Ceufad Autumn 2022

CYLCHGRAWN CANŴ CYMRU JOURNAL OF CANOE WALES

Ilove the editorial photo, it sums up the fun, friendly and sometimes rowdy side of paddlesport. And this issue showcases these aspects and more. The ‘more’ is the community side of paddlesport, in this case two paddle-for-charity challenges (p16 & 31) and a river clean up (p19). There is a serious side to paddlesport too; as paddlers we see first-hand the effects pollution has on our waterways and seas. This summer it finally hit the mainstream media when there were numerous ‘flood-related’ untreated sewage releases into our rivers and along our coast. Although this has been a problem for several years it’s now affecting a bigger water-user group (paddlers, surfers, wild swimmers), so is gaining more attention, which will hopefully force a solution.

Returning to the ‘fun and friendly’, it’s great to see more people taking up paddlesport through programs like This Girls Adventure (p28) and trying out the more competitive side of the sport at races such as FBOR’22 (p32).

The competitive side of paddlesport finishes this editorial nicely. It’s been a great summer for Welsh athletes, with a medal at the World Freestyle Championships (p14). A big congratulations to all the athletes and good luck to the Welsh surf kayak team who are heading out to the World Champs in October.

Vicky Barlow Editor

ceufad@canoewales.com

ceufad

Ceufad is the official magazine of Canoe Wales. It is produced by members & the views expressed are not necessarily those of Canoe Wales or the magazine’s editor. Ceufad is free to members of Canoe Wales. SUBSCRIPTIONS are available to non-members for £10 for 4 issues from Canoe Wales.

ADVERTISING

For advertising rates contact: ceufad@canoewales.com

SUBMISSIONS

Articles are always welcomed & should be submitted as Word files, however, typed articles are also accepted. Images can be prints or tiff/jpeg/RAW files (preferably 300ppi). These will be returned.

CONTACT

ceufad@canoewales.com – 01678 521199

Ceufad, National White Water Centre, Bala LL23 7NU Ceufad is produced quarterly in Spring (March), Summer (June), Autumn (Sept) and Winter (Dec).

NEXT ISSUE: WINTER DEADLINE: 14th NOVEMBER

Ceufad welcomes all contributions but reserves the right to edit & condense to fill the space available.

Design & layout: Vicky Barlow www.victoriabarlow.co.uk

Ceufad Ed Ceufad

PYRANHA RETRO RODEO ,T FEST 2022

KARL MIDLANE

4 Canoe Wales News

Info and updates from Canoe Wales

6 Meet the Team

CW Communications and Marketing Team

8 Welsh Salmon and Sea Trout are at Risk

How can we help protect these iconic species?

9

N Wales Resilient Ecosystem Pilot Project

Can you help this ambitious river-focused project?

12 Events

Festivals, symposiums and races

13 In the Flow

The latest paddlesport products and news

14 Competition

A round-up of this summer's paddlesport competitions

16 Paddle for Dave

24-hour charity paddle on the Mon and Brec canal

CONTENTS

19 River Teifi 'Paddle Pick Up'

River clean for World Cleanup Day

20 T Fest 2022

It's back and you're gonna need a bigger boat!

24 Getting Rowdy at Ramsey

Paddling on one of the world's best tidal races

28 This Girls Adventure

TOP launches their program in the Swansea Bay region

31 24 Hours on the Dee

How many laps can you paddle for charity?

32

FBOR'22

Fishguard Bay Ocean Race 2022

36 Destination Wales

We pick our favourite lakes and reservoirs

COVER

THE BITCHES, RAMSEY ISLAND

PISTYLL PRODUCTIONS

CANOE WALES – OUR TEAM

Alistair Dickson CEO

MEMBER SERVICES TEAM

Pete Catterall Coaching and Development Manager

Val Ephraim Administrative Officer

Suzanne Parkin Governance & Membership Assistant

Bonnie Armstrong Comms & Marketing Lead

Paula McKenna Comms & Marketing Coordinator

Ellen Roberts Finance Officer

Phil Stone Places to Paddle Manager

Mike Raine Environment & Sustainability Lead

Cath Sykes Lead Safeguarding and Equality Officer

Lydia Wilford Development Officer

PERFORMANCE TEAM

Nick Fowler-Rimell Performance Manager

Jonathan Davies Talent Pathway Officer (North)

Gareth Bryant Talent Pathway Officer (West)

James Pigdon Talent Pathway Officer (South)

Serena Williams Sprint Coach

Giacomo Leighton Slalom Talent Coach

Andrew Kettlewell Slalom Performance Coach

DIRECTORS

Kerry Chown Chair

Jet Moore Vice Chair

Andy Booth Finance Director

Elsa Davies

Lowri Davies

Rhys Green

David Wakeling

Alun Davies

Allan Binstead

Ruth Hall (co-opted)

CONTACT CANOE WALES

www.canoewales.com

admin@canoewales.com

01678 521 199

National White Water Centre, Frongoch, Bala, Gwynedd, LL23 7NU

@canoewales

MORE DISCOUNTS TO CW MEMBERS!

THREE NEW DISCOUNTS NOW AVAILABLE

Great news – CW have secured 3 new discounts for members, which means there are now over 15 discounts and offers available to CW members. For full details check out www.canoewales.com/discounts

GET ON THE WATER

An exclusive discount for Canoe Wales members. Simply enter ‘canoe10’ in the basket as a coupon and receive 10% off all orders online at www.getonthewater.co.uk

ESCAPE WATERSPORTS

Canoe Wales members now receive a 5% online discount to Escape Watersports at www.escape-watersports.co.uk/

Just enter CANOEWALES5 in the discount box when paying for your items online to receive this benefit.

ONLINE SEA KAYAKING

Canoe Wales members can now access Online Sea Kayaking (OSK) with a discount. Members get 20% off monthly and annual subscriptions.

For monthly subscriptions use CW-MEMBMONTHLY-OSK and for annual subscription use CW-MEMB-ANNUAL-OSK. Once a member, OSK subscribers can also access their online British Canoeing ‘Coastal Navigation and Tidal Planning’ and ‘Open Water Navigation and Tidal Planning’ courses with a 30% discount.

Subscribers get full access to a massive range of progressive, skills based, sea kayaking videos and lessons. These courses range from rolling, forwards paddling, rescues, navigation, paddling in tides and current and loads more. Members are also able to reach out directly to qualified and experienced coaches for help, tips, or feedback. The OSK site is continually growing with new and exciting content.

To take a look at the OSK site – www.onlineseakayaking.com

Please note these codes are valid until the 1st October 2023. The 20% discount is applied to a 12 month period and subscriptions will automatically renew at the standard fee unless cancelled.

NEW CW TEAM MEMBERS

A WARM WELCOME TO OUR NEW RECRUITS!

It’s great to welcome 4 new people to the CW staff team! Suzanne Parkin is our new Governance and Membership Assistant, she’ll be sorting out membership and dealing with any queries. Nick Fowler-Rimell is the new Performance Manager, overseeing the performance team and helping our athletes reach their full potential. Mike Raine is our new Environment & Sustainability Lead, helping to steer CW and Welsh paddlesport in a sustainable direction. Bonnie Armstrong and Paula McKenna are our new communications and marketing team; as featured in our ‘Meet the Team’ interview in page 6 and 7. A warm welcome to them all!

#SHEPADDLES CYMRU AMBASSADORS

NEW TEAM FOR 2022/23

Introducing our new #ShePaddles Cymru team: Hannah Cubie (South Wales), Hannah Vineer (North Wales) and Dani Abram (South Wales).

We look forward to having them on board for the next chapter of #ShePaddles Cymru and hope to read more about them in the next issues of Ceufad!

CANOE WALES AGM

MONDAY 14TH NOVEMBER 2022 – ONLINE

The 2022 CW AGM will be held on Monday 14th November at 7pm. The meeting will be followed by an informal Q&A session with members of the Board of Directors and staff. Due to increased interest in attendance we are holding this meeting virtually via Zoom.

WHY JOIN US AT THE AGM?

The CW AGM is your chance to hear about updates over the last 12 months and future developments at CW, you will be able to ask questions directly to the staff and Directors and hear detailed reports relating to our activity and finances. The recovery from COVID-19 is a particularly important time for CW to support the paddling community – so, if there is something you think we should be doing more of – now is your chance to let us know!

GARETH HOWES 2/9/05–11/7/22

A TRIBUTE TO A PADDLING STAR

Friend, teammate, volunteer, just some of the roles Gareth fulfilled in his time with us at Aberfan Canoe Club.

Gareth started paddling with Aberfan alongside his family in our youth section, developing his all-round skills in multiple craft. He found polo and spent lots of his time developing his skills and knowledge alongside a club peer group who held him in high esteem.

Gareth represented the Welsh Canoe Polo development squad at under 16’s and under 18’s with some notable results for the teams. Again, a valued squad member both for his personality and talent. Gareth also represented GB development squad for a number of years and was on the cusp of breaking into the full GB under 21’s squad.

Gareth put his time back into the club, volunteering and coaching to help develop the next generation of paddlers. He’ll be missed by us all.

