I first heard of Rob through one of my favorite paddling buddies, Razz. It turns out Razz and Rob lived close to each other in Michigan years ago before Razz moved to Newport, Rhode Island. Razz told me how much he enjoyed his friendship with Rob and told me Rob is one of those guys who talent goes well beyond his paddling. When Chris and I were at the US Surfski Championships, I made sure I met Rob.  Below is an article I saw linked on http://www.tcsurfski.com/ about Rob.

http://www.hollandsentinel.com/x84138933/Hollands-Rob-Hartman-is-a-standout-athlete-in-a-little-known-sport-of-surf-ski

Razz and Rob in1997 on Bear lake MI. Quote from Razz's facebook:" We did a few laps, and kids came down to water to thank Santa for their presents. I remember doing a lot of waving while my reindeer did all the work. Good times. ( not sure why the boat is so low in the water, we where skinny and in shape back then)".

Razz and Rob in1997 on Bear lake MI. Quote from Razz’s facebook:” We did a few laps, and kids came down to water to thank Santa for their presents. I remember doing a lot of waving while my reindeer did all the work. Good times. ( not sure why the boat is so low in the water, we where skinny and in shape back then)”.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

My man Razz!

My man Razz at Sakonnet River race a few years ago.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Razz,  has been paddling since he was eight being from Denmark. I have learned some important tips from Razz. I can still here his voice”you need to relax while drafting”. Easy for him to say! Razz, well know in the local Newport sailing scene, can be found sailing when he is not paddling.  

Wesley and Rob at US Surfski Champs

Wesley and Rob at US Surfski Champs

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rob warming up before US SurfskiChamps(photo Wesley)

Rob warming up before US SurfskiChamps(photo Wesley)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rob taking out after US Surfski Champs(photo by Barbara Mossy)

Rob (17th)taking out after US Surfski Champs(photo by Barbara Kossy)