The most famous race in Panama is the Ocean to Ocean Cayuco Race, a tradition dating more than 60 years. It is a race in cayuco, a Panamanian four-man racing canoe that goes from the Caribbean entrance of the Panama Canal and ends on the Pacific side of the canal. It is a three day race.
The first day starts at Puerto Cristobal in the province of Colon. This course is difficult and has waves and sand banks that the canoes can hit and fill with water. It has one turn to the right but for the most part it is a straight way race.
The second day is the hardest and is known as the lake. It begins at the Gatun locks of Lake Gatun and ends at Gamboa. It is a 20 mile race with conditions ranging from waves to glass and calm. It is also the most beautiful part of the race, Gatun lake has many islands in it and the ships going through the Panama Canal is a view that you will never foroget.
The final day has three stages: first is a short sprint, the second is also one of the harder courses it is called the Culebra Cut and takes a little over an hour to finish and the final and last stage is from Miraflores lock to Diablo port. Of these three stages it is the Culebra Cut that always gets me. The 'Cut' is a part of the canal that exploded mountains to create the Panama Canal. It has very little breeze and since the race happens in the middle of Panamanian dry season it is very, very hot. The good news is that it has little current and no waves. The conditions are glass, but since it's a short race its also a very fast paced race. I always finish this section out of breath and wondering how I will finish the final stage.
Paddling in the Ocean to Ocean Cayuco Race is a privilege. Being able to paddle the Panama Canal is an experience unlike any other. Everyone should try it! There are teams that come from abroad to participate-- some just for the experience and some to win.
If you are interested in learning more about racing in the Ocean to Ocean Cayuco Race check out the Club de Remo de Balboa official website for details. #sports #paddling #PanamaCanal #panama