On Sat, 7 Jan 2006 22:34:17 +0000, Terry wrote:

Hi Steve,
When you say "It always amazes me when
a person says they want to start paddling becuase they want to do
something epic as their first trip. "

When I was 19 a guy told me about the race and I wanted to do it. I did
alot of things in life but did not do the race. Then a guy I work with
did it and I realized at age 36 that life is passing me by.

I want to do this race not because I will win but because it's been a
life goal for a long time, would be a great motivator and goal for me
getting in shape the way I wish to be, and seems like a great way to
challenge myself.

Thanks for the above advice all. I will let you guys know how I do.
Terry

Terry, you say in your first post that you are 6'1", 220 lbs, 36 yo.

I can envy you your stats, being 6'2", 270 lbs, 56 yo. I could wish I
was still 36 and 220 lbs. I would settle for 36!

I would not say for sure, but I expect that you are already 30-40 lbs
over medical ideal weight, which would indicate that you are not the
most athletic, though may have been before. I would recommend that you
get a good physical checkup before trying this race. Get lots of
training, and lose some weight, like 40 lbs.

If this was one of your dreams and it is passing you by, I expect that
there are other dreams that are passing you by as well. Welcome to the
human condition! You might want to start with some of the simpler
dreams, achieve those, and get into shape for this monster, or it will
eat you alive, and you could get frustrated about even trying those
other dreams.

The exact boat you use will be more insignificant than a lot of other
factors that you appear to be disregarding. Be sure and wear a helmet,
and a good PFD. That way when you pass out, you don't hit your head
and drown, and if you do drown, you will float and be easier to find.

Otherwise have fun carrying that 60 lb boat and all your other gear on
some of the portages that try the hearts of man and beast.
RkyMtnHootOwl OvO