Well, I did it. I updated my website to make it even more stellar than before.
With the recent acquisition of a MacBook (thanks mom and dad) I now possess god-like powers and can update my website on my own - no longer relying on the kindness of my dear friend and chief web-guru Jeffery Tanz.
I feel empowered, but scared. I think the desire and capability to update and enhance my 'site' will consume me and result in an the creation of an even more intimate relationship with my coveted MacBook. Meh, whatever.
So, check supportjohn.ca. I will now be able to blog directly on the site.....so, I think this may just be the end to my blogger account and postings. Moment of silence. For those Rss feeders, you can set it up from my site, so, not to worry.
Ch-ch-ch-check you later dudes. And don't forget to check the new site.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Beijing or Bust
It's on like donkey kong.
After a disappointing and heart-wrenching Worlds, I have sucked it up and refocused my energy towards the next step, qualifying the Olympic spot for Canada. With no school and no work, all of my energy will be given to training and preparing for the Olympic trials next spring. There is nothing to lose and everything to gain now ladies and gentlemen.
Albeit for a couple of races, I had a pretty stellar season and I wish to carry this momentum into this next season. My german friend Thilo Schmit calls me the "kanonenkugel" or cannon ball. I now find this name fitting and can associate myself with it. You see, the momentum and passion I have for excellence is like the momentum a cannon ball carries when it is shot; and as we all know, when a cannon ball gets moving it cannot be stopped.. unless you have a death wish.
Look out for the cannon ball my friends, it will be coming to a river or training site near you.
After a disappointing and heart-wrenching Worlds, I have sucked it up and refocused my energy towards the next step, qualifying the Olympic spot for Canada. With no school and no work, all of my energy will be given to training and preparing for the Olympic trials next spring. There is nothing to lose and everything to gain now ladies and gentlemen.
Albeit for a couple of races, I had a pretty stellar season and I wish to carry this momentum into this next season. My german friend Thilo Schmit calls me the "kanonenkugel" or cannon ball. I now find this name fitting and can associate myself with it. You see, the momentum and passion I have for excellence is like the momentum a cannon ball carries when it is shot; and as we all know, when a cannon ball gets moving it cannot be stopped.. unless you have a death wish.
Look out for the cannon ball my friends, it will be coming to a river or training site near you.
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Heart Break Hotel
Arrggghhhh…
So, what’s next….well, life is too short to fret, worry and be down. So, I think I will take some much needed rest and relaxation and come up with a new plan for next year.
Although this race adds a slight blow to my Olympic dream, I am not out of the race yet. Our qualification involves the best 2 out 3 races, with the next set of races happening next spring.
So, in the meantime I am going to sit back, enjoy some World Championship racing and cheer on my other teammates.
Monday, September 17, 2007
Sitting, Waiting, Wishing
Yes, it has been a long-time since my last blog entry and I’m sure all of you have been anxious to know what happened to our boats…well, let me tell you that things have turned 180 degrees and the Canadians are back on top. After shrewd negotiations with custom officials, our coaches were able to reclaim our rightful possessions and return them to us. It was an ordeal, but as always, everything works out in the end. Again coaches if you read this, thanks for your work.
The last few days have been great. We continued with the Canadian tradition of shaving the rookies heads…the internet here is painfully slow and uploading photos is an ordeal…but we buzzed the Purcell brothers (C2 team) and Julian Potvin-Bernal (C1) – welcome to the team. In addition, we have consumed a copious amount of sushi. Surprisingly, Sao Paolo has the highest concentration of Japanese inhabitants outside of
Anyways, today is our last day of training before the race starts on Wednesday. It’s very exciting and I am very excited…but as always, it is now a waiting game until Wednesday. So from now until Wednesday, I’ll be sitting, waiting, relaxing.
Monday, September 10, 2007
GONGSHOW
'If they try to send me back to Brazil, all I'll say is NO-NO-NO.' Think Amy Winehouse.
Well, I could sit here and rant about our current ordeal, but, why waste the time and energy? Things could be better, but, this is life - you don't always get what you want! Instead we must embrace our current situation and make the best of it. Things will eventually sort themselves out and when they do, we will thrive; more importantly I will thrive.
Just a quick update, our boats are still in Sao Paolo, trapped behind the bureaucracy of Brazilian customs. However, we hope the tireless efforts of our coaches Michal Staniszewski and Mike Holroyd will pay dividends and we will have our boats tomorrow.
I have been fortunate enough to get on the course here in Foz Do Iguacu. The course has changed significantly from the last time we were here in March. The changes have been positive as there is much more flow and continuation on the entire course. I like it.
Anyways, until our boats come, I am going to continue drinking Brazilian coffee and consuming copious amounts of Mangos. So, life isn't that bad after all......as my dad always asks me when I start to complain about stuff, "Where would you rather be, in Brazil (or other country) hanging out or sitting on the 38th floor at ScotiaCapital building trading stock?" Well, as you can imagine the answer is pretty simple.
So friends, until next time keep fit and have fun.
Well, I could sit here and rant about our current ordeal, but, why waste the time and energy? Things could be better, but, this is life - you don't always get what you want! Instead we must embrace our current situation and make the best of it. Things will eventually sort themselves out and when they do, we will thrive; more importantly I will thrive.
Just a quick update, our boats are still in Sao Paolo, trapped behind the bureaucracy of Brazilian customs. However, we hope the tireless efforts of our coaches Michal Staniszewski and Mike Holroyd will pay dividends and we will have our boats tomorrow.
I have been fortunate enough to get on the course here in Foz Do Iguacu. The course has changed significantly from the last time we were here in March. The changes have been positive as there is much more flow and continuation on the entire course. I like it.
Anyways, until our boats come, I am going to continue drinking Brazilian coffee and consuming copious amounts of Mangos. So, life isn't that bad after all......as my dad always asks me when I start to complain about stuff, "Where would you rather be, in Brazil (or other country) hanging out or sitting on the 38th floor at ScotiaCapital building trading stock?" Well, as you can imagine the answer is pretty simple.
So friends, until next time keep fit and have fun.
Friday, September 7, 2007
World Championships or Bust
Well, this is it. The final dance.
However, some of us Canadians will be going to the dance without our dance shoes. Yes, the Brazilians have done it to us once again. They have commandeered our boats and are holding them hostage until Monday morning, 9:00am.
We thought we did everything right this time around. We shipped our boats by Cargo a week in advance; plenty of time to ensure their safe arrival in Brazil. However, little did we know that today is Brazil's independence day and thus, nobody works. Therefore, my Vajda 350XL is stuck behind closed doors, collecting dust. If you are reading this Vajda 350XL, I miss you.
So, what's the game plan now....well, I am currently relying on the generosity of the paddling community to help me out. I have orchestrated a few plans (primarily borrowing boats) which will hopefully allow me to train in Brazil in the meantime. But, everything is out my hands and control right now, so we can only hope for the best.
Godspeed John Hastings, Godspeed!
