Need Racing Kayak Advice

[CobraKayaker]

Last year I participated in the Adirondack 90-miler - a three day race covering 90-miles of flat water. I bought a Wilderness Tsunami 165 for training and the race, only to find out the boat was WAY too heavy (65lbs w/out gear) to get me to the race cut-off points on time. This was a disasterous blow as I was learning real time during the event.

I know I need a new boat for this year's event but having thought I'd done sufficient research before I bought my Tsunami, I'm trigger shy to buy a new boat.

Looking for ANY recommendations from ideal boat weight, brands you'd recommend, etc. I've found a copmany, Hornbeck, that makes a 23lb kevlar/carbon fiber 16'6" kayak that I think would be good. Anybody have a Hornbeck?

Seriosly... I need help! :)

- Kate

[ronkampnich]

I'm also considerring racing a K1 as well, my uncle has been doing the 90 miler in a C2 for years, i'm very tempted, would love some advice as well

[CobraKayaker]

ronkampnich,

I ended up buying a Hornbeck kayak (http://hornbeckboats.com/), only 25lbs. It was fantastic! What a difference between that boat and my plastic one from the 2009 race. I completed all three days of the race and all those carries solo. Whatever boat you choose, make sure that you can carry the longest distance while on rocky terrain. Take it from me... wheels are virtually useless, so don't bother with the extra weight of them just trail to carry your boat. Also, you need to make sure that you have adequate padding between the boat and yourself. I had bruises for weeks to prove that poor padding is a huge no no. Besides... once you're into a carry and your hurt'n there's really no turning back.

Besides having the right gear, having a great pitcrew is key. My brother was part of my crew and even hiked in to some of the more difficult spots to bring me supplies and boost moral. I can't tell you how much that helps you push forward after you've paddled 18 miles and then portaged the Raquette Falls trail.

Let me know if you have any other questions. Hope to see you at the race this September. I'll definately be there :)