating and redesigning over the next few weeks. Any comments or suggestions can be posted here or emailed to me at [e-mail]

Fran Cyr
[e-mail]
02/14/2008

Love the new look on the website. Fred, winter is only half over. We will be skiing until May...so don't get to anxious, ha ha. But I'm all for someone telling mother nature to shut off the snow.

Fred
[e-mail]
02/14/2008

Anyone else had enough winter yet??

Jeff Owen
[e-mail]
02/13/2008

***MaCKRO is Seeking Equipment Donations*** A new push is being made by our organization. With many members now interested providing opportunities for people to “test the waters” of canoe racing, MaCKRO members present at the annual meeting decided to pursue the gathering of club equipment. This equipment—trailer, boats, paddles, and PFDs—will be stored by MaCKRO members and made available for use at training sessions and races. To this end, we’re putting out an all-call for used (but sound and serviceable) equipment for donation to MaCKRO. With the whitewater season imminent, Old Town Penobscot 16s and Penobscot 17s, and Wenonah Sundowners (plastic only), along with used racing paddles and race-appropriate PFDs, are immediately needed. If you have (or if someone you know has) such equipment that is not being used, please me as soon as possible. If you have one of these boats that is in very good shape, MaCKRO may be able to buy it from you if you’re willing to sell it cheaply (donating a portion of its value). It would also be very helpful if some members would throw some cash toward this effort, allowing MaCKRO to purchase some paddles and PFDs at reduced costs. A second push for equipment donations will take place as the flathingyer season nears. Think ahead about that old cruiser, pro boat, or flathingyer C-1 that’s just taking up storage space. Contact Jeff!!!

Paula Lunt
[e-mail]
02/13/2008

Awesome website:)

Eric McNett
[e-mail]
02/11/2008

Anyone going to Florida this Spring for some early season fun and training? Here `s results from a race in Miami last weekend. Looks like outriggers and surfskis are getting to be pretty numerous down there. www.sflora.org/eastcoastchamps

Jeff Owen
[e-mail]
02/10/2008

Thanks for the info, Randy. It seems like a great race is in the making. Does anyone have the results from any of the years that this race was held previously (in the 70s)? It would be fun to see if any names are recognizable. As for the MaCKRO meeting last night, lots was discussed. John Alsop will continue as Pres, and he said he would post the meeting minutes here when he receives them from Earl (who continues as Secretary). 48 Days to the St. George!

Randolph Michaud
[e-mail]
02/10/2008

Dear Racers: I have recieved numerous emails concerning canoe racers wearing helmets. Helmets are really for safety even if you are in a canoe. But for canoe racers it is really your option, I would strongly suggest that you wear them. They are how ever required for the kayak racers who will be racing. As far as the race goes and how we will depart is still being worked on and will be all set in stone before the race begins. Thank you for all the emails and keep those suggestions coming in they are all great. rmichaud36.tripod.com or contact Randy at 1-207-764-3866

peter blood
[e-mail]
02/10/2008

Could not make saturdays meeting. How about the minutes put on the message board or at least a summery. Thanks.

Eric McNett
[e-mail] 207-841-5321
02/09/2008

In addition to the outrigger canoes that I already have here in Topsham, 4 new OC1s` are on the way here from California. The new Zephyr OC1 from Outrigger Connection is thier latest , most sophisticated design. This canoe is sized to fit paddlers weighing between 160 and 210 lbs. For paddlers under 180 lbs. the Fuze OC1 is a better choice. If any of you would like to give the outriggers a try on the water this Spring please don`t hesitate to send me an email or call. I will be doing regular demo days here in Topsham and at race venues throughout the paddling season. The popularity of outrigger paddling and ocean racing is on the increase in a big way in the Pacific northwest and southern California. Since Maine has one of the most beautiful coasts in the world , there`s few better places to paddle on the ocean. Check out the new Zephyr OC1 here: occonnection.ipower.com/zephyr.php PS please excuse the blatent commercialization.

Fred
[e-mail]
02/07/2008

Ooooh--this race is sounding more inviting all the time! (But 30 miles is still a long way!)

Randolph Michaud
[e-mail]
02/07/2008

Hello Racers: I wanted to touch base with you all to let you know how things are going for the Aroostook River 60 mile Race. I have recieved numerous emails and everyone has been giving us great suggestions as to what they would like to see at the race if they should decide to participate, In which I hope you all will. First we have added 4 more classes to this years race, 1. ) Stock Boat Class, 2. ) C2W Rec Canoe 3, ) Open Rec Class, 4. ) Open Race Class. We have also decided to let you racers complete the course in One day if you decide too. Understandably the river does flow quite fast that time of the year and most of the racers could possibly do the race in one day. Also for those that do not want to do the race in one day the two day option is still available. We are also going to plan on holding a smaller race the same weekend we are going to be adding a Law-enforcement class and a Business Class which will do the 30 mile race. 30 mile race will be from Ashland to Presque Isle, trophies will be awarded to the two top teams. We are really striving to make this a fun and enjoybale race as well give canoers and kayakers another race on the circuit to compete in, as well this race will bring much needed funds to the search and rescue team so that we may continue to provide search and rescue efforts here in the county and throughout the state at no cost to anyone that we may be called upon to help. So we hope that you will decide to come to our race, and enjoy some of norhtern Maine's outdoor arena as well as Aroostook County hospitality. if you have any other suggestions please email me and we will discuss them at our next meeting. New application forms and Rule forms are on our website at: rmichaud36.tripod.com the race will take place May 10th -11th, 2008. Hope to see you all there. Thanks

john alsop
[e-mail]
02/06/2008

Don't forget the MACKRO annual meeting which is scheduled for 4 pm on saturday. I'm a little concerned about the weather report but let's hope for the best. The meeting is in my new office which is in Skowhegan,one block north of the courthouse at 67 Court Street. You can park in the district court parking lot which is right next door. Court street intersects Rt 2 in downtown Skowhegan right by the Aubuchon Hardware store, so if you are coming from either direction, look for the Aubuchon and take the little street right next to it north for 1 and a half blocks and you will be there! the number here is 4746200 if you need to call for further directions. AGENDA items include election of officers, treasurer's report, committee reports, web page and newsletter issues, point series, summer race schedule, canoe trailer acquisition and genral brainstorming and bx9p7! session. we will send out for pizza but bring any munchies or desserts if you are so inclined. Cheers ja (pardon ee cummings typing)

