by Ingrid Juchem

Four canoes and one support boat from the local Outrigger canoe club lined up on the start for the Combined Clubs 50th annual Low Isle race.

Nominating an average speed of 4.5 knots, the 15 paddlers, including two novice paddlers, set out to tackle the 18.7 nautical miles around the island and back.

Changing over paddlers every 25 minutes, it took the OC6 just under four hours, not counting a 20 minute swim break at the Island.

“This was my first paddle to Low Isle and I loved it,” Jennifer Pate said, who has only been paddling for three months.

The club has been a regular participant over the last 20 years, and uses the race as preparation for the upcoming Outrigger Grand Prix season.

“The hot and calm weather made it a great challenge this year,” club president Ingrid Juchem said. ”But we are always looking forward to this race.”

Paddling on an OC1 each, Faye Lilly and Glen Thorp managed to complete the course iron. Hekili Cairns paddler Steve Johnson also competed. 

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