Ceufad Spring 2018

ceufad CYLCHGRAWN CANW CYMRU JOURNAL OF CANOE WALES

Issue 134 March 2018 £2.50

kayak

Q&A PAUL ROBERTSON NORTH WALES SLALOM MAKING FRIENDS WITH THE MIGHTY SPEY A TRIBUTE TO ADAM VAUGHAN YOUNG GUN

Paddler: Oliver Bunn Photo: Justin Bunn

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editorial

his issue is a celebration of Welsh paddlers, young and old, river and sea.

Starting out with Ollie Bunn (p24), the next generation of freestyle paddler who’s just won his first competition at 10 years old, and who has his sights set on being a World Champion. He’ll be following in the paddle-strokes of Paul Robertson, double World Freestyle Champion and Canoe Wales Director, who’s interviewed on page 16. Then there’s endurance athlete John Willacy, who’s just set another record, this time around the island of Jura and through the Corryvreckan (p32). And not forgetting CW Paddler of the Year and GB Kayak Sprint athlete Elise Churchill, who’s had her most successful year yet (p7).

For a small country we have a lot of very talented paddlers, and some amazing waters. Hopefully we’ll be featuring more of them in future issues!

Vicky Barlow Editor

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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 Vicky on: ceufad@canoe.wales 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@canoe.wales – 01678 521199 Ceufad, Canoe Wales, Bala, Gwynedd LL23 7NU Ceufad is produced quarterly in March, June, September and December.

NEXT ISSUE: JUNE DEADLINE: 1ST MAY Ceufad welcomes all contributions but reserves the right to edit & condense to fill the space available.

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

16 Making friends with the Spey

24 CW Director Paul Robertson

contents

30 Getting ready for a record-setting circumnavigation

30 North Wales Slalom

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CANOE WALES – COACHING NEWS

16 Q&A PAUL ROBERTSON

Updates and info for coaches and leaders

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CANOE WALES – WATERWAYS & ENVIRONMENT UPDATE

20 MAKING FRIENDS WITH THE MIGHTY SPEY

Latest waterways news & developments

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CANOE WALES – ATHLETE FOCUS

24 YOUNG GUN

Elise Churchill – GB Kayak Sprint team

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IN THE FLOW

26 WHAT’S ON BOARD?

What’s new in the world of paddlesport

Meeting one of CW’s new Directors

Multi-day open boat adventure Oliver Bunn’s first freetsyle competition!

Chris Brain talks river kit

9 REVIEW

30 NORTH WALES SLALOM

Test driving Seader Paddles new SUP paddle

10 A TRIBUTE TO ADAM VAUGHAN

Remembering a rising star of paddlesport

Update from the NWS training squad

32 JUGGLING THE PAPS

The anatomy of a record

14 2017 CIWW/CANOE AND KAYAK STORE WELSH OPEN

Throwing it down at CIWW

Front cover: Location: 2017 Welsh Open, CIWW Photo: Jack Hore

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COACHING NEWS CLUBS & CENTRES: WHICH COACHING QUALIFICATION OR LEADERSHIP AWARD IS RIGHT FOR ME? Ahead of the Coach Award launch in January and the introduction of the Paddlesport Leader Award in April 2017, clubs and centres may be wondering which qualification is right for the activities you run.

This guidance will give you a clearer understanding of the options available to your paddlers wanting to start their journey on the qualification pathway.

These are all direct entry awards which could be the first step for an aspirant coach or leader.

Benefits of Direct Entry Paddlers bring different skills and experiences to their training courses. Direct entry options enables paddlers to select the best route for them, giving them a choice and allows an individualised journey. Paddlers who already have the necessary skills do not need to spend their time and money on courses if they are already confident with the content.

PADDLESPORT LEADER • • • • • • •

Launched: April 2017 Aimed at: paddlers leading on sheltered water environments, running safe and enjoyable trips based on their group’s needs and aspirations.

Craft: the Paddlesport Leader can lead any craft, from any craft.

Prerequisites: One day First Aid and membership.

Training: Not compulsory. Candidates can cross check their requirements and opt for bespoke training opportunities, for example, in-house training at your club or working alongside/shadowing other leaders at your centre.

Assessment: 1 day assessment Examples: In a recreational club, the Paddlesport Leader could be leading journeys, providing a safety framework for multiple craft or in a racing club, could provide a safety overview on a training session chaperoning other paddlers.

PADDLESPORT INSTRUCTOR • •

Launched: 2007. Rebranded in January 2018, (formally UKCC Level 1).

Aimed at: Paddlers delivering introductory Paddlesport events and taster sessions, providing fun and engaging experiences for all ages and any of the competitive and non-competitive paddlesport disciplines. The Paddlesport Instructor can plan, deliver and review short coaching sessions, normally with the support of a more qualified coach so is a great first step for those new to coaching.

• Craft: Canoe and/or Kayak • Prerequisites: Foundation, Safety & Rescue Training, 2 Star (or higher) in Canoe and Kayak or Paddlepower Discover and membership.

• Training & Assessment: 4 days • Examples: Centres running introductory sessions for those who have never tried paddling or clubs running games to progress their paddlers Paddlesport skills.

Note: An Instructor who holds both Paddlesport Leader and Paddlesport Instructor is well placed to fulfil their coaching duties with more autonomy.

COACH AWARD • •

• • • • •

Launch: January 2018 Aimed at: Paddlers who wish to coach those who want to gain/improve paddlesport skills within a chosen discipline. This will include coaching beginners new to the sport, or paddlers looking to develop their skills in the given discipline/environment so they can paddle safely without the need for a coach.

Craft: 18 options available covering all of our main disciplines and environments Prerequisites: Membership is the only prerequisite of Core Coach Training.

Training: 2 day Core Coach Training, 2 day Discipline Specific Training.

Assessment: 1 day assessment Examples: A Polo club looking to develop their athlete’s skills or a club coaching sea kayaking sessions in a moderate or advanced water environment.

This gives a quick overview and understanding of the options available to clubs and centres and are able to select a variety of coaches and leaders to suit their needs.

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CANOE WALES COACHING AND LEADERSHIP ROADSHOW Over 130 people attended the three information events across Wales, run by Canoe Wales and supported by British Canoeing. Lee Pooley (British Canoeing Head of Coaching and Qualifications) presented the developments and updates to the Coaching Qualifications and Leadership Awards. This included a look at the ethos and educational philosophy behind the awards, the launch of the Coach Award in January 2018 and the options now available to aspirant coaches and leaders. The events were well received, with positive comments about the Coaching developments and attendees had the opportunity to ask questions to Canoe Wales and British Canoeing.

The events took place on the 19th October in Carmarthen, 1st November at Plas y Brenin, the National Mountain Centre and on the 8th November at Cardiff International White Water Centre, supported by Paul Marshall, Canoe Wales interim Coaching Delivery Manager, and Natasha Devonshire, British Canoeing Coaching Support Officer.

UPDATE TO WWSR TRAINING PREREQUISITES There is no longer an age restriction to the White Water Safety and Rescue Training course. Where providers choose to allow participants under the age of 18 to attend the course, appropriate safeguarding measures must be implemented and due attention paid to the enhanced legal responsibilities and potential risks. The safety and welfare of those under the age of 18 is paramount. If providers are unsure of their suitability to allow participants under the age of 18 please do not hesitate to consult Canoe Wales or British Canoeing.

The updated Training Course Notes and Syllabus are available to download from: www.britishcanoeing.org.uk/news/2018/update-to-wwsr-training-prerequisites/

BRITISH CANOEING AWARDING – NEW WEBSITE British Canoeing Awarding have recently launched their new website which is packed full of information and eLearning activities to inform and support boaters through their paddlesport journey. There’s something for everyone including information about the Awarding Body and a Provider and Paddler Zone.

One of the features is free Paddlesport eLearning, a range of online resources to go alongside the qualifications and awards. These are designed to support, engage and provide extra information for those who wish to extend their learning in the various topic areas.

These eLearning resources are free and open to anyone interested in the topic, and includes topics such as; buoyage, disability awareness, nutrition and hydration, and developing your coaching craft.