Ray Wirth
[e-mail]
02/05/2008

Kayaking Pool Session in Belfast on Sunday, Feb. 24 from 10:00 - 11:30 AM. Details at waldo.villagesoup.com/calendar/eventDetails.cfm?instanceid=72834&calendareventid=22833&eventdate=02/24/2008 PaddleMaine forum is at www.paddlemaine.proboards61.com/ Please join and contribute! Hey MaCKRO folk. I will not be able to make the meeting this weekend, but would be happy to help develop the Mackro website. Have a good amount of experience in that dept. Let me know if you need help.

Eve Hladky
[e-mail]
02/05/2008

Selling my Red ruby-colored Isle Au Haut by Lincoln. Nice feel, 22" wide, stable and quite a fast touring kayak. Skeg. New $3300 for $1900. Glass, 2004 model is in fine condition. Spray skirt and nice tight as a drumhead neoprene thingypit cover included. Pictures available. West Bath. 442-6767 or email.

Eric McNett
[e-mail]
01/30/2008

The Ocean racing schedule for the New England area and the entire east coast is being updated and will be available soon . Here`s a couple of links to two ocean racing related info sites: home.maine.rr.com/nesurfski/index.html www.eastcoastoutrigger.com/ I`m hosting the New England outrigger championships to be held on June 29 , 2008 in Portland , Maine. Here`s the link to the race website: maineoutriggerchampionships.blogspot.com/

Fran Cyr
[e-mail]
01/28/2008

Dan, wow that was a bunch and yes I read the whole thing haha. Good ideas. I won't be making it to the meeting Sorry. Re: Aroostook river race history. When first started racing in early 80's there were three races on the Aroostook. Caribou to Fort Fairfield, Washburn to Presque Isle and Masardis to Ashland. All were great venues. My only concern about the Aroostook 60 is temperature water and air. It can snow in Central Aroostook on Mothers Day. Could be some long cold days in a boat. Otherwise it is a beautiful river and should have a fast current that time of year.

dan wagner
[e-mail]
01/28/2008

in my humble opinion: however much a pain in the ass it may be, MORE classes may be PART of the answer; (see medux. + kend.) but this may only work if coupled with more participants; (to avoid one man classes)- more classes cause not many common people want to skip out on family couch time, pay $$ they don't have, freeze their parts off, etc etc ; only to get to the start line and look over to see flex-n-drool(chad+dan) on their left and NASA(jeff+steve)on their right, and some other OCD paddle till u puke dude-n-dudette team ALL IN THE SAME CLASS. does this mean i should stop drooling? probly not. should i be forced into $3000 boats in low water on the sou? probly not. should jeff+steve stop paddling? probly:) a lot of paddlers have been in th biz soo long they may have lost touch with common layman reality; what is it like to come to a race for the first time EVER? do you remember? these are the people we want. how do we get them? there have been a lot of GOOD ideas, BUT, in our well intentioned quest for the magical instant gratification answer to the unattainable 100+ entrants at every race, we're missing it. much easier said than done: kinder (creative?), class names, "ya man i kicked ass in the NOVICE class last weekend on the georges" - separation without humiliation of abilities please; teen; college; law enforcement(most are competitive); wiser 50+; no short,med, long, etc. in weekend warrior classes; 1 c-2; 1 c-1; revised meduxnekeaug basically. pro class . y not tony ? people like to watch $$ races of all types, no? pros: 2X entrance fee one class open canoe 1st2nd3rd$$ buy ur tshirts pros. the media will come, eventually,. ALL races posted in papers, radio(cost?), internet, locally, utube, GUARANTEED: if they dont know about a race they WON'T come. and believe me, the word on common street is wutrace.; big dogs trailer , ur plastic skidplated patched floatbagged old retired mongrel+ mine+ whoevers= 6-8 cheaply (rentable?)loanable racecraft for the weekend warrior class.?? i'll tow it.; 46" 48" 50" 52" rec zavs 4sale at every race, JJ canoe might help?(not$$ as much as: "this will help u go faster")they buy a paddle, they're comin 2 the next race.; advertise; advertise; im tired. sorry bout being so sarcasmistical.WOW ur still reading this? lol. no punch line, no moral, just got bored; see you at the round table feb 9 but im sure if i dont show , the water will still flow;dan

john alsop
[e-mail],
01/26/2008

This just in! I got 21 responses to my "test". I sent out 200+ meeting and membership renewal notices. A bunch came back and Bob M and I are trying to resend some. Bob reports that membership renewals are doing well. I have been reading my trusty 1965 AMC New England Canoeing guide ( which I have had since I was 13) It says of the Aroostook river in part the following: ...."the river continues broad and shallow, mostly through the rural potato growing areas of Aroostook County. the 55 miles to Ft Fairfield is the site of an annual canoe race held each year".........question: does anybody know anything about this canoe race? It would appear that the proposed new race is a revival of an old one. Interseting! FRAN! I agree with you about those pleasant evening paddles and I like your idea about a summer flathingyer regatta. Hope you can make it to the meeting. Cheers JA

