Training Corner

Huli recovery video below. Key items to remember: 

  • Count off 1-6 and be accounted for by the steer
  • Be flexible: every huli is different and sometimes requires improvising. For example, if 3 and 4 aren’t able to climb up and pull the boat over, have other paddlers from different seats do the job

Steering

Steer training takes study, time, and practice. There is no one-size fits all for how long a person trains to be a qualified steer. Checking out as a steer person does not mean one is qualified to go out in any condition into any environment.

The steer person’s primary goals:

  • Crew Safety
  • Keeping the boat on as straight of course as possible with minimum correction
  • Acting as the 6th paddler propelling the outrigger forward

Steers should successfully demonstrate the following skills to a minimum of 3 WBOCC experienced steer persons:

  • Knowledge of the wind weather and tide for the paddle
  • Assessment of their crew’s health, proper attire, experience, and strength
  • Proper life jackets are worn and available to all crew members
  • Reviewing huli expectations with the crew
  • Knowledge of how to set the crew positions
  • Ability to lead the crew in moving the outrigger into and out of the water
  • Coach the crew through a race start
  • 180 degree buoy turn
  • Bridge transits avoiding other boats and pilings
  • Demonstration of steer paddle strokes: poke, draw, post, and paddle
  • Boating etiquette and right of way
Water Changes Technique