Hours after welcoming Jazlyn into the world last spring, we bought a kayak erg. At the moment of the arrival of our newest child, I think we realized, we were going to busy! And, boy we were right! Every second of my day and night are accounted for. So, walking down to the garage and getting a killer workout, versus loading my boat in the dark winter morning, driving to the lake or bay, paddling, reloading my boat, driving home, unloading boat and gear… well, what can I say but,  Brandon and I LOVE the simplicity and efficiency of the ‘home’ paddle workout. And, on top of that, it sure has kept us fit.

Since our last Wednesday Night race in October, I have been getting in my boat an average of once a week, Brandon has not gotten  in his boat at all.

Last Sunday was the Deception Dash Dash. A PNW classic, with 150 boaters coming out in the dead of winter, with hopes of cold, stormy conditions facing them as millions of gallons of water pour through the world famous Deception Pass leaving a sea of swirling seas and standing waves in its path. This year, we were greeted with a gorgeous clear day and a slight breeze and the pass met us with a quiet calm.

As for our performance, we both felt great. I was first in the women’s surfski, finishing just ahead of a group of surfskiers I can only stay ahead of at our Wednesday Night Races on a good day! Brandon had a great race too, paddling a comfortable pace that put him third.Without the Erg… well, the story would not have such a happy ending!

Thanks Bill Walker for another fabulous race…. and cheers to our Erg!!!

Race Photo courtesy of Gary Luhm Photography