This website is a great resource and is well worth checking out: https://www.britishcanoeingawarding.org.uk/

CANOE WALES – OUR TEAM Jen Browning – General Manager MEMBER SERVICES TEAM Paul Marshall – Coaching Manager (Consultant) Val Ephraim – Administrative Officer Ellen Roberts – Finance Officer Steve Rayner – Waterways and Environment Officer (Consultant)

PERFORMANCE TEAM Jonathan Davies – Talent Pathway Officer (North) Serena Williams – Talent Pathway Officer (South) Dan Golder – Talent Pathway Officer (South) Gareth Bryant -–Talent Pathway Officer (West) Tom Power – Head Coach (Slalom) Dan Goddard – Performance Coach (Slalom) Kevin Bowerbank – Head Coach (Sprint)

DIRECTORS David Wakeling – Interim Chairperson Andy Booth – Finance Director Sonja Jones Lowri Davies Jet Moore Paul Robertson Eryl Richards Russell Scaplehorn

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WATERWAYS & ENVIRONMENT UPDATE

WATERWAYS & ENVIRONMENT UPDATE By the time you read this, we will have completed our Spring roadshow series and many of you will have had the opportunity to hear from me first-hand. But for those of you who couldn’t make it to the roadshows, here’s an update on access-related matters:

WHAT CANOE WALES IS DOING

WHAT BRITISH CANOEING IS DOING

With the limited resources we have (1 day of my time per week and some emerging volunteers), we are making some progress in our 4 priority areas:

British Canoeing has been consulting its members recently on a new access strategy. Their plans for 2018 include a Charter that will set out a vision for “a general right of access to water in England and Wales”, supported by a campaign of political lobbying. We are working closely with them as they develop this strategy.

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Engaging with the Welsh Government and other partners: I am going to as many meetings as I can fit into one day a week! The Welsh Government is still considering the 15,000 responses to last summer’s consultation and we await further news on its proposals to extend public rights for recreational paddling to all rivers, lakes, reservoirs and canals in Wales.

We are optimistic that there will be change, but even if the proposals do go ahead, they will take several years to negotiate and implement. In the meantime, Government officials have advised us to start engaging Assembly Members at a local level and to continue working with stakeholder groups to address and improve individual access situations.

Individual waterways issues – a few highlights: • I have been raising our concerns wherever I can about the hazardous angling boardwalks that have appeared on the Usk and Wye this winter. The Powys and Brecon Beacons Local Access Forums have both welcomed the issue being reported to them; and the local NRW Operations Manager is looking into what can be done. However, just like the 2016 barrier on the Dee, there are currently no formal mechanisms for dealing with such hazards, so this issue is unlikely to be resolved any time soon.

• I am continuing to work with Powys County Council to ensure that their arrangements for launching on the Wye at Glasbury and paddling to Hay are the ‘least restrictive possible’.

• The ‘Going Green for a Living’ project in Newtown has just received £1.1m lottery funding for a project which will, among other things, see purpose-built access points on the River Severn in the town centre. Welshpool Canoe Club is leading the paddlesport element of the project, with support from Canoe Wales.

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Information on ‘places to paddle’ in Wales: British Canoeing is working towards an online database of ‘places to paddle’ in the UK, which we intend to support with data for Wales.

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Building a network of volunteers across Wales: we are in the process of recruiting four ‘regional volunteers’ for our Waterways & Environment Committee and hope to extend this to a broader network of volunteers once we’ve established exactly what their role might be and how this might work.

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WHAT CAN CLUBS DO? Following the Welsh Government’s advice that we engage Assembly Members at a local level, it would be great if as many clubs as possible could do just that! Invite your AMs along to any special event, a river clean-up or Go Canoeing week – explain to them how poor access harms our sport; and persuade them to support the Welsh Government’s proposals for reform. We expect to provide some briefing material in due course to help you do this.

WHAT CAN PADDLERS DO? We can all help to support improved access by ‘earning a welcome’ wherever we go in Wales: • • • • •

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Act Responsibly!

Avoid Conflict!

Park & change discreetly If in doubt, seek permission to cross land If challenged, follow the ‘trespass’ advice at https://www. britishcanoeing.org.uk/go-canoeing/access-and-environment/ access-to-water/ Avoid damaging the environment: ◦◦ Think twice before seal-launching; ◦◦ Avoid contacting spawning beds (shallow gravels in upland rivers); and ◦◦ Use simple Check-Clean-Dry measures to help prevent the spread of Invasive Non-Native Species.

Happy Paddling!

Steve Rayner, Canoe Wales Waterways & Environment Officer, waterways@canoewales.com Photo: Paul Marshall

ATHLETE FOCUS

ELISE CHURCHILL My name is Elise Churchill and I compete in Kayak Sprint for Great Britain. I have been paddling for nearly 5 years now. This year has been my most successful year yet.

HOW DID YOU GET INTO PADDLING? I started paddling through my primary school, Pencaerau Primary.

My school took me to a mini school regatta whereby I sat in a kayak for the first time. At this point I was unaware that kayaking was in fact a sport. I competed in the mini races and won the k1 event for my school. I was then offered by Nigel Midgley, one of my current coaches, to attend Seren Dwr Canoe Club. I returned a few weeks later and began to paddle in different boats, learning basic skills and discovering the sport.

MY JOURNEY I first began racing in canoe slalom. This involved racing through slalom gates and aiming to achieve the quickest time around the course. I enjoyed slalom racing and worked my way to being promoted into division 1. My coaches Nigel Midgley and Jet Moore played a huge role in helping me on white water and with my slalom skills.

I travelled around the country seeing different rivers and courses.

Whilst racing for slalom, Canoe Wales were beginning to start a canoe sprint programme whereby they set up Seren Dwr Sprint. Nigel Midgley started the programme and coached me from the age of 12.

I began paddling in sprint canoes. This involved paddling on flat water in lanes to cover a distance at the quickest time possible and I began to enjoy it. I slowly progressed into the less stable boats and became competitive in mini races. In 2016 I competed in both sprint and slalom through the season. This was a handful as I found it difficult to gain full potential whilst training two different disciplines. Then I had to choose a discipline. This was a difficult time, as I loved both aspects.

Although I finally came to the conclusion that sprint kayaking was for me. I began to race at Nottingham regattas; I raced through the divisions and reached the top category of Girls A in less than 4 years.

MY ACHIEVEMENTS 2017 was my most successful year yet. During this year I raced internationally for the first time; representing Great Britain in Slovakia.

I then competed at Nottingham regattas and was promoted to the Girls A. After this, I had a lot of training camps in the summer. I also raced in the u16 category at Nottingham where I gained 3rd in the 200m, 4th in the 500m and 1st in the k4 500m. This helped my pathway to the Olympic Hopes regatta. At that regatta I made the semi finals in my k1 events, missing the final by points of a second. I also raced in the 500m k4 where I made the A final and placed 5th overall. This was my first international final. I was very overwhelmed with this result.

MY ASPIRATIONS Last season I was very happy with my results. This year I would like to continue performing at a high level. I aspire to return to Pietstany regatta and attend the European Championships. In order to achieve this I have been training hard. Hopefully, with the great support of my coaches; Serena, Dan, Nigel and Kevin, I will be successful and reach my targets for 2018.

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in the flow

IN THE FLOW ROLY PERKINS MEMORIAL RACE – SATURDAY 24TH JUNE 2018 AT 3PM Our annual kayak/canoe race for the Roly Perkins Memorial Cup will, as last year, be held on the Daucleddau. The race will be approximately 5 km long and will start at the Cleddau Reach Car Park, Warrior Way, Pembroke Dock SA72 6UJ. Entrants will race up Cosheston Pill and return to Cleddau Reach.

• Official entrants (male and female) aged 11 to 16 years.

• Younger entrants allowed if accompanied by a responsible adult and with the agreement of the organisers.

• General-purpose plastic kayaks or sit-on-tops only to be used.

• Trophies and prizes for winner, first female, first sit on top and youngest competitor to finish, plus many other prizes.

• All competitors receive a certificate and medal.

• Also “Open” (no age limit!) Canadian race – maximum of three crew.

Some boats available for loan.

• Safety cover provided.

• Entry fee £3.00 per person For entry forms, map and info please contact: Rob John on 01646 687662 or 07587 006040 E-mail: robjohn35@aol.com All paddlers welcome and paddle at their own risk.

EMILY DAVIES SECURES SPONSORSHIP WITH CAMPAL!

2018 WELSH OPEN

Congratulations to Welsh slalom paddler Emily Davies, who recently secured sponsorship with CAMPAL. They have provided her with a CAMPAL conversion unit for her Berlingo, which turns her car into a multi-functional and compact CAMPAL campervan within minutes!

Having the facility to cook, as well as somewhere warm and dry to sit will make a big difference to Emily on race and training days. And being able to switch the unit from seating to sleeping arrangement will save on accommodation costs too.

For further details of the CAMPAL units visit www.campal.co.uk or contact Martin at contact@campal.co.uk or on 07745 285341

Bigger and better in 2018, the Welsh Open will be dropping onto CIWW on Sunday May 6th.

