Can't Decide

I'm lucky enough to have more than one boat to choose from to paddle, and I've got two of the very best, an NDK Explorer and a Kruger Dreamcatcher. Very different boats, one an ocean going canoe that I single blade, the other an expedition kayak that I paddle with a Greenland paddle.

I keep waffling back and forth about which boat to use in next years WaterTribe Everglades Challenge. Both have seen 2 WaterTribe events each, the last two were completed in the Dreamcatcher, and much of my last 2 years of paddling has been in the Dreamcatcher.

I think it's time for a change, and I'm finding myself wanting more time in the Explorer. But I have to figure out how to avoid the numb-ness I get in my toes. Both previous ECs in the Explorer left my toes numb for a few months. I'm still not exactly sure why as it doesn't happen on any other paddles. But, this would be a real problem for my triathlon training which follows right on the heels for the EC finish.

So I've decided to change my original plan (I'm currently registered in the Dreamcatcher), and start alternating my training paddles with both boats, either will keep me fit and in shape for the Challenge. In the meantime I'll do some research on the numb toe problem, talk to my physical therapist, and experiment a bit with my front bulkhead and seat back placement.

Pacific Action Sails sponsored me during the UFC with a new PAS, and they have recently offered to send me a new rigging pack to outfit my Explorer with the sail. I've wanted to put this sail on the Explorer for a long time. This might be just the change and challenge I need.

Right now, I'm happy with this decision to not make a final decision. I'll just let the boats decide. In the meantime, I'll have lots of fun training with them both. After all, they are the very best.