Fellow paddler and #napalichallenge2018 teammate Carolyne K. says, “Always the mother hen of the group, Michelle’s desire to make everyone feel comfortable, safe in the water, and welcomed is infectious. She pushes us to succeed and do our best, and it shows in how well we performed this year. One of the pillars of NYO, Michelle is a paddling role model that I aspire to be as good as one day.”

Name/Nickname: Michelle / Shell
Age: Millennial (just)
Hometown: Sydney, Australia now NYC
Occupation: Business Strategy

How long have you been with NYO? How did you get into paddling? How did you find us?
This was my second season at NYO. I was lucky to meet a former NYO paddler on a camp in Hawaii and I looked up the club as soon as I landed in the city. Thankfully my emails were answered!

NYO roles?
Helped Laura coaching Women’s Race this year

Besides paddling, what else do you do with NYO?
Err… everything. I eat out with NYO, eat in with NYO, go apple picking, run, hike, camp, dance like Michael Jackson, watch parades, celebrate birthdays, holidays and everything in between.

Tell us about any notable races with NYO / Greatest accomplishment in an OC:
Being part of the Na Pali campaign last year was one of the best paddling experiences I’ve had. It brought together a great group of people in the club on a 12 week journey to become better paddlers, and work towards a team goal. We learnt so much on the camp on Kauai, then put it together for a solid race along the spectacular Na Pali coast. The support and contribution from everyone both on the trip, back in NY, and watching on our live Instagram feed really made it for me.

If you could say one thing to newcomers interested in paddling or joining NYO, what would it be?
Do it! Commit to a season, throw yourself into all the activities on and off the water and be part of all that this paddling community can offer. Oh, and on the water, it never gets easier, you just get stronger.

When you’re not out on the water paddling, where are we most likely to find you?
Trail running in the forest (hopefully), behind my computer in the office (most likely)

Something we don’t know about you:
Every year I watch Love Actually before Christmas. It’s such a cheesy movie, but I love it!

Hidden talent:
Hosting communal meals… but perhaps not so hidden anymore!

Favorite post-paddle meal:
Either scrambled eggs or a chocolate milkshake & a burger (depending on if we finish by breakfast or lunch!)

Most important item you carry with you into the canoe:
My enthusiasm

Favorite show to binge watch:
I’m not a big TV-watcher, although I can spend hours on YouTube watching music videos

Last picture you took on your phone:
I just finished a 3-day hike with Grant and my old housemate between two lighthouses on the South Coast (of New South Wales) to celebrate my birthday. This is a photo of our campsite on the last day looking out over the beach. About 30min later a huge storm rolled over.

Last concert you went to:
The Eagles! (With my parents at Madison Square Garden!)

Last song stuck in your head:
Coldplay – A Sky Full of Stars (only because I was watching the music video…it’s set in Newtown,Sydney!)

If you could have one superpower, what would it be:
I’d be a polyglot and speak all the languages in the world so I can speak with everyone I meet

Your go-to karaoke song:
Anyone where I can be part of the “choir” – standing behind the microphone is terrifying, but I don’t mind a group sing-a-long

One thing you can’t live without:
Cheese!

Secret guilty pleasure:
Long, hot showers. Especially after paddling

Favorite restaurant or bar in NYC:
It’s not a restaurant, but I do love sitting in the sun in the window of the bakery, Bien Cuit, on Smith St in Brooklyn, eating a chocolate croissant and watching people cycle to work.

Favorite place in the world:
Paddling from Balmoral Beach in Sydney at sunrise with friends (and a bit of wind & swell)

Best place you’ve traveled to:
Hiking through the Peloponnese of Greece – a stunning and rugged environment, fresh simple food, and welcoming people who took the time to chat with us and wish us well on our journey

A great paddle makes you feel: exhilarated and exhausted at the same time, and happy to my core.

