Michele Eray discusses her career transition and continued passion for ocean racing

Michele Eray, a distinguished USA paddler, boasts an impressive career spanning multiple disciplines at elite levels. The 36-year-old secured victory at the 2013 ICF Ocean Racing World Championships and competed in Canoe Sprint at the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games. Currently, Michele works full-time for Team USA Canoe Sprint in America. Despite professional commitments, her passion for Ocean Racing remains strong, and she plans to travel to Tahiti to defend her gold medal.

Life, passion, and recent activities

Since 2013, Michele's life has significantly changed. She relocated to the United States to join the Canoeing Federation, marking her first time living away from the ocean. Her demanding new role means considerably less training time and rare opportunities to use her surfski, which she finds regrettable. Despite this, ocean racing remains her primary passion, though her current focus is her job, not personal paddling. Over the past two years, she has participated in a limited number of races, acknowledging a different life phase.

She confirms her participation in Tahiti, aiming primarily to have fun. While she desires to defend her title, she is realistic about her reduced training but commits to giving her best effort. Having competed in Tahiti's Maraamu race last year, Michele is familiar with the country's beauty, though not the specific course for the upcoming event. She eagerly anticipates her return.

Evolution of surfski and ocean racing

Michele observes that surfski and ocean racing have evolved since 2013, with increased participation and stronger competition, particularly in the women's division. For her, the sport is a fundamental lifestyle; friends feel like family, and her deep connection to the ocean is vital.

[go to the magazine: paddleworldwide]

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