Is it your First Outrigger Canoe Race? Make sure to bring these items.

Photo by Cody Silvester

The Southern California Outrigger Racing Association (SCORA), will be having its first outrigger canoe race of the year on May 12, 2018, in San Diego, CA. From previous years, I have noticed that canoe clubs from across the nation come out to the Crystal Pier Outrigger Canoe race in San Diego, CA. to compete against each other and set their team on the map as the fastest. The races can get intense and violent. There is a lot of pressure and fear among paddlers. However, there is a total relief once you pass the finish line. Your first race will always be one to remember.

But what makes a perfect and comfortable race? Having the most important items with you on race day.

1. Sunscreen: The race is held at a beach and under a hot bright sun. Sunscreen is an essential item to have for the protection of the Sun's ultraviolet radiation and also helps protect against sunburns.

2. Sunglasses and Hat: Having both Sunglasses and Hat also is essential in protecting yourself from the Sun's ultraviolet radiation.

3. Pair of Dry Clothes: After every race that I have completed, after crossing the finish line, the first thing I want to do coming out of the canoe is to wash up and change into some dry clothes.

4. Snacks and Money: During race days, you are on your own. There is no free food given out. Having some snacks or extra money for foods can be important in keeping you wide awake and energized. In addition, after completing an outrigger race, you have burnt so many calories that food becomes gold.

5. Beach Chair: Why include a Chair? A chair at the beach is like a diamond. Everyone wants to sit in a chair and relax. Not everyone has a chair. No one wants to lay on the sand. Having your own chair gives you the power to sit whenever you want and you have total control as to who uses the chair.

6. Canopy: A canopy just like a Beach Chair is a gold mine. You will be the most loved individual that day if you were to bring a canopy. No one wants to sit under the hot sun. Having shade allows to relax in peace and set you apart from other groups. Having all your materials under a canopy allows you to be organized and comfortable without the fear of losing something.

7. Outrigger Paddle: The outrigger paddle should always be with you on race days. Losing your paddle can be troubling because without a paddle, you won't be able to paddle on the canoe.


The following list contains important and essential items to have for a perfect and comfortable race. Having the following items will make your first outrigger canoe club go smoothly. If you have a canopy you will likely have new friends and in case you have a separate beach chair you will definitely have a new friend to talk to. The first races are always stressful. The night before and the morning of race day can be annoying. Just remember to always check the items on the list. The first race is beautiful. You meet new people and hear amazing stories. There will be laughs and emotions all around. Just looking at the atmosphere makes me realized how blessed I am to be apart of such a strong and beautiful sport called Outrigger Canoe Racing.

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