Gareth’s family are raising money for the hospital which supported them. www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Lisa-Howes5

HOW TO BOOK

All On the Water and On the Bank members over the age of 16 are entitled to vote at the AGM – and all other members of Canoe Wales are welcome to attend. You will need to book online via our member portal to secure your free ticket to the AGM, and then closer to the date of the event we will send you a Zoom link to access the meeting.

If you have any questions or concerns about how to join the meeting online please contact us at admin@canoewales.com and we can provide you with support in advance of the meeting.

When registering your attendance, we will ask you to submit any questions for the Q&A session in advance to help us plan the evening and we'll do our best to answer your questions.

To book your place: www.bit.ly/3dbwfvY

CLYWEDOG RESERVOIR

ACCESS FOR CW MEMBERS

Following a discussion with Clywedog sailing club our members are now welcome to book paddling on the reservoir.

The reservoir was opened in 1967 and was originally built to regulate the flow of the River Severn, keeping it topped up in dry periods and help reduce flooding in wet periods. Although very remote, the reservoir is now a popular destination for watersports and fishing.

www.clywedogsailing.org.uk

If you fancy a paddle in this remote and beautiful location please contact Des Richardson at clywedogsctreasurer@gmail.com and he will send you booking details asking for contact information, Canoe Wales membership number and £6 payment.

Commun i cat i ons and Market i ng

Bonn i e Armstrong

We have a new team Communications and Marketing Team at Canoe Wales! They provide the vital link between Canoe Wales and the paddlesport community, CW members, clubs and coaches (nothing too important!).They only started in August but they hit the ground running and are already having a positive impact. So, a very warm welcome to Bonnie, our new Communications and Marketing Lead.

“CW HAVE A GOOD FOUNDATION DESPITE THE MANY CHALLENGES THEY HAVE FACED. I KNEW THAT THE TEAMS WERE PRETTY WELCOMING AS I BUMPED INTO MANY OF THEM AROUND TOWN AND AT EVENTS ETC, I ALSO KNEW THAT WITH THE RIGHT MARKETING TOOLS THEY COULD GET A SIGNIFICANT AMOUNT OF GROWTH AND I WANTED TO HELP THEM ACHIEVE THAT.”

What does your job involve?

I’m the Communications and Marketing Lead for CW and the National White Water Centre. Tasks within Marketing and Communications embodies the whole process: customer and client relations, PR and marketing strategies, to the creative side of promotional literature, advertising and artwork. I’ve also been tasked with creating a synergy between CW and NWWC as well as refreshing the websites and extending membership benefits at CW.

What prompted you to join the CW team? Their ethos. CW have a good foundation despite the many challenges they have faced. I knew that the teams were pretty welcoming as I bumped into many of them around town and at events etc, I also knew that with the right marketing tools they could get a significant amount of growth and I wanted to help them achieve that. Obviously, as a paddler who eats, breathes and sleeps social media algorithms this was also going to be a role that I could flourish in and thoroughly enjoy.

I know it’s early days …but … what are you most looking forward to about your new role? Everything! I’m very passionate about marketing, social media and comms so synergising work between NWWC and CW, and expanding the CW membership is very exciting. This is like asking me to pick my favourite child!

What do you think the most challenging part will be? We have lots of projects we are working on and lots of aspirations for both CW and NWWC for 2023, with not enough days in the week. This is probably something most companies can relate to, however, many hands make light work and the teams are committed to working together to make sure we get there.

What do you do in your spare time?

I love kayaking on white water. Due to my disabilities and physical limitations I’ve moved from paddling hard-shell kayaks to white water packrafts. I always struggled with the weight of a kayak, paddle, and equipment on the water.

Paddling a packraft with a super lightweight paddle means I can enjoy the sport more frequently.

I'm fortunate that my partner paddles too and is very supportive. He drives and carries everything everywhere whilst I do all the planning, and it means we get to spend time on the water together. Photography/taking pictures at paddlesport events is something I also enjoy.

I sat on the committee for the recent ICF Canoe World Freestyle Championships at HPP. And I also sit on the committee for GB Freestyle where I’ve been assisting local clubs in setting up regular Freestyle peer meetups all over Great Britain.

What message would you like to get out to the CW members, clubs and coaches?

There’s a really great song that comes to mind for my reply ... Reach Out by the Four Tops!

Commun i cat i ons and Market i ng Lead

Commun i cat i ons and Market i ng

Paula McKenna

Commun i cat i ons and Market i ng Coord i nator

We have a new team Communications and Marketing Team at Canoe Wales! They provide the vital link between Canoe Wales and the paddlesport community, CW members, clubs and coaches (nothing too important!).They only started in August but they hit the ground running and are already having a positive impact. So, a very warm welcome to Paula, our new Communications and Marketing Coordinator.

What does your role involve?

Typically, I’ll be involved in all sorts but only on a part time basis, as Bonnie is taking the lead. So far, I have been working on lots of marketing elements such as the website, blogs, member comms, newsletters, social media, creative artworking to events planning and facilitating with more to come in research, digital, partnerships and outreach projects. It’s a varied but fun role!

What prompted you to join the CW team?

After getting to know the team at a recent #ShePaddles Cymru Event, I knew I wanted to be more involved, due to the team being such lovely and inspiring people. They made me think CW has got to be the best of working environments! Since I started a couple of weeks ago I haven’t looked back.

I know it’s early days …but … what are you most looking forward to about your new role? There’s quite a bit in this for me (selfishly), I love meeting people and this role incorporates that, I enjoy learning and there’s plenty in this role as well as spending time with the team – as they’re such a lovely bunch!

What do you think the most challenging part will be?

I think at this stage it will be making the most of the days I am in, squeezing all the tasks into the part time nature of my role.

What do you do in your spare time?

Quite a variety at the mo, everything from cake decorating and crochet to mountain biking, paddling and walking in the hills with our crazy pup Ozzy – he needs lots of exercise so I’m out and about a lot now he’s a year old.

What message would you like to get out to the CW members, clubs and coaches?

I think maybe bear with me while I’m new, I’m learning the ropes and getting to know the systems, processes and structure so I might not be super-fast from the outset but I promise to always do my best by everyone, no matter who you are. I’m here to help and I look forward to meeting you all at an event soon, be sure to come and say ‘Hi’ (I don’t bite).

“AFTER GETTING TO KNOW THE TEAM AT A RECENT #SHEPADDLES CYMRU EVENT, I KNEW

I WANTED TO BE MORE INVOLVED, DUE TO THE TEAM BEING SUCH LOVELY AND INSPIRING PEOPLE. THEY MADE ME THINK CW HAS GOT TO BE THE BEST OF WORKING ENVIRONMENTS! SINCE

I STARTED A COUPLE OF WEEKS AGO I HAVEN’T LOOKED BACK!”

WELSH SALMON AND SEA TROUT ARE AT RISK, HOW CAN WE HELP?

ARTICLE : BEN WILSON (PRINCIPAL FISHERIES ADVISOR FOR NRW)

Salmon and sea trout (sewin) are iconic species in Wales, requiring high quality freshwater habitats to thrive and are a key indicator of the environmental quality of river catchments. Unfortunately, the most recent data from 2021 shows that returning runs of adult salmon and sea trout are at an all-time low, and we all need to act to protect these vulnerable fish.

Based on data derived from catch returns, NRW assesses the status of salmon stocks to determine whether they are “At Risk” or “Not at Risk” of achieving their “conservation limits” i.e. the number of fish required to sustain the population in each river. Results from the latest fisheries stock assessments show that of the 23 principal salmon rivers in Wales, 21 rivers (91%) are now categorised as being “At Risk”, and 3 (9%) are deemed “Probably at Risk”. No salmon stocks are in the “Not at Risk” categories.

Worryingly, sea trout (which are usually thought to be more robust) are also showing unsustainable levels of decline. Wales has 33 rivers that support sea trout fisheries, only 4 of which (12%) are deemed to be as “Probably Not at Risk”, while the remaining are either “Probably at Risk” (24%) or “At Risk” (64%). No rivers are deemed to be “Not at Risk”

These data represent the worst level of salmon and sea trout stock performance recorded in Wales and is of major concern to anyone that cares about our unique river ecosystems, and the wildlife they support.

There is no one single cause for these continued declines, but reduced sea survival is a major factor, with as few as only 1 to 2% of fish returning successfully to home waters. This means we have to protect those fish that do return, so that they can spawn successfully and contribute to the next generation.

NRW and fishers are doing their bit to help. In 2020 we introduced new fishing byelaws to help protect salmon and sea trout across Wales, and we have seen net and rod fishers react positively to these. Salmonids being a ‘cold water species’ are particularly susceptible to climate change, we need to do more though, such as improving river water quality and addressing acute and diffuse agricultural and Water Industry pollution incidents, removing barriers to migration and controlling unsustainable predation. We also need to protect our river ecosystems from invasive non-native species. Many of these actions are published in NRW’s Salmon and sea trout Plan of Action-2020 , which sets out in nine key themes how we need to tackle the salmonid emergency.

