Octopus Cup

Guide to Winning the Octopus Cup

Tryouts days before race to determine best crew makeup that goes in straight line with least amount of steering correction. Generally speaking, the patrol that goes in the straightest line wins so the steersman is the key player.

Maximum of 3 scouts in canoe. Depending on personnel, 2 might be better than 3. Probably need two smaller scouts paddling on other side to compensate for a really large scout. Key is the rear paddler who steers and can make corrections before canoe get much off course.

More power if paddle on knees. Olympic canoeists get down on only 1 knee.

Make a fast start (sprint all out) at beginning to get in front and not be blocked by canoes not going straight.

Practice starts.

Line up to extreme left at start to have inside track around pier (so have to be ready to line up as soon as staff allows)

There is a possibility of rough water. Carry bailing bucket. Make sure bow stays up (by putting front paddler one "row" back if necessary).