Thursday, July 20th (TODAY!) marks 100 days until Chattajack. It seems like a long time on one hand yet on the other it seems rather short, especially since it will also mark 81 days since registration. You might find yourself asking, “What have I done with the last 81 days?” When you consider that we’re closing on the point where there is only half the preparation time left from when you registered it can make the event seem awfully close. I’m here to tell you that althou

Last weekend I went for a fun SUP paddle with a couple of buddies of mine from my canoe days. Conditions on Lake Ontario were pretty good, with a moderate northeast wind kicking up nice, fast, two-foot plus wind waves and a small ground swell. We did the usual upwind/downwind paddle you’re stuck doing when you can’t arrange the logistics to go downwind; hammering upwind for 6km and then turning around for a nice 6 km downwind leg with speeds averaging 5:30/km. One of my budd

One of the most important things you can do in paddle sports is train strength. While this is especially true in sprint racing, it is no less important in distance racing like Chattajack. Whether you’re chosen craft is a kayak, surfski, outrigger, prone paddleboard or a SUP, strength is important. It’s relatively easy to address, really just requiring time, and pays huge dividends on the water. In any paddle craft, the idea is to secure your blade in the water and pull you

Earlier this year I put this post up on Paddle Monster for our All-Access members. I think it is worth reusing here for those preparing for Chattajack. Last year Chattajack was a challenge above and beyond the usual associated with 31 miles down the Tennessee River Gorge. Cool temperatures and strong winds made the course slow, and especially in the last 6 miles the wind was a back breaker. You’ve got two choices when you face a big headwind late in a race like that. You c

“It’s mind over matter once you get out there and that’s how I felt,” Allison said. “It would have been easy to fold, but I didn’t come to fold.” Mark Allison signed up for Chattajack on May 1 just like most everyone else. The only difference is, 38 days later, he had a heart attack. Here is the incredible story of what happens next. photo credit: Jason Lee #endurance #CJRacer #strength