As many of you know, Salem not only has paddled with NYO for several years, she has become quite an OC1 enthusiast. Here’s how she describes her journey:
“There are a lot of small boats that don’t get paddled much in our boathouse – this due to the mighty and fearful washing machine action around Pier 66 and the unforgiving currents of the Hudson. I found a beater Puakea Kaku OC1 for sale on eBay in 2017 for $175, and washing machine be damned, I started my journey into regular small boat paddling. In 2017 I spent summer Friday mornings paddling in the NYC Harbor with a seasoned Olympian, and let’s just say I got hungry for more. This led me to sign up for a week of downwind, open ocean paddling in the Caribbean this past January. After a surfksi downwind immersion with Epic founder (and 12 time Molokai champ and Olympian) Oscar Chalupsky Paddler this summer, I decided to follow his path of deep drill training, and when you didn’t see me in an OC6 I was out on the ocean drilling my stroke, balance and general comfort level in my old OC1. It was time for an upgrade this fall, and I was lucky enough to land a beautiful new Puakea Kahele. My comfort level paid off, and I raced in an 18 pound hull against 17 mph headwinds – my best time ever and no huli! Paddling just keeps expanding and expanding. I can’t wait to paddle the new Kahele regularly, and I extend an invite to those of you fearful of the Hudson to come join me on the ocean in my older Puakea in 2019.”

Salem says about her time with NYO:

It’s been a great honor to participate in the adaptive programming NYO offers to visually impaired athletes. Far beyond opening my world to ocean sports, the Makapo program has opened my world to the inner strength athletes with physical challenges possess. My strength is pretty superficial in comparison, but I’m a human metronome when it comes to stroking, and that’s landed us in the same canoe under our NYO coaches. One day three of us went to acupuncture for our paddling pains, and the acupuncturist puzzled as to why three of us – who don’t look alike at all – were huddled in the waiting room. “Are you family?” she asked us. We told her we are a paddling family. Enough said before I get goofy texts from my Makapo friends making fun of this sappy interlude. (Props to Laura Fisk and Jason for making it happen!!!)”

Here’s what some of our NYO members have to say about why Salem is so incredible:

Angela Allmond says:

“From the very beginning, Salem has jumped in–both the canoe and the paddling ohana, not just in NYC, but far beyond that. She is a lifetime paddler now, is committed to this sport, and builds her life around it and those who enjoy it too She’s got spunk to spare and is invested in the people of NYO as much as she is our beloved sport. But she’s got other talents too! I’ve visited her work sites where she commands a presence and Gets. It. Done! She’s a go-getter and has my full admiration. Love you Salem!”

Jeanne says:

“Salem stood out to me as one of the most encouraging and interesting people to talk when I first started as a new and confused NYO paddler. She’s been one of the hidden forces over the years that’s kept me coming back to paddle, as her enthusiasm and curiosity has motivated me to keep exploring and learning. Hearing her share what she’s learned from paddle camps and about her adventures on her OC1s is a real joy, as she’s invested her life to pursue this sport that she truly loves. I’ve had the pleasure of paddling with Salem in various races, from my very first one at the last Liberty Challenge, to several outside of NYC. Through it all, she’s been there to offer suggestions on where to stay, encouragement on how to endure long paddles, and her time in sharing meals together and talking about paddling and family. Thank you Salem for pushing me to do my first Epic Paddle this season, for always taking in interest in how my parents are doing, for continuing to share stories of your paddling and life adventures!”

Jason says:

“Through the years, our NYO family provided the unique opportunity and privilege to meet countless new paddlers, introduce them to the mighty Hudson River, and push each other as fellow teammates and human beings. Along the way (if we’re lucky), we might get to participate in a small part of each other’s broader journey. You never see it coming, but it’s always oddly obvious in the rear view. Salem dared herself to try a novice session in Brooklyn some years ago, and against her expectations, she found herself coming back out to try a full practice, and then another. In the short time she invested into her first season at NYO (it was August when she first held an OC paddle in her hands), she grudgingly allowed herself to be coerced into the long-distance season finale Epic Paddle (and, didn’t die). She would tell me later it was quite a milestone (or 20 of them), and lead her to tackle diligent workouts in the living room throughout that off-season, self-driven and whipped into shape like no one I’d ever seen in such a short period, ready for battle by the following spring.