Salmon status on the 23 principal salmon rivers of Wales

Sea trout status on the 23 principal salmon rivers of Wales

HOW CAN I HELP?

There are a few keys ways in which all river users can help.

PROTECTING SPAWNING FISH AND THEIR EGGS

Adult salmon and sea trout are particularly vulnerable to disturbance when they are spawning in rivers, usually from midOctober through to February. Their eggs and newly hatched fish remain vulnerable to disturbance until they emerge from the gravel in the spring.

British Canoeing have issued some excellent guidance on how to avoid disturbing spawning fish and their habitat, and I strongly recommend you take note of that, and NRWs Canoeing Code. It is also worth being aware that its an offence to wilfully disturb spawning fish or their habitat.

PROTECTING FISH IN HOT WEATHER

Given the recent (and ongoing?) hot and dry weather, it’s also worth being aware how this affects fish. Salmon in particular, as a cold water species, can suffer when the river temperature exceeds 21C. Warm water holds less oxygen and they will need to avoid excessive movement as well as seeking out deeper, cooler shaded areas when its hot. So if you are paddling and see fish during hot weather conditions, especially if they are in distress, do all you can to avoid disturbing them further.

CHECK CLEAN AND DRY

One of the biggest threats to wild fish are non-native invasive parasites, such as the salmon fluke (Gyrodactylus salaris). Thankfully the UK has not yet been affected, but rivers in Scandinavia and mainland Europe have been devastated by them. Salmon fluke and other non-native species can be carried in wet gear and boats. Please make sure you follow the Check Clean and Dry protocols to reduce the risk, especially if you are travelling abroad.

REPORT INCIDENTS

It’s not only fish that need clean cool water. Anglers, paddlers and anyone relaxing by (or in!) our rivers care passionately about water quality. They are also more likely to be in a position to see pollution and report it. If you see anything that looks out of the ordinary (including possible illegal fishing) please make sure you report it, so we can assess and respond accordingly. In Wales, report any incidents on-line (see below) or call us on 0300 065 3000 24 hours a day.

Thankfully, society is starting to take notice of the climate and biodiversity emergency and how it is starting to affect our rivers, and the iconic fish they support. There is an increasing drive to protect them, and funding to address the pressures. Those of us that are actively engaged and care about our rivers can do our bit as well, and hopefully we will see salmon and sea trout once again thrive in our rivers.

MORE INFO

NRW Canoeing Code: www.bit.ly/3Ly9tuN

NRW Report an incident: www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/NU2VYV/ Canoe Wales Waterside Code: www.canoewales.com/protecting-our-environment

British Canoeing Watch out for spawning fish: www.bit.ly/3BwxfCQ

Spawning salmon Chris Conroy

Salmon spawning

NORTH WALES RESILIENT ECOSYSTEM PILOT

PROJECT: WE NEED YOU!

North Wales Wildlife Trust (NWWT) have successfully secured Welsh Government Rural Development Programme 2014-2020 Enabling Natural Resources and Well-being (ENRaW) scheme funding. This ambitious, collaborative project covers Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Gwynedd and Wrexham to facilitate a more resilient North Wales.

Part of the project looks to build on the significant progress made in the River Dee catchment, undertaken via the ORW and DINNS projects, and complementing the Upper & Middle Dee NNF project. Alongside this, we aim continue to raise awareness of invasive non-native species (INNS) and biosecurity, while gathering evidence for innovative, sustainable ways to tackle INNS via pilot projects, including:

» eDNA Citizen Science Horizon-Scanning:

With the aim of generating a user-friendly, value-for-money, early-warning method to aid rapid response and so help reduce the costs associated with attempting to remove established INNS. Are you part of a Local Action Group (LAG) who are interested? Get in touch!

» Biosecurity Citizens’ Army:

Pilot the development of a network of biosecurity champions throughout North Wales, providing them with the skills to train their local community in prevention and biosecurity best practice, increasing resilience to the spread of INNS across North Wales and beyond. Are you part of a Local Action Group (LAG) / Community Group who would like to take part? Get in touch!

» Conservation Grazing:

Chiefly against Himalayan balsam in the Dee catchment. We are looking for land managers and graziers in the area – do get in touch if interested.

» Angling for Action:

» Supporting the Fishing in Wales project, helping facilitate the next generation of anglers to experience angling and its benefits & supporting active river habitat management. Are you part of a club that would like to be involved? Let us know!

This project includes activities to promote good health, wellbeing and connectivity/networking of local communities. We aim to work with volunteers, members of the public, land managers, local authorities, Rivers Trusts, and sectors such as recreation, health and businesses, while offering support and training to Local Action Groups (LAGs) and local Angling Clubs.

EDNA CITIZEN SCIENCE PILOT

Over the summer, you may have spotted our team and volunteers out in the River Conwy and the River Dee catchments. We’ve been sampling water from 20 strategic locations per catchment, between Capel Curig and Conwy, and from Tryweryn to Chester. Some of the places we’ve visited were stunning, with clear brooks burbling down the Welsh hillsides. We’ve spotted wildlife including hares, kingfishers, trout and dragonflies.

The Conwy and Dee catchments were selected for the initial phase of sampling for this pilot as previous eDNA sampling projects plus live sightings had highlighted the presence of non-native invasive American Signal Crayfish (Pacifastacus leniusculus) and Crayfish Plague at a couple of locations in each catchment. In addition, Chinese Mitten Crab (Eriocheir sinensis) had also been recorded. This gave us an ideal set of species and locations to test eDNA sampling regimes on, to help us model the minimum sampling required to still get accurate results for similar catchments.

Find out more about how the American Signal Crayfish affects our native crayfish, fish populations and riparian habitats at www. nonnativespecies.org/non-native-species/information-portal/ view/2498 .

We used the Sell2Wales tendering system and selected NatureMetrics as our eDNA kit supply and analysis contractor. Large

American Signal Crayfish

boxes of eDNA testing kit and Vampire Samplers soon arrived, along with buckets, ropes, gloves, de-ionised water and even a freezer had to be purchased.

In some more popular locations, like Llanrwst, Conwy and the suspension footbridge near Llangollen, we had lots of interest from the public. In other locations, like Afon Hiraethlyn in Eglwysbach, the rivers ran dry, so no sampling for us this time, but a far worse impact on the local riparian wildlife, habitats and those depending on the water.

Biosecurity was key throughout the sampling and filtration, to help ensure we did not contaminate the samples with water/eDNA from other locations and ourselves, and especially to reduce the risk of transferring invasive species and diseases like Crayfish Plague. Locations with known populations of American Signal Crayfish were sampled last. The aim was to take individual samples at all locations, from the left, centre and right-hand side of the river. Some of these samples were then filtered as individual samples, whilst others were pooled with other sites as per our sampling plan.

Staff and volunteers used either syringes with eDNA filters attached to push water through, or the Vampire Samplers, attached to a drill, for the larger pooled samples. You can see a short video on eDNA filtering by NatureMetrics here: www.youtu.be/UXIA-yR8EcY

We have now sent all of our filtered samples back to NatureMetrics, and are eagerly awaiting all of the results to come in. The results will help us compare the Dee and the Conwy catchments, determine our Phase II sampling plan, and, ultimately, we hope this will reveal the minimum sampling strategy to help local action/community groups scan for aquatic invasive non-native species in similar catchments, keeping the associated costs of kits and analysis to a minimum. Watch this space!

WE NEED YOU!

Paddlers can reach the places that others folk just cannot reach! You can help by keeping an eye out for invasive non-native species. If you do see something, please record it via Cofnod’s ‘Record and Alien’ system. Records from this database help guide our future strategy and projects: www.cofnod.org.uk/LinkInfo?ID=2

You can download our free Invasive Species Pocket ID Guide. Find it at the end of this webpage: https://www.northwaleswildlifetrust.org.uk/our-river-wellbeing

Want to join in with the fun? Become a volunteer: https://www.northwaleswildlifetrust.org.uk/take-action/volunteer

If you want to become a Biosecurity Champion for your group/club, get in touch and we may be able to provide free training.

Everyone can help stop the spread of invasive non-native species by using:

Check-Clean-Dry: www.nonnativespecies.org/what-can-i-do/ check-clean-dry/ Be Plant Wise: www.nonnativespecies.org/what-can-i-do/beplant-wise/

This project has received funding through the Welsh Government Rural Communities - Rural Development Programme 2014-2020, funded by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development & the Welsh Government.

www.northwaleswildlifetrust.org.uk/inns Cymraeg: www.northwaleswildlifetrust.org.uk/cy/node/2808

GET INVOLVED

eDNA

near Llyn

Kirsty

eDNA

near

Kirsty

Filtering the water samples for eDNA analysis back at the NWWT Aberduna office Kirsty Brown (NWWT)

EVENTS

THE WELSH OPEN CANOE SYMPOSIUM

Glan Llyn, Bala

The Open Canoe Symposium has become the premier event for open canoeists across the UK. Organised and run on a voluntary, not-for-profit basis, the hosting of the event now rotates annually between Wales, England and Scotland in a three-year cycle. Its aim has always been to bring together people of all levels of experience and ability in a sharing of enthusiasm for and knowledge of all aspects of open canoeing. The Symposium features trade stands, demo boats, stacks of workshops and evening entertainment, including a talk from special guest Kevin Callan, renowned Canadian adventurer, paddler, writer and speaker.

www.raygoodwin.com/open-canoe-symposium

CANOE WALES AGM

Online

The Canoe Wales AGM is your chance to hear about updates over the last 12 months and future developments at Canoe Wales. You will be able to ask questions directly to the staff and Directors and hear detailed reports relating to our activity and finances. The recovery from COVID-19 is a particularly important time for Canoe Wales to support the paddling community – so, if there is something you think we should be doing more of – now is your chance to let us know!