However, some of us Canadians will be going to the dance without our dance shoes. Yes, the Brazilians have done it to us once again. They have commandeered our boats and are holding them hostage until Monday morning, 9:00am.
We thought we did everything right this time around. We shipped our boats by Cargo a week in advance; plenty of time to ensure their safe arrival in Brazil. However, little did we know that today is Brazil's independence day and thus, nobody works. Therefore, my Vajda 350XL is stuck behind closed doors, collecting dust. If you are reading this Vajda 350XL, I miss you.
So, what's the game plan now....well, I am currently relying on the generosity of the paddling community to help me out. I have orchestrated a few plans (primarily borrowing boats) which will hopefully allow me to train in Brazil in the meantime. But, everything is out my hands and control right now, so we can only hope for the best.
Godspeed John Hastings, Godspeed!
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
Kayaking in Saskatoon - IN JEOPARDY!!!!!
Apparently the proposed Whitewater Center to be opened in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan may be in jeopardy. A risk-averse, change-resistant journalist by the name of Les MacPherson wrote a piece in the Saskatoon StarPhoenix criticizing the development of this site. This journalist fears that the serenity and ambiance surrounding the downtown Saskatoon weir (proposed site of the course) would be devastated and the Pelicans who flock there in the summer would be left homeless. Why? Well it is all because of us 'eskimo-rolling', 'Woooooo' screaming whitewater enthusiasts.
Well Les, let me try to put your fears to rest. I can prove to you that the ambiance won't be ruined and the the Pelicans won't be left homeless, and that such a site will actually do more good for the city of Saskatoon than you may think. Please, read on.
Les, just south of Yellowknife in the NWT is a river called the Slave. The Slave is one of the most beautiful rivers I have ever paddled on; its big volume whitewater is one-of-a-kind, making this place a Canadian paddling mecca. Anyways, there is a section on this river which is inhabited by thousands of Pelicans and is appropriately named Pelican rapids. Now, let me tell you something about Pelican rapids, it is probably the largest and most spectacular part of whitewater on this whole river. Although I lay no claim to being a bird specialist, biologist or even marine biologist, I believe that Pelicans are relatively resilient creatures and if they don't run away from the mighty rapids of the Slave I don't see why they would run from the much more tame rapids which I hope will soon inhabit the South Saskatchewan?
As for the destruction of the current serenity and ambiance, sure there may be times when passer-bys will hear the shrieks of excited whitewater...but, I would much rather hear that, then the shrieks and cries of someone struggling to stay alive after getting stuck in the turbulent and dangerous back-wash of the present weir. In addition, the sound of white water and rapids is incredibly soothing; don't they sell relaxation tapes to the public where the theme is The Sounds of Rivers or something like this?
Les, I understand your reluctance to the monetary/financial outlay for the facility. $15m is a lot of money, but believe me, this center will pay dividends both tangible and intangible. This site will offer Saskatoon and surrounding residents with a new, exciting form of exercise and outdoor entertainment. The development of a slalom kayak/canoe racing club and program will attract Olympic-class athletes and International competitions to Saskatoon and Canada. Finally, commercial rafting ventures can be very profitable with significant positive spill-over...in this case, the spill over will effect local businesses directly as there would undoubtedly be an increase in tourism as a result of this unique facility.
So Les, I beg you....join the dark side. I bet if you try either whitewater kayaking, canoing or rafting, you will be sold. In fact, I invite you to come out to Ottawa. If you come, I will personally guide you down the Ottawa River or any of our surrounding rivers so you can experience the brilliance of our sport first-hand.
For those of you who have yet to see this article, it can be found here, http://www.canada.com/saskatoonstarphoenix/news/third_page/
story.html?id=97b84882-ed64-47e0-a1bd-8aaf6e9f0848
I love kayaking.
Well Les, let me try to put your fears to rest. I can prove to you that the ambiance won't be ruined and the the Pelicans won't be left homeless, and that such a site will actually do more good for the city of Saskatoon than you may think. Please, read on.
Les, just south of Yellowknife in the NWT is a river called the Slave. The Slave is one of the most beautiful rivers I have ever paddled on; its big volume whitewater is one-of-a-kind, making this place a Canadian paddling mecca. Anyways, there is a section on this river which is inhabited by thousands of Pelicans and is appropriately named Pelican rapids. Now, let me tell you something about Pelican rapids, it is probably the largest and most spectacular part of whitewater on this whole river. Although I lay no claim to being a bird specialist, biologist or even marine biologist, I believe that Pelicans are relatively resilient creatures and if they don't run away from the mighty rapids of the Slave I don't see why they would run from the much more tame rapids which I hope will soon inhabit the South Saskatchewan?
As for the destruction of the current serenity and ambiance, sure there may be times when passer-bys will hear the shrieks of excited whitewater...but, I would much rather hear that, then the shrieks and cries of someone struggling to stay alive after getting stuck in the turbulent and dangerous back-wash of the present weir. In addition, the sound of white water and rapids is incredibly soothing; don't they sell relaxation tapes to the public where the theme is The Sounds of Rivers or something like this?
Les, I understand your reluctance to the monetary/financial outlay for the facility. $15m is a lot of money, but believe me, this center will pay dividends both tangible and intangible. This site will offer Saskatoon and surrounding residents with a new, exciting form of exercise and outdoor entertainment. The development of a slalom kayak/canoe racing club and program will attract Olympic-class athletes and International competitions to Saskatoon and Canada. Finally, commercial rafting ventures can be very profitable with significant positive spill-over...in this case, the spill over will effect local businesses directly as there would undoubtedly be an increase in tourism as a result of this unique facility.
So Les, I beg you....join the dark side. I bet if you try either whitewater kayaking, canoing or rafting, you will be sold. In fact, I invite you to come out to Ottawa. If you come, I will personally guide you down the Ottawa River or any of our surrounding rivers so you can experience the brilliance of our sport first-hand.
For those of you who have yet to see this article, it can be found here, http://www.canada.com/saskatoonstarphoenix/news/third_page/
story.html?id=97b84882-ed64-47e0-a1bd-8aaf6e9f0848
I love kayaking.
Friday, August 31, 2007
NEW VIDEO: Pre-Olympic Test Event, Beijing, China
www.supportjohn.ca should be updated this week...but, until then here is a little video post which should satiate your appetites for the time being. It is a clip of my qualifying run in Beijing, China at the Pre-Olympic Test event.
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-5950948871377126306
Enjoy.
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-5950948871377126306
Enjoy.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
3 Weeks Since my Last Post - Embarrassing
Well, I've finally returned to the my little online journal. However, I have some legitimate excuses for my lack of attention and negligent behaviour.
1) I was in China for two weeks where I was blocked/denied access to my blog, and
2) I spent the last week instructing a class at MKC (Madawaska Kanu Center) which had limited internet access.
So fans, can you forgive me?