The event will use the Vicarious feature (corner feature) and a new Boater X layout.

Entry is by online registration. The first Jams will start at 1530 and finish by 1930 making it easier for people to travel on the day.

Check out Welsh Open Freestyle on Facebook for more details.

CHRIS BRAIN – IMPACT ON COACHING AWARD Our ‘coaching-contributor’ Chris Brain has received the 2017 Impact on Coaching Award from British Canoeing!

Every year British Canoeing celebrates the fantastic achievements and contribution of coaches and leaders, and sets out to recognise those who help to make our sport what it is today.

“Chris has been at the leading edge of coach development over the past year. Not only does Chris introduce others to the fascinating world of paddlesport coaching, his influence has seen many coaches and leaders that had left the sport re-engage, highlighting his contagious enthusiasm, and his instrumental role in delivering a full suite of provider awards for British Canoeing.” British Canoeing.

Congratulations Chris – a well-deserved award!

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REVIEW

Seader SUP Paddle

Review: Dave Brown

This handcrafted, wooden SUP paddle by South Coast based Seader Paddles is both beautiful and functional at the same time.

The paddles are an epitome of simple design, combining form and function, almost Bauhaus standard. Featuring a combination of different lightweight softwoods and hardwoods to make up the integrated shaft and paddle with a thin glass fibre covering on the blade and protective varnish throughout the whole length, giving an impressive gloss finish. The blade incorporates a hardwood edge for additional durability and strength without altering the weight too much.

As much is this is an eye-catching piece of craftsmanship that would not look out of place decorating a wall, don’t be fooled on looks alone, this is a high performance paddle designed for high cadence paddling with its smaller surface area. The blade reviewed was 86 square inches in blade surface; however, if you prefer a lower cadence and bigger blade then other models exist. Seader also produce a 82, 92 and 96 square inch models, all of which can be finished in standard 4oz fibreglass or carbon fibre and gloss varnished for further protection. The blade is flat with a 10-degree blade angle that enters the water easily and without excess cavitation. The weight of this paddle was 850 grams, however, models can be reduced to 600 grams depending on length and inclusion of the hardwood tip. The standard 86-inch blade came with a 30mm rounded off square shaped shaft that initially felt strange when compared to ‘normal’ smaller, round shafts. However, after a few strokes it became evident that this shaft combined with the larger ergonomic palming grip was very comfortable to use. The real feel of the wood and its soft feedback allows you to deliver and feel a smooth powerful stroke with very little fluttering.

The paddles are custom made to your length specifications and your choice of blade size along with your unique input on choices of wood colour options, creating a truly unique, one of a kind, hand crafted SUP paddle. The construction is laminated Western Red Cedar, which is naturally rot resistant and when reinforced with the epoxy, is very strong.

I have since also trialled the 96-inch model that was 76 inches in length that had a revised grip, a reduced diameter shaft and lighter weight, which in my opinion performs amazingly. It has a light swing weight, crisp entry into the water and catch; powerful yet clean stroke that is just perfect for maintaining a cruising speed.

These paddles are for the Paddle Boarder who wants and respects quality, detailed craftsmanship, beauty and practicality in a relatively lightweight paddle.

The paddles can be purchased for £195 in standard fibreglass, £225 in a carbon finish and these prices includes mainland delivery.

Contact Tom at info@seaderpaddles.co.uk or take a look at his website www.seaderpaddles.com for more information and to see his craftsmanship.

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Adam leading the British University Kayaking Expedition team in the Philippines Photo: Peter Williams

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A tribute to Adam Vaughan O Words: Janice Lo Photos: as credited

n 20th January 2018, three highly experienced kayakers lost their lives while attempting a first descent paddling through remote jungle on the River Abanico in Ecuador. Among them was Adam Vaughan, a highly respected coach, raft guide and kayaker in Wales. While his death struck the community hard, the outpouring of love and support between his family, friends and fellow adventurers across the world showed the lasting impact he had on everyone.

Adam loved kayaking from day one. He started when he was eleven at Adventure Dolphin Newbury/Pangbourne, and through his talent and years of hard work he became a kayak coach. Always keen for new adventures, he went abroad and worked as an instructor and safety kayaker. During his time at university, he worked as a kayak coach and raft guide at Cardiff International White Water and was Vice President of Cardiff University Kayak Club, where he encouraged new paddlers to get into the sport that he loved so much. His enthusiasm was clear for all to see and he always showed empathy and patience when coaching others.

At the young age of twenty-two, he achieved more than many would ever dream to in a lifetime. He had travelled to countless countries across the world, paddled new rivers, met new friends and experienced life as a local everywhere he went. As he continued to improve in kayaking, he aspired to complete a first descent and become a sponsored paddler. This past year, he managed to achieve all of that and more – completing twelve first descents while leading the British University Kayaking Expedition team in the Philippines and joining the Palm team as an ambassador.

While his life was taken away too soon, he was ultimately living his dream doing what he loved.

We’ve gathered some tributes and stories from his family and friends to celebrate a life well lived.

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Teaching locals how to kayak in the Philippines Photo: Erik Francis

‘My brother always made sure that his education and work life fitted around his main focus – adventure. I’ll never forget his willingness to get up early and drive two hours to South Wales so we could spend the day jumping down waterfalls and wading across fast flowing rivers together, or his excited intent to get lost on every cycle ride he set off on. As long as he was on an adventure, or building up the skills and money required for an adventure, he was happy. He was one of few people who knew what made him deeply content, and one of fewer people motivated enough to fully exploit that knowledge.’

Mark Vaughan, brother

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‘Adam was truly one of the most adventurous people I have ever met. His love for kayaking was infectious to everyone around him. He loved to kayak and met beginner trips on the Usk or Symonds Yat with the same enthusiasm as a few laps of the Tawe and the Mellte. This, I have no doubt, helped encourage new paddlers to stay in the kayak club. I can only hope that out of this tragic accident, even just one person will be inspired to pick up their bags and go somewhere new because that’s what Adam would have done.’

Rheanna Colyer, friend and fellow paddler

Enjoying another day on the river Photo: Andy Kettlewell

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‘Through our time on committee together we developed a mutual respect and friendship that is hard to describe.

Adam was always the one to remind me that the reason we were doing everything was for the enjoyment of the members, for those new to university, those who were lonely or homesick, our job was to make their lives better. He showed the same pride and interest in those he taught that a parent would show their child. There was nothing Adam wanted to do more than live life to the full, and help others do the same.

To anyone who was scared of running their first rapid and found the courage to give it a go. To anyone terrified of capsizing who can now roll. To anyone who has found the confidence to become coaches and leaders. To everyone who knew Adam and became stronger individuals. You made it all worth it and Adam was so incredibly proud of you.’

Franklin Neathercoat, fellow paddler and former committee member at Cardiff University Kayak Club

Dropping in on the Gronda, Italy Photo: Chyavan Rees

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British University Kayaking Expedition in the Philippines Photo: Peter Williams

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‘We gave Adam the nickname ‘Team Culture’.

Exploring was something that sent his mind buzzing and he got so excited about, whether it being us trying to find the weirdest most colourful Filipino bread in the markets or getting to know the village chiefs and drinking their extremely sweet coffee or joining in local dances and teaching villagers to kayak.

Adam was all about embracing the culture, getting to know the landscape and honouring the local people wherever we went. His positivity, energy and passion to explore was inspiring both in his life and even now in his death. Adam died doing something he loved and believed in and that gives me the courage not to give up but to continue living life to the full and not to be afraid of adventure.’

Lauren Strickland, on behalf of British University Kayaking Expedition team 2017

British University Kayaking Expedition in the Philippines Photo: Erik Francis

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‘Adam was the most enthusiastic and optimistic person I ever met. He was the one person I could guarantee would always be keen to go kayaking no matter the weather, the time of day or the difficulty of the river. Adam’s passion for adventure was something I’d never seen before. He was so happy visiting new places, meeting new people and paddling new rivers. I will always remember the adventures we shared, his energy on the river was like no other. Even the time his kayak fell off my roof on the motorway and was broken into pieces, he laughed it off and was more concerned everyone was okay. I’ve never known someone to style the double drop on the Mellte every single time or someone who could influence so many people.

I remember this one time Adam and myself were part of a group kayaking in Austria. I left them at the top of a river while I did the shuttle. When I got back thirty minutes later, Adam was smiling ear to ear, buzzing and laughing about a first descent he had just done. I was bemused and questioned how on earth he’d managed a first descent in the short time I was gone. Much to his amusement we walked about five metres from the car park to a rocky stream no more than a metre wide, full of weeds and with a metal grate half way down.

