And so it came to pass that I was given a secondhand V10L for my birthday, and I have spent a fair bit of time in it, and also some time out of it… this is my first full season in a kayak, and the 44 cms of support for your clumsiness that the V10L provides is sometimes not enough, and I have been in the water many a time. But I am improving, I am…

I have used it on the flat, on the somewhat choppy, and on the ocean. The ocean was a bit too much, the rest I can just about manage, though there are many heart-in-mouth-moments.

When I first got into the V10L all went well; and so I bought it.

The next trip I fell in immediately and couldn´t get back in. This was 15 metres from the quayside, and my kids were witness to my failed attempts.

One or two Youtube videos later – “surfski remount” – and all was well. I can get back in. Once in, I lean back in the seat until things quieten down, and then I set off. The added adrenalin gives the drive to move the boat; it´s far more stable on the move.

I bought an NRS 0.5mm wetsuit of the long-John type with no arms. On top of this I sometimes wear a thin wool underwear thingy. This works well, but I will probably get an NRS vest next season for colder days.

I bought a secondhand Bracia paddle, adjustable & all. I kept it screwed together for a month in and out of salt water, and now it´s impossible to budge.

The desire to challenge myself and the elements is always there – but in order to challenge the ocean outside Tvedestrand, I have ordered a Carbonology Sports Boost LV. I have been on the open ocean in “interesting” conditions once, that was in an Epic V7. The V7 felt very stable, and I only fell in three times (!).

Surfski and Kayak has opened up a new chapter alongside rowing, and I am working on technique and strength – thanks again to Youtube!