A brief recap of my last three weeks is in order. The time in China was incredible. The course, the atmosphere, the Great Wall of China, the city of Beijing and our custom tailored suits were all very very cool and a great experience. The Pre-Olympic test event (which is why we went down there in the first place) went well for me - I finished 12th in the Qualifier and then 13th over-all. I made one mistake in the semi-final and on a very intense and high volume course such as the one in Beijing, recovering from my slight miscalculation cost me a significant amount time. Regardless, I am pleased with the way I raced and the training leading up to it. It was very nice to see my team mates James Cartwright and David Ford place in the top 5 at this race...both just missed the podium by a slim margin.
I spent last week leading a slalom clinic for Masters at the Madawaska Kanu Center just outside of Barry's Bay. The weather was uncooperative as we were rained out most of the week. However, in our sport, rain is good as it means more water on the rivers! This week was capped off by the Ontario Provincial Championships, where I paddled well and won the event.
Now, I am back in Ottawa....the first time in a LOOOONNNGGG time. I am here training and enjoying the company of my girlfriend. I am getting myself prepared for the long-awaited World Championships in Brazil. I am very much excited for this race and can't wait for my departure next Friday.
Check out supportjohn.ca in the near future....there will be updated video, pictures, etc!!!
Until next time race fans, keep fit and have fun!
1) I was in China for two weeks where I was blocked/denied access to my blog, and
2) I spent the last week instructing a class at MKC (Madawaska Kanu Center) which had limited internet access.
So fans, can you forgive me?
A brief recap of my last three weeks is in order. The time in China was incredible. The course, the atmosphere, the Great Wall of China, the city of Beijing and our custom tailored suits were all very very cool and a great experience. The Pre-Olympic test event (which is why we went down there in the first place) went well for me - I finished 12th in the Qualifier and then 13th over-all. I made one mistake in the semi-final and on a very intense and high volume course such as the one in Beijing, recovering from my slight miscalculation cost me a significant amount time. Regardless, I am pleased with the way I raced and the training leading up to it. It was very nice to see my team mates James Cartwright and David Ford place in the top 5 at this race...both just missed the podium by a slim margin.
I spent last week leading a slalom clinic for Masters at the Madawaska Kanu Center just outside of Barry's Bay. The weather was uncooperative as we were rained out most of the week. However, in our sport, rain is good as it means more water on the rivers! This week was capped off by the Ontario Provincial Championships, where I paddled well and won the event.
Now, I am back in Ottawa....the first time in a LOOOONNNGGG time. I am here training and enjoying the company of my girlfriend. I am getting myself prepared for the long-awaited World Championships in Brazil. I am very much excited for this race and can't wait for my departure next Friday.
Check out supportjohn.ca in the near future....there will be updated video, pictures, etc!!!
Until next time race fans, keep fit and have fun!
Monday, August 6, 2007
Canadian National Championships - 2nd Place
After a long absence from the blogging world I am happy to report that I am back. The latest news - A silver medal at the Canadian National Championships this past weekend here in Chilliwack, BC.
I dug a hole for myself after my first run at the Canadian Nationals. A touch on the last gate added two seconds to my total time and created a 3 second gap between myself and the gold. Unfortunately my blazing fast second run wasn't enough to catch the smooth and consistent David Ford. In the end, I missed out on the gold by 1.7 seconds.
This Championships also saw the beginning of something great, the Podium Prospect Award. This initiative, which was launched this year, saw both Female and Male, Junior and Cadet athletes race for nearly $1700 in cash and prizes. Simply, the athlete who compiled the most points/greatest results from racing in all of the various slalom events/categories won. I am very excited how things turned out this year and I am very thankful for all of the sponsors and individuals who helped get this Award off the ground. With more planning, I am hoping next years award will be even better.
Anyways, I am currently sitting in the Vancouver Airport just about to board my flight for Beijing. I have the incredible opportunity to test out and race on the new Olympic venue at the Pre-Olympic Test event in two weeks time. With the course opening for the first time to everyone, it should be pretty fun and exciting.
Stayed tuned....
I dug a hole for myself after my first run at the Canadian Nationals. A touch on the last gate added two seconds to my total time and created a 3 second gap between myself and the gold. Unfortunately my blazing fast second run wasn't enough to catch the smooth and consistent David Ford. In the end, I missed out on the gold by 1.7 seconds.
This Championships also saw the beginning of something great, the Podium Prospect Award. This initiative, which was launched this year, saw both Female and Male, Junior and Cadet athletes race for nearly $1700 in cash and prizes. Simply, the athlete who compiled the most points/greatest results from racing in all of the various slalom events/categories won. I am very excited how things turned out this year and I am very thankful for all of the sponsors and individuals who helped get this Award off the ground. With more planning, I am hoping next years award will be even better.
Anyways, I am currently sitting in the Vancouver Airport just about to board my flight for Beijing. I have the incredible opportunity to test out and race on the new Olympic venue at the Pre-Olympic Test event in two weeks time. With the course opening for the first time to everyone, it should be pretty fun and exciting.
Stayed tuned....
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
Back in Action
After a week off in my hometown of Aurora, I am back on the road getting myself geared up for our Canadian National Championships next weekend. I am currently based in Calgary, Alberta (aka. 'The Wild West'), training in town and up on the beautiful Kananaskis river.
The week off was filled with action. A quick golf game on Tuesday, a trip to Ottawa on Wednesday, a visit to the Toronto Airport on Thursday and finally my fundraiser on Saturday kept me on my toes the entire week. I would like to thank all of you who came to the fundraiser, it was a great time.
I will be heading to our Canadian Nationals on Sunday. I can't wait to race on the raging waters of the Tamihi river. In addition, I can't wait to see my new initiative, the Podium Prospect Award, play out. Should be very exciting.
The week off was filled with action. A quick golf game on Tuesday, a trip to Ottawa on Wednesday, a visit to the Toronto Airport on Thursday and finally my fundraiser on Saturday kept me on my toes the entire week. I would like to thank all of you who came to the fundraiser, it was a great time.
I will be heading to our Canadian Nationals on Sunday. I can't wait to race on the raging waters of the Tamihi river. In addition, I can't wait to see my new initiative, the Podium Prospect Award, play out. Should be very exciting.
Saturday, July 14, 2007
World Cup #3 - Augsburg...aka the bain of my existence
Well ladies and gentlemen, it is all over. This past weekend was rough, rougher than most. Unfortunately, it was all over for me in gate #1. A massive touch there threw me offline forcing me to loop gate #2 and finishing off any chance for me to be competitive in this field of kayaking gurus. I must acknowledge the empowering cheers of my enormous fan base here in Augsburg...you guys are awesome....and don't worry, the cheque is in the mail.
Anyways, it is now time to go home and get some well-earned rest. After 2.5 months of continuous racing/training here in Europe, I feel I have learned plenty and raced well (aside from this past race). Now it is time to go back to the good ol'stomping grounds and rest and relax.
