Tips for Competitors

(10 sec increments)

Think Like a Winner Develop a systematic approach to solve

problems. Put forth a consistent effort geared to all

events, but weighted according to the scoring.

The team must manage human dynamics.

Individuals must learn mental discipline.

Plan Like a Winner Locate sponsors immediately. Without

funding, it is difficult to be innovative. Request top design reports and adopt

each school’s most innovative ideas. Read the rules, narrow options, and

begin the formal design process. Discuss ideas for theme, hull design,

construction, display, and presentation. Experiment with concrete mix designs.

Showcase Your Design

Have your Design Report reviewed by a technical writer. There is no excuse for spelling/grammar errors!

Use your theme to touch all aspects of the competition.

Be creative as you can within the limits imposed on the Display and Oral Presentation.

Practice Like a Winner Fall: technique and style

– Paddle at least 2-3 times per week.– Add weight training for added strength.

Spring: constant, aggressive training– Practice every day for at least two hours

(weather permitting).– Cross-train with running or paddling intervals

for added endurance.– Hold tryouts to determine who gets to race.

Compete Like a Winner

Work as a team and be helpful to other teams.

Strive to perform your personal best. Look for something innovative that each

school has done and compliment them. Be good sports in and out of the water.

Lessons Learned Repeat performers are judged more

harshly than newcomers. Realize that life (and the concrete

canoe competition) is not always fair. Despite complex rules and good

intentions, judging will be subjective. Remember, it’s only a game; and, the

real winners are those who have done their very best to compete.