After four hours, the toll of the constant confused water, sun, swimming, water changes and of course paddling is apparent. Scott Granger downing some pain killers with his drink of choice to get him through the last stretch of the race.
An underwater perspective of a water change. Seat 4 has just rolled out of the canoe, just ahead of him seat 2 is also seen. On the other side of the canoe you can make out the three incoming paddlers, while seat 6, the steersman is still working to keep the canoe moving forward. This forward momentum of the canoe also helps to swing those incoming paddlers into the canoe. After coming to the surface, the paddlers who just exited the canoe are met by the escort boat where they will climb aboard, grab their food and drink in order to stay hydrated and energized as the escort boat races back up to the canoe to pace along just off the stern. This cycle continues to repeat itself throughout the race. Some crews structure a short 10 minute change chart, while others can extend it further. Those fortunate to have a coach in the escort boat can have the good fortune to adjust the change chart and timing on the fly as the race progresses. For those resting and hydrating, it honestly feels like only a few minutes have passed before you hear the seat calls being made signaling it's time to get back in the canoe. Not much of a rest!