Next on the agenda is week at home in Aurora; then in two weeks, it is time for our Canadian National Championships out in Chilliwack, BC.
On a separate note, those of you in Aurora there is the supportjohn.ca charity Poker Tournament on Saturday, July 21st. Space is available so contact me if interested.
Take care and we'll see you next time!
Anyways, it is now time to go home and get some well-earned rest. After 2.5 months of continuous racing/training here in Europe, I feel I have learned plenty and raced well (aside from this past race). Now it is time to go back to the good ol'stomping grounds and rest and relax.
Next on the agenda is week at home in Aurora; then in two weeks, it is time for our Canadian National Championships out in Chilliwack, BC.
On a separate note, those of you in Aurora there is the supportjohn.ca charity Poker Tournament on Saturday, July 21st. Space is available so contact me if interested.
Take care and we'll see you next time!
Monday, July 9, 2007
World Cup #2 – Tacen, Slovenia
http://video.google.de/videoplay?docid=-4742976150759505413
After yesterday, I have now added the course in Tacen in my personal Axis of Evil; you know, personal enemies to John. The other course completing this Axis is the one in
We are now here in
Stay tuned race fans....John is going out with a bang!
Tuesday, July 3, 2007
New Video: Prague Semi-Final
Well race fans, the first World Cup has come and gone. Although I finished 11th, my best World Cup finish to date, it was bitter-sweet. I was only 0.11 seconds away from placing in the top 10 and being able to race the final. Unfortunately, I touched gate 10 and incurred a 2-second penalty. Without this, I would have been sitting 5th, but, this is racing.
Anyways, I have recently uploaded the video of this race. You can check it out by clicking the following link:
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-3799942936405230821
Be sure to turn your speakers up loud....real loud....and then just wait for it.
Anyways, we are in Tacen, Slovenia now. World Cup #2 is this coming weekend. The Slovenian Canoe association always puts on a good show too. Tomorrow night, right in the heart of downtown Ljubljana will be a flat-water parallel slalom race. This event, which I have raced only once before, is incredible. Similar to the Hit Series slalom race two weeks ago, this race will be illuminated with massive floodlights and will likely be televised. Unfortunately I won't be racing this time around, but, being able to watch my friends compete for the cash prize is always fun to see.
Anyways, I have recently uploaded the video of this race. You can check it out by clicking the following link:
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-3799942936405230821
Be sure to turn your speakers up loud....real loud....and then just wait for it.
Anyways, we are in Tacen, Slovenia now. World Cup #2 is this coming weekend. The Slovenian Canoe association always puts on a good show too. Tomorrow night, right in the heart of downtown Ljubljana will be a flat-water parallel slalom race. This event, which I have raced only once before, is incredible. Similar to the Hit Series slalom race two weeks ago, this race will be illuminated with massive floodlights and will likely be televised. Unfortunately I won't be racing this time around, but, being able to watch my friends compete for the cash prize is always fun to see.
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Gail Force WInds Rock Praha
Well Ladies and Gentlemen,
The title doesn't lie. Prague has been hit with one of the most wicked storms this century. With wind gusts reaching nearly 60km/h, it has made training significantly hard for everyone but me. Because I have logged so many training hours in Valleyfield, QC (a city notorious for its' wind) it makes the current conditions here in Prague feel like I am at home once again.
Anyways, the week of training came to an end today. The course has been set for the Qualifiers tomorrow. The demo boaters and forerunners did a great job showing us all the lines...now, it is time to race.
On a lighter note, the Canadian tradition of shaving the rookies heads took place earlier this week. I have added a few photos of the guys. Normally, there is always some hesitation when it comes to chopping your hair off, but these kids were so eager I swear they would have probably done it themselves if we didn't take the initiative the other night. Fortunately, the fun is not over yet. There are still two more rookies, Daniel and Thomas Purcell, who will get the same treatment at the World Championships in September. So kids, if you are reading this, enjoy the next couple of months having hair.
Word.
Saturday, June 23, 2007
Hit Series Slalom Competition - Solkan, Slovenia
All I have to say, Awesome.
Although I was just outside of the money, finishing 4th, the experience was great. Racing under massive flood lights in front of a sold out crowd on a Friday night made me feel like I was playing in the show (NHL), or was Smash (from the hit TV Drama, Friday Night Lights) playing for the Panthers in the small town of Dillion, Texas. Needless to say, it was incredibly exciting and will be on Slovenian TV in the near future.
Our journey to Solkan began on Wednesday of last week. The 5.5 hour travel through the Austrian and Slovenian alps was long, but again very beautiful. When we arrived in Solkan we were treated to +30C temperatures, sunny skies and cool, refreshing turquoise water. With some Slovakians and the 2004 Olympic Champion, Benoit Peschier camping at the course, we decided to follow suit. We pulled out or boat bags, made some pillows out of clothing and just rocked out. Although we had intentions of going to a hotel the following night, we decided to save the 26Euros; also, we didn't want to ditch our fellow campers...it would be like we were breaking up the band.
The race was a double header, we got to race Thursday and Friday; where the results of both races were added together to determine the winner. At the first race, I finished 3rd and on the second day I finished 4th. Unfortunately, this was not good enough for a podium finish and the money. Oh well, next time.
Anyways, we are in Prague now as the World Cup circuit will be starting next weekend. I can't wait to race.
Although I was just outside of the money, finishing 4th, the experience was great. Racing under massive flood lights in front of a sold out crowd on a Friday night made me feel like I was playing in the show (NHL), or was Smash (from the hit TV Drama, Friday Night Lights) playing for the Panthers in the small town of Dillion, Texas. Needless to say, it was incredibly exciting and will be on Slovenian TV in the near future.
Our journey to Solkan began on Wednesday of last week. The 5.5 hour travel through the Austrian and Slovenian alps was long, but again very beautiful. When we arrived in Solkan we were treated to +30C temperatures, sunny skies and cool, refreshing turquoise water. With some Slovakians and the 2004 Olympic Champion, Benoit Peschier camping at the course, we decided to follow suit. We pulled out or boat bags, made some pillows out of clothing and just rocked out. Although we had intentions of going to a hotel the following night, we decided to save the 26Euros; also, we didn't want to ditch our fellow campers...it would be like we were breaking up the band.
The race was a double header, we got to race Thursday and Friday; where the results of both races were added together to determine the winner. At the first race, I finished 3rd and on the second day I finished 4th. Unfortunately, this was not good enough for a podium finish and the money. Oh well, next time.
Anyways, we are in Prague now as the World Cup circuit will be starting next weekend. I can't wait to race.
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Video - Slovak Open 2007.
Finally.
Although the video doesn't profile the wicked awesome kayaking skills of mine, it does profile the wicked awesome video making skills I possess.
Using the finest video editing tools, I was able to create this masterpiece. It was from my race at the Slovak Open in which I finished 40th, or last place in the semi-final as I flipped over and missed the last two gates...anyways the video can be found at the following link.
http://video.google.ca/videoplay?docid=7650358822669060460
Enjoy and be expecting more from the upcoming World Cup races.
