Mark and I arrived in Amsterdam last Wednesday and were met by Mariette, a wonderful woman who lives in a houseboat on the edge of the fabulous city. I stayed with Mariette during my last visit to Amsterdam, and we had such a good time that it was great to be back, to catch up and also to have Mark with us. After two days of travel, we were exhausted, but with only one full day in the area we opted to explore the city instead of catch up on sleep, and by noon, we were all on a train to the heart of the city.

We explored by foot, as Mariette guided us around telling us stories about each of the districts. After a few hours of exploration we returned to Mariette’s for a nap and some home cooked food, then we were off again, this time launching from Mariette’s house and paddled through the city as the sun set. Thank you Mariette, and we look forward to seeing you again!

A canal in Amsterdam.

The following day we were picked up by Freek, the organizer of the event that we’d be instructing at the following two days. We drove to Het Sloeten Slagh for a weekend of Yoga for Paddlers, rolling clinics, strokes classes, rope gymnastics and harpoons. There were lots of familiar faces from last year’s event, and many new people to meet. In addition to the classes, the event hosted the first Dutch Greenland style championship. I judged the rolling competition and instructed in ropes while competitors tried out the moves for points in the fun competition.

Learning the Storm Roll.

A young Greenland style enthusiast.

Saturday evening consisted of a barbecue and an awards ceremony, with medals going to first, second and third places in rolling, ropes and harpoons, as well as three overall medals that were awarded.

The harpoon competition.

The "target."

The event was a success, and the weather cooperated for most of the weekend. Thanks to Freek for organizing the event and Arjan Bloem Kanocentrum and Tahe Marine for supporting it, and congratulations to all of the participants in the competition.

Lots of medals.

Happy participants.

The winners of the rolling competition.

Pictures by Helen and Mark.