And while she continues to achieve new personal milestones every season, working hard to climb the steep slopes of individual growth and experimentation (if you haven’t read her paddling blog, you’re missing out – 3D printing OC1 foot pedals, a genuine mad scientist), it’s what she accomplishes beyond the self that blows me away. Few people offer themselves as generously behind the scenes as Salem does, often with intentional stealth to avoid any attention. She is one of the primary consistent forces through the years ensuring NYO’s paddlers have access to the resources they need to succeed: touching base with teammates beyond the boathouse to coordinate travel to/from practices, encouraging others to push their own boundaries, often serving as the reliable stroke cadence needed in practices, and eager to join and enable crews at races (we’ve had some memorable adventures) . Her ongoing thirst to continue growing and developing both herself and those around her is contagious. Her fierce independence in thought and loyalty to what she personally believes in defines who she is, wherever she chooses to be. Salem is a fundamental element in that intangible recipe that promotes long-term positive energy and constructive direction in our colorful paddling community, and a reminder that bad@ss comes in all kinds of packages. Thanks Salem for simply being you and epitomizing why we get more out of paddling than what we put in.”

Laura Fisk says:

“Salem is a caring, independent soul, and one of NYO’s most important behind-the-scenes logistical helpers. On more than one occasion I’ve heard her offering early morning rides to her fellow paddlers or seen her standing with NYO members as they wait for a car pick-up in the evenings. Travel logistics for races are often nightmares that fall on an unlucky few, but Salem proactively works to help secure rides and accommodations for those who need assistance. She genuinely cares for people and does so without seeking out any type of accolades or attention.

On top of her helpful nature I admire the personal projects she sets for herself. Every time I talk to Salem I learn about something new…like the oc1 foot pedals she 3D printed herself. Or how she is becoming quite the seasoned surfski paddler. Or how she already signed up for two more paddle camps to continue her surfing education and satiate her passion for the sport. (Guadeloupe is right around the corner!) She is driven and loves paddling and I look forward to everything she can teach the club.

If I were to offer one gripe, it’s that she has yet to bring her two miniature greyhounds to the boathouse. ”

Read on to learn more about our November Member of the Month.

Name: Salem Darrow
Age: 12+ some other number
Hometown: Los Angeles
Occupation: Surrealist

How long have you been with NYO? How did you find us?
4 years. Saw an article with video in NY Times online

Tell us about any notable races with NYO:
Loved them all, especially Queen Lili but racing with the Makapo team in crazy currents at Atlantic City tops them all

Greatest accomplishment in an OC:
It keeps growing: 27 miles 2nd year on Hudson, Manhattan Circumnavigation, Blackburn Challenge, Learning Downwind

If you could say one thing to newcomers interested in paddling or joining NYO, what would it be?
You’re not living until you’re a paddler.

When you’re not out on the water paddling, where are we most likely to find you?
My top secret laboratory

Something we don’t know about you:
I have a top secret laboratory!!!

Hidden talent:
It’s in the top secret laboratory

Favorite post-paddle meal:
Ice cream

Most important item you carry with you into the canoe:
Paddle

Favorite show to binge watch:
YouTube videos about paddling

Last picture you took on your phone:
My dogs probably

Last concert you went to:
Scott Robinson

Last song stuck in your head:
Not going to touch this one. A friend told me he had Dancing Queen by Abba stuck in his head. That really sucks.

