Surfski Knowledge Base

Think International Challenge. Results after round 1. US leads but not by much

John Rybczyk
05/01/19 #24774

First, proceeds from the Dan Harris Challenge raised $1004.00 for the community boating center this year. When now-retired Steve Walker was the director of the boating center, he told me that the donations from the race were used, among other things, to fund the purchase of, and maintain the Bellingham Bay web cam. So, what comes around goes around I guess!

Now, to the Think International Surf Ski Championship. After the first round (the Dan Harris Challenge) the US leads Canada 91 to 135 (low score is better). Folks, this is close! The home team has the huge advantage because of the number of participants, but Team Canada came with a lot of paddlers, their full complement of doubles (which is HUGE) and many fast women. I’m going to say right now that it’s going to be very difficult for the US to defend the trophy. Not impossible, but it’s a very narrow buffer right now. The second and last leg of the challenge is the Board the Fjord race, May 11, up in Deep in Cove. If you’ve never been, it’s a beautiful venue and a fun race.

See you on the water, johnr

Bob Putnam
05/02/19 #24776

Thanks John, Yes. This looks close. My memory is fuzzy at best, but I recall US giving us a big sha-lacking in previous years at the DHC. Usually because we didn't have our act together and get the appropriate number of doubles, women etc. i'm not hopeful for the US of A, as we should have our island guys participating, which will give us more depth. But lets hope you don't go down without a fight.

The International Challenge is a pretty special thing. There are probably not many communities that can boast such a cross border rivalry.

(…)

Denise Weeks

05/05/19 #24807

If I would contribute anything to TEAM U.S. by volunteering to be in a double at Board the Fjord next Saturday, I’ll do it! Any distance! But if you need someone who’ll take the podium . . . it better be with a fast partner.

Last I looked, none of you Whatcom people are registered? Except Reivers. I’d also be happy to go in my own boat, but company would be nice.

Denise