Learning Modules
Learn to Outrigger Race
Develop essential outrigger skills and learn key safety and racing techniques for OC6, OC2, and OC1 canoes. This course prepares participants for recreational racing and provides a pathway to join competitive teams.
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Adults looking to learn or enhance their outrigger canoe racing skills, whether for recreational or competitive purposes within the Comox Valley Canoe Racing Club (CVCRC).
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This program supports skill development and club growth by preparing new and novice paddlers through structured coaching, allowing existing teams to focus on advanced training. Graduates can join recreational or competitive racing programs.
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The four-month program includes coached dryland and on-water drills with supplementary resources, ending with a novice-level race opportunity.
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CVCRC facility, Courtenay River estuary, and Comox Spit shoreline.
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Sessions run March–June or July–October:
Thursdays: 6:00 – 7:30 pm
Sundays: 10:00 am – noon
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CVCRC membership, completed waivers, and regular attendance are mandatory for competitive program eligibility.
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Pre-Practice Orientation for the Learn to Outrigger Race Program
1. Program Overview
Goals and Requirements: [Link to document]
How to Pay Membership Fees: [Link to instructions]
2. Important Waivers and Safety Information
Waivers & Personal Responsibility: [Link to club info and safety rules]
3. Welcome and First Practice Preparation
Welcome Information: Details on when and where practices take place, what to bring, and what to wear.
Preparation for Week One:
Club Safety Document: [Link to safety document]
History of Outrigger Canoes and Aloha: Read here
4. Inspirational and Educational Videos
· OC6 Sprint Racing:
· OC6 Distance Racing:
· OC6 Distance Racing with Water Changes:
· OC1 Running Downwind:
· OC2 Shore Break Surf:
5. Quick Tips for New Paddlers
Highlight the importance of reviewing these resources to come prepared and informed for the first practice.
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Overview of Mandatory Modules
Introduction: Modules 1-5 and the Small Boats Module are essential for program completion.
Module List:
OC6 Module 1: Safety and Intro to Basics: Essential safety protocols and foundational knowledge.
OC6 Module 2: Coming Together: Techniques for synchronizing and team coordination.
OC6 Module 3: Huli Prevention and Recovery: How to prevent and recover from a capsize.
OC6 Module 4: Intro to Steering: Basics of steering for all paddlers.
OC6 Module 5: Intro to Secondary Steering: Techniques to assist the steersperson and manage challenging scenarios.
Small Boats Module 1: Intro to Basics of OC1 and OC2
Small Boats Module 2: Building on Basics
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Optional Advanced Modules
Module 6: Basics on Working with the Ocean: Strategies for reading water conditions and handling advanced steering.
Module 7: Distance/ Iron Racing: Preparation and tactics for long-distance races.
Module 8: Sprint Racing: High-speed racing techniques and turn practices.
Learn to Outrigger Race
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OC6 Mandatory Modules (1-5)
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Module 1: Intro to Basics and Safety
This module introduces the foundational aspects of outrigger canoeing, focusing on safety protocols, basic paddling techniques, and essential equipment orientation. Learners will understand the importance of posture, stroke fundamentals, and safety measures to ensure a safe and productive paddling experience.
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Module 2: Pulling Together
In this module, paddlers learn about the importance of team synchronization, timing, and power distribution. Seat roles are discussed to ensure that each paddler understands their contribution to the overall performance. Drills focus on enhancing timing and cohesion within the crew.
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Module 3: Huli Prevention and Recovery
This module covers techniques for preventing and recovering from a huli (capsize). Emphasis is placed on posture, bracing, and communication to avoid a capsize and manage recovery efficiently. Paddlers will practice recovery drills and learn to utilize assistive tools effectively.
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Module 4: Intro to Steering
Paddlers are introduced to the role of the steersperson and essential steering techniques. This module includes basic steering strokes, decision-making strategies, and practices to develop smooth steering. The importance of communication and teamwork is highlighted to support effective navigation.
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Module 5: Secondary Steering
This module focuses on assisting the steersperson during challenging maneuvers, such as hazard avoidance and tight turns. Paddlers in specific seats learn secondary steering strokes and how to coordinate with the steersperson to maintain control and stability, especially in difficult conditions.
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OC6 Optional Advanced Modules (6-8)
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Module 6: Working With the Ocean
Paddlers will learn to read and predict ocean conditions, including currents, waves, and eddies. This module teaches strategies for adjusting paddling rate and power to work with varying water conditions, ensuring efficient and effective movement through different marine environments.
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Module 7: Distance/Iron Racing
Paddlers will learn to read and predict ocean conditions, including currents, waves, and eddies. This module teaches strategies for adjusting paddling rate and power to work with varying water conditions, ensuring efficient and effective movement through different marine environments.
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Module 8: Sprint Racing
Focused on the fast-paced nature of sprint racing, this module highlights key elements such as high stroke rates, quick starts, and sharp turns. Paddlers practice seat-specific responsibilities and strategies to improve coordination and speed during short-distance competitive races.
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Small Boats Mandatory Modules
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Module 1: Intro to Basics
This module introduces paddlers to OC1 and OC2, emphasizing rigging, posture, and huli prevention. Paddlers will learn the benefits of practicing in small boats to refine technique and build strength (Why? It’s fun!). Drills and exercises focus on leg drive, bracing, and huli recovery, essential for developing individual paddling skills.
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Module 2: Building on Basics
Building on concepts introduced in week one.
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Meet Your Instructor
Laurel Archer