If you could have one superpower, what would it be:
Paddling

Your go-to karaoke song:
Coal Miner’s Daughter punk rock style

One thing you can’t live without:
My dogs then paddling

Salem says:

We know Angela loves paddling. Many of us know she also drives a lot and some of us know she actually loves to drive. When I needed road trip advice for the best route to pick up my new OC1 in Florida, I turned to Angela. It’s this kind of overall support that makes her a community builder. Trust me, when you’re on a loooooong road trip by yourself, an insiders tip on where to get a great milkshake in Virginia really keeps you going. Angela, Thanks for all you do to get folks into outrigger canoes! I made it Florida, and I got into mine. Then I had the chocolate shake. 

Here’s what Laura has to say about Angela:

Angela makes me smile! Novice sessions, board work, club planning, paddling—she’s there, a reliable force that New York Outrigger knows and loves. When all the “glamorous” work is done—she’ll be the one taking on those nitty gritty tasks that others would rather not do…and she’ll do it with a smile on her face. Her helpful and enthusiastic nature is a constant (hello Southern hospitality!), and she embodies the phrase ‘look for that silver lining.’ I greatly admire Angela for all she has done for the club, and all she continues to do even while she is away rocking it on her dissertation. On top of her hard work, Angela is a great friend to boot, and a joy to spend time with. Oh – and If you haven’t heard about the importance of sweet tea or Denzel Washington, I suggest you ask her! We miss you, Angela!!

Name: Angela Allmond

Hometown: Wherever I am these days…I’m a somewhat reluctant nomad. Otherwise, born in Chattanooga, TN and have called NY, VA, TX, Paris and Southern England home

Occupation: lifetime doctoral candidate … art educator… in between careers… planning on defending my dissertation and actually earning the title of Dr. Angela soon (this semester)

How long have you been with NYO? How did you get into paddling?
Since 2010. I was looking for some way to spend time on the Hudson River and saw a story about NYO on a morning NY1 news piece. I emailed about participating in a novice session within 30 minutes of seeing that tv spot. My first session got me addicted and I haven’t looked back! Not that it was easy learning the skills to paddle well…it took some time, but the time was worth it!

NYO roles:
For years, I’ve just been a regular member, pitching in whenever possible. This past year, I took on the role of Director at Large on the board so that I could do what I can to support the club

Besides paddling, what else do you do with NYO?
Eat, apple picking, cleaning, organizing

Tell us about any notable races with NYO:
I haven’t raced in awhile, but my first summer at NYO I raced with other growth paddlers in two races…Washington Monumental and the Kent Island race. Both were fun and exhilarating experiences, but the Kent Island race was a game changer for me. The race took place the day after a hurricane rolled through the mid-Atlantic region, so the water was crazy choppy! As I said, it was my first full season as an NYO member and I was a novice in the canoe! Thanks to Jason and Keith’s coaching and the camaraderie of a great group of fellow growth members, I decided to brave the challenge of a ten mile race. I had never paddled 10 miles straight before…only five…and I wasn’t sure I could actually paddle 10 miles without stopping. Turns out, I could! That accomplish in my first year of paddling convinced me that I could do almost anything.

If you could say one thing to newcomers interested in paddling or joining NYO, what would it be?
Paddling on the Hudson with NYO adds new friends and new challenges and new accomplishments. There is no other place I’d rather be in NYC than paddling on the Hudson with my friends/family NYO. The Hudson is the hippest/coolest/most peaceful ‘neighborhood’ in Manhattan!

Greatest accomplishment in an OC:
Paddling to Staten Island twice!!

When you’re not out on the water paddling, where are we most likely to find you? At school working in the studio or writing my dissertation

Something we don’t know about you: I went from a Chemistry major my first year in college to a B.S. in Fashion and somehow became an art teacher…not the straightest line to a doctorate degree in Art Education

Hidden talent: I have a pretty solid eye for hanging pictures on a wall using an imaginary straight line…truth! I helped to hang about 50 framed photos at an orphanage in China. I was the ‘measuring eye’ while another volunteer used a hammer and nail to hang the work. The next day we measured the distances between the two types of frames and they were all within one centimeter’s accuracy of either 2 or 4 inch distances between frames and all on a straight line!

