CCAs of NTU 25’: NTU Canoe Kayak Sprint
How joining the NTU Canoe Sprint challenged me to be accountable to myself
Written by: Shirley Pang, Vice-Captain
“Last set, best set, breakfast set!”
This is what is usually chanted by my teammates whenever we finish our final sets, whether on land or in water, to look forward to our team breakfast at Koufu in Upper Thomson.
The sport I am sharing with you is Canoe Kayak sprint. As a student athlete in NTU, I have found solace in training at Macritchie Reservoir, where I get to escape the pressures of academic life. It trains both my body and mind, reminding me to stay disciplined and accountable for myself.
What is Canoe Kayak Sprint?
Canoe Kayak Sprint involves racing over distances over 200m, 500m and 1000m. There are two types of boats available, C-boat, where athletes kneel and paddle using a single blade and K-boat, where athletes seat and paddle with two sides paddle (Activesg, 2025).
We dedicate a significant portion of our time, at least three training sessions a week, to train at MacRitchie Reservoir. In addition, we commit to two land sessions each week focused on running and strength training, following a structured program laid out by our coach.
What made me join the sport?
When I first entered this small community, I was afraid because I have left the sport for a very long time and worried that I would not be able to keep up with the intensity and integrate with my teammates. I spent the majority my first month mostly keeping to myself and reminding myself that you can still be uncomfortable and show up, feel the fear and do it anyway.
With much encouragement from the seniors, I eventually joined my teammates for breakfast, which became a pivotal moment for me - I slowly got to discover my teammates and seniors outside of training and learn more about them as a person, and how each of us, despite our diverse backgrounds and commitments, choose to come together and experience this sport together. It was a genuine joy to discover and learn more about these people, and to feel closer to this part of the community. Moreover, heartwarming to discover that despite our differences, we were all united in this sport, supporting each other in improving our techniques, both in water and on land.
Our community – built through breakfast sessions
The breakfast sessions have since taken on a special significance for me. They are a reward for our hard work and a time to connect, share stories, and foster camaraderie not limited to trainings. This is where we become not just teammates but friends, forging connections that extend beyond the rigors of training.
Key takeaways
All in all, NTU Canoe Kayak Sprint is a sport that helped to stay disciplined and committed to myself, allowing me to destress. I am very grateful of this community where we help one another learn and grow.
How can you join?
If this sport interests you, feel free to contact our Instagram account @ntucanoekayak! We welcome all individuals, regardless of experience. As long as you have passion for learning and growth, you will fit right into our community. Do keep a look out during NTU's Welcome Week to explore more about what we do. We look forward to meeting you and share our love for the sport!
Other Information:
CCA Location: Macritchie Reservoir
Date and Time: DM us on IG to confirm!
Instagram: @ntucanoesprint