FRAN CYR
[e-mail]
01/25/2008

From the county......The message board is getting a little stale so here we go. WINTER IS ABOUT HALF OVER! First, thanks to all the hard working MaCKRO officers, race sponsors and volunteers who make canoe/kayak racing possible. When you think about it for a state this small (population wise) we have a large number of races scattered around. Most are supported by the recreational paddler who is out there having fun with their friends. I haven’t participated in a race that I didn’t enjoy except maybe the Kenduskeag, it’s torture that early in my season. Oh, I have raced my marathon c-1 against c-1 outriggers, had my stock boat put into the racing class and been beaten by someone using a kayak paddle in a c-1, but still it was fun. The older I get the more I enjoy training sessions with two or more racing canoes drafting, bumping, sprinting and joking around for 8 – 10 miles on a narrow, twisty and deep stream. . I like to race, but as the years go by, getting out and cruising in a fast canoe, on a calm warm evening with friends, is more and more attractive. My only suggestion for the Mackro annual meeting is have a centralized (Augusta –Bangor area) weekend of Flathingyer racing!. No recreation classess. C-1 mens event on Saturday and C-2 womans event on Saturday. C-2 mens and C-1 womans on Sunday. Kayakers…another weekend. Partners in C-2 races drawn out of a hat or matched up by race committee. Race length 6 miles for c-2 events. C-1 race 8 miles Course….. narrow twisty stream up and back. Spectators? Who cares. Prizes… Bragging Rights Entry fee……$5.00 - $10.00 donation for pizza party or Barbecue to follow. I would love to read in this forum what you like most about racing/training.

Clayton
[e-mail]
01/22/2008

Former Maine paddler Hal Jordan [phone] is looking for a WW C1 or (solo open canoe for downriver) I believe he wants a composite boat rather than plastic. please give him a call if you have one for sale!

Eric McNett
[e-mail]
01/19/2008

Here`s some footage from the recent Murry Marathon in Australia: rambos-locker.blogspot.com/2008/01/red-cross-murray-ultra-marathon.html

Randolph Michaud
[e-mail]
01/19/2008

Dear Racers; We are in the planning stages right now for thr Aroostook 60 Mile Canoe & Kayak Race. We are soliciting suggestions from you people who have been racing canoes and kayak for a long period of time. We want to make sure that we have a race that is tailored in part to your needs so if you would like to make suggestions to help please send me an email and I will look them over and see what we can do to accomadate you all. At the present time I am working with a couple of motels for those that may want to use them we should have a rate nailed down early next week. Thanks for the suggestions so far they have all been very helpful. Please email suggestions to: [e-mail] or feel free to call me at: 207-764-3866 or 207-227-8885. thank you

Randolph Michaud
[e-mail]
01/15/2008

LARGEST RIVER RACE IN MAINE Aroostook River 60 Mile Canoe & Kayak Race The largest river race in Maine is coming to Aroostook County, Northstar Search And Rescue is holding a 60 mile Canoe / Kayak Race on the Aroostook River. Location: Ashland Fish And Game Club ( Boat Landing ) Dates: May 10th, & 11th, 2008 Time: 8:00am Registration begins at 7:00am to 8:00am Trophies will be awarded to the top 3 finishers of each class. Come and bring your family and friends to cheer you on, as you race down the Aroostook River, the race will end at the boat landing in Fort Fairfield, Maine on May 11th, 2008. A spirit of spectacle and good old-fashioned fun is the central theme of the Aroostook River Race. We have a good paddling river, a great starting line, there will be many spectators watching from the banks and bridges. All will have a good time. Northstar Search And Rescue is the only search and rescue team in Aroostook County, our coverage area is 6,672 square miles ( 21.6 % of the States Area); 89% of the county’s area is forest, 1% is made up of lakes, ponds and rivers, while 10% is made up of cultivated farmland. Northstar Search And Rescue has been active since November 1998 and has been on numerous search and rescue missions here in the county and throughout the state of Maine. All money raised from this 60 mile Canoe / Kayak Race will go towards the support of Northstar Search And Rescue so that we may continue to provide free support to the citizens of Aroostook County. Entry Forms and Rules can be printed from our website at: rmichaud36.tripod.com FMI: Contact Lisa Michaud at: 207-764-3866 or Email: [e-mail] WEBSITE: rmichaud36.tripod.com

Eric McNett
[e-mail]
01/14/2008

Peter, Glad to hear Carol is geting better, that`s a long time to be sick . Hope she has a full recovery soon.

Eric McNett
[e-mail]
01/14/2008

peter blood
cibpgbverizon.net
01/11/2008

FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO HAVE BEEN TRYING TO EMAIL MYSELF OR CAROL, I AM SORRY, WE CHANGED OUR EMAIL ADDRESS. AS MANY OF YOU KNOW CAROL HAS BEEN VERY SICK SINCE NOV. 15 BUT IS SLOWLY IMPROVING AND PLANS ON PADDLING WITH ME IN FLORIDA IN MARCH. SEE YOU ALL AT THE SPRING RACES.

