World Cup #1 Cardiff

The 1st World Cup of the 2013 season kicked off last weekend in Cardiff, Wales, UK.  It was a solid week of training and racing. I placed 13^th in the semi final race at the World Cup, but unfortunately not good enough to make it to finals. I feel I am continually learning and gaining valuable experience in international competitions.  Although I did not make it into the top ten, I am still pleased with my race result,  Now I am looking forward to racing this coming weekend in Augsburg, Germany.

While in Wales I was able to connect with an old friend from Calgary who is now living in Cardiff. Tess, her husband, and I toured around to an old castle ruin and the ocean side. The UK was very beautiful and exactly as I pictured it with very small roads and sheep everywhere.

It was a little difficult to stay focused on the race as the flooding in Alberta was on my mind. I hope all those affected by the flood will be able to recover from the damage. I am proud to say I am a Calgarian and I know our city and province will pull through these tough times.

Canoa & Kayak by Ettore Ivaldi

I Made It to Europe!

After a little bit of trouble transporting my boat and the airline delaying the arrival of my suitcase I finally made it to London on Saturday and shortly after departed to Cardiff, Wales. 

We made it to our destination, which is an old mansion that has been turned into apartments and accommodation.  It has a very authentic feeling to it with old Victoria style furniture and original wood furnished walls with large door frames. I have a room and bathroom to myself, which is very uncommon for accommodation in Europe. We are located just outside of Cardiff in a town called Cowbridge. 

So far I really like the course as it is narrow and has many different waves and holes that make it challenging. I am really looking forward to seeing what they will set as a course here for the World Cup.

World Cup #1 kicks off on Thursday where I race Friday and Saturday. 

Results for the race can and more information can be found on:http://www.canoecardiff2013.com/en/results-info

Heats start list:

Recipe of the Week - Vegan Carob Banana Muffins

This is my new favourite muffin recipe! 

• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1 cup spelt flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 tablespoon carob powder
• 1/2 cup pecans
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 cup almond milk
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 2 mashed ripe bananas 
• 2 tablespoon chia seeds
• 2/3 cup maple syrup or agave syrup
• 1 teaspoon egg replacer
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon olive oil

Directions:

• Preheat oven 375°F
• In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, carob powder, chia seeds, and salt
• Add the banana, syrup, egg replacer, almond milk apple cider vinegar, and oil to the dry mixture.  Stir just until combined
• Fold in the chocolate chips and pecans
• Portion the batter into the muffin cups and bake for 25 minutes
• Let them cool for 10 minuets and then eat away!