Favorite post-paddle meal:
Homemade biscuits and pork tenderloin fillets—fast and delicious!

Most important item you carry with you into the canoe:
My water bottle!

Favorite show to binge watch:
Too many to name…whatever’s next on the recommended list…lots of British and Australian/New Zealand shows like 800 Words, Vera, Jack Irish…

Last picture you took on your phone:
Dissertation stuff, believe it or not…it has consumed my life!!

Last concert you went to:
it’s been awhile 

Favorite quote:
“Occasionally in life there are those moments of unutterable fulfillment which cannot be completely explained by those symbols called words. Their meanings can only be articulated by the inaudible language of the heart.” – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Your spirit animal:
Tigger!

If you could have one superpower, what would it be:
To write a fabulous dissertation overnight!!!

Secret guilty pleasure:
going to a movie by myself in the middle of the afternoon

Favorite place in the world:
Sitting in one of the comfy chairs around the fountain in the Palais Royale garden in Paris

Best place you’ve traveled to:
Bellagio, Italy on Lake Como

A great paddle makes you feel:
Happy, exhilarated, energized, connected…

Here’s what Jason has to say about Dustin:

The problem with Dustin is, I can’t think of anything notably negative about him, to counter-balance the heaping mountain of selfless contributions he constantly invests into NYO. That makes it annoyingly difficult to roast him. Pardon the cliche, but Dustin is genuinely in a class of his own, always extending himself to support and enable others, even if at the cost of his own gain. He generously donates his personal time and constructive energy behind the scenes, while minimizing the attention, always deflecting the overdue credit he fully deserves.

Even when life tugs away his free time to come out and paddle at practices, he’ll somehow reliably carve a way to show up for NYO’s community outreach events, a premiere ambassador for our core mission of touching fellow city neighbors and sharing the unique sport & culture that brings our paddler family together. Just weeks ago, he surrendered his seat on the epic Staten Island paddle, to instead help NYO teach kids about outrigger paddling at the Botanical Gardens.

When NYO needed capable hands to help with critical boat repairs over the winter, Dustin volunteered countless hours to the gritty work in our freezing Pier 40 workspace. When NYO sought help to build shelves and other infrastructure, Dustin quietly stepped up to offer his skills. Who monitors the finicky RSVP numbers, and adds himself to help stabilize problematic headcounts, often salvaging the thin sanity of coaches juggling dynamic rosters? Doh, need 20 pounds of food on late notice for the Spring Meeting, who might be able to pick it up and lug to the boathouse? How about Friday evening brainstorm sessions for expanding outreach, anyone? And long after practices wrap up, who will you find on dock caring for the canoes & equipment, down to the final buckles on the boat covers?

Dustin is always there, even when you don’t see him, to ensure the path for others is as smooth as he can manage. We are all so fortunate to have Dustin in our ohana, much love to you sir!

Will says:

In the 3.5 years that Dustin has been a NYO member, he has grown from growth paddler to racer. I’m glad that this year he finally took the leap into racing with his first race at Monumental. However, Dustin’s true spirit is his undying support of NYO’s mission and its paddlers. Anytime there was a need for a person to assist with a novice session, a session that was short a paddler, or just needing to check on the canoes after a storm, Dustin was there. He’s usually also the last to leave the boathouse after any session as he ensures everything is in order before leaving. And while it’s these little things that most people do not notice, I would like to say that many people including myself do notice these things and truly appreciate everything that he does.

Julie says:

Dustin is one of NYO’s most considerate volunteers. He consistently demonstrates respect for the canoes, boathouse, and fellow paddlers. Dustin takes on the understaffed repair tasks and outreach events with good cheer. And he’s first aid/CPR certified! His sense of style shows how serious he is about sun protection (floppy hats) and water safety (bright PFD). Recently, Dustin has taken on more responsibilities in leading novice sessions and serving on the outreach committee. With his ready smile and efficient work style, Dustin’s a real catch for NYO!

