Paddle size for down river, down wind race

[Foilman]

Was wondering what your guys opinion is for paddle size for a down wind down river race. I have a 84 and a 95 KeNalu Kohini. Thanks.

Rob.

[JimK]

I'd go with 84 but that is just personal preference 

JimK
Extreme Windsurfing

[Area 10]

It would depend on a lot of factors (length of race, conditions, board etc.) but if it was me I would use the 84.

[Dusk Patrol]

I'm intrigued by the combination. Is it downwind AND swift-ish current? or is the river largish so you don't really feel the current?

[PonoBill]

Some people would say go with a bigger paddle for downwind, but it depends on your technique. I push down more than pull even for downwind, and I find two or three quick strokes, even incomplete ones, are better to get into a bump than one long hard one. So I go with smaller blades for DW.

One of the best female downwinders I know is Devin Blish. She weighs about as much as one of my legs and uses a Molokai 105, so I can tell you it's not about strength or weight, it's technique.

[Foilman]

It’s a 9 mile race. The current is usually 2mph.