Eric McNett
[e-mail]
01/11/2008

I just found out the other day that a former Molokai Hoe winner with the Lanikai team is living here in Maine and has been here for the past two years and didn`t know about paddling going on here. His name is Rich Lambert , very nice guy and well known in Hawaii . He is a very talented paddler , in 1997 he finished the Molokai solo in 3rd place 2 minutes behind first. He told me he wants to get back into paddling this upcoming season.

johna

01/11/2008

test progress report. as of 1/11 at 2pm 14 responses ja

john alsop
[e-mail]
01/10/2008

this is a test! i am gathering data in advance of Feb 9 meeting. IF YOU ARE READING THIS MESSAGE, PLEASE SEND ME AN EMAIL MARKED "TEST" i will then know how many members or others are accessing the message board. This test will conclude on next friday. you only need respond once during the time period. notices for meeting with membership form are going out. pay no attention to the typos! I have ca. 200 names on the mailing list. ja

Fuzerider
[e-mail]
01/07/2008

Paula, good idea, Free out riggers for all!!! Check em out at : www.easternoutrigger.com Aloha, Fuze

Paula
[e-mail]
01/06/2008

Woops, forgot to sign the last email. Also, I too agree with less classes and if Eric supplied us all with outriggers for free, that would be the way to go for the fw races; they're fast, can hangle a lot of weather and if you do flip, it's a cinch to get back in and go. How 'bout it Eric??



01/06/2008

I think if you asked Tracy how many boats actually finished the Kenduskeag, you would find it is a low percentage of how many started. Because I am always photographing before the race and talking with paddlers, I always ask them how they think they will do and most say they go into the race planning to take out after 6-mile falls. It's getting on TV that seems to drive them, not to mention the fact that the course is easy up until 6-mile falls and even if you flip at the falls there is plenty of help there for you. After 6-miles, you are on your own in a lot of places. I think the St. George and Passy draw a lot of people because that too is easy compared to say the Marsh and Sou. It's just enough ww to be adventurous, but not enough to be down right scary, plus it's short. The average Joe has no interest in sitting in a boat for over an hour. Also, from my past interview with Tracy, it was when they banned booze in the Kenduskeag that the numbers dropped in half but he said it became a lot easier to manage!

Fred
[e-mail]
01/06/2008

As we continue to hold up the Kenduskeag as a race that draws an unbelievable crowd of paddlers--with enough to nicely fill all 20+ classes--let's try to figure out why they have such success. I see one major reason: media coverage. And why does the media chose to cover a sport that hardly gets any attention the rest of the year? Maybe because there is nothing else going on in the local or national sports world. Pro baseball season is just underway, other sport seasons have ended, and high school sports are also pretty much between seasons. Also, the peculiarity that people would hop in a boat to paddle through whitewater which will certainly dump many into the 38 degree water must draw some attention. I can't remember when Channel 2 first started televising the race, but I know the participant numbers increased dramatically during that time. At one point, over 750 boats were participating. Then, if I remember correctly, Channel 2 dropped coverage and the number of participants also dropped. Channel 5 picked up TV coverage the next year, but the numbers never got back to where they were. (Several years of terrible weather didn't help, either!) They still do well getting over 400 boats, but it is good to remember that if the race has 400 boats, I'll bet only 1/4 of them (if that) are actually "racing." The races I look at as being successful as actual "races," year after year, are the Waldo Cty YMCA's St. George and Passy. These races consistently draw around 100 boats, the vast majority of which are actually trying to do well (ie.- racing) in the class they have entered. Most races will never draw enough boats to fill 20+ classes like the Kenduskeag does, so I (like others)feel it's in the race directors' best interests to cut down on class offerings. One way to do this is to offer the male/female C-1 and C-2 classes that always draw well, and then maybe offer two open classes--open rec and open racing. I would expect these two open classes to weed themselves out pretty quickly. Another possibility that could encourage people to invite others to paddle is to offer a class for any boat style that draws at least 3 particpants. Some races used to do this, with any class not drawing at least three craft being placed in the open class. This didn't always work because some race directors would change their minds at the last minute; but I think it was a good idea. Of course, all we can do is offer suggestions to race organizers; they have to make the final decisions.

Jeff Owen
[e-mail]
01/06/2008

Classes for FW Club events (i.e., currently limited to our informal sessions)--womens, mens, mixed, Jr/Sr, 60+, C-1W, C-1M, plus any kayak and surfski classes (which I've never understood) and outrigger classes. No distinction between F16, F14, and proboats. (I forgot C-1W and C-1M for the WW races.)

Jeff Owen
[e-mail]
01/06/2008

Classes for WW Club Events (i.e. Souadabscook, Marsh, and Machias)--Womens, Mens, Mixed, Jr/Sr, 60+, Open (which would include any and all F14 boats), long kayaks, and short kayaks. Let the race directors of other races know what we suggest and why, and offer whatever publicity we can if they align.

[Ray Wirth]

Jeff Owen
[e-mail]
01/06/2008

Lots of good discussion. I like the ideas surrounding fewer classes, though everything posted about it is purely speculative. I haven't seen any evidence for the existance of a causal link between number of classes and participation. It seems that the continued popularity of the Kenduskeag must be based on the spectical of the event itself, and therefore defies trends influencing participation elsewhere. That said, fewer classes would increase competition and I'm all for that. I, too, have been pushing for the club to spend its money on equipment and the time of it's members on recruiting and helping newbies with that equipment. So, again, I like the tone of recent postings.