All On the Water and On the Bank members over the age of 16 are entitled to vote at the AGM – and all other members of Canoe Wales are welcome to attend. You will need to book online via our member portal to secure your free ticket.

www.bit.ly/3dbwfvY

Nottingham

Aimed at all clubs, centres, parents, paddlers, coaches and leaders, this year’s Paddlesport Coaching and Leadership Conference has something for everyone!

As well as keynote presentations (Saturday) and on-thewater and clasroom-based workshops (Sunday), this year’s diverse programme includes activities and unique experiences such as the interactive internet café to explore the British Canoeing Awarding Body eLearning and digital resources, a Coaching Corner to get your questions answered, as well as a range of exhibitors and paddlesport retailers.

www.bit.ly/3DqpeSy

BRITISH RAFTING WINTER WARMER Llandysul

It may be cold outside but it's time to get your paddling boots on and warm up with some fun racing – expect standard race categories but with a winter/festive twist!

Open to all R6 teams, UK and international, with new teams welcome.

Registration fees: early bird £200 for teams 6/7, late comer £240 for teams 6/7 after 11/11/22

Price includes Friday and Saturday camping, Saturday evening meal, entertainment, medals and all officials and safety crew.

www.facebook.com/events/322625311661499

N O V 19-20 BRITISH CANOEING COACHING AND LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

LLYN TEGID (BALA LAKE)

IN THE FLOW

PADDLING MAP OF BRITAIN

The perfect starting point for planning paddling trips and holidays

This is the third edition of the Paddling Map of Britain, which gives an indication of how popular this map is; over 17,000 copies have been sold to date.

This map of mainland Britain shows the huge extent of paddling possibilities on rivers, lakes, lochs, canals and coast – some 37,000km of paddling. This large format map is doublesided, with Wales and south England on one side, and Scotland and north England on the other. Based on Ordnance Survey data it is accurate and easy to use, showing roads, towns, villages, rivers, streams and lakes. Unfold it and a whole country of paddling possibilities opens up! 540 rivers graded by difficulty. Canals and waterways used by motorized craft. Popular paddling trips are highlighted, as are white water centres. The map also shows locations for selected loch and coastal trips.

Information panels provide guidance on access, paddling responsibly and safety plus recommended websites and guidebooks.

The aim of this map is to ‘open the doors’ to the world of paddling for canoe, kayak and paddleboard. And it does; it shows the paddling possibilities across mainland UK – and there are a lot!

This is the perfect starting point for paddling trips and holidays; you can easily see what’s in the area and plan your trip accordingly. Fortunately it’s printed on durable paper as you’ll be using again and again!

RRP: £10.95

ISBN: 9780995751347

Available to buy from outdoor shops and online

PADDLE SHAKESPEARE'S AVON

The definitive guide to paddling the Wye for canoe, kayak and paddleboard

This is the third book from the winning combo of publisher Pesda Press and author Mark Rainsley, and they’ve produced another cracking guidebook.

The Avon is a great river to dip a paddle into, whether by kayak, canoe or paddleboard. If you’re seeking an expedition journey, wanting to just splash about getting wet, or anything in-between, there is the perfect stretch of river for you. And this guidebook will make sure you find it.

Written in Mark’s usual informal and informative style, the book has a wealth of detail, all brought to life with Mark’s stunning photography. The book splits the river into 9 sections, each accompanied by a detailed map, distance and start/finish points. Alternative launch points are provided along with a detailed description of the trip, included any ‘notable features’ such as locks and weirs. The book also has chapters on campsites, wildlife and planning your journey (locks, carrying gear, safety etc), which are very handy.

The Avon flows right through England’s past of climactic battles, monasteries, castles, stately homes and the early industry of mills and navigation. Not forgetting its association with William Shakespeare. And this book includes some fascinating information on the history and nature of the river, which really brings the book to life. This is a fantastic guidebook, covering everything needed to plan a trip on the Avon and will inform, educate and entertain!

RRP: £19.99

ISBN: 9781906095857

Available from: www.pesdapress.com

COMPETITION

FREESTYLE

WORLD FREESTYLE CHAMPIONSHIPS, NOTTINGHAM

In July the world’s best freestyle paddlers arrived at Holme Pierrepont in Nottingham for the World Champs. Amongst them were two Welsh paddlers, Lowri Davies (Senior K1) and Ben Higson (Junior K1), who were strong contenders for a place on the podium.

After an impressive opening ceremony at Nottingham Castle, which involved sword fighting (by actors, not the athletes – that would be a brutal qualifying process), the week of competition kicked off. The atmosphere was phenomenal, with an enthusiastic crowd whipped up by the awesome commentary team. It was clear from day 1 that the athletes had brought their A-game, with some incredible runs and record-breaking scores. As the competition progressed it was becoming obvious who the contenders were. Ben Higson was putting in some blistering runs, with his scores putting him consistently in top 3. He was ramping up his game in each round. Ottilie Robinson-Shaw (GB) in her first senior year was pretty much annihilating the competition in squirt, C1 and K1; with scores that were rivalling the men’s. Lowri Davies put in two great runs in the quarterfinals, placing her second behind Ottilie. Unfortunately, she couldn’t repeat her success in the semi-finals and missed out on a place in the finals. Ben cruised through to the final and was on fire, putting in some breath-taking runs. But he wasn’t the only one; Tim Rees (Germany) was racking up some huge scores and it was becoming clear that it would come down to Ben and Tim for the title. The tension was palpable, with the crowd cheering the athletes on. Ben scored a huge 1343.33 but Tim threw down 1386.67 to take gold. Both athletes will be competing in seniors next year, which will definitely mix things up!

One athlete had an exceptional competition winning 3 titles; Ottilie took gold in K1W, C1W and squirt. And she wasn't the only Brit on the podium; 5 athletes won silver; Ben Higson (K1MJ), Niamh Macken (K1WJ) Tamsyn McConchie (squirt), Alex Edwards (squirt), Rebekah Green (C1W), with Harry Price winning bronze (K1M), Huge congratulations to all the athletes – looking forward to cheering you on at the 2023 Worlds in the USA.

SLALOM

EXTREME RACE SUCCESSES

The Welsh Canoe Slalom squad have had a busy summer on the European race circuit. At the World Cup 2 in Krakow Etienne Chappell took 4th place in the Extreme Slalom – his first international race since 2019. He then went on to take silver in the same event at the Junior & U23 Slalom World Championships in Ivrea. Exciting times as Extreme Slalom will be a new Olympic Discipline in Paris 2024. At the European Canoe Slalom Championships in Česke Budejovice both Eti and Megan Hamer-Evans won bronze medals in the team event for their respective U23 classes.

The whole team then travelled to the French Alps for a training camp, based initially in L’Argentiere and finishing up with a week in Bourg St Maurice. The team are now back in the UK primed and ready for the second half of the UK racing season.

WELSH CANOE SLALOM SQUAD IN KRAKOW

@KIM_JONES_PHOTOGRAPHY

BEN HIGSON – SILVER – JUNIOR K1M

@KIM_JONES_PHOTOGRAPHY

LOWRI DAVIES – SENIOR K1W

COMPETITION CANOE POLO

JUNIOR INTERNATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

Welsh Canoe Polo was the sport to watch this summer as three Welsh Youth teams were selected to part take in the Junior International Championships in Belfast. The players made up an Under 15s team, an under 18s team and an Under 23s team. Having missed out on the chance to compete for Wales for a couple of years due to Covid, all players were keen to get back into competition.

Setting off on the 19th of July, although some misread the ferry dates and were ready at the port on the 18th, the long drive to Belfast did not go without mishaps, when the minibus managed to get a flat tyre, however everyone made it onto the ferry (some vehicles cutting it very tight). The competition was well underway, commencing with a day of training and an opening ceremony, welcoming teams from across the globe and included one of our players bearing the Welsh flag in the flag ceremony. The first day of competition saw teams in high spirits despite the early start, with the under 15s kicking off the day. Promising results were achieved by all the teams with wins and draws from both the under 15s and under 18s. The second day was all about the under 18s with four games throughout the day resulting in a tremendous win against the United Nations and a brilliant come back against GB Development B, winning 7-2 after a tight draw earlier in the day. The third day was the under 15s and Under 23s turn to have packed schedules, the former with 5 games and the latter with 4. The under 15s had some impressive wins against Kilkenny and Czech Republic as well as some tight losses and the Under 23s secured a brilliant draw against Kilkenny and some close losses.

