Mild(er) weather and strong winds - ideal late fall training here in Comox, BC Canada!
PHOTO CREDIT: Coach Ken Dool
I'm writing to you all from Comox, British Columbia, where I'm currently training with Canadian Sailing Development Squad. With mild(er) weather and strong winds out on the Strait of Georgia, training here has been a blast. We've received excellent training so far with Sail Canada National Performance Coach Ken Dool. It's a long distance out to the Strait from our base at 19 Wing Comox’s HMCS Quadra and staying warm while sitting on the towline out has been crucial. Once out there, though, the huge waves (affectionately named “big greenies” by our coach) and good breeze have made it worth our while. These conditions are a rarity in Canada, and it's exciting to have found them in a place where we can comfortably sail into the late fall. I heard back home, there has already been a dusting of snow.
Wave practice!
PHOTO CREDIT: Coach Ken Dool
Training has been going very well, with some significant improvements coming in the waves with consistent practice. While the certainty of international racing taking place anywhere in the near future is slowly getting murkier, I look forward to testing the progress I’ve made towards my goals whenever we get to race again. My fitness is still improving nicely both on and off the water. The focus has been on sailing this past 3 weeks - with 5 days out of 7 on the water. Additionally I have been in the community centre gym here 2 days a week plus out for a bike ride another 2 days. Next week is a planned 'down' or easier week.
The local scenery around Comox & Courtenay is pretty stunning.
PHOTO CREDITS: photo on R taken from water - Ken Dool, otherwise my photos.
On our two days off per week, I've taken the opportunity to explore the surrounding area both by bike and on foot. I have to admit that I haven't previously spent any time on our west coast, but my first experience has been a stunning one. Not only is this a beautiful part of our country, but the community has welcomed our sailing group with open arms and has been exceedingly kind. I can't say enough how grateful I am to everyone who has helped make this possible.
Heading upwind with fellow team mate and B.C. local Fillah Karim. Wind and waves have been great - and the mountain backdrop is nothing to complain about!
PHOTO CREDIT: Coach Ken Dool