Eric McNett
Eastern Outrigger
01/06/2008

The following link will take you to a recent race result in Hilo Bay , Hawaii. It`s incredible to me to see so many people of all ages out paddling and racing. Most encouraging is the number of young paddlers. Here in Maine we live in one of the nations prime areas to enjoy Spring, Summer and Fall water sports. The Kenduskeag race each year draws big numbers of paddlers and it`s huge fun for all. I think the Kenduskeag is sort of a rite of Spring for many paddlers, once it`s over the boats get put away until next year. The puzzle I`m trying to figure out is , if Kenduskeag is fun, why don`t the paticipants contine to show up for races during the rest of the season. Many good points that address the problem have been posted here various MACKRO members. At Kenduskeag most of the boats are of the plastic type, everyone paddles pretty much the same kind of boat with only a very few exceptions. When everyone paddles the same kind of boat , the results of the race have more meaning. Lots of us here in Maine( including myself) are guilty of showing up to a race with high performance missiles built to cruise at a higher rate of speed than anyone elses boat. We need to go back to racing to see who the best paddler is , not who has the fastest boat. Jim Chute , in his earlier post makes a very accurate point (in my opinion) about why Maine racing is in the state it`s in. Basically we have way too many classes. In Hawaii there is no choice of what boat to use. The ocean conditions pretty much dictate what the boat of choice is. When I look at the huge numbers of people racing in Hawaii I think, what do they have that we don`t have. Obviously , they have year round perfect weather , crystal clear 80 degree water, one or two boat types, and they have a built in water culture steeped in history. The Hawaiians build monuments to thier surfers. It`s a given that here in Maine we are never going to have all the factors lined up to produce big numbers of people out racing like the Hawaiians have. We can have one class of boat. We already have one of the worlds best natural environments in which to enjoy the outdoors. The hurdle for us , as Jim said , is agreeing on which boat should become "the boat" we race. I agree that it`s going to be a little painfull at first but in the long run the health of the sport should return. Check out this link to see what a local race draws in Hilo: www.ocpaddler.com/node/3039

Randolph Michaud
[e-mail]
01/04/2008

Dear Racers: Northstar Search And Rescue will be holding the Aroostook River 60 mile Canoe and Kayak Race on May 10th, & 11th, 2008. Race Entry forms and rules as well as race maps can be seen on our website. rmichaud36.tripod.com this should be a great warm up race for those doing the clinton race later in the month of May. Any questions please call Chief Randolph Michaud at 1-207-764-3866 or 207-227-8885 The last post had the wrong dates the calendar I was using was written wrong by one day. Hope to see a lot of people at this race, water will not be a problem this year. We sincerely hope that most of oyu will come experience this race down the Aroostook River.

john again

01/04/2008

news flash! I had planned the annual meeting for the tenth but it turns out that is democratic caucus day in which i must participate because i am running for reeelection. so i want the meeting to be on saturday the 9th and notices soon to be mailed will reflect this. cheerio. ja

john a

01/04/2008

the hassle of compliance with all real or imagined legal requirements for putting on a race argues in favor of "club events" by which i mean.......... If club members of our unincorporated paddling club choose to all put in the water some midweek evening at the same time and place and paddle out and back, it's nobody's business but theirs. bragging rights and pizza to follow. no fees, no permits, no insurance, but lots of fun, technique learning and sharing, comraderie, new participants etc. this is the direction we need to go in. my opinion. ja

Eric
Eastern Outrigger
01/03/2008

I`m hosting this race: maineoutriggerchampionships.blogspot.com/ on Sunday June 29. Be there , Aloha

Eric McNett
[e-mail]
01/03/2008

Paula , I know what you mean. These days of "butt covering " can be pretty hard on race directors. Back in the good old days we were much more free.

Paula Lunt
[e-mail]
01/03/2008

St. George River Saltwater Challenge has been discontinued. I put the race on for 5 years and had a lot of fun, but have had an almost impossible time finding help to time or run safety. If anyone is interested in a "fun" race on the river or in Tenants Harbor that day (first weekend of June) that wouldn't require Coast Guard applications, State of Maine Applications, USCA applications, or Town applications, let me know.

Eric McNett
[e-mail]
01/02/2008

Here`s the solution: , forget my last post. What we should do is sell off all our old canoes and kayaks and get outriggers. Classes for future races would be : OC1 and OC2 , mens, womens and mixed. It`s a very simple format because there are no rules for hull dimensions , anything goes .

jim chute
[e-mail]
01/01/2008

The multitude of hull classes arose over several decades from a desire to get more people racing by letting them use whatever boat they might already own. But the only race in Maine that really does attract mass participation is is the Kenduskeag. For all the other races, fewer classes should result in better competition (but there would be a transitional period of a couple of lean years while people got done grumbling about the demise of the class they used to win allatime and either bought a new boat or quit).

Eric McNett
[e-mail]
01/01/2008

I agree that it`s a good idea to go back to having races in which the classes, in terms of the type of boats used, are reduced. John Mathieu has been saying this for quite some time. The Sundowner is a good example of what local Maine racing could be. Everyone uses the same kind of boat, offer prize money to draw the good paddlers. The winner should buy all the pizza and beer afterwards for everyone. I think the obvious choice of boat type should be boats that fit USCA rules.

Fred
[e-mail]
01/01/2008

Last post should have said, "weigh less, have better hubs, or be more aero, "

Fred
[e-mail]
01/01/2008

Good points, Johnny A. And Paula, boat differences are easily visible; not so with bicycle wheels. If a bike wheel is a 700c (which most are), it is basically the same size as the other 700c wheels. Some may weigh less, but nothing like the differences you find between the boats being raced at Maine canoe races.

johnalsop
[e-mail],
01/01/2008

one key to success in participation and popularity of fw canoe racing in canada, michigan and other hotspots is that there are essentially 2 classes. C1 and Proboat. Gender and age provide some variation but not much. this creates more competition between same hulls. more interest etc. maine "tower of babel" races where there might be one proboat,a tripper, four totally different kayaks and an outrigger canoe on the start line are meaningless exhibitions, particularly when they start at midday on a weekend and cost 25 bucks to enter! we need to pick better times for races, charge less money and insist fewer classes with similar boats. Hence the canoe trailer and equipment pool idea. just my two cents worth. ja

Paula

01/01/2008

Oh, and as far as bike racing having "standard" equipment, I DON'T THINK SO! There are people who's back tire costs several times the dollar amount of other peoples entire bike setups.

