An ode to a paddler...

[james fleming]

...the walk back to the boat is focused. Alone. Determined, lines flash in the minds eye. Must make lines. Hazards and ultimate risks are calculated, the likelihood is high with terminal consequences should failure occur.

Adrenalin. It’s controlled. Must be subdued.
Endorphins are coursing. Must be controlled. It’s too early.

A look back.

His mates are in place. Safety is as best it can be. They check their gear. Positions are critical.


Equipment don’t fail me now.

The line is confirmed.

He approaches the boat. A sudden relief is needed. He laughs. Get a grip. He looks at the slack water of the eddy. Reassuring. Safe. Unassuming . He gets in his boat.

Hesitant. Questionable.

Gripping, two become one. Three become one.

Tension, ratchet, webbing they all fit.

The launch in the eddy is deliberate. The wait. The splash of water on the face.

Gripping the boat.

A look at the safety. A thumbs up. A retort.

Three become one.

The grip is marginally tighter. Three stokes. The catch.

Attitude, determination, experience, control and training. It’s the training. The training counted.

The end is in sight. Upright. The grip slackens.

Endorphins rage, adrenaline flows. It’s welcomed , needed and wanted.

Euphoria. Relief. Accomplishment.

Training, it’s the training that got me through.

[paddledog]

Excellent!
but you forgot one...........




MAKE SURE THE CAMERA IS ON !!!

Carnage needs pics........

[turboturtle]

Thanks James, all part of the grand scheme of it. Living life to the fullest. With a little help from our friends of course.

Bob