Bursting out laughing he then proceeded to explain that they had just spent thirty minutes dragging themselves down this ditch, which contained more rock than water, just because they were so buzzing to get a first descent. We laughed about it for hours.

His enthusiasm and wonder for the world was infectious and somewhat beautiful. And sometimes it was also madness.’

Chyavan Rees, friend and fellow paddler

“

‘I have been privileged to have known Adam for four years. I was always humbled by his attitude towards adventure and travelling. He has an inner drive and self-confidence that pushed him to explore with such positive thinking and lack of irrational fear of the unknown. It would always be a good day when I bumped into Adam. Whether it was after he returned from an adventure, at work, or out on the river, it was enlightening to hear about his latest adventures. I was so grateful to have paddled with him in Norway last year and although we made many stories out there, each time we found ourselves on sunny rock, our conversation would escape the current and look to the future of where to explore next. His heart was set on South America, but he said if I go to South America I won’t come back. I’m really sorry you had to come back. A lifelong friend, you’ll never be forgotten.’

Andy Kettlewell, friend and fellow paddler

Kayaking in the Philippines Photo: Peter Williams

Adam will be remembered not only for his achievements but also for his character and how he brightened up the lives of others. As someone who chased his dreams and lived everyday to the fullest, he will be missed by us all.

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2017CIWW / CANOE AND KAYAK STORE Building on from the success of the inaugural Welsh Open in 2016 CIWW expanded the event by moving the CIWW Paddle fest to the same day giving even more to do.

This meant the demo boats from all the main suppliers were here with a big thanks to Ronnie from Canoe and Kayak Store for sorting that out.

With numbers increasing by 30% on the previous year it created a nice and friendly atmosphere aided by the Red Bull DJ throwing out tunes all day. Even the rain held off until the end of the day, proving miracles do happen.

WELSH OPEN FREESTYLE With the new course layout changing the Camera Wave it gave the competitors a testing feature to play with giving everyone an equal footing.

Up first were the Younguns as part of their Younguns Tour, with some excellent personal goals achieved and fun all around.

With the Novices spinning and surfing, the feature let the top paddlers throw pretty much their full bag of tricks.

This left the winners as Ottilie Robinson Shaw (Junior Women) and Matt Stephenson (Junior Men).

There is definitely evidence of a new group coming through with lots of keen young paddlers, meaning that the seniors had better get training!

With the Seniors on the wave next there was lots of enjoyment with some excellent displays of linked ends, huge air and throwing down impressive routines.

This meant all those looking for the win and GB selection events coming up in the not too distant future were having to show their best skills.

The overall winners were, Islay Crosbie (Women) and Gav “the real Gav Barker” Barker (Men).

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WELSH OPEN Words: Malcolm Durnan Photos: Jack Hore

BOATER X The Dirty Dog ramp lead to some fast starts as well as the odd bit of carnage at the start of the Boater X. The course was laid out with some fun moves to be made, with some paddle touches requiring the competitors to cross each other’s paths. This inevitably led to some great spectator moments of some proper boat-on-boat challenges and upside down action.

In the end the winners wereOttilie Robinson (Women) Elliot Goddard (Juniors) Paul “Cheesy” Robertson (Seniors) A massive thanks to all our supporters without whom the competition wouldn’t be possible: Canoe and Kayak Store, Canoe Wales, GB Freestyle, Dirt Dog Sunglasses, Palm, Pyranha, Zet, Dagger, Jackson kayaks, Wave Sport and Oz Dzynes, Surf Plugs.

The 2nd year of the event and it just got bigger and better so hope to see you here for Sunday May the 6th 2018.

The 2018 Welsh Open will use the Vicarious feature (corner feature) and a new Boater X layout.

Entry will be online registration only (see social media for details) with the first Jams starting at 1530 and the water off by 1930 making it easier for people to travel on the day.

Ceufad

| 15

Q&A PAUL ROBERTSON Paul ‘Cheesy’ Robertson is one of our new CW Directors, heading up Marketing and Communications, and sitting on both the Waterways & Environment, and the Paddlesport Strategy working groups.

But his role in paddlesport stretches way, way beyond this; over a 35-year competitive paddling career he’s represented Wales and Great Britain on numerous occasions (in slalom, freestyle and surf) and has won 2 World titles. He was part of the boating boom years, when paddling technology and technique made huge leaps forward, and paddlesport (along with a group of legendary British paddlers), was riding the crest of a wave. Feeling a tiny bit star-struck Ceufad interrupted his work at Palm HQ to get the low-down on our Director of Marketing and Communications.

16 | Ceufad

at the Bitches in Pembrokeshire in 1991. A light bulb went off in my head. I thought this is the ticket and started regularly paddling there. I just felt at home.

To this day it’s still my favourite place to paddle but it wasn’t until I went to college that I started competing in Freestyle.

You smashed the freestyle circuit – winning multiple UK, European and double World titles – how were those ‘wonder years’?

At the time the discipline felt bigger than the sum of its parts. The combination of very rapid skills and product development meant it just felt super fresh and cutting edge. Plus competitions weren’t overly regulated so events attracted a broad range of paddlers from different disciplines. It was a real melting pot and I’m humbled to have been on that wave, which may never happen in paddling again. I was in my early twenties getting to travel around the world, paddle at world class locations, DJ and party whilst hanging around with inspired people – living the dream!

You have a long and varied paddling career – when and how did you get into paddling?

My dad was training for a canoe marathon on the Wye and I got put into a boat. I was about nine and thought paddling in and out of the reeds pretending to be a battleship was awesome... although on other occasions I pretended to be a rally car and Jedi pod racer!

Rumour has it you started your competitive career in a slalom boat. Is this true?

Until I was about 13 I just enjoyed generally paddling then some friends took me to a Div 4 race and I caught the slalom bug and started to compete. Around that time I had a little junior kayak, but at one event I saw a GB team C1 paddler training and was mesmerised at just how sleek the boat looked doing dip turns. I switched to C1 then and there.

Ahh, so that’s how you got into C1! But your main competitive career has been in freestyle – what made you to hop into a playboat?

Slalom gave me my first chance to compete for my country and thanks to great coaches like Richard Lee I developed the core skills the discipline gives you.

But if I’m honest I wasn’t that good at it and enjoyed messing around between runs more than racing. Plus, I constantly broke boats so it got quite spendy!

I was about 16 and I’d seen Rodeo in magazines.

I went to watch the first ever World Championships

And now you’re on the Welsh surf team, with two bronze medals at the recent World Champs. What’s the draw of surfing?

As a boardie I was always disparaging of goat boaters, but a few years back it dawned on me that having already spent twenty plus years developing as a paddler I was probably backing the wrong horse.

Paddling is my work and my hobby, so to stay motivated on a personal level is important. With surf kayaking I enjoy the chance to learn again, travel to different destinations and of course compete against a new crowd.

And what’s the draw of competition?

Who knows, the insecurity of pitting myself against others or more likely the huge endorphin hit when you succeed. Probably a bit of both, but I’ve competed in paddling for nearly 35 years and can’t stop. I’m just glad surf kayaking has a masters division!

That’s a a lot of boating! What keeps you in paddlesport?

It’s the thing that keeps me motivated for fitness and health, my inspiration to travel and explore, my vehicle to be outdoors in nature, plus it’s my social circle. Mostly it is a broad church, so through the different disciplines it offers me ways to stay involved and keep enjoying it.

Your off-water career has been pretty paddling focused too, starting out as a boat designer for Pyranha? How did that come about, was it fun and what boats did you work on?

I think a lot of industries centred around sports are perhaps a little incestuous when viewed from outside.

It’s not a bad thing, as the organic nature of people

Ceufad

| 17

naturally finding their way into a role can often be the best fit. I did a degree in Design Technology at Loughborough (so I could paddle at Holme Pierrepoint). Shortly after starting my degree and securing my first GB spot, I was sponsored to paddle for Pyranha. Part of that sponsorship deal was to provide product feedback to support Pyranha’s design work and at the end of my degree they offered me a job. I duly said yes and went with my caravan to live by the factory in Runcorn and learnt to shape boats.

During my first week, working on the original InaZone, I dropped and smashed the plug which wasn’t the best start, but I wasn’t kicked out and went on to work on the Pro Zone and H2 models over the next two years. One thing that characterises many paddlesport companies is their small size so you get the chance to work on all aspects and I think the small scale also contributes to the good comradery within the industry.

We heard another rumour that you swapped the design studio for a classroom and worked as a teacher for a while? Is this true and did you prefer moulding kayaks or the next generation?