Laura says:

Dustin is easily one of the most helpful and hardworking people in this club. He dedicates much of his free time (and his paddle time) to behind-the-scenes boat and paddle maintenance and volunteering at NYO events. His reliability makes him the go-to person when extra help is needed to fill a boat for practice or novice sessions.

On top of his helpfulness, Dustin is a modest and genuine soul who brings a great warmth to the club and in the boat. He introduces himself to the new paddlers who trickle in through the season and helps to make them feel welcome.

During practice Dustin is dedicated, always ready to hop into a small boat or OC6, and actively seeks feedback to better his stroke. I love it when Dustin and I get to paddle together during intervals!
Outside of practice—usually during off-season NYO eating events—I’m always happy to catch up with one of NYO’s coolest dudes.

Pssst, Dustin, please don’t ever leave!

Read on to learn more about our Mr. September!

Name: Dustin Grettenberger
Age: 39
Hometown: San Diego, CA
Occupation: Engineer

How long have you been with NYO? How did you get into paddling? How did you find us?
I came across the NYO Novice page on Meetup.com my first summer in New York, after moving from California. This was a little over three years ago. Although I’d never paddled I was familiar with the sport. I had a friend that paddled with Ikuna Koa in San Diego. I went to watch a few races in California and always told myself I’d try paddling someday. It took a move across the country and an NYO Novice Session to make it happen.

Besides paddling, what else do you do with NYO?
I’m up for anything and everything. From off-season food seeking adventures to NYO camping trips, if my schedule allows for it I’ll be there.
I also enjoy helping out with the NYO public outreach events. I believe that there are a lot of people out there who could benefit from the opportunity to get involved in a water sport like outrigger paddling, but they just don’t realize that it exists, that it’s easily accessible, and that it could be one of the most enjoyable things they’ve ever done. Although paddling is relatively new to me I’ve spent my life playing on the water and understand the positive impacts such a sport can have on a person’s life. I’ve been very lucky. Helping to give someone an opportunity to feel it out, and possibly find an activity that makes all of the difference in their life, just feels like the right way for me to give back.

Tell us about any notable races with NYO:
I participated in my first race, the Washington Monumental, this season. I had always been skeptical of racing because I didn’t think I’d enjoy paddling so far and so long without taking time to enjoy the surroundings. I was wrong. There wasn’t a dull moment during the race. I’d never experienced anything like the energy I felt in the canoe that day. Every stroke mattered. I didn’t want to let my team down, and I felt like all of my teammates felt the same way. We all kept our heads in the canoe and worked together. I’d consider going on record to admit that I caught a glimpse of the Washington Monument and Arlington National Cemetery during the race, but I really don’t want to let my teammates know that I was slackin’ for those two brief moments.

Greatest accomplishment in an OC:
My great memory up to this point is more of an experience than an accomplishment. Our team’s photo finish in the Washington Monumental race is something I’ll never forget. I’m proud of the team and myself for not giving up when there was another team alongside of us for the last couple of miles of the race, pushing us to our limits and threatening to pass us on every call. I’m pretty sure that they were even a seat ahead of us at one point. That was the moment I thought someone might throw in the towel. Nobody did though. We kept on fighting and came out ahead.

If you could say one thing to newcomers interested in paddling or joining NYO, what would it be?
Don’t hesitate to give this sport more than one try. I didn’t instantly fall in love during my first NYO Novice Session. To be honest, it was painful. I was using muscles I’d never used before, and mentally I was discouraged because I really thought I’d be a lot better at it. Outrigger paddling is a lifelong learning experience. There are so many layers to unravel, and areas to improve on, should you choose to commit yourself. Technique, teamwork, physical fitness, and mental focus all play into the experience. The great thing about this sport is that once you get a feel for the basic stroke technique you can develop the skills at your own pace, set your own goals, and enjoy paddling in whatever capacity works best for you. From short sprints, or long distance races, to therapeutic sunset sessions, there are countless ways to enjoy the sport.