The final day consisted of the teams battling it out for their final overall positions. The Under 15s were in the silver group for their age category and played amazingly, making it to the semi-final and finishing 4th overall for the silver under 15s group after a very close 1-2 loss against Ulster A. The under 23s were the second team to finish securing an overall place of 5th for their age group with a tight final game against Ulster resulting in an unfortunate 4-5 loss. The under 18s were in the silver group for their age category and were battling Sweden for first place, having had a previous 3-7 loss to Sweden tensions were high and it was all to play for in this intense final, however a brilliant 3-2 win for Wales secured them first place in the silver group.

The competition finished with a closing medal ceremony and some upbeat music which got some of the squad up and dancing. Although no medals were won, the achievements of each of the teams were amazing especially as this was many of the players first international competition, the celebrations were well deserved, and luckily everyone made the ferry home with plenty of time to spare.

REPORT: ZOE ALDERSON

SURF

SURF KAYAKING WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS

We’re sending winning vibes to the Welsh Surf Kayaking team who’ll be competing at the World Champs in Bude, Cornwall from the 29 September – 10 October.

This is a huge event and it’s great that it’s in the UK. Good luck to the Welsh team: Bethan Moore, Chris Watson, Richard Monk, Ewen Arkison, Iwan Brew, Lucas Monk, Lee Griffith, Paul Bramble, Noel Dummett, Jac Turner, Frances Bateman and James Paddock. You can follow their progress: www.facebook.com/WalesSurfKayakingpage

WELSH YOUTH TEAMS

U23 TEAM IN ACTION

Paddle for Dave

WORDS : CATHERINE GILBERT

Dave started paddling when he was 12 years old and his enthusiasm for the sport hasn’t dwindled since. He’s a firm believer in the benefits of outdoor education and, after qualifying as a teacher, took his students on outdoor activity trips, helping to raise funds to ensure they could all afford to go. In 1979 he became the Deputy Warden at Plas Pencelli Outdoor Centre, and he continued to dedicate his life to outdoor education until he retired. His retirement took a similar direction and he spent his free time introducing people to paddling, trying to make it inclusive and accessible to all. However, in 2017 he developed dementia-like symptoms and in 2020 was diagnosed with PSP (Progressive Supranuclear Palsy), an incurable, degenerative disease which affects balance, mobility speech and memory. He is now reliant on a wheelchair and can no longer paddle. To raise awareness of the disease his two daughters, Bryony and Catherine, decided to undertake a challenge; to kayak the length of the Mon and Brec canal and back in 24 hours. Their aim wasn’t only to raise awareness, it was also to raise funds for PSPA – the charity dedicated to improving the lives of people living with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP). Here’s how their challenge unfolded …

The mastermind of the challenge was my sister, Bryony Dix. Having a parent with a debilitating condition such as PSP leaves you feeling a little helpless and out of control. Taking part in an event to raise awareness and to raise money for the charity that supports dad’s condition gave us back some control, we could do something that would make a difference.

The first boat we tried paddling was a K2, a lightweight, narrow and most importantly unstable kayak, designed for traveling at speeds on flat water. It would have been ideal for such a challenge except for one small difficulty, we couldn’t stay upright. We capsized immediately beside the rugby club and after a very wobbly paddle down to the next bridge and back we decided to abandon that boat and instead use a Prijon boat which we knew to be more stable. The only problem with that boat was that it is really heavy, I mean really heavy.

We completed 4 training sessions before the event, discovering that the steering system was no longer working and that garden cushions saved the backside from becoming numb on the hard plastic seat. A good friend Barry Griffiths stepped in and fabricated a spring bracket that forced the rudder back to a straight position after steering adjustments, saving us from many miles zig zagging into brambles and stinging nettles.

The longest training session we did before the event was to Llangynidr and back which took about 5 hours. We really had left training too late but we had an unwavering belief that we could do this and, more importantly, we wanted to do this for dad.

We were very lucky to have a day time support crew in Steve and Andy Buckley. Both Level 4 Kayak instructors. They raised the draw bridge in Pencelli and provided us with the wheels we needed for the long portage in Llangynidr around the five locks. They also met us in Gilwern for tea and sausage rolls and again in Llanover for chips. We were also met along the way by friends from far and wide offering drinks, sweets, cakes, hugs and words of encouragement. This made such a difference as we always sped up on seeing people.

Paddling for the first 10 hours was actually ok, we felt good, we were in our comfort zone. However, when we got to Goytre at 7:22pm this was 22 minutes behind our estimated time. We knew that this would be the last time we would see Steve and Andy for the night and that there would be no support from here until Pontymoil; the decision to keep going away from home was a tough call. Then mum messaged that they were in Pontymoil waiting for us. This was the inspiration we needed to battle on into the dark.

“THE FIRST BOAT WE TRIED PADDLING WAS A K2, A LIGHTWEIGHT, NARROW AND MOST IMPORTANTLY UNSTABLE KAYAK, DESIGNED FOR TRAVELING AT SPEEDS ON FLAT WATER. IT WOULD HAVE BEEN IDEAL FOR SUCH A CHALLENGE EXCEPT FOR ONE SMALL DIFFICULTY, WE COULDN’T STAY UPRIGHT.”

Bryony’s wife had just finished a 12-hour shift and so, after letting her know we were ok, she set off into the night to grab a power nap so that she could meet us in the early hours of the morning.

It's 6 miles to Pontymoil from Goytre which meant we would be paddling for an hour and a half into complete darkness. We’d been given glow sticks and we wore head torches to help us see any obstacles. It was cold and we hadn't eaten a meal since 6pm. Our calories in and out weren't in balance anymore and the shivers set in. Pontymoil is at the end of the canal and so all the pond weed gathers and collects here. It was like paddling through pesto. We received a message at 9:15pm that dad was tired and they needed to leave, but some quick messaging meant that we made it and when we arrived at 9.31pm they were still there. We were so pleased to see mum and dad! We quickly munched on a few chocolate buttons we'd been given earlier and set off back along the long stretch back towards Goytre and beyond. We met up with our second support crew at about 1am in Govilon, having paddled without stopping for 6 hours, covering 19 miles. We were shattered and shivering but hot tea provided by my husband, Dave Gilbert, and syrupy porridge provided by Bryony’s wife, Aimee Dix, warmed us

up and provided the fuel we needed to finish. We paddled on knowing that we’d made the right life choices when we married those two! We changed into much needed dry clothes in Llangynidr with more tea and bananas and then were supported by Barry Griffiths and Aimee on the long portage around the locks. We knew it was only a couple of hours to the finish and so we paddled hard at first, pushing ourselves to make up any time we'd lost with the aim of getting back at 9am.

Our support crew was invaluable cheering us on and encouraging us to keep paddling as our backs ached and our legs began to protest. They were beginning to really ache having been cooped up in the same position for a long time. We craved a bed, desperate to just lie flat for a little while, to let our backs straighten out and to feel our legs flex. At Brynich lock the police ARV vehicle was waiting to greet us along with Aimee, Lizzie Tiernan and mum and dad. We knew we only had a short distance to go but we were both spent. We’d both got to the stage where at 9am we were just going to stop wherever we were. We no longer cared about getting back to Brecon.

Whether it was seeing friends, the energy gel, or the paracetamol provided by Emma Prosser (who jogged with us all the way to the finish from

“WE WERE SHATTERED AND SHIVERING BUT HOT TEA PROVIDED BY MY HUSBAND, DAVE GILBERT, AND SYRUPY PORRIDGE PROVIDED BY BRYONY’S WIFE, AIMEE DIX, WARMED US UP AND PROVIDED THE FUEL WE NEEDED TO FINISH. WE PADDLED ON KNOWING THAT WE’D MADE THE RIGHT LIFE CHOICES WHEN WE MARRIED THOSE TWO!”

Pencelli); whatever it was we were inspired. We somehow sped up and completed the last section faster than we'd ever paddled, gaining a course record on Strava. At the finish we were met by the Brecon Paddlers who provided chocolate brownies and hugs whilst mum handed out tea and bacon sandwiches.

This was a mental challenge as much as anything else, a simple case of mind over matter and ignoring personal physical discomfort. For dad this has been an ongoing battle for around five years now. A level 4 canoe instructor and ex member of Brecon Mountain Rescue team he is now wheelchair bound, completely dependent on other for all his needs. If you ask him what he thinks of us completing this challenge, you’ll get a thumbs up and a smile that makes it all worthwhile.

Our supporters have donated just over £2000 for this good cause and we are so very proud to have raised awareness of this debilitating condition. A special word of thanks must go to the Canal and River Trust for giving us permission to complete this challenge on the waterway. Also, to the support crew, Andy and Steve, Aimee and Dave and all our friends that met us on the way.

ABOUT PSP PSP occurs when brain cells in certain parts of the brain are damaged as a result of a build-up of a protein called tau.

Tau occurs naturally in the brain and is usually broken down before it reaches high levels. In people with PSP, it isn't broken down properly and forms harmful clumps in brain cells.