That was a moment of clarity. I’d qualified as a teacher as part of my degree and after Pyranha I went to live and paddle on the Thames weirs. I had to get some work to fund my paddling so I thought I’d try out being Mr Robertson. Two and half years later, mostly crowd controlling doing supply work, I was in no doubt… teaching was not for me!

Any memorable teaching moments?

I’m not sure if I should be proud, but I got caught skateboarding by a geography field trip when I’d pulled a sickie.

You’re now at Palm Equipment – what’s an average day involve?

Today I signed off a catalogue for Germany, had a call with team paddler Bren Orton about his plans for the spring, attended a weekly design meeting about our 2019 product range and booked us up to attend a Rescue Services show. Plus I tried to become an instant expert on curling whilst watching the winter Olympics at lunch!

You’ve seen (and been involved in) some big developments in paddlesport, what do you think were some of the more pivotal developments?

There is no doubt that accessibility, both into the sport and pushing the boundaries, would not be where it is now without the development of plastic kayaks. Gear has progressed as well. Like drysuits which make you feel invincible and avoid the need to strip off to take a pee!

More currently technology has changed the sport in terms of information. Weather apps mean we have the luxury of accurately watching a weather band arrive and then getting out to paddle in prime conditions – plus thanks to Go-Pro and the like we can now easily record it for others to watch the blurry footage!

You’ve achieved a lot, both professionally and personally. What’s you’re proudest paddling moment?

Although some might say you should never meet your heros – they may disappoint, I’ve been fortunate to meet lots of mine in paddling and they have pretty much all been top draw. But as a stand out, when Richard Fox congratulated me on winning a World Championship medal I was just made up.

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What made you join the CW Board, and why now?

A few years ago I sat in on the AGM and there were about 20 people there. I realised that as an organisation that has done a lot for me it is only as good as the people willing to stand up and try to help make it work. I felt the time had come where I had some experience that might help, so I applied to join.

What’s your role?

I’m an appointed Director with a portfolio of Marketing and Communications. We’ve recently created working groups to focus on key areas to try and accelerate progress; I’m on the Waterways & Environment and the Paddlesport Strategy working groups.

What are the biggest challenges facing Canoe Wales?

I think we face a number of challenges but with all of them come opportunities. We’re regulated in the same way as much larger sports; but we’re not a large organisation. We’re devolved. With this comes both challenges and opportunities as I think we know only too well politically. We know people love paddlesport.

I’m one of them. But we need to secure both moral and financial support to ensure the sport’s long-term health. One key way to do this is to remain relevant to our Members and inspire more to join. We’re in the process of tackling these challenges head-on, but despite our big ambitions we remain reliant on a small staff team and a considerable amount of good will from volunteers, including all Board members.

What is the biggest hurdle facing Welsh paddlesport?

The obvious answer is access. Although legislation born from the Welsh Government’s ongoing consolation won’t appear overnight I believe change is coming. I hope some of that change will see us adjusting where necessary to become more respected members of the river community. The success of groups like Save the Conwy I think in part are due to the meaningful and engaging ways in which they used their voice that inspired and gained respect within the wider community.

More widely I’m conscious that paddling, like many activities, is at risk from children not being encouraged and enabled to spend more active time outdoors. Despite some fantastic examples of motivating children to paddle here in Wales there are still barriers and in some cases these are sadly based more on perceptions than reality.

On the upside, the coaching scheme is turning a corner. There’s still a lot of work to do to ignite the passion of more volunteers on whom the scheme is so dependent, but we’re heading in a positive direction.

And the next step for Canoe Wales?

We are soon to launch the next four year strategy in 2019. British Canoeing have done an excellent job of taking a root and branch look at themselves and we will do the same. We are more limited in our capacity compared to British Canoeing but it shouldn’t stop us making sure we have a vison that all Welsh paddlers can get behind and feel part of. It’s an exciting time.

What do you hope to achieve as a CW Director?

When I was a kid I got a Canoe Wales bobble hat.

It made me so proud to be a Welsh paddler. As a Director I’d like to inspire more people to feel like that.

Thanks for taking the time to chat to Ceufad, and for digging through all your photos!

Ceufad

| 19

MAKING FRIENDS WITH THE MIGHTY SPEY It was the last week of October and I had no obligations except to go canoeing.

The weather forecast was a bit dodgy for further west so I decided to attempt a long held ambition of paddling the Spey from Newtonmore to the sea. I’d been down various bits previously, including the Washing Machine and Knockando rapids, so felt confident in my ability to manage the risks even though I was going solo. As I drove around the Cairngorms to Newtonmore I found myself managing the familiar thoughts of the solo traveller; mostly flipping between self doubt and wondering what I’d forgotten. However, as I arrived at the put-in there was something I hadn’t considered in my planning. There were other people unloading canoes.

Words: Mike Forrester Photos: Mike Forrester

Gordon Summers

20 | Ceufad

I was welcomed with a warm handshake and quickly invited to join their shuttle arrangements. Steve, Gordon and Edd had driven up from Somerset the day before. As we returned to the boats from Spey Bay I was feeling that the banter was good and that we could get on well together. Steve and Gordon seemed to have many years experience on the water.

Edd was much younger but knew his way around his boat.

Back at Newtonmore we finished loading the boats.

There was a lack of parking near the river and the campsite was closed with a lot of construction work going on, so we had a delay while Gordon walked back from the village. Not surprisingly it started to rain heavily, which was to be a feature of the next few days. There wasn’t a lot of rain, but it was usually heavy and inopportune.

With ponchos on we set off. As we approached the railway bridge the Royal Scotsman went past, giving us a glimpse of the kind of fine dining environment we wouldn’t be enjoying for the next few days. Our late lunch wasn’t quite so luxurious, but it was welcome after a good few hours of paddling.

Back on the river and we had some tree stump dodging, though nothing too troublesome. Then the land opened out and we paddled past the moody-looking Ruthven Barracks.

As we passed through the Insh Marshes we were conscious of the time and needed to find somewhere to camp. The plan was to stop near the confluence with the Feshie but darkness was approaching quickly so we stopped before crossing Loch Insh. It was hammock territory.

We were strung out (literally) along the water’s edge but came together after eating to sit around my new firebox, which is a splendid piece of kit and gave a warm focus for our first night out.

Ceufad

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DAY 2 It stayed fairly dry overnight and the next morning we got going in reasonable time. Whilst attending to his ablutions, Gordon had a close encounter with two Great Danes and their owner. We didn’t enquire about the details, but he wasn’t too traumatised!

Just as we got on the water a vicious squally rain shower hit us. Any thoughts about sailing across Loch Insh vanished and it was heads down, no nonsense paddling. Steve did attempt to use his poncho as a sail, but it was taking him the in the wrong direction. I just got on and paddled. In my haste to make the far side I hadn’t noticed the grit on my hand and had a small but irritating blister on one finger.

Back on the river and we had a bit more current to carry us along. Steve was more successful in harnessing the wind - at least it was drying out his poncho! However, he wasn’t having so much luck with his footwear, so when we got to Aviemore the gear shops were visited in search of waterproof socks. Very nice coffee and cake was consumed in the Mountain Cafe and everyone dried out a bit. The afternoon was drier and we had a helpful breeze pushing us along. Gordon was coaching Edd in map reading; the inevitable standing joke developed about the bridge 500 metres round the next bend.

That night we planned to camp at the simple but pleasant site at Boat of Balliefurth. We arrived in good time, a couple of hours before dark. Our host, Ronnie came down with a big sack of wood and made us feel welcomed. I quickly put up my tent, but the others were keen on more simple accommodation.

22 | Ceufad

We soon had the trees festooned with damp clothes, while we enjoyed the luxury of cooking in daylight. After dinner Edd demonstrated his Forest School skills in firelighting and we were soon warmed by a well-made fire.

DAY 3 The next morning was dry and brighter; we were all refreshed after a comfortable evening and night, and were on the water early. The only disappointment was the lack of Great Danes for Gordon, but he was able to survive! The main challenge of the day was the Grantown rapids, which I had felt a bit intimidated by on a previous visit. We took a more circuitous line, avoiding the biggest waves, and got through with no problem. Soon we relaxed into the routine of paddling, helped along by the current and wind.

We had made excellent time and decided to camp early.

No one was in a hurry so we stopped at lunchtime just before Cragganmore. There was a pleasant, isolated spot with a choice of tent or hammock.

I got the firebox going and Edd had an afternoon of whittling.

He produced a lot of kindling and a spoon! Meanwhile Steve had a new silicon liner for his oven (I was beginning to see why their canoes were so loaded) and produced absolutely delicious chocolate brownies. I was very impressed!