Rapid Fire Questions:

When you’re not out on the water paddling, where are we most likely to find you?
I’ll do everything I can to get to Rockaway Beach for a surf when there is a hint of swell and the wind is blowing the right direction.

Favorite post-paddle meal:
I often stop by my neighborhood pizza shop, J’s, for a couple of slices after weeknight practices. It may not be the most nutritious, but it is always so delicious. It’s also fast and hassle free, which is important to me when I’m getting home late on a weeknight.

Most important item you carry with you into the canoe:
A hat. I’ve spent so much of my life having fun out in the sun. The last thing I need is more sun on my head.

Last picture you took on your phone:
A picture related to work, of some equipment at the Con Edison steam generating plant in East Village.

Last concert you went to:
Cola Boyy in San Diego last month. I’ll never forget that show because of the location. It was in a back alley garage haphazardly converted to a music venue/recording studio. There was a young man collecting $5 for entry, which went it to a jar at the door. BYOB. It was fun to feel like a teenager again.

Last song stuck in your head:
“Send Me and Angel” by Real Life. It was playing in a restaurant the other night and now all I can think about is that song and the dance/bike-off scene from the 80’s BMX movie, Rad.

If you could have one superpower, what would it be:
Teleportation. I love experiencing new places, but I’m so sick of airplanes and airports.

One thing you can’t live without:
Goals.

Secret guilty pleasure:
Craigslist. Just scrolling through the ads. Not buying. Mostly for surfboards, but sometimes I’ll get on a kick searching for other things, like motorcycles or canoe paddles.

Favorite restaurant or bar in NYC:
Bar B. It’s this casual small plates establishment in my neighborhood that serves up amazing dishes and has a great neighborhood vibe. It’s tiny. There is no seating. You eat standing up at the bar, which is no wider than the plates that they serve the dishes on.

Favorite place in the world:
Baja California, Mexico. I can’t get enough of its rugged desert coastline. When I can surf all day and sleep under a star filled desert sky, I’m in heaven.

A great paddle makes you feel:
Like my day is complete. Anything else that might happen that day is just a bonus.

In the words of Jason:

One of our favorite additions to the NYO ohana this past year, Isa reached out to me in early spring to ask about paddling on the mighty Hudson River. She humbly noted, “I am hoping I will remember how to hold a paddle after all these years!,” downplaying her past experience paddling and steering canoes in Hawaii. Following an impressive trajectory that landed her halfway across the globe, now entrenched in professional pursuits and the hustle of NYC, she began to realize that being so far from the islands didn’t have to mean leaving the local culture behind. Never would I have imagined mere months later, she and I would be on Kauai with an incredible NYO team, sharing her old high school paddle for most of a stunningly beautiful ocean change race (only complaint, wish her paddle was slightly longer, heh). Isa, we’re all so glad you took a chance and came out to try paddling in your life again. You’ve generously said NYO enriched your remaining time here in NYC, but in turn you’ve brightened our season by joining the family. We’ll miss you on your (temporary, right?) adventure abroad, and look forward to your return to Pier 66 whenever the winds might bring you back!

In the words of Laura Fisk:

We’re so lucky Isa joined us for the 2018 season before she moves to London for school. She was endlessly positive and committed during practices, often running to the boathouse before and after to be sure she was in the best shape for her team. Always wanting to share her love for paddling, Isa volunteered and introduced a number of her friends to the club through novice and growth sessions.

While in Kauai for the Na Pali Challenge, Isa shared her home-grown experience with us, demonstrating her knowledge of ocean conditions and making her a key player during our race. It wouldn’t have been as great of an experience without her. Isa has been a friendly, caring, hard-working team player, and we’re going to miss her dearly!

