Multisports: Q&A with Katie Smart

Katie Smart (nee Pocock) has lived a full life. The 33-year-old, who juggles the roles of mother, firefighter and paddling coach, has an illustrious sporting background.

It includes 15 years of international racing, representing New Zealand in surf lifesaving, sprint and marathon kayaking and ocean paddling. She won two world titles in that time - the women's ski race from the 2000 world champs in Sydney and the ocean paddling world champs from 2009 in Hawaii.

Smart has now turned her attention to tutoring the next generation of paddlers in Auckland. She has created The Paddling Project with her brother Jason. Twenty-three people arrived for the first event and now about 50 paddlers turn up for the fortnightly winter competition.

How long has The Paddling Project been in place and what inspired it?

The Paddling Project is a small coaching and events business we have been operating for about 18 months. We are passionate about paddling of all types and are keen to develop a strong ocean-based paddling community in Auckland.

What makes the project special?

It is run by a brother and sister who have more than 30 years of combined paddling experience. Jason has an absolute passion for coaching, he is also a former NZ representative and now the assistant coach of the New Zealand surf life-saving team, with a degree in sports science so he has the physiology and programming knowledge. My 15-plus years of international racing in three paddling codes mean I have the race experience and tactical insight - collectively we have it covered.

What options do you offer people in these events?

Over winter we are running our Pita Pit Winter Race Series at four venues - Red Beach, Orakei, Mairangi Bay and Takapuna. We have a novice 5km surf ski course and a fun 1km SUP course as well as our 10km surf ski and 5km SUP courses - so there is something for everyone.

How tough is it in the cold weather and water?

It can be bleak. You definitely need to make sure that you have the right kit.

Do you have to have paddling experience to enjoy this?

We encourage everyone to come and be part of our events, whether you are a junior, a master, a world champ or a novice. Unfortunately we don't offer any equipment hire, so you do need to have your own kit and a basic level of fitness is always a plus.

Is it pretty social - do people hang around after for a beer and a laugh?

Absolutely! All of our race venues have been chosen because of their proximity to sports club bars and cheap beer. We always fire up the barbecue and we love listening to the banter from all the paddlers post-race.

What advice do you offer to newcomers?

Make sure that you are comfortable on your ski or board and that you have good safety equipment. Other than that, just bring a good attitude and we will see you on race day.

What simple technique tips do you offer people?

Paddling is a technical sport, but essentially you want to get a really good strong catch at the front of your stroke, if you can do that you are halfway there.