Although the video doesn't profile the wicked awesome kayaking skills of mine, it does profile the wicked awesome video making skills I possess.
Using the finest video editing tools, I was able to create this masterpiece. It was from my race at the Slovak Open in which I finished 40th, or last place in the semi-final as I flipped over and missed the last two gates...anyways the video can be found at the following link.
http://video.google.ca/videoplay?docid=7650358822669060460
Enjoy and be expecting more from the upcoming World Cup races.
Monday, June 18, 2007
Fear and Loathing in Augsburg
So, here we are once again in beautiful Augsburg, Germany. Arriving from Prague on Friday, we spent the last few days training, eating, sleeping and watching Trailer Park Boys. Yes, that is right, watching Trailer Park Boys. It is very sad, but this infamous Canadian documentary has come to end. We just rapped up watching the 7th and final season. It is a sad day, but, it was a good run and for those of you unfamiliar with the program, I recommend sourcing it out somehow. It is hilarious.
Training has been fun - we had the unique opportunity to train with the Chinese this past Saturday. It was unique in the sense of that there were coaches, support staff and professors (yes, university professors) littered on both sides of the river filming their athletes from various angles and analyzing everything in hope of finding the ticket or way of ensuring Olympic Gold at next year's games. After speaking to one of the athletes, who wished to remain antonymous, he told me that all of these people are here because it is gold or bust....a silver or bronze medal is insufficient and carries with it no or little reward. He told me that if he wins a gold, he can earn up to C$1M, and if he wins a silver, maybe he will get C$10,000.
I spent much of the day at the Munich Airport. Teammate James Cartwright arrived today...unfortunately his boat was mangled by the nasty plane monsters and is currently outside fixing it up....painful.
Alright friends, keep your heads up and I'll be back shortly with some more updates from the road.
One last note, for those of you in the Aurora area...keep your ears to street, their will be a SupportJohn.ca fundraiser in the near future....
Training has been fun - we had the unique opportunity to train with the Chinese this past Saturday. It was unique in the sense of that there were coaches, support staff and professors (yes, university professors) littered on both sides of the river filming their athletes from various angles and analyzing everything in hope of finding the ticket or way of ensuring Olympic Gold at next year's games. After speaking to one of the athletes, who wished to remain antonymous, he told me that all of these people are here because it is gold or bust....a silver or bronze medal is insufficient and carries with it no or little reward. He told me that if he wins a gold, he can earn up to C$1M, and if he wins a silver, maybe he will get C$10,000.
I spent much of the day at the Munich Airport. Teammate James Cartwright arrived today...unfortunately his boat was mangled by the nasty plane monsters and is currently outside fixing it up....painful.
Alright friends, keep your heads up and I'll be back shortly with some more updates from the road.
One last note, for those of you in the Aurora area...keep your ears to street, their will be a SupportJohn.ca fundraiser in the near future....
Sunday, June 10, 2007
The Black Plague
It happens every time I come to Eastern Europe - the contraction of the Black Plague. So, what is the Black Plague? Well, it is the time when one comes face-to-face with hell for 24 hours. The symptoms are tell-tale: stomach cramps, fatigue, nausea, vomiting and the dreaded sitting-in-a-Chevy feeling-something-heavy diarrhea.
It hit me last night...like a freight truck. I spent the night tossing and turning in dire pain, trying to use my Jedi forces to fight these demons playing havoc on my stomach. Needless to say, I wasn't strong enough; the dark sith prevailed and I have been left bed-ridden, licking my wounds.
To reframe the situation, I am glad it happened now as oppose to later. Last year, the Black Plague hit me on the day of the semi-finals at the World Championships. I recall vomiting repeatedly during warm-up.....too much detail?
Anyways, I can rest easy now. As the Plague slowly works it way out of my body I am pleased that I will now be resilient to any future wrath. It's almost as if I just finished writing an exam at school...pleased that it is over until next year.
Speaking of Exams, turns out my graduation is this coming Thursday. Unfortunately I won't be there....and it is a true shame, my mom told me on the phone today that I am graduating with Top Honours. Yep, it is now official, I am a big deal.
It hit me last night...like a freight truck. I spent the night tossing and turning in dire pain, trying to use my Jedi forces to fight these demons playing havoc on my stomach. Needless to say, I wasn't strong enough; the dark sith prevailed and I have been left bed-ridden, licking my wounds.
To reframe the situation, I am glad it happened now as oppose to later. Last year, the Black Plague hit me on the day of the semi-finals at the World Championships. I recall vomiting repeatedly during warm-up.....too much detail?
Anyways, I can rest easy now. As the Plague slowly works it way out of my body I am pleased that I will now be resilient to any future wrath. It's almost as if I just finished writing an exam at school...pleased that it is over until next year.
Speaking of Exams, turns out my graduation is this coming Thursday. Unfortunately I won't be there....and it is a true shame, my mom told me on the phone today that I am graduating with Top Honours. Yep, it is now official, I am a big deal.
Friday, June 8, 2007
Training Hard or Hardly Training
Some might say (i.e. my coach Michal Staniszewski) that my antics as of late, training three times a day, is nothing. He would tell me about his days back in Poland when he would train four times a day and then help out the family Ox on the farm by carrying hay bail after hay bail from the field to farmhouse. Others may look on in amazement and confusion, trying to determine if I am human or machine.
For me, this is just right. After a four week racing stint, where the volume of training was dramatically tapered, it is nice to get back to the grind and do some hard work before tapering once again for the world cup circuit.
I know I shouldn't complain, but, it has been hot....really hot. Although the water is cool here, it isn't exactly clean....thus going for the mid-session dip is sort of ruled out. Oh well, we are all surviving...and when I mean all, I am referring to my New Zealand friends (Mike, James, Aaron, Mark and Tanya) who are hanging out here in the mighty clubhouse also.
As for life, it is going well. It is amazing to see the changes in Prague....even since last year. You can tell the EU is coming, quickly. Prices are sky-rocketing....new, fancy restaurants are being erected by the minute...the craziest thing of all (which I saw last night) was this all you can eat sushi joint. Sushi in Prague??? Crazy, yes...I guess Bob Dylan was right, the times, they are a changing. Needless to say, the Tesco supermarket, a frequent stop for us paddle-sport athletes is still the same. The food court, the movie theatre....it is still all the same.....glorious.
For my European friends who are off to race in Liptovsky Mikulas (Slovakia) at the European Championships, best of luck. And I hope that neither your car, wheels, or hubcaps get stolen!
For me, this is just right. After a four week racing stint, where the volume of training was dramatically tapered, it is nice to get back to the grind and do some hard work before tapering once again for the world cup circuit.