Symptoms:

» Problems with balance and mobility, including frequent falls

» Changes in behaviour, such as irritability or apathy (lack of interest)

» Muscle stiffness

» An inability to control eye and eyelid movement, including focusing on specific objects or looking up or down at something

» Slow, quiet or slurred speech

» Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)

» Slowness of thought and some memory problems

For more info visit: www.pspassociation.org.uk

MAKE A DONATION through the Paddle for Dave JustGiving page: www. justgiving.com/fundraising/catherine-gilbert7

“THIS WAS A MENTAL CHALLENGE AS MUCH AS ANYTHING ELSE, A SIMPLE CASE OF MIND OVER MATTER AND IGNORING PERSONAL PHYSICAL DISCOMFORT. FOR DAD THIS HAS BEEN AN ONGOING BATTLE FOR AROUND FIVE YEARS NOW.”

'PADDLE PICK UP' RIVER TEIFI

This month I've been doing my part for the environment again, this time on World Cleanup Day 2022 which also falls during Great British Beach Clean week (16th - 25th September).

My 'paddle pick up' took place on the beautiful River Teifi near Cardigan, West Wales whilst leading a canoe trip. I live and work in such an enchanting location with the ocean at Cardigan Bay just a few short miles away. It's wonderful always being surrounded by plentiful wildlife both above and below water, such as species of fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, mammals, fungi and more but I

WORLD CLEANUP DAY

fear for the future of our world without change to human habits and lifestyles. Unfortunately, there's a constant wave of litter and other pollution impacting our rivers and oceans, and all that live within and around them. Highlighting and taking action against these issues is a never-ending battle but I hope to raise awareness and inspire others to 'reduce, reuse and recycle', and perhaps do their own clean-ups as a result. Maybe then, together as one global community we can have a bigger, brighter, cleaner happier and healthier future for generations to come.

unites millions of volunteers, governments and organisations in 191 countries to tackle the global waste problem and build up the new and sustainable world. The only way forward to fight the war against plastic, is to unite. The environmental problems that we face can only be solved through coordinated action together! Let’s Do It World connects and empowers people and organisations to drive positive change for smarter choices in design, production, consumption, and resource management. Let’s Do It World works to organise World Cleanup Day and coordinate the network of organisations from up to 191 countries. The organisation enables the Let’s Do It World movement’s country leaders to be global changemakers. We are overwhelmed with support and commitment from MILLIONS around the globe coming together to join us for World Cleanup Day 2022, the 5th year we have been running this event. Will we reach that goal of 5% of the worlds population? We'll soon find out. www.worldcleanupday.org

https://youtu.be/ciFFiSjPer4

ARTICLE : CLARE RUTTER

On the evening of Friday 22nd July, hundreds of paddlers from the UK and Ireland descended on the National White Water Centre, Canolfan Tryweryn, for the long-awaited return of the Tryweryn Festival! T Fest is known for its partying and paddling events but is so much more. Tickets include entry to the events and the party tent/ bar, camping (van or tent), food on the Saturday evening and subsidized professional coaching sessions. There are various trade tents to visit plus plenty of demo boats. This year Surfplugs were on-hand to check your ears and the Wildlife Trust were advising on invasive species and their impacts. Manon’s café is open extra-long hours, including the Friday evening. There’s something for all abilities, and of course, as much kayaking as you can shake a paddle at.

WORDS : ANNETTE POWER PHOTOS: KARL MIDLANE OR AS CREDITED

Our traditional, Friday night, T Fest quiz kicked off the weekend’s antics. This allowed paddlers to warm-up their competitive spirits in the bar.

A fantastic local band (The Misfits) then ensured that friendly rivalries were pushed aside to make room for dancing and partying until late.

The Saturday keen beans were seen warming up their river legs well before the 9am sign-up for the first paddling event of the festival. The NRS Extreme Race begins with a mass-start, not for the faint-hearted, sprint down through Miss Davies’ Bridge, over Café Wave and through the Fingers section of the river. No chance to pick a line: sharpen your elbows and try to stay upright!

A super strong field this year meant that all who entered made it through to the finals, with the dubious reward of hurtling head-to-head down the Ramp of Dread and charging down through NRA Bridge and Chapel Falls. A pure adrenaline rush – and that was just the spectators!

Next up was the Pyranha Retro Rodeo Wave competition. In true wave-barging tradition, with an added element of making your kayak dance to the beat of the riverside music, our daring Kings and Queens strived valiantly to outdo each other. There were a few spills, heaps of fun, carnage and lots of spectacular moves. The crowd oohed and aahed and were thoroughly enthralled.

The penultimate event for the Saturday, was the newly invented Palm Epic Enduro. A downriver endurance race consisting of laps of the Graveyard section with the added, some might say masochistic, element of returning to the top each time whilst carrying your boat. There was a lot of consideration of boat weight compared to speed and a certain faction of paddlers tried in vain to find a loophole in the rules that would help – sorry, no! The winning score was 6 grueling laps in 30 minutes and the gauntlet was thrown down for next year!

We rounded off the day’s events with the NWWC Raft Race. A raft is, in many ways, a large and cumbersome, flat-bottomed drifter. This was a chance for our wonderful paddlers to see, firsthand, the challenges our guides have in trying to avoid running them over! It was lovely to see guides and paddlers bonding in their bids for the coveted fastest run.

Although the band on Friday definitely challenged this status, Saturday is the traditional party night at T Fest. This year’s food highlight was delicious homemade waffles with a difficult choice of 4 equally wondrous toppings. Save Our Rivers were on hand to raise awareness of water and paddling issues around the world – the main focus this time was WET (Wildwasser erhalten Tirol). Our talk was hotly followed by the prize giving for the day’s competition winners from our brilliant event sponsors. The music and dancing, as always, carried on into the early hours and the party tent was truly rocked this year.

ANNETTE POWER

ANNETTE POWER

Sunday was a more relaxed day. Unless, that is, you were taking part in the Palm Throw Bag Olympics! Here competitors threw themselves into a myriad of challenges involving inflatable orcas, kayaks and a mannequin, and quite frankly showed far too much energy for so early on Sunday morning. It was entertaining to watch though!

Throughout the weekend, coaches from Plas y Brenin and Canoe Wales were on-hand to deliver both formalised coaching sessions and all elements of paddling advice. From choice of boat and outfitting through to forward paddling improvements and paddling destinations and recommendations.

As batteries wound down and last laps were enjoyed, thoughts sadly turned to coffee for the drive home.

Huge thanks go to Palm, Pyranha, NRS, Plas y Brenin, Canoe Wales, Surfplugs, Whetman Equipment, Radical Rider, River Legacy, Save Our Rivers and A Lot of Waffle for bringing fun, challenge, prizes, education and delicious food. The biggest thanks, however, are reserved for our wonderful paddling and non-paddling ticket holders who watched and applauded, joined in, pushed themselves, partied and paddled their socks off, making T Fest 2022 the best one so far!

MORE INFO

For details of T Fest 2023 or for photos from this year's event check out the T Fest FB page: www.facebook.com/ trywerynfest/

: ANDY KETTLEWELL

PISTYLL

The Bitches is one of nine ‘notable tidal races’ in the world, according to the world-famous Wikipedia. It also says it's a popular tourist destination and playspot for extreme waterboarding enthusiasts, but I can assure you I haven’t seen the latter! Welsh kayakers know the Bitches comes out on top of the tidal races across the world, despite Canadians and Scots claiming Skookumchuck Narrows and Falls of Lora are better respectively. The Welsh know we’re right and it means we don’t have to share the waves with them, more ride time for us!

The Bitches are formed by the fast-moving tide being constricted between Ramsey Island and the most westerly point of mainland Wales, just 2 miles from St Davids, Pembrokeshire. On the biggest tides of the year the waves, eddies and whirlpools here are a spectacle for whitewater kayakers, finding themselves out in the ocean to play. On smaller tides you’ll find the true sea goers and locals ripping the wave up in all types of craft, when it’s less crowded by the flocks of whitewater tourists on the spring tides.

This summer the August full moon brought some of the biggest tides of the year, mixed with the warm temperatures of the Atlantic Ocean and a heat wave this brought together paddlers from all over Wales and parts of England, who came to share the joy of this beautiful place and pristine waves. Although not for the fainthearted or inexperienced; even a small error from experienced paddlers here has led to many near misses they didn’t see coming. Sharing experiences out at sea, in the eddy, on the wave or on ‘the rock’ brings those together that share such passions, it’s as pure and simple as it gets. The shared drive for the early starts to catch the wave before dawn or paddle back at dusk draws us together as friends more than ever, creating memories that’ll last a lifetime.

Until the next howl from a werewolf (or a Canadian), we’ll come back searching for peace once again in Ramsey Sound.

This Girls

"We went for 2 Introduction to Paddle Boarding sessions; some had tried it before and Hannah Clements, the instructor, was great in giving these more challenging things to practise and she even had some doing handstands!"