Paula Jean Lunt
[e-mail]
01/01/2008

I still think races can be standardized. When you show up at a race with your boat, you should know what your division will be and see other boats of the same qualifications. I have raced in a rec kayak division against people in surf skis, I have seen people in fw racing C1's racing people in Penobscot 16's and the race directors not having a clue what the differance could possible be. MaCKRO was established as a means of promoting races and putting out results, but why doesn't it work with race directors also to set standards that all can understand??

[Ray Wirth]

Fred
[e-mail]
12/31/2007

Bike racing and running are going to have pretty standard classes due to the equipment being used. Basically all you need is the standard age classes for male and female. Canoe racing's variety of equipment and the fact that you can use a partner make it much harder to decide which classes to offer.

Paula Jean Lunt
[e-mail]
12/31/2007

As I go into my 11th year of racing, I must admit I still find the sport of canoe and kayak racing confusing. It's the one competitive sport I do that I find to have no standard set or rules or divisions so to speak. Each race director does his or her own thing. I think they feel they are trying to get more people to enter, but instead I have to wonder if they are turning a lot of people off. I am an avid bike racer and runner and I basically enter the same division in every race. Each race is not a new set of rules. Could this be something MaCKRO could work on? Possibly establish a working relationship with the race directors and tell them MaCKRO will promote their races if they follow certain guide lines. The Maine Time Trial series is a perfect example of this, every race is exactly the same, no variables! I'm sure there are many of you who has participated in several races in the same boat, but have been put in a different division. The constant change is not worth the effort for new comers and a lot of regulars I think are getting tired of it as well. Well, this is my opinion.

Brian Galipeau
[e-mail]
12/31/2007

I hope to participate in the canoe sessions next year. Back in the day, I seem to remember flatwater participation being more vigorous, at least in the Old Town/Indian Island area. I remember an article a few months ago in the Bangor Daily discussing the declining numbers of outdoor enthusiasts at state and local parks such as the Allagash and Baxter. The point of the article seemed to attribute the declining use to the toys and technology that we now have at home for recreation. I wonder if this could be a factor for lack of new canoeists. Also, in my own experience, I would have liked to have participated in the racing devision years ago, however, the cost of equipment or lack of access certainly was a factor. Mackro providing a trailer with canoes sounds like a good idea. Brian

john alsop
[e-mail]
12/31/2007

The annual meeting is going to be on sun feb 11. i am sending out a written notice. the WW people are working away diligently and lets hope for a good snow runoff! Alice is retiring from fw chairmanship and that position is up for grabs. much work to be done here the big problem with flatwater racing is that there are very few flatwater racers in maine and we are all pretty old. "we need more racers not more races" J Mathieu ideas for the new year: build or acquire a canoe trailer or two and collect enough boats to fill it up. then organize evening and weekend fw and ww paddles . we had only two "club events" last summer but both were fun and well attended. something more on this line is needed. akin to evening bike club rides and the like. look for your meeting notice3 soon. ja

Fred
[e-mail]
12/31/2007

MaCKRO's humble beginnings as a newsletter called "Curved Blades" and compiled and distributed by Jim Chute only had two basic purposes--to make paddlers aware of race dates and to report race results. This website still does a good job of listing race dates. That part of the job is (I'm guessing) relatively easy. Being able to get a look at race results (which is not Jim's job) is where things have suffered over the past several years. Our personal newsletter, which at one time was something to look forward to, has also vanished. Canoe/kayak racing in Maine in general? I feel that too many races with too many classifications has lead to lethargy--a general lack of interest. Anyone else have some thoughts? I don't have the answers, but did want to vent a bit. Happy 2008! : )

Eric McNett
[e-mail]
12/30/2007

How about we have a MACKRO party and see if anybody shows up. We can have it at my house. I`ll show you a garage stuffed full of 40 outrigger canoes.

PJ Lunt
[e-mail]
12/29/2007

What ever happened to MaCKRO? Seems like the club has dissolved, does anyone have any interest in it anymore???

Randolph Michaud
[e-mail]
12/28/2007

Dear Racers: Northstar Search And Rescue will be holding the Aroostook River 60 mile Canoe and Kayak Race on May 11th, & 12th, 2008. Race Entry forms and rules as well as race maps can be seen on our website. rmichaud36.tripod.com this should be a great warm up race for those doing the clinton race later in the month of May. Any questions please call Chief Randolph Michaud at 1-207-764-3866 or 207-227-8885

john alsop

12/14/2007

greetings! i have been contemplating our annual meeting on january 5th but not sure whether we can notices out in time. so i am wondering whether feb 10th is better date, post football season and tantalizingly close to open water dates. input? ja

Eric McNett
[e-mail]
12/13/2007

Fran, Thanks for the xc ski race info. Here`s a paddling video/movie trailer: Worth a look. www.ocpaddler.com/node/2977

Fran Cyr
[e-mail]
12/12/2007

CITIZEN NORDIC SKI RACES IN AROOSTOOK COUNTY. GREAT SKIING, GREAT PEOPLE, GREAT COMPETITION AND GREAT FUN FOR ALL AGES. CHECK SCHEDULE AT: www.4seasonstrail.org/aroostook/2007/2007.html ALSO CHECK THE MAINE WINTER SPORT SITE AT www.mainewsc.org/ HOPE TO SEE YOU AT THE RACES

Eve Hladky
[e-mail]
12/11/2007

Hi, I am selling my Red ruby-colored Isle Au Haut by Lincoln. Nice feel, stable and one of the fastest touring kayaks. Skeg. New $3300 for $1900. Glass, 2004 model is in fine condition. [e-mail] or 751-1378

Ron Bomberger
[e-mail]
12/04/2007

FOR SALE Nearly new (used twice) Jiffy...model 30...9 inch Ice Auger 6 tip-ups & ladle. All for $325.00 717 665-4528

Eric McNett
[e-mail]
11/29/2007

Here`s an almost new race for next season : maineoutriggerchampionships.blogspot.com/ Last year John Mathieu and Lee Martin were the first canoe across the finishline. Ken Cooper was first Surfski. Pictures of last years race can be seen here: www.willarts.com/gallery/index.php?cat=9 Last year attendance was light but, too much fun was had by all to drop the race. Keep an eye on NE Surfski.Net: home.maine.rr.com/nesurfski/ for additional ocean racing opportunities next paddling season.