I know I shouldn't complain, but, it has been hot....really hot. Although the water is cool here, it isn't exactly clean....thus going for the mid-session dip is sort of ruled out. Oh well, we are all surviving...and when I mean all, I am referring to my New Zealand friends (Mike, James, Aaron, Mark and Tanya) who are hanging out here in the mighty clubhouse also.
As for life, it is going well. It is amazing to see the changes in Prague....even since last year. You can tell the EU is coming, quickly. Prices are sky-rocketing....new, fancy restaurants are being erected by the minute...the craziest thing of all (which I saw last night) was this all you can eat sushi joint. Sushi in Prague??? Crazy, yes...I guess Bob Dylan was right, the times, they are a changing. Needless to say, the Tesco supermarket, a frequent stop for us paddle-sport athletes is still the same. The food court, the movie theatre....it is still all the same.....glorious.
For my European friends who are off to race in Liptovsky Mikulas (Slovakia) at the European Championships, best of luck. And I hope that neither your car, wheels, or hubcaps get stolen!
Monday, June 4, 2007
Home #3 - Prague, CZ
It is true - Prague is my third home. I have been here so many times that it would be unjust to call it anything else. The sights, the sounds, the people, the smell, the course and the fact that any frugal athlete can live like a king here makes this the best place to train.
I arrived here in Prague this morning. I was fortunate to get a ride with some German team friends, Jens Ewald and Sebastian Schubert, to the Munich Airport yesterday after the second race in Tacen, Slovenia. There, I rented a car and began the four-hour drive up to Prague. Since it was 11pm when I left Munich, I only lasted an hour before being forced to pull over and rest. Fortunately, I was prepared. With my trusty sleeping bag, I crawled into the back seat of my Opel Astra Wagon and passed out...I awoke at 6:30 to pleasant sounds of traffic from the nearby Autobahn.
I decided to alter my original plan, which included racing in Merano, Italy, to come to Prague. I realized this past weekend that I was utterly exhausted from all of the racing. Although there was some fluctuations in my results, many great lessons have been learned and I feel that an additional race was unnecessary for me. What I need to do now is rest up and relax so I am nice and fresh for the upcoming World Cup Tour which starts three weeks from now.
Look forward to more consistent updates. Being the only Canadian here in Prague at the moment, I am certain my computer will become a close and dear friend.
I arrived here in Prague this morning. I was fortunate to get a ride with some German team friends, Jens Ewald and Sebastian Schubert, to the Munich Airport yesterday after the second race in Tacen, Slovenia. There, I rented a car and began the four-hour drive up to Prague. Since it was 11pm when I left Munich, I only lasted an hour before being forced to pull over and rest. Fortunately, I was prepared. With my trusty sleeping bag, I crawled into the back seat of my Opel Astra Wagon and passed out...I awoke at 6:30 to pleasant sounds of traffic from the nearby Autobahn.
I decided to alter my original plan, which included racing in Merano, Italy, to come to Prague. I realized this past weekend that I was utterly exhausted from all of the racing. Although there was some fluctuations in my results, many great lessons have been learned and I feel that an additional race was unnecessary for me. What I need to do now is rest up and relax so I am nice and fresh for the upcoming World Cup Tour which starts three weeks from now.
Look forward to more consistent updates. Being the only Canadian here in Prague at the moment, I am certain my computer will become a close and dear friend.
Saturday, June 2, 2007
Gate #3
"Park it." This is what teammate and sport psychology master James Cartwright would probably say to me after my second run in the first (of two) International Races here in Tacen, Slovenia.
Sitting in 10th place after my first run, I was primed and ready to attack my second run.
In my visualization prior to my second run, I forgot about gate #3. I skipped by as if it were an insignificant part of the course. Little did I know that this error would effect me so drastically. I was a Gee Gee (first horse out of the gate). I raced down the notorious first drop and through the first two gates here in Tacen perfectly....and then gate #3 happened. I was a bit too excited and neglected the precision and patience that this part of the course required. After catching an edge and nearly flipping and missing the gate (which would have earned me a 50 second penalty), I realized my mistake. Now, this is the point where James would have said to me, "Park it". Instead, I hurried. I turned on the afterburners and raced down the rest of the course. In the path of this hurricane named John, I incurred two penalties (an additional 4 seconds to my overall time). In a sport where you must be the fastest, having four seconds added to your time is very bad. Although my running times on both runs were the same, the four seconds in penalties proved costly as it resulted in my slipping into 14th place.
Needless to say, the lesson has been learned....never overlook anything when visualizing.
Now, I am happy to say that I have "Parked" today's blunders, and am looking forward to tomorrows race.
Sitting in 10th place after my first run, I was primed and ready to attack my second run.
In my visualization prior to my second run, I forgot about gate #3. I skipped by as if it were an insignificant part of the course. Little did I know that this error would effect me so drastically. I was a Gee Gee (first horse out of the gate). I raced down the notorious first drop and through the first two gates here in Tacen perfectly....and then gate #3 happened. I was a bit too excited and neglected the precision and patience that this part of the course required. After catching an edge and nearly flipping and missing the gate (which would have earned me a 50 second penalty), I realized my mistake. Now, this is the point where James would have said to me, "Park it". Instead, I hurried. I turned on the afterburners and raced down the rest of the course. In the path of this hurricane named John, I incurred two penalties (an additional 4 seconds to my overall time). In a sport where you must be the fastest, having four seconds added to your time is very bad. Although my running times on both runs were the same, the four seconds in penalties proved costly as it resulted in my slipping into 14th place.
Needless to say, the lesson has been learned....never overlook anything when visualizing.
Now, I am happy to say that I have "Parked" today's blunders, and am looking forward to tomorrows race.
Sunday, May 27, 2007
Whitewater Kayaking in its Purest Form
First off, I would like to apologize to my devout following. I'm sure this past week has been boring and uneventful for you - I know most of you thrive on reading my blog and hearing about the exciting and adventurous times of John Hastings.
With a hard week of training in Augsburg coming to an end this past Friday, we were off to Bovec, Slovenia to race our ultralight whitewater slalom boats down the Soca (pronounced So-Cha) River against some of the worlds best. The Soca river, situated in the heart of the Slovenian Alps was by far one of the most beautiful rivers I had ever paddled on in my life. The water was cool and crisp and clean enough you could drink it. The actual river was littered with massive boulders which put to test the kayaking and river-running skills of any kayaker of any level brave enough to navigate it.
Although water levels have been very low this year (due to the lack of snow in Europe), today's torrential rain remedied the problem significantly. In fact, the rain became a bit of a problem. Between our first and second runs, the water rose at least 0.5 - 1m and completely changed the course even though the gates were in the same place. Simply, rocks were hidden under the water, new waves and currents formed...it was pretty crazy. Anyways, after our first runs, I was ranked 6th, but dropped two positions and ended up 8th after the second runs. Although I had wished to be ranked higher, this race was incredibly fun. Normally, when racing on artificial courses, variables such as changing water level are non-existent. However, today we had a whole new challenge to deal with. We were forced to read and react to the changing conditions as we went, with the only game plan to try and make it to the bottom in one piece.