This summer The Outdoor Partnership (TOP) launched their This Girls Adventure program in the Swansea Bay region, with the help of Llandysul Paddlers. The program has been a success in North Wales and TOP were keen to replicate this in the south, so organised two initial sessions to get the program rolling.

What’s the idea behind the program and what do you hope to achieve?

The This Girls Adventure program has worked so well up in North Wales and continues to do so, so it was very exciting to get the program started in the Swansea Bay Region. I live in Llandysul myself and feel there is a lot going on for children and older people but not so much going on for people ‘in the middle’. There are a lot of parents that support Llandysul Paddlers Canoe Club but don’t necessarily give it a go themselves, so I felt our This Girls Adventure Program through The Outdoor Partnership was a great opportunity to involve women from surrounding areas in the activities. Many of the people attending the session had wanted to give it a go for a while but appreciated the female only session we had created with a female instructor and felt it gave them a safe space to take part.

How did you decide on a format?

With paddle boarding being such growing activity, I felt it would be a popular one. In addition, paddle boarding is a great activity that suits a range of people; you can sit, kneel, stand, or fall off and swim around! We went for 2 Introduction to Paddle Boarding sessions; some had tried it before and Hannah Clements, the instructor, was great in giving these more challenging things to practise and she even had some doing handstands! Being on the lake at Llandysul Paddlers gave everyone plenty of opportunity to practise, rest and chat as and when they needed. We felt Friday night was a nice option as many of the people attending were mothers and giving up a whole Saturday or Sunday can be daunting when parenting, being a taxi driver, jobs, cleaning the house or looking after the dog can be more important! It was great to take advantage of the

WORDS : SIONED THOMAS

PHOTOS: ADAM JOHNSTONE

lighter evenings, and the feedback was it was great to have something to look forward to at the end of the week but also to still have the whole weekend to do other things!

How did you promote it? Like I said, I am lucky enough to live in the area and I already knew of a few ladies that had been wanting to try it before. People were able to sign up through Eventbrite and we promoted it on a few different social media pages; my work one, personal, The Outdoor Partnership and Llandysul Paddlers (they both have a great following too so that was a big help)! It was lovely to see local women take part; some of whom hadn’t done any activities at Llandysul Paddlers before! Many came with friends, but a few people had booked on by themselves which was lovely to see.

Were there any challenges delivering the program? Everyone loves a challenge … but no, there weren’t that many luckily! A few people had to

cancel last minute due to Covid but fortunately I had a waiting list so I could go straight to that to offer them a space. The lake at Llandysul Paddlers is a great site for beginners to give things a go, it was a little windier for the second session, which was a little more challenging for the group but I think they handled it brilliantly!

How did the first two sessions go?

The first two sessions went great! We welcomed 20 women over 2 separate sessions, some of whom had never tried paddle boarding before. We had ladies getting on the board for the first time, standing up for the first time, doing hand stands for the first time and falling off for the first time too! We received great feedback, and everyone is looking forward to more sessions!

The main things we learnt from the group is that they loved having a space they could try things without people judging them, they really enjoyed the social aspect, and they want to give different things a go, like rafting and river trips!

“The main things we learnt from the group is that they loved having a space they could try things without people judging them, they really enjoyed the social aspect, and they want to give different things a go, like rafting and river trips!"

"Llandysul Paddlers has a lot of young members which then means there was a group of mums somewhere watching, so there was already a group of women there ready to give it a go ... they just needed a little nudge!"

What are the plans for the future?

We have created a WhatsApp group so all the women can chat and get to know each other a bit better. The plan is to organise a few more sessions through The Outdoor Partnerships

This Girls Adventure at Llandysul Paddlers and give them the opportunity to have a say in what we do. For the first 2 sessions we ‘played it safe’ and stuck to the lake. But if they are up for it, we would love to show them what else Llandysul Paddlers offer and take them to different sites to get more experience!

The plan is then to link in with the She Paddles Cymru Programme; Llandysul Paddlers have been chosen as a pilot club so I can work closely with Lydia Wilford from Canoe Wales and Llandysul Paddlers new Club Champion to ensure the group continues to enjoy these activities within the club.

Any advice for clubs thinking of organising something similar?

I would look at what the club has already and tap into that. Are there enthusiastic female coaches within your club? If so, I would ask them is there a group they are passionate about developing. You often get different ideas when you ask a wider range of people for their input.

Also listen to what they want – In this case a lot of them didn’t want to go on the river yet and were happier starting on the lake. Also Friday nights seemed to be a popular option amongst a lot of people I spoke to. So, we went for a lake session on a Friday evening and people showed up. Don’t over complicate it; they often don’t want anything fancy at all!

Llandysul Paddlers has a lot of young members which then means there was a group of mums somewhere watching, so there was already a group of women there ready to give it a go ... they just needed a little nudge! And this is probably the case in a lot of clubs!

Linking in with Canoe Wales and their She Paddles Cymru Project would be a good idea too. They have festivals, one-off sessions, and ambassadors that could all be of help to the women in your groups.

MORE INFO

To find out more about The Outdoor Partnership and the support they can offer visit:

www.outdoorpartnership.co.uk

24 hours on the Dee

In August six determined paddlers took on a 24hour kayaking challenge on the Dee. The aim – to paddle from Horseshoe Falls to Town Falls and back up the canal again as many times as possible in 24 hours to raise money for charity. This was the sequel to the 2021 charity challenge that Del Read and James Ibbotson completed on the Trent. Only this time they would be joined by 4 more paddlers; Jake Boswell, Niamh Macken, Aaron Kendall and Welsh whitewater wonder Lowri Davies.

It seemed pretty straightforward; paddle up the canal, slide down the launch ramp, paddle down the Dee, walk up the hill, paddle up the canal … and repeat for the 24 hours! To keep spirits and paddle reps high other paddlers dropped in to paddle a few laps with the team. And there was plenty of support from rafters, canal boaters and walkers, plus the team's support crew and spectators cheering from Town Falls bridge.

However, even with the amazing support this was a physically and mentally demanding challenge. There were highs of paddling under a star-studded night sky and into morning mist on the Dee. And lows of blisters and cold night-runs down the river. But whenever there was a dip in energy or temperature the team pulled together, laughing and joking together and encouraging each other to paddle another lap.

When they reached their 24-hour target they had paddled an arm-numbing 103km and had completed 14 laps. And so far they have raised over £5500 for their three chosen charities; Air Ambulance Service, Rainbows Hospice and Young Minds.

EAGLESNEST PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTOS: AS CREDITED

EAGLESNEST PHOTOGRAPHY

EAGLESNEST PHOTOGRAPHY

EAGLESNEST PHOTOGRAPHY

LOWRI DAVIES

Every year ocean ski racers from all around the UK flock to Fishguard Bay to take on the FBOR National Ocean Ski Championships supported by STELLAR surf skis. This is a major downwind race along 17km of spectacular and demanding coastline, from Goodwick beach to Newport. This isn’t just a test of fitness and skill, but of tactics too – with paddlers seeking out the best racing conditions of wind, waves and current. Saturday is the elite ocean ski race and National Champs. Sunday is the open ski and SUP race. However, this year saw an extra event on Sunday, with the inaugural #ShePaddles Cymru race!

PETE

SATURDAY ELITE OCEAN SKI RACE & NATIONAL CHAMPS

This year the race happened to fall in the middle of the summer’s heat wave and a high-pressure weather system was firmly in place over the UK. This created a mixed mood on the beach where the competitors were warming up. Most ocean ski racers favour big swells and a strong following wind; timing their acceleration with the swell to pick up long surfs downwind. This is ocean racing at its fastest and most exciting. But not this year; this was going to be an out and out flat-water marathon in an intense 30C heat!

On the start line there were single and tandem skis, with novice racers lining up alongside highly experienced racers from ocean racing, sprint and marathon. There was a wellexecuted mass start that sent the paddlers out of Fishguard Bay, racing past the breakwater and out towards the finish on Newport beach.

The race is extremely well organised by Ben Edom and his team of volunteers and safety boats. Each competitor has a GPS tracker and must carry essential safety gear. A flotilla of safety boats accompanies the race throughout and there are plenty of people on hand to support and encourage the competitors.

Despite the calm racing conditions the paddlers gave it 100%, sprinting up the beach to cross the finish line with their boat.

PETE CATTERALL CW COACHING AND DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

SUNDAY #SHEPADDLES CYMRU SUP RACE

The FBOR’22 #ShePaddles Cymru SUP Race is a new initiative from Canoe Wales and the FBOR'22 team, aimed at encouraging less experienced paddlers to participate in a fun but challenging sea race. It was geared to build confidence towards more advanced coastal SUP paddling and racing for females.

One of our local SUP coaches and seasoned marathon racers, Martin Barlow, set the course. Unfortunately the weather turned on Sunday morning and it was decided that they needed to shorten it from 5km to 3km prior to the start. The racers paddled the deep clear water of the Irish Sea around a series of markers within Fishguard harbour, starting on Goodwick beach and finishing on the slipway not far from the starting line. The racers did exceptionally well and took it all in their stride, as they navigated the course to the finish line.

