Some were first-time participants, others veterans, but all were eager to share their thoughts and feelings through their writing.
Despite the enticing clash of world-class runners, about half the women were first-time participants.
All first-time participants are required to attend a kayak safety course a few weeks before the launch.
Parents of first-time participants usually find this rule to be the most different from what they normally expect in a typical baseball game.
Berger said that first-time participants would be surprised to see how clean the water is.
Seven teams took part in the 1990 competition, with first-time participants Scotland emerging as champions.
The 2012-13 championship also saw a number of first-time participants.
At that time the participation rate had risen to 21%, with the introduction of a number of universities as first-time participants.
Saikei plantings are quick to assemble, with first-time participants able to create an effective result in a few hours.
Fee, $3; free for members and first-time participants.