Gordon produced a huge amount of chicken marengo, which he shared with me, forcing me to wash it down with several mugs of wine. While we got inebriated, Steve produced a pie in his oven (he seemed to like eating in the wrong order) then joined us with more wine. For me this was turning into the most enjoyable trip!

DAY 4 The next morning everyone was well, considering! We got going and on the water in an efficient but relaxed way.

Just around the corner we arrived at the Washing Machine and jumped out for a look. Since Gordon had his throw bag in hand we volunteered him as safety-man and photographer for the rest of us. Steve went first, followed by me. I was trying to slow down for the big waves, as suggested by Ray Goodwin on Facebook the night before!

Then Edd, looking relaxed, and finally Gordon – who became the target of the bored-safety-man’s throw bag practice!

That had been great fun, so we headed on for more.

Knockando rapids were next. They felt more technical but less intimidating. We were all going well and paddled through without difficulties. An early lunch seemed appropriate so we sat and watched some novice kayakers go through their paces. Supplemented by the A’an, the river had plenty of pace. We travelled quickly between rapids, occasionally stopping for a bit of bailing, but generally in good form. Having had an early lunch, we decided to have a late lunch at Aberlour, where Steve to the opportunity to ring out his socks. Unfortunately, just as we’d spread ourselves around, it rained again. The upside was the rainbows.

Back on the river the next sight was the grand old bridge at Craigellachie, then we began to see the red, clay cliffs that are common in this area.

Camp that night was again an isolated wood, just past Rothes. The ground was flat, but there were stinging nettles to catch the unwary. We’d had a long and exciting day, everyone was tired and the weather was definitely getting colder, with a chilly northwesterly wind. In the trees it was sheltered and we had a pleasant evening.

Gordon wasn’t feeling 100%, but stayed up long enough to enjoy a nip of Aultmore. I’d brought this along because it’s made near the mouth of the river and seemed appropriate for our last evening. Gordon’s radio had promised Northern Lights but a thin cloud cover had hidden any display from us.

DAY 5 The final day dawned cold but dry. We all had a good routine going and Gordon was feeling better. He’d bivvied next to the river the last two nights, so we were always interested to see if he had stumbled in during a night-time toilet visit. Gladly he had more sense!

It took us an hour to reach Fochabers. Here the landscape changed again and became more opened out.

As we didn’t have far to go we stopped on a shingle bank for a last brew.

Once back on the water we passed the Garmouth Bridge, then it was just one mile to the sea and the end of our journey.

For me it had been an outstanding experience; a great river trip with excellent company. Gordon, Steve and Edd were lovely companions and I cannot thank them enough for welcoming me into their group. It’s difficult to get across in an article, but we all had a really good laugh, which is what it’s all about. We’ve kept in touch; let’s see where the next trip takes us.

Ceufad

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U O Y

N U G G N

I’ve always wanted to have a go at freestyle, since watching the grainy VHS videotapes of my dad competing in the early Rodeo events, but I had only just learned to roll in the pool, and didn’t have the confidence to try out the tricks on the whitewater in case I fell in.

Some of my friends were telling me about the Younguns competitions, these are a series of events specially created for junior paddlers (aged under 18) and their parents, which happen across the country, where you get to practice in a safe environment and get to paddle with, and be coached by some of the GB Freestyle team. These events sounded really fun, and so I convinced my dad to take me to the one of the competitions at the Nene White-Water Centre.

When I arrived at the venue, the nice lady taking the entries told me it didn’t matter about how good my rolling was, it’s more about having fun, and there was even a novice category where I could just have a go on an easy part of the course with others who weren’t ready for the main feature.

Before the competition started, there would be a chance for some practice, and so I was introduced to one of the coaches, Josh who was going to be teaching me, he reassured me and made me feel much less nervous, I even managed to learn some new tricks! I really enjoyed it, and thanks to the great coaching from Josh, I even managed to win the novice category – without swimming either!

This boosted my confidence and so I was determined to practice some more at Cardiff (my local ww course). This was becoming addictive!

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age unn, B r e v s: Oli unn Word : Justin B s o Phot

E L Y T S E E R F T S R I F MY

When I heard that the next event was in Nottingham and was part of ‘Paddle in the Park’ event my friends at Croesyceiliog Canoe Club and I hatched a plan to convince our parents to take us, as we would all get to paddle the course together! My confidence was building now, and I even got points for assisting in a rescue!

I didn’t quite manage to get to all of the events last year, but I did get to paddle at some fantastic places thanks to the Younguns Freestyle competitions; Nene Whitewater Centre, Holme Pierrepoint, and Boulters Lock. I won some amazing prizes, some just for taking part! I’ve had some great fun, and met many new friends. I missed out on Tryweryn, and Hurley events last year, however this year I hope to go to all of the events. I’m really excited about going to Hurley, as I can’t wait to go and meet some more of the GB Freestyle stars there in March this year!

In a few years’ time, when I’m a bit older and have had some more practice, I’m going to go to the World Freestyle Championships, and I’m going to win!

N O I T I T E P M O

ed 10

C

Ceufad

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what’s on board?

Article Chris Brain

Many paddlers choose to carry a range of equipment when they are out on the water. Depending on where I am, what I am doing and who I am with will ultimately influence the kit and equipment that I choose to carry. Something I think that is really important is that we don’t just carry the same kit everywhere regardless of what we are doing without giving it any thought. We should aim to assess the needs of the situation and adapt our equipment accordingly. I have come up with a range of kit that I carry through a constant process of paddling and evaluation. I have removed some items that I hardly ever used, in favour of some pieces of equipment that I use regularly. However, some items that we use infrequently, might still be seen as essential (such as our knife).

This kit covered in this article is what I usually have when I am on whitewater in my kayak and typically in charge of a team or taking a leadership role. Of course, some teams will choose to split some of this kit up between them and if you are paddling in a different environment such as the sea, open water or doing overnight trips, you will have different needs. This is just intended to be a starting point for the whitewater paddler, ultimately it’s up to you to choose what you think is useful to carry.

MY PFD AND CAG 1

Keys in waterproof pouch (in cag pocket) I keep the keys to my van in a water proof pouch and keep it inside the pocket in my cag. If I have my keys with me (as opposed to in my boat) I don’t risk losing them should I swim or be separated from my boat for whatever reason. I have been involved in several situations where the need to be able to drive my vehicle has been essential.

Therefore, I always have my own keys on me so that I know exactly where they are.

2

Phone in waterproof case (in cag pocket) My phone is a super useful tool. It has phone numbers of people I might need to contact in an emergency as well as the contact details of the team that I am paddling with should we end up separated or out of sight.

It also has maps, GPS and even has a first aid app on there too. I keep it in a waterproof case and store it in my cag pocket with my keys so it is out of the way of the kit I might need to get to in a hurry such as my slings and krabs but is still close to hand.

26 | Ceufad

3

Waterproof notebook As I work full time coaching paddlesport, a notebook is pretty handy for gathering information and giving feedback. A notebook can also be handy in an emergency situation where I might need to record a casualty’s vital signs or to write down our location or critical information

4

Waterproof pencil This one is pretty simple really; the waterproof pencil writes on the waterproof notebook! (The pencil is actually a bit fancy and is designed not to fall to pieces when it gets repeatedly wet.)

5

Large locking karabiner I tend to keep a spare large (HMS/pearshaped) locking karabiner handy as this can be easily clipped onto a throwbag and then potentially onto something else like a boat if needed. It is also handy should I need to create some kind of mechanical advantage system to unpin a boat. Finally, a locking karabiner should always be used if clipping into a chest harness for example in a live bait rescue.

6

Snapgate karabiner This is something I’ve started carrying recently as it allows me to clip a karabiner very quickly and easily over a paddle shaft.

In an advanced rescue situation, I might clip this snapgate to my throwbag and then to my paddle to use my paddle as a javelin if I am trying to get the rope through a curtain of water or to potentially make it easier to grab for a swimmer in a stopper.

7

Earplugs As paddlers, we are highly susceptible to developing surfer’s ear. This is a condition where the ear canal is narrowed by bone which grows slowly in the ear canal over a long period of time due to exposure to cold jets of water being forced into our ear. The risk of this can be reduced by wearing earplugs. All kinds of ear plugs are available (including custom prescription ones) so find ones that fit and stick them in your ears. I wear them all the time when I am in whitewater and never have a problem hearing other people even when I am coaching.

8

Mini kayak I use my mini kayak all the time, it’s really useful when I combine it with my notepad.

