The Perfect Paddle

What is one of the cardinal, de-facto principles of life so easily forgotten and yet time and again proved true? Sometimes the most brilliant and unexpected moments occur when you least expect them.

Had the perfect paddling race this past Saturday - insofar as I know what a "perfect" paddling race is. Sort of like the perfect cheer? But to me it FELT like the perfect race. Strength from the get-go, rhythm, timing, power and beauty. Synergy. Our coach, Steph, did a masterful job steering, keeping us engaged, never letting us idle too long on the same stroke. We pulled out immediately ahead of all the women's boats and set our sites on picking off the 2-3 closest co-ed boats before leaving them far behind as we dialed into our pace.

The waters were perfect, the weather overcast but with no wind. As we made our way out to the Bay bridge from the Alameda side it was awesome to see a different perspective of the city skyline, to see the new east span of the bridge, and Yerba Buena island up close; to be in familiar waters in an unexplored backdrop. We charged hard and responded well to the rate changes amidst collective shouts of encouragement - most coming from the loudmouths in Seats 3 and 4 - and finished the 10+ mile course some 2 hours later with no one even close behind.

With tight glutes and deliciously tired backs, and as the sun began to peek out, we celebrated with the rest of our women's crew on the beach, hugging and high-fiving; high on the elation of our successful chemistry in a long, strong effort. Strength is beauty, girls - it's a powerful feeling to propel a 400lb boat with such strong women.

(photo from Catalina Crossing, 2009)

As for the unexpected, that's another story for another time. For now, however fleeting or enduring it may be, it was the kind of experience that leaves you a little richer, a little happier for it. I suppose that's how we should all endeavor to move through life's interactions.