I am slowly starting my 2019 paddling season. So far, I did three 5-7 miles trips on Horsetooth Reservoir. Northern part of the lake is almost ice free. Only deep coves are covered by ice. South Bay is frozen, you can check it on a park webcam. Water level is low, but rising. The low water means a pretty long walk on a boat ramp at Satanka Cove or down the Horsetooth Dam when the cove is frozen.
I was using the SIC X-14 stand up paddleboard. It is my candidate for the 2019 Missouri River 340 race. This 14’x28.5″ paddleboard has a displacement hull designed for flat water and has a lower profile than my old 2014 All-Star Starboard which I paddled in 2018 MR340 race. After all, that race is 99% flatwater. 1% belongs to a rough water during storms and passing barges.
I am still more in a photography mode rather than a training mode. I carry a heavy waterproof duffel with my photo gear. I suppose it can be considered a form of training for a long distance race.
For winter paddling on Horsetooth I am wearing a supskin drysuit with a life jacket and safety leash. I always have a phone and spot device with me for emergency. Horsetooth Reservoir is quite lonely and remote place in winter with some steep and icy shores. And, my paddleboard is getting covered by ice after sunset (the best time for photography).
When Horsetooth is completely frozen I am paddling South Platte River around Greeley, usually, in upstream/downstream mode which is great for training. I don’t dress for immersion since it is really shallow water, but I carry a change of cloths.
Have you already paddled in 2019? Where did you paddle?
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