John Mathieu
[e-mail]
11/27/2007

Concerning Paula's concern with hosting the St. George race: Paula, there is nothing wrong with deciding the efforts to hold a race are not worth the outcome. There are currently more serious canoe racers in the country than there ever was and there are many choices for other races. The newer canoe racers are just not in Maine. Canoe racing is not isolated in having races drop off the calendar, either. I tried to recall other races I have personally participated in and was surprised to see so many other sports having similar trends. I have done over 20 bike road races in Maine during the '70's that no longer exist. Add to that over 30 running road races which are now off the calendar. Then over a dozen ski races which are wiped off the agenda. I counted six canoe-triathlons (remember those?) I have done in Maine which are now gone. And finally, about 20 canoe races in our state which came and went. Pretty amazing, isn't? All of these sports, including paddling, continue to grow in other regions of the country. Maine is a small state with a very aging demographic. And for most people in Maine, endurance sports are just not on their radar screen. What I find interesting is the discussion on how we need to bring young people into paddling. You never hear this type of conversation at a running race, ski race, or a bike race. My personal opinion on this is bringing a newbie to a canoe race is like introducing someone to xc skiing by bringing them to a ski marathon. A novice paddler in good shape will always lose to a overweight, undertrained experienced paddler. That cannot seem like much fun to me. And this is how we are trying to "hook" them? And for those novices who become interested, how many got turned off by this, especially kids? These are just my thoughts. I think it is great that there are several paddlers who are trying to bring new people into the sport. I feel the best way is to have them learn the skills of performance paddling through informal group sessions. There are several of these around the state. My thoughts are the future competitive canoe racers in Maine will most likely be: 1) athletes who look to paddle sports as a way to supplement their there training for another sport, 2) exercise junkies who are always trying something different and fun, and 3) athletes who participate in serious camping trips and long distance touring who want to see how fast they can go. It will be from this base we will eventually see competitive paddlers emerge. I feel the key for new paddlers is to have the desire to do the sport and love the sport once they are involved. There are so many fun aspects of the sport to make this possible. jdm

Eric McNett
[e-mail]
11/20/2007

Canoe surfing game , check this out: www.ocpaddler.com/game

Paula Lunt
[e-mail]
11/18/2007

Anyone want to run the St. George this week??? Even Thanksgiving morning would work for us; maybe burn off a few calories before dinner! The river looks awesome:)

Eric McNett
[e-mail]
11/15/2007

Here`s some pics from last Summers Maine outrigger Champonships held in Casco Bay. picasaweb.google.com/dcrogers59/2007AnnualEastCoastOutriggerInvitational Also , not sure if you all know but, the Casco Bay womens outrigger team won the Na Wahine O` Ke Kai world outrigger championships in the Jr. masters class. Colleen and Cindy were on this team along with other marathon paddlers from Canada and the Mid west. www.nawahineokekai.com/home.htm

Eric McNett
[e-mail]
11/15/2007

I could host the meeting at my house again too. Lots of room here.

Fred
[e-mail]
11/14/2007

Hey Johnny A.--you've done a fine job as president of this group. But it sure would be nice to see some of the results from the flatwater races this summer . . .

john alsop
[e-mail]
11/14/2007

Yo! Time for a meeting. was thinking decemeber 9th but that might cause problems with rabid pats fans (and you know who you are!) because they play the steelers at 4:15.....so the best options are saturday dec 8 late afternoon here or another date in mid january. feedback needed here. Not too much on the agenda. election of new officers. treasurer's report. new ideas for next season. On a personal note I'm feeling depressed guilt ridden and ashamed! Due to some family issues sucking up alot of physical and psychic energy I fell far short of my proselytization goals, not too mention getting less time in the boat than hoped for. i'm willing to try again next year but if anyone else wants to climb to the top of the heap, i would be glad to retire. Cheers john

lunt
[e-mail]
11/08/2007

Anyone know if the St. George is paddlable?

Eric McNett
[e-mail]
11/07/2007

We are still paddling regularly here in Topsham , most likely will continue till things ice over. If anyone would like to join us on the weekends , come on down. Outriggers to demo too.

Eric McNett
Eastern Outrigger
11/03/2007

www.youtube.com/profile?user=TerriBez

Eric McNett
[e-mail]
11/02/2007

I have a Stingray 2 that has only been in the water a couple of times , it is in perfect pristine condition except for a couple of tiny scuffs where paddles have contacted the hull while paddling. Color is red/yellow with a white hull , ama is red. Boat is located in Virginia. $3400. Also were selling off last years team rider and demo OC1s` both Fusions and Fuzes raced only one season . Call for price. 207-841-5321 Eric McNett Eastern Outrigger

Jim Chute
[e-mail]
10/22/2007

FREE CANOE. I have a old Sawyer Champ 1. This is the original Roland Muhlen design with the recurved stern. A classic example of the early USCA cruisers. A sweet boat. It got bumped by a tractor (forgot to move it before my field was mowed) and now has a cupla long cracks in the mid-section and a small hole in the bow. Yours for the taking.

