A couple of weeks ago I had the privilege to participate in the Inaugural Anacapa Classic Canoe Race of a newly formed club in Oxnard Ca. Out of Channel Islands Harbor 11 miles to the island of Anacapa, 4 miles along side of it and 14 miles back. 12 man/woman race format with escort boat.
30 minute changes 6 men start the race, after 30 minutes 6 women change in. Officials monitor and flag a 5 minute window when changes are allowed. A lot of back and forth and plenty of strategy along the way, especially the race to the last change buoy before the finish inside the harbor