First, I learned that unlike a surf ski, a kayak, or a regular canoe, the outrigger canoe has an outrigger or “ama,” a lateral support float strutting out on one side of the main hull. The outrigger bestows greater stability and seaworthiness upon a canoe. After a quick lesson on paddling protocol where I learned to sweep the water with the heavy wooden paddle- deep enough to get drive out of each stroke–- I mounted one of SBOCC’s outrigger canoes with the five other crew members, took the number five position, and off we went.

Rene Saragosa, the SBOCC’s men’s coach, patiently gave me lessons in technique while steering and leading the crew. He also taught me that instead of seeking out flat, calm water, canoers are avid wave hunters and use waves as a free ride in competitions and a quick adrenaline rush in practice. I quickly discovered the difference between the surfer’s solo ride and the synchronization of a crew whose individual parts serve the whole, the effect of which was perfect balance and speed. Paddlers I talked to unanimously feel passionate about this sport not only because of the camaraderie, but the complete immersion of body and spirit in a single-minded goal.
So how do paddlers mesh the reputed spiritual aspect of outrigging with their fierce competitiveness? Facing up to three races each month, the SBOCC teams are of necessity a disciplined, tough bunch, yet they seem to maintain a community-based, humble lifestyle out of pure respect for the mana (spiritual power) that brings them so much enjoyment. The team makes sure to pay respect to their canoes by means of naming ceremonies - part of the Hawaiian history of the outrigger canoe - where boats are given “souls.” After hanging with the SBOCC crews both in and out of the water, it became clear to me that they keep a good balance between their competitive fire and the underlying spirituality of their sport.
And what competition! Races include the Iron Man, state sprints, and change races. The change race, which involves a 6-man outrigger on a 23-mile course, inspired some of the best stories of races past, with which I was regaled by the men’s team. A “sea change” has a whole new meaning in the context of change races. Imagine a 400-pound human-powered canoe bearing down on you in the open sea while you are fervently treading water awaiting their arrival, then hoisting yourself aboard without wasting a second, getting right in sync with the swinging paddles of your teammates. This is the daunting task that paddlers face when fresh paddlers from support boats are exchanged by plunging dramatically into the sea.

It falls to the coach or “change master” to quickly negotiate which paddlers will switch out to be relieved and replaced by one who can fit into a strategic position. All this is done while the outrigger is underway. Seats 1, 3 and 5 all paddle in sync, as do seats 2 and 4 on the opposite side paddling to the same beat, while seat 6, the steersman, may stay in place throughout the whole race.
Like most water people, these paddlers have their war stories. Some of the guys on the SBOCC team animatedly recalled a change race from Molokai to Oahu in 15 ft seas and howling winds. Not only were the swells so big it was nearly impossible to see the replacements dog-paddling in the water, but one teammate got hit on the head by the boat when it came down upon him, and he ended up disoriented and backwards trying to get in. But he kept on going! The men’s team all but fell over from the so-called hilarity of that tale. Less comical is the extreme sea-sickness, dehydration, and exhaustion that some paddlers have experienced in a race of this caliber. But facing such real dangers only strengthens the paddlers’ physical and mental determination.

Ray Wallenthin, the SBOCC team president, believes it is “mind set and perseverance” that drives the paddlers, and although races are fueled by strength and endurance, he believes “positivity out there is the key.” A team’s intimidation factor can also give it a real tactical advantage in a race. After getting a taste of how the SBOCC gang vibe as a team, I am sure they are a force to be reckoned with in the water.

To be sure, life as a SBOCC team member is never dull. July was a busy month because of the much anticipated State Sprints event held at Ledbetter Beach. Patagonia, Heal the Ocean, Surfrider and L &L Hawaiian BBQ were just some of the sponsors for the event. To find out what the SBOCC will be up to in upcoming months, drop by one of their practices at the SB harbor, or check out their website at www.sbocc.org. SBOCC welcomes newcomers with open arms. For those of you daunted at the prospect of hours of paddling, just remember: It’s not the destination, but simply staying on the path.