I draw a rapid on my notepad and use the kayak to explain angles of attack when crossing eddylines, how to surf waves, escaping from stoppers and so on. It is also a really good way to explain rotations when coaching freestyle moves too.

9

Sun cream Being sunburnt is no joke. It can really ruin your day, have a big effect on your paddling trip and of course the long-term effects of exposure to the sun can be extremely bad for our health. Most paddlers put sun cream on in the morning but then don’t take sun cream with them so that they can top it up as they need to. I carry a mini tube of sun cream (or sometimes a sunstick) and use it as I go. Once you have put the sun cream on, grab a handful of sand or dirt from the side of the river and roll it around the palm of your hands so that your hands don’t slide when you grab your paddle again.

10

Knife If I ever have to cut a rope in an emergency I want a decent knife close to hand. We should be able to open it with one hand, the blade should lock in place and it should be in good condition and sharp enough for the task. On the thumb hole you could add in an extra bit of tape to make a bite tab so you can open it with your teeth (should you not be able to open it with one hand) and you can also add a bit of cord to make it easier to pull out from your PFD quickly.

11

Saw Sometimes a bit of pruning can be required on the river, we might have some small tree branches in the way, or we could need remove a dangerous strainer from the river. I also carry this so that should I (or anyone else) get trapped with their feet under a kneeling thwart in a canoe then it would be possible to cut the wood and to free them. It would also make short work of any plastic kayak should it ever be required to cut someone free.

12

Sling (pre-coiled with twistlock karabiner attached) I like storing my kit neatly and ready to go.

If we coil our tape/sling then it will make it much easier to deploy should we need to. It will be tangle free and will also store much easier in a PFD this way too. I have a simple twistlock karabiner on the end of my tape that is easy to snap onto a grab loop or handle but still has the security of the locking mechanism meaning it won’t come undone.

14

Whistle (not pictured, but tucked in shoulderstrap pouch) Tucked away in the pocket for my shoulder strap is my whistle. It is easily accessible, and it is very loud and clear should I need to attract attention in a situation. I rarely use it in my regular paddling situations, so when I blow it you know I mean it!

KEEP IT CLEAN!

13

Energy bar When I’m hungry I don’t paddle well. I keep an energy bar in my PFD most of the time so that I can snack as I go. I find that a lot of paddlers can dip after they have had a big exertion of energy or adrenaline (such as running a waterfall, big rapid or taking a swim) so I often encourage paddlers to have a bite to eat after situations like this, especially if we have a long day ahead of us.

One thing that I am very mindful of when I get dressed for paddling whitewater is that I aim to adopt a clean profile as much as is realistically possible. I have nothing added to the PFD that can catch (such as externally stored knife, watch, etc.). This means that I reduce the risk of anything snagging either in the event of a swim or when trying to get back into a boat.

Ceufad

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In my Watershed bag

Many coaches and paddlers use Watershed dry bags to store their kit. Even though they cost more than a standard bag they are simply exceptional bits of equipment and are completely dry. I also have a set of lightweight bags that keep everything organised in this bag too.

1

First aid kit What you carry in your first aid kit depends on your group, the location and how long you are going to be out. For most days out on the water, I’m carrying a pretty compact kit containing just the essentials (see below for more info on the contents)

2 Fully packed kit bags ready for the day.

IN THE BOAT Some kit is really practical to have on your person, but of course some items will need to go in the boat. The kit we carry in our boat and with us on the river can make a big difference and could turn a situation from being something major into a minor inconvenience.

I usually carry all of my kit in two main bags, apart from my throwbag and water which I have accessible when sitting in my kayak. Each bag is attached to the inside of the boat with another large screwgate karabiner, the same as the ones that I carry in my PFD.

Throwbag I like my throwbag close to hand when I’m on the river so I store it neatly under a strap just in front of my seat. Some people prefer to carry it behind the seat, but I find this just makes it inaccessible in an emergency.

Water bottle Dehydration can make us feel awful and can lead to a decline in our performance on the water. Over the years I’ve seen a lot of people go the full day paddling without drinking any water and it just isn’t good for us. Keep a water bottle close to hand somewhere accessible in your boat, you don’t want to have to get out to have a drink.

In my standard dry bag Split paddles Super useful bits of kit that I tend to have with me most of the time for when you or someone in the group end up breaking or dropping their paddle. Of course, if I am at a whitewater course, doing park and play, roadside paddling (or others in the group are carrying them) then they may not be necessary.

My lunch Do I really need to explain this one??

Unless I’m on a short trip and only out for a couple of hours, I’ll always stick something to eat in my boat… You wouldn’t like me when I’m hangry…

Space for extras In this drybag there is usually space for a bit more kit if required such as a jacket to throw over myself whilst waiting for the shuttle and maybe a flask if it’s the middle of winter and I’m out all day.

3

Blizzard survival jacket A company called Blizzard make a fantastic material called Reflexcell, which is significantly warmer than a standard foil blanket due to its complex construction.

Blizzard use this material to create a “one size fits all” type jacket and then vacuum it down to the size of a few slices of bread so that it’s easy to carry and store in the back of our boat. The good thing with the Blizzard jacket is our cold paddler can still move and work on generating their own heat. You could certainly paddle wearing this jacket although I wouldn’t want to paddle anything hard in it (it would be great to watch this though!)

4

Foil bivvy bag and survival sheet I also carry a super lightweight foil bivvy bag and foil survival sheet which can be used to help get a cold paddler warm or to help a casualty maintain their temperature.

5

A decent set of splits can be a game changer.

28 | Ceufad

Group shelter Getting cold is horrible! A group shelter can be a simple way to fight the cold at the side of the river. Think of it as a flysheet for a tent which is pulled over several people to create a shelter supported by the people inside.

This keeps the wind and rain off and gets warm very quickly. Many modern shelters are lightweight and can of course be used repeatedly, they are great for when you are waiting for the shuttle in the middle of winter and lunch stops by the riverside too!

Repair kit My repair kit is pretty compact, but contains lots of useful little items such as cord, zip ties, duct tape, repair putty, a turbo flame, flashband repair tape, foam bung, multi tool, Stormsure repair patches and a micro torch. Being able to patch up a boat or do some temporary boat fixes can really change the outcome of the trip especially on rivers where we are further away from the road.

6

Energy gels and spare food Having spare food is always a good idea. I carry a couple of energy bars and energy gels on most days out on the river, which should be enough to give most paddlers a boost.

7

Buff and waterproof mittens A buff is great because it can be used in so many ways to warm head, neck and hands and the mittens are easy to put on to warm up the hands. Putting on gloves when your hands are wet and cold is never easy!

8

Torch I’ve been caught out in the dark on the river… it wasn’t that pleasant… I saw the light and now carry a torch.

Map and navigation tools (not pictured) If we have an issue on the river, we will need to know where we are so that we can either get ourselves out of there or get help to us. All of the traditional options still work such as map, compass, copied pages of guidebooks etc., but technological advances mean that phones with mapping software and GPS can be invaluable too. I try not to rely on technology as my only means of navigation but it certainly can come in handy when you need it. There are various grid reference apps that can also be useful when we need to find out location too.

I try and keep my first aid kit quite simple.

Emergency instructions and a casualty card – including a pencil to write on it with Gloves – let’s keep things as clean as possible Antiseptic wipes – keeping minor cuts clean Plasters and steristrips – for dealing with small injuries Military dressing – these give better compression and are easier to use Melolin pads –which can be cut down if needed to use with the Vetrap Vetrap – multiple uses, I don’t leave home without it Shears – if you are going to cut a cag or drysuit it is much easier than using your river knife Face shield – for CPR Tape – always handy to have a little bit in a first aid kit Triangular bandage – cut to an XL size from plastic sheeting so it can go over PFD’s and bigger people First Aid Kit My spare inhaler – just in case it’s needed When we are out on the river we don’t usually Aspirin – 300mg tablets for heart attack fix people, all we do is provide a temporary Rehydration sachets – for dehydrated solution until someone else with better kit/ paddlers knowledge/skills takes over. Most of the Ibuprofen and Paracetamol – simple pain situations that require us to get our first aid kit relief out are minor (cuts, grazes and bumps) and we Tick remover – Avoid Lyme disease by need some simple solutions for that. The issue getting rid these little critters properly that we have as paddlers is that traditional first aid items such as plasters and dressings don’t tend to work very well in the wet on their own. IS THIS NOT A LOT OF KIT TO A product that has been a real game changer CARRY IN A KAYAK??? for me when giving first aid on the riverside has Yes… probably… I’m not saying you need to been Vetrap. These self-cohesive bandages are carry this all the time and in fact with a bit not affected by the water in the same way as a of thought and preparation you can in fact traditional bandage, they are also elasticated pack all this kit in a surprisingly lightweight and easy to use so are perfect for around the package and can even decide to leave some water. It can be used for anything from broken things in the car too if you don’t want them. fingers, to grazed knuckles and twisted ankles, Think about where you’re going and what and to keep dressings and plasters in place you’re doing, share the kit with the group, too. As it is only a bandage and not a dressing do some decent planning and you’ll be you will still need something underneath it if away! Our kit should be matched to our you are trying to stop bleeding, but Vetrap will experience, our role and our skills and of certainly help keep that dressing in place when course we should be doing our best to avoid you are on or next to the river. getting any of this kit out in the first place!