We are now in Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia. We will train at the course here (named Tacen) all week in preparation for the double-header race next weekend.
Until next time race fans!
With a hard week of training in Augsburg coming to an end this past Friday, we were off to Bovec, Slovenia to race our ultralight whitewater slalom boats down the Soca (pronounced So-Cha) River against some of the worlds best. The Soca river, situated in the heart of the Slovenian Alps was by far one of the most beautiful rivers I had ever paddled on in my life. The water was cool and crisp and clean enough you could drink it. The actual river was littered with massive boulders which put to test the kayaking and river-running skills of any kayaker of any level brave enough to navigate it.
Although water levels have been very low this year (due to the lack of snow in Europe), today's torrential rain remedied the problem significantly. In fact, the rain became a bit of a problem. Between our first and second runs, the water rose at least 0.5 - 1m and completely changed the course even though the gates were in the same place. Simply, rocks were hidden under the water, new waves and currents formed...it was pretty crazy. Anyways, after our first runs, I was ranked 6th, but dropped two positions and ended up 8th after the second runs. Although I had wished to be ranked higher, this race was incredibly fun. Normally, when racing on artificial courses, variables such as changing water level are non-existent. However, today we had a whole new challenge to deal with. We were forced to read and react to the changing conditions as we went, with the only game plan to try and make it to the bottom in one piece.
We are now in Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia. We will train at the course here (named Tacen) all week in preparation for the double-header race next weekend.
Until next time race fans!
Sunday, May 20, 2007
Thrill of Victory, the Agony of Defeat
Unfortunately, the outcome in the Slovak Open (Race #2) was not what I had planned. Flipping over in the last section of the course, appropriately named Niagara, resulted in me missing the last two gates and finishing last in the semi-final. Very devastating, especially since there were generous cash prizes for the finalists (those in the top 10). Today, the dice didn't roll in my favour, but this is thing about sport which keeps all of us coming back for more. We get a dose of the drug called victory or excellence (depending who your dealer is) and we constantly Jones for our next fix. I didn't get my fix this weekend, which increases my anticipation for next weekends race in Slovenia.
We will leave Bratislava and Slovakia tomorrow and head to Augsburg, Germany (site of the 1972 Olympic Games) for some training. I am looking forward to training there as the site is home to many of the World's best kayakers and a regular stop on the World Cup tour.
Until next post race fans, keep fit and have fun!
We will leave Bratislava and Slovakia tomorrow and head to Augsburg, Germany (site of the 1972 Olympic Games) for some training. I am looking forward to training there as the site is home to many of the World's best kayakers and a regular stop on the World Cup tour.
Until next post race fans, keep fit and have fun!
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Wind - The Bain of my Existence!
We are currently situated here in beautiful Bratislava, Slovakia as we prepare for the Bratislava World Series race. Typically, this city is hot. So hot, that you can literally fry eggs on the hood of your car! Crazy you may think, but my good friend, Connor Curson, claims to have fried eggs and even cook steak on the hood of a rental car on one of his many stints here in Bratislava.
Anyways, since our arrival on Monday the weather has only gotten worse. We have been hit with wind, rain and cold. Fortunately, my many days spent training in the windy city of Valleyfield, Quebec are starting to pay off - this unpleasant weather is no more distracting than a mosquito hitting a windshield.....well, maybe that is a bit of a stretch.
Being Wednesday, it is only two more days until we race. Since Kayaking is the number two sport here in Slovakia, I am anticipating a spectacular event with many off-water attractions/activities and race fans. I've been honing my autograph-signing skills, just in case they will be needed.
Ciao for now.
Anyways, since our arrival on Monday the weather has only gotten worse. We have been hit with wind, rain and cold. Fortunately, my many days spent training in the windy city of Valleyfield, Quebec are starting to pay off - this unpleasant weather is no more distracting than a mosquito hitting a windshield.....well, maybe that is a bit of a stretch.
Being Wednesday, it is only two more days until we race. Since Kayaking is the number two sport here in Slovakia, I am anticipating a spectacular event with many off-water attractions/activities and race fans. I've been honing my autograph-signing skills, just in case they will be needed.
Ciao for now.
Sunday, May 13, 2007
Race #1: 22nd - 10th - 4th
With the Tatra Slalom here in Liptovsky Mikulas, Slovakia coming to a close, I am happy to report that I ended up 4th. Although the margin between me and the podium was 0.16 seconds, this 4th place finish was a good result for the beginning of the season.
In June, this same course here in Litpovsky Mikulas will host the European Championships. Thus, this race was well attended and included many of the top names in Slalom Kayaking from all over Europe and the World.
Although the weekend got off to a slow start as I finished 22nd in the Friday prelude. However, after some modifications to my equipment, I turned it around for the Saturday qualifier (finishing 10th) and then 4th today in the final.
A memorable moment for me this weekend was when a female racer from Iran proceeded to flip over and roll herself upright using only one hand. For those of you foreign to kayaking, 'hand-rolling', which was it this Iranian did, is deemed a more advanced kayaking manoeuvre which some of the most gifted/elite kayakers have trouble doing....thus, for this Iranian (who I was informed has only been paddling for a month), this feat was really cool to see, especially the second time she did it!
In June, this same course here in Litpovsky Mikulas will host the European Championships. Thus, this race was well attended and included many of the top names in Slalom Kayaking from all over Europe and the World.
Although the weekend got off to a slow start as I finished 22nd in the Friday prelude. However, after some modifications to my equipment, I turned it around for the Saturday qualifier (finishing 10th) and then 4th today in the final.
A memorable moment for me this weekend was when a female racer from Iran proceeded to flip over and roll herself upright using only one hand. For those of you foreign to kayaking, 'hand-rolling', which was it this Iranian did, is deemed a more advanced kayaking manoeuvre which some of the most gifted/elite kayakers have trouble doing....thus, for this Iranian (who I was informed has only been paddling for a month), this feat was really cool to see, especially the second time she did it!
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Planes, Trains and Automobiles
I made it. I am now in Liptovsky Mikulas.
First off - the train is overrated. Well, from what I remember. Although it is a mortal sin to sleep during the day when trying to fight off Jet-lag, the ambiance and rhythmic hum of the train put me to sleep instantly. I have paid dearly for this mistake as I have spent my nights wide awake.
Anyways, the adventure was cool. I had the opportunity to see the Vajda factory and how they make their kayaks, or water rocket-ships. I was instructed not to share this information with anyone.
BTW - Brendan Curson, you owe Vajda 1460 EUROS.
Anyways, off to the river to paddle my new Vajda 350 - which paint design makes it look like I am sponsored by Air Canada. Maybe they will respect this and let me fly my boat for free next time!
First off - the train is overrated. Well, from what I remember. Although it is a mortal sin to sleep during the day when trying to fight off Jet-lag, the ambiance and rhythmic hum of the train put me to sleep instantly. I have paid dearly for this mistake as I have spent my nights wide awake.
