What are the characteristics of a good number 5 paddler?
The number five paddler has a varied role and perhaps needs to be the most all around paddler. They should ideally be competent steerers and of course strong paddlers. They need to be able to be totally flexible in their paddling ability, so as they can eyeball the ama and protect it and change paddling sides rapidly and frequently if needs be. They may also need to paddle for long stretches at a time, much like the steerer, on the left side to protect the ama, so as the steerer can concentrate on steering. Their reactions must at all times be fully intuitive, working in with the steerer when it is needed.