From all of us at NYO, Isa, we wish you luck at school in London and your NYO family will be waiting for your return. Keep reading to learn more about our August Member of the Month.

Name: Isa Hastings
Age: 24
Hometown: Honolulu, HI
Occupation: Student

How long have you been with NYO and how did you find us?
I have been with NYO since May 2018. I joined NYO in an attempt to escape the usual workday grind. My dad suggested I join NYO after I told him that I was starting to resent the city lifestyle. I was frustrated with long work hours and a general lack of nature in my everyday life. I grew up canoe paddling in Honolulu and NYO seemed like a great opportunity to get back to my roots. Not only did I fall back in love with the incredible sport but I also befriended the amazing people who create the New York Outrigger community.

Tell us about your recent races with us:
I had the opportunity to race in both the Washington Monumental race in DC and the Na Pali Challenge in Kauai this summer. Monumental was my first outrigger race in 6 years! I had no idea how many people in the northeast had heard of outrigger canoe paddling let alone how many participate in the sport! Racing in DC was a surreal experience. From afar the outrigger canoes looked so unnatural in our nation’s capital. That said, the race embodied everything that the aloha spirit stands for. Plus, the post-race luau was delicious (they had POG).

The Na Pali Challenge was easily one of the best days of my entire life. The Na Pali coast on the island of Kauai has views of some of the most spectacular shorelines in the entire world. Pair that with dolphins, turtles, great weather, and an awesome crew, and you’ve got 5 hours and 53 minutes of fun. My time in Hawaii with NYO was filled with food, smiles, and laughter. We are a group of like-minded individuals who came together for the love of a sport. I had never been to the island of Kauai and I cannot imagine a better group to have shared that first experience with me.

Tells us more about what racing in Na Pali Challenge meant to you:
Kayaking along the Nā Pali Coast State Park had always been on my bucket list. I tried to get a group together to kayak and camp along the Na Pali coast this summer. When it looked like none of my friends would be able to make it this year my dad told me about the Na Pali outrigger race. He suggested that it would be a good opportunity to see the coastline and participate in an exciting race. It just so happened that NYO was planning to put a team together for the Na Pali Challenge! As we were getting closer to race day, another outrigger team posted on the race website that they were in need of a steersman. My dad stepped in and ended up steering for a Canadian team in the race! The day itself was unbelievable and made even more so with the presence of my dad who encouraged me to join both NYO and the Na Pali Challenge!

Greatest accomplishment in an OC:
The Na Pali Challenge was easily my greatest accomplishment in an OC.

Advice for someone looking to join NYO:
The beauty of NYO is the way that it has been set up for newcomers. People are encouraged to hop into an open seat and experience everything the Hudson has to offer. The opportunity to try something new is what brings people to NYO. The friendships that develop as the season progresses are what makes people stay.

Rapid Fire Questions:

When you’re not paddling, where are we most likely to find you?
If I am not on the water with my NYO family, then you can find me hunting for my next adventure. I am always looking for opportunities to experience new places, people, and ideas.

Something we don’t know about you:
I am excellent at saying the alphabet backwards.

Hidden talent:
I’ve got some serious knitting skills. I’m not nearly as good as John though.

Favorite post-paddle meal:
Hawaiian luau, of course! Kalua pig, chicken long rice, haupia!

Most important item you carry with you in the canoe:
My team! I would get nowhere without them… literally!

Favorite show to binge watch:
New Girl

Last picture you took on your phone:
I took a picture of my dogs in the ocean!

If you could have one superpower:
If I could have one superpower I would speak to animals!

Secret guilty pleasure:
My guilty pleasure is napping. I love it.

A great paddle makes you feel:
A great paddle makes you feel whole. I don’t know if it’s the water, the people, or the sport, but the feeling is unbeatable.