We are so pleased with the success of this year's race that we have already decided to make it a regular Canoe Wales event so keep your eyes peeled for entries opening in the new year, we can't wait for it to take place again.

LYDIA WILFORD CW DEVELOPMENT OFFICER

MORE INFO

FBOR runs every year in July, with the elite ski race on Saturday and the open race on the Sunday. (ski, SUP, prone board and #ShePaddles Cymru) For details and full results: www.fishguardoceanrace.uk

PETE CATTERALL

PETE CATTERALL

PETE CATTERALL

LYDIA WILFORD

RESULTS

Saturday Elite Races

Perennial FBOR Trophy (first across the line) – Chris Carson

First woman across the line – Jane Swarbrek

Dragon-Wave Trophy (first Welsh paddler, men) – Matt Rowlands

Dragon-Girl Trophy (first Welsh paddler, women) – Olivia Geddes

Sunday Open Races

First across the line (men) – Drew Howells (U18)

First across the line (women) – Sam Barlow

Open SUP – Dave Ewer

#ShePaddles Cymru SUP – Julia Kul

PETE CATTERALL

PETE CATTERALLLYDIA WILFORD

DESTINATION WALES

In this series Canoe Wales’ coaches and guides give you the insider info on their local coastal and inland waters. They pick sheltered/flatwater or moderate/moving water trips, and give you the low-down on access, highlights and top tips. This is the guide to some of the best coastal and inland paddling spots that Wales has to offer, and may just introduce you to a new paddling destination.

In this article we're going to share our favourite lakes and reservoirs with you; from familyfriendly to get-away-from-it-all, there should be something to float your 'boat'.

If you’re a Canoe Wales’ coach or guide and would like to share your favourite coastal or inland trips drop us a line at ceufad@canoewales.com

LAKES

Wales has some of the most beautiful lakes and reservoirs in the UK – and fortunately many of them are accessible to paddlers. From the 3.7mile long Llyn Tegid to the 300m Keepers Pond there’s are a huge variety to choose from, so whether you’re after a watersports centre and café or just a car park and a picnic bench there should be the right location for you.

Disclaimer – although these are titled the ‘best’ this is based on our preferences and opinions, so it’s very subjective! The aim is to inspire paddlers to get out on the water and maybe visit a new location.

OTHER LAKES IN WALES for details of all the lakes in Wales that are open to paddlecraft check out: www.canoewales.com/lakes

BEST FOR GETTING AWAY FROM IT ALL

Llyn Clywedog

To be honest most lakes are going to be busy in the summer, however, there are a few that can offer a little more solitude, especially in the quieter months such as Llyn Gwynant and Lake Vyrnwy. However, our vote goes to Llyn Clywedog – it’s in a scenic, remote location with restricted paddlecraft access to the water (members of Canoe Wales or Clywedog Sailing Club only), so it’s definitely one of the quieter lakes.

DESCRIPTION

This large (615 acre) reservoir is set amongst the rolling hills above Llanidloes, which is a beautiful and quiet setting. Paddlecraft launching is through the sailing club, with access to the water via shoreline, slipway or wheelchair accessible jetty. There are toilets and picnic area at the sailing club. The majority of the lake is open to paddlecraft so you can have a wonderful time relaxing and exploring on the water.

ACCESS

Via Clywedog Sailing Club with paddlecraft access only available to members of the Club or Canoe Wales (£6 access fee).

Email clywedogsctreasurer@gmail.com for booking details Website: www.llanidloes.com/clywedog

TOP TIPS TO STAY SAFE AND PADDLE RESPONSIBLY

Be prepared and take the right kit:

» Wear a correctly sized buoyancy aid

» Mobile phone in a waterproof case

» Whistle – to attract attention in an emergency

» Map and/or route description

» Clothing for the weather conditions + spares in a dry bag

» Food, drink & suncream

Respect the natural environment and other users:

» Respect other waterway users

» Be environmentally aware, minimise your impact

» Ensure you have the correct licence if required

» Observe navigational rules – keep right and give other users space

» Check, Clean, Dry after every trip!

BEST FOR SCENERY

Llyn Padarn

There are a lot of contenders for this title, Llyn Tegid, Llynnau Mymbyr, however, our pick is Llyn Padarn, with its breath-taking views of the mountains of Snowdonia.

DESCRIPTION

Llyn Padarn is part of Padarn Country Park and is one of the largest natural lakes in Wales, with spectacular views of the Snowdon massif. If you circumnavigate the lake you’ll paddle past the bustling village of Llanberis, the ancient woodland of Coed Dinorwig and the historic National Slate Museum. And for half of the trip you’ll be treated to a magnificent view down the Llanberis Pass, with Dolbadarn Castle at the end and the Snowdon Horseshoe above. We’d recommend launching at the Gilfach Ddu lagoons (near the National Slate Museum), where there is a café, toilets and watersports centre (with paddlecraft hire). Access to the water is via the shore or pontoon (accessible).

BEST FOR FAMILIES/FACILITIES

Llys-y-Frân Lake

There are some very strong contenders for this title that all offer amazing facilities, such as Llandegfedd Reservoir, Llyn Tegid, Llyn Padarn and Llangorse, however, we’ve chosen Llys-y-Frân as it has such fantastic family-friendly facilities.

DESCRIPTION

With a visitor centre, activity centre, bike hub, café, changing rooms and toilets Llys-y-Frân has everything to keep you happy both on and off the water. You can bring your own paddlecraft or you can hire paddleboards, open canoes and sit-on-tops. Access to the 200 acres of water is via shoreline or pontoon and when the site is open there’s a safety boat on the water. They also offer learn-to-paddle courses. Other activities include waymarked walking and bike trails, fishing, climbing wall, axe throwing, archery, adventure playground and Crazi Bugz. Set within beautiful woodland and grassland this is the perfect family-friendly site and is packed with great facilities.

BEST FOR WILDLIFE

Lake Vyrnwy

A lot of lakes are set within nature reserves and offer great wildlife spotting opportunities, however, Lake Vyrnwy (Llyn Efyrnwy) gets our vote as it’s set within a 24,000 acre RSPB reserve!

DESCRIPTION

Nestled in the Berwyn Mountains Lake Vyrnwy is surrounded by old growth forest and unspoilt countryside. It is a haven for wildlife and is an RSPB reserve, with visitor centre, viewpoints, walks and hides. You can bring your own paddlecraft or hire canoes, kayaks and paddleboards from Bethania Adventure. Buzzards, peregrines, woodpeckers and crossbills are regularly seen around the lake, along with otters in the north lagoon. There are 6 wildlife trails which take in some great views of the valley.

ACCESS

Gilfach Ddu lagoons (near the National Slate Museum) in the pay and display car park. Website: www.bit.ly/3i2I72z

ACCESS

Open 7 days a week, 9am to 5pm (times change seasonally.) Self launch – book beforehand online or phone on the day to ensure there is space. £10 for a 2-hour slot. Buoyancy aids required (can be hired). Minimum age: 10. Parking £3. Contact: 01437 532273 Website: www.llys-y-fran.co.uk

ACCESS

Launch from the Bethania Watersports boathouse only. £5 launch fee. Some areas of the lake are restricted. Open weekends and during holiday periods from Easter to October. 01691 870615 / 07816 036358 bethania_adventure@hotmail.com Website: www.lake-vyrnwy.com Paddling Trail: www.canoewales.com/paddling-trails

Live

White Water? Coaching at

Courses 2022

RAFT GUIDE TRAINING (3 DAYS)

30 September – 2 October £250 pp

BC WHITE WATER SAFETY & RESCUE 22–23 October £210 pp

BC ADVANCED WHITE WATER SAFETY & RESCUE 8–9 October £210 pp

RESCUE 3 – WRT PRO

Get in touch if you have preferred dates £290 pp

RESCUE 3 – WRT ADVANCED 5 November £390 pp

BC WHITE WATER KAYAK LEADER TRAINING

Get in touch if you have preferred dates £290 pp

BC WHITE WATER KAYAK LEADER ASSESSMENT

Get in touch if you have preferred dates £200 1:2 / £250 1:1

REC OUTDOOR FIRST AID 12–13 Nov £150 pp

For more dates and further information please give us call or check the website.

OTHER COURSES

We run other courses in both Kayak and Canoe, including Advanced Water Leader Training and Assessment. We also offer White Water and Advanced White Water Coach Training and Assessment.

PRIVATE COACHING COURSES

If you’ve got something in mind which you’d like to learn or you’d like a day’s guiding on the river, we can organise a day for you, whether on the Tryweryn or further afield. Please contact us to discuss your requirements.

1 coach:1 person: £198 per person, per day

1 coach:2 people: £99 per person, per day

1 coach:3 people: £77 per person, per day

1 coach:4 people: £66 per person, per day

Typhoon Multisport 4 Drysuits available for hire on all our courses only £25 per course.

office:

info@nationalwhitewatercentre.co.uk

www.nationalwhitewatercentre.co.uk/courses

PARTING SHOT

Dropping into the NRS Extreme Race at the T Fest

Photo: Karl Midlane

Canoe Wales has joined forces with some great retailers to give their members* a range of exclusive

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