Anyways, the adventure was cool. I had the opportunity to see the Vajda factory and how they make their kayaks, or water rocket-ships. I was instructed not to share this information with anyone.
BTW - Brendan Curson, you owe Vajda 1460 EUROS.
Anyways, off to the river to paddle my new Vajda 350 - which paint design makes it look like I am sponsored by Air Canada. Maybe they will respect this and let me fly my boat for free next time!
Sunday, May 6, 2007
Anticipation Mounts
I am so very much excited for my departure to Europe tomorrow. I feel like a kid in a candy store....well, I actually don't know what that feels like. As a child, my diet consisted of spinach, steak, potatoes, beets, brussel sprouts, cabbage and perogies; however, I have heard that kids go 'crazy' and are very excited when they enter a candy store.
Anyways, I am very motivated to race now...after a few days of active recovery, my finely tuned body (thanks to Adam Douglas at the ACC, Jonathan Tremblay, Michal Staniszewski and Interactive Nutrition products), had time to recover and recharge for the next two months of racing. If you haven't seen my schedule, I'll be based in Slovakia for two weeks, and then a stint in Slovenia, a stint in Italy, a little bit of training, and then it is the World Cup Tour.
Although the entire two months will be filled with adventure, I think these next few days will be pretty cool. Never have I had the chance to ride the trains in Europe....finally, on Tuesday I will get that opportunity to Ride the Reading (monopoly jargon) from Munich to Bratislava. I am looking forward to being able to see some new terrain across Europe...from my understanding, I will be heading into Europe's 'Bear Country'....maybe I'll see the infamous Knut, or Knut's parents....One last thought, do Gypsy's travel by train? I hope not. Anyways, this will be my last post before I arrive in Liptovsky Mikulas, my first stop and race on my journey.
Stay tuned my devout followers.
Anyways, I am very motivated to race now...after a few days of active recovery, my finely tuned body (thanks to Adam Douglas at the ACC, Jonathan Tremblay, Michal Staniszewski and Interactive Nutrition products), had time to recover and recharge for the next two months of racing. If you haven't seen my schedule, I'll be based in Slovakia for two weeks, and then a stint in Slovenia, a stint in Italy, a little bit of training, and then it is the World Cup Tour.
Although the entire two months will be filled with adventure, I think these next few days will be pretty cool. Never have I had the chance to ride the trains in Europe....finally, on Tuesday I will get that opportunity to Ride the Reading (monopoly jargon) from Munich to Bratislava. I am looking forward to being able to see some new terrain across Europe...from my understanding, I will be heading into Europe's 'Bear Country'....maybe I'll see the infamous Knut, or Knut's parents....One last thought, do Gypsy's travel by train? I hope not. Anyways, this will be my last post before I arrive in Liptovsky Mikulas, my first stop and race on my journey.
Stay tuned my devout followers.
Tuesday, May 1, 2007
And it Begins
Yes, I am a terrible blogger; however, I am back.
With our national team selections wrapping up this past weekend, I am glad to say that I qualified once again and will have the opportunity to represent Canada at a variety of races including World Cups and the ever important World Championships. Much can be said about this past weekend; however, I would like to simplify it and say that I loved it. The high stakes, high pressure racing environment was intense, but very much elating. I have now just begun to relax and return to a more normal state. Qualifying was anything but easy - I left it to the last minute this time around....not a smart play, especially with such stiff domestic competition.
Anyways, I'm on the team and for now that's all that matters.
I will be leaving to Europe on Monday with plans to compete in as many races as possible. When in Europe I will use this tool more regularly and ensure that everyone is up-to-date on the happenings of John Hastings.
With our national team selections wrapping up this past weekend, I am glad to say that I qualified once again and will have the opportunity to represent Canada at a variety of races including World Cups and the ever important World Championships. Much can be said about this past weekend; however, I would like to simplify it and say that I loved it. The high stakes, high pressure racing environment was intense, but very much elating. I have now just begun to relax and return to a more normal state. Qualifying was anything but easy - I left it to the last minute this time around....not a smart play, especially with such stiff domestic competition.
Anyways, I'm on the team and for now that's all that matters.
I will be leaving to Europe on Monday with plans to compete in as many races as possible. When in Europe I will use this tool more regularly and ensure that everyone is up-to-date on the happenings of John Hastings.
Thursday, April 5, 2007
Charlotte to Ottawa in 12 hours and 30 minutes
Some may see this as reckless, I see it as an accomplishment - the new record from Charlotte to Ottawa is 12hours and 30 minutes. With pit stops only for gas, my teammates and I flew home, weaving through traffic like 'Frogger' (the old video arcade game).
The return to Ottawa was been pleasant until yesterday. A new front has brought with it snow, ice and rain....a drastic change from the sun and heat experience in Charlotte. Regardless, with the right equipment and the right attitude adequate training can be performed. In addition, if our fore-fathers were able to trek to school in snow up to their waist, uphill both ways, then I would feel ashamed/embarrassed if I was unable to paddle in +5C weather with a little bit of snow falling....
The return to Ottawa was been pleasant until yesterday. A new front has brought with it snow, ice and rain....a drastic change from the sun and heat experience in Charlotte. Regardless, with the right equipment and the right attitude adequate training can be performed. In addition, if our fore-fathers were able to trek to school in snow up to their waist, uphill both ways, then I would feel ashamed/embarrassed if I was unable to paddle in +5C weather with a little bit of snow falling....
Sunday, April 1, 2007
For those of you to thoroughly check out supportjohn.ca and visit my blog, I am greatful. I thank all three of you for coming this far.
The site is still in operation, so bare with me another week.
Just a quick note - we just finished up our assault on the whitewater course here in Charlotte, NC. With the American's racing in western North Carolina this week, we had the course to ourselves....unless you include the rafts and the thousands of rec. paddlers. Regardless, us slalom racers were like birds of prey and they were like mice....simply, when they sensed our presence they ran for safety.
Thanks to my coach Michal for his hard work this week. Never have I seen a coach run as much as him up and down the river bank...fantastic.
Anyways, the blogging will become more entertaining in the near future....but with an audience of three thus far, I feel I need to save some of my juice for later.
The site is still in operation, so bare with me another week.
Just a quick note - we just finished up our assault on the whitewater course here in Charlotte, NC. With the American's racing in western North Carolina this week, we had the course to ourselves....unless you include the rafts and the thousands of rec. paddlers. Regardless, us slalom racers were like birds of prey and they were like mice....simply, when they sensed our presence they ran for safety.
Thanks to my coach Michal for his hard work this week. Never have I seen a coach run as much as him up and down the river bank...fantastic.
Anyways, the blogging will become more entertaining in the near future....but with an audience of three thus far, I feel I need to save some of my juice for later.
Saturday, March 24, 2007
Launch of supportjohn.ca
Check back for updates and news on John's quest to conquer Olympic Excellence
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