Paula
[e-mail]
10/12/2007

Congrats to all the MaCKRO paddlers who participated in the MDI Triathlon October 6, 2007. Results can be seen at www.allsportsevents.com Also, good seeing such a nice turnout for the War Canoe & Sea Kayak Races on Long Pond the following day. Anyone who didn't come out to play sure missed some nice paddling weather to end the race season!

Randolph Michaud
[e-mail]
10/05/2007

AROOSTOOK RIVER RACE HAS BEEN SHORTENED TO 30 MILES BECAUSE OF LOW WATER FURTHER UP THE RIVER. GREAT WATER FROM PRESQUE ISLE DOWN TO FORT FAIRFIELD. THE RACE IS NOW 30 MILES. THE LEAVES ARE ALL IN COLOR AND SHOULD PROVIDE EXCELLENT SCENERY SO BRING YOUR CAMERA'S WITH YOU. Northstar Search And Rescue is holding a 30 mile Canoe / Kayak Race on the Aroostook River. Location: Presque Isle( Boat Landing ) Dates: October 6th, 2007 Time: 8:00am Registration begins at 7:00am to 8:00am GIFTS WILL BE RAFFLED OFF AS WELL, GIFTS INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING: 1. ) Swiss Gear 3 room dome tent “ sleeps up to 9 people 2. Weather alert Radio-Tv Combo 3. T-Mobil Gift Certificate Come and bring your family and friends to cheer you on, as you race down the Aroostook River, the race will end at the boat landing in Fort Fairfield, Maine on October 6th, 2007. A spirit of spectacle and good old fashioned fun is the central theme of the Aroostook River Race. We have a good paddling river, a great starting line, there will be many spectators watching from the banks and bridges. A good time will be had by all. Northstar Search And Rescue has been active since November 1998 and have been on numerous search and rescue missions here in the county and throughout the state of Maine. All money raised from this 60 mile Canoe / Kayak Race will go towards the support of Northstar Search And Rescue so that we may continue to provide free support to the citizens of Aroostook County. Entry Forms and Rules can be printed from our website at: rmichaud36.tripod.com FMI: Contact Lisa Michaud at: 207-764-3866 or Email: [e-mail] WEBSITE: rmichaud36.tripod.com

Fred
[e-mail]
09/28/2007

For sale: Dart racing kayak, Futura racing surfski, Rans recumbent bicycle, ($1000), BMW F650 dual-purpose motorcycle ($3200). It was just time for a new message on this message board! : )

Mike A
Brewer, ME
09/20/2007

The Aroostook race looks great, Randolph. I'll be up in the County for fall color photography around that time so I'll definitely check it out.

On an unrelated note, how did the Ebb Tide race go? Looks like it was held just down the street from my house, sorry I missed it.

Randolph Michaud
[e-mail]
09/18/2007

Northstar Search And Rescue is holding a 60 mile Canoe / Kayak Race on the Aroostook River. Location: Ashland Fish And Game Club ( Boat Landing ) Dates: October 6th, & 7th, 2007 Time: 8:00am Registration begins at 7:00am to 8:00am GIFTS WILL BE RAFFLED OFF AS WELL, GIFTS INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING: 1. ) Swiss Gear 3 room dome tent “ sleeps up to 9 people 2. Weather alert Radio-Tv Combo 3. T-Mobil Gift Certificate Come and bring your family and friends to cheer you on, as you race down the Aroostook River, the race will end at the boat landing in Fort Fairfield, Maine on October 7th, 2007. A spirit of spectacle and good old fashioned fun is the central theme of the Aroostook River Race. We have a good paddling river, a great starting line, there will be many spectators watching from the banks and bridges. A good time will be had by all. Northstar Search And Rescue has been active since November 1998 and have been on numerous search and rescue missions here in the county and throughout the state of Maine. All money raised from this 60 mile Canoe / Kayak Race will go towards the support of Northstar Search And Rescue so that we may continue to provide free support to the citizens of Aroostook County. Entry Forms and Rules can be printed from our website at: rmichaud36.tripod.com FMI: Contact Lisa Michaud at: 207-764-3866 or Email: [e-mail] WEBSITE: rmichaud36.tripod.com

Eric McNett
[e-mail]
09/16/2007

Thanks Fred, Bill was fun to paddle with. He puts on a nice show...

Fred
[e-mail]
09/15/2007

To Eric, Cindy, and Colleen--nice story on "Bill Green's Outdoors" tonight on TV. Congrats!

Andrew Binks
nesurfski.net
09/13/2007

Here`s a link to the Downwinder website: home.maine.rr.com/nesurfski/downwind_run.html

Eric McNett
[e-mail]
09/12/2007

I recently recieved a new shipment of outrigger canoes from Outrigger Connection, 46 of them in all. Call me crazy if you want to , but they are moving pretty well. I have 2 OC1 models , Fuze and Fusion plus , I have 8 2 person Stingray 2s`. I know it`s kind of late in the season for thinking about getting a new boat but, there you have it. On laborday weekend I went down to Maryland and raced the 35 mile Kent Island relay outrigger race with Randy Drake , a long time paddling friend. Cindy and Colleen did the relay too and won the womens class. Kent Island is a really fun event , good racing , beautiful venue on Chesapeak Bay , lots of food all weekend long , hula dancing , all kinds of different canoes to try out, and you can camp out right at the waters edge, etc...etc... If you missed it this year, plan to attend next year, you won`t be dissapointed. We are looking forward to racing on the Penobscot this weekend, Hope to see y`all there. Eric