CHRIS BRAIN Chris has been kayaking, canoeing and coaching for the last 15 years and runs his own business Chris Brain Coaching, delivering paddlesport coaching, safety and rescue courses, and REC First aid training.

Chris would like to thank Pyranha kayaks and Venture Canoes, Palm Equipment, VE Paddles and Go Kayaking for their continued support. chris@chrisbraincoaching.com www.chrisbraincoaching.com

Ceufad

| 29

North Wales Sl

Over the past two years North Wales slalom has developed from a group of four paddlers training on a local canal to 42 paddlers across 5 divisions, 10 coaches and four training sites.

The four training sites are Llyn Padarn, Capel Curig, Mold and Clweddog, and there are currently eight clubs feeding young paddlers into the programs. The paddlers (as young as 10 yrs) train with North Wales Slalom but compete under their Club name.

Young paddlers start at grassroots level with foundation boat handling skills. They are then introduced to basic slalom skills; forward paddling, sweep strokes and bow rudders.

Once these skills are perfected the paddlers then progress to flat water gates, where they can apply them to a gate environment.

Paddlers in time will then be introduced to a moving water environment, starting with gentle moving water with a small number of gates. As they develop confidence and good boat control they will then move on to bigger, faster moving water with courses that are more technical.

Paddlers that are new to the sport do not have to travel to far to compete for the first time; there are three local division three and four events in North Wales (two at Bala Mill and one at Capel Curig).

When the paddlers reach division two and the training starts to intensify they will be supported by a pre-school training session

30 | Ceufad

at 7am once a week, two evening training sessions, and a strength and conditioning session at a local gym. This will be further supported by monthly weekend training camps, where all four groups train together.

Over the next twelve months there are plans for two additional training sites, with more clubs feeding into the program.

North Wales Slalom gives young paddlers in North Wales a clear supportive pathway from grassroots level into the Welsh performance group, and onto GB selection.

The program currently has a large amount of support from: Barry Davies - Maritime and Country Parks Officer, Plas-Y-Brenin, Kingswood Outdoor Centre Colomendy, Snowdonia Watersports Llanberis, DMM, Canolfan Tryweryn and The Outdoor Partnership.

The success of North Wales Slalom is down to the support of all of the above working together and a strong team of voluntary coaches and parents.

For further details of how you or your club can be involved with North Wales Slalom contact Jonathan Davies (Canoe Wales North Wales Talent Pathway Officer) at jonathan.davies@canoewales.com For further details about Canoe Slalom you can visit: www.canoeslalom.co.uk

alom

Article: Jonathan Davies

North Wales Slalom Gogledd

Ceufad

| 31

‘Strong tidal streams with eddies, races and overfalls can occur in certain areas of this chart and can be dangerous to small vessels. Streams setting through the Gulf of Corryvreckan are very dangerous.’

Admiralty Chart

32 | Ceufad

SCARBA

JURA

Not far above, glides a cold, grey October sky. There is a brittle wind from the northeast and things are a little tense. Around the corner lies the Corryvreckan. I’m not sure what to expect, there’s not much swell today, but you never just know. The tide timings can vary, and the wind makes a difference from day to day – it’s not a place to take for granted. However, all goes well today, the plan is good and I’ve arrived at the correct time.

There are a few boils and a bit of white here and there, but nothing that can’t be avoided. Game on.

On paper I’m here to paddle a record attempt around Scarba. It’s not too far around, 10 miles or so, less of a record really and more of a time-trial. A little more of a challenge than your average TT though, as the route passes through the Corryvreckan and the smaller tide race of the Grey Dogs. The small, lumpy isle of Scarba is separated from the north end of the island of Jura by the narrow stretch of confused water, known as the Corryvreckan.

And that’s the real reason I’m here, to take a recce run through the Corryvreckan.

There’s a plan afoot you see – to return here in a few months time to make a record attempt around the larger island of Jura.

The island of Jura lies in the Inner Hebrides, off the west coast of Scotland. It is a long, narrow island - 26 miles long and 6 miles wide. It’s a peaceful, though quite remote place; it takes a two-ferry trip to get here. On the island, there is only one road, which runs about 2/3rd the length of the east coast before turning into a track. If you want to see the other side of the island you have to walk, across country. As the population totals around 200 people, I guess there’s no real need for a motorway.

Jura has a pleasant hotel, a world famous distillery and three steep, rocky hills known as the Paps of Jura – the venue for a classic fell race, and plenty of nice views. Oh, and George Orwell lived here too.

From the point of view of the performance sea paddler it ticks boxes on the list of a challenging circumnavigation – fast tides, exposed and remote paddling and a couple of crux-points - the Corryvreckan at one end and the fast-flowing Sound of Islay at the other. Once again, good planning is the key to achieving a good time.

At just over 60 miles around, Jura fits nicely into the one-day record category. Another one of God’s island designs with the fast-paddler in mind.

(THE ANATOMY OF A RECORD) Article: John Willacy

The start point at Craighouse

Ceufad

| 33

Under way

PREPARATION

THE PLAN

So how do we go about it then?

Well the whole record-attempt malarkey can be succinctly summed up in a few lines: Turn up with a good plan, good training and good weather.

Paddle hard, have a break, head home.

Repeat.

Meanwhile there is no hurry with the detailed plan. For me I start to firm-up the details but I’m not too keen on sitting down and doing it in one go. Instead, I prefer to work it over a time, with gaps between. This way the plan evolves; returning periodically helps it to steadily form a picture in my head.

The first planning stage is to look for the crux-point(s). These are areas that have to be paddled through at specific times in order to gain passage at all, or to ensure that minimal time is lost.

We are also looking to time things to minimise any dodginess in the area. If there is more than one crux-point on the route then it is a case of prioritising the most significant.

Now to find likely start-points to match. A good start-point will be close to the main crux-point, so you can judge your arrival time better and arrive with a fresh set of arms and brain. It will also be positioned so little is lost on the way due to foul tidal flows and also has convenient access to the water (preferably with toilet facilities for that last minute, pre-10 hr paddle event!)

A long list of juicy start-points can quickly reduce to a short list of sort-of-if-I-really-have-to locations as the plan develops.

In this case the chosen Jura start-point did have toilets, however it was 36 miles away from the Corryvreckan. To make the 20 min tidal window after 36 miles of paddling was going to be, er... demanding. The lack of road access meant closer options would mean a paddle in (and out), with an overnight stay on the beach. A lot of faff before a record – the distant start-point was chosen as the lesser evil.

PLAN BACH But of course there’s a little more in the detail.

We start with a mini-plan, a sort of feasibility study really. No great detail here, just a quick look to see how far it is and to work out roughly how long it will take. Now is a time to see if the whole thing is even on in the first place.

Normal training goes on year round, to keep a certain level of fitness. So once the mini-plan is in place, and we have an idea of how long the day will be, the training programme can be tweaked to match the estimated time required in the boat on the day.

This is also a time to take a quick look at the tides and daylight hours, to see what time of year the whole affair is likely to happen.

In turn this gives an idea of how long there is left to prepare. A quick count-back tells how many miles need to be added in each training block to the current training distance.

Long term the weather may be watched, a little research done, looking for patterns, trends and local anomalies. This may also affect the time of year that everything takes place.

Now off to get the miles in...

34 | Ceufad

The Paps from Islay (Sound of Islay)

Dusk at the finish line

Training trip

THE DONKEY WORK Now comes the slog part of the planning.

From the start-point (or working backwards from the crux-point) we work out the distance covered for each one-hour leg – estimated paddling speed plus tidal assistance. Repeat this for each one-hour leg of the route. If it works, move the start-time one hour later and repeat the process to see if it is faster or slower (and if it still makes the crux timings of course). Repeat these iterations until either the time-taken increases too much or the crux isn’t met.

Now repeat for the hours the other side of the original start-time.

There’s more.

Now continue working out the time taken for each of the remaining one-hour legs around the rest of the island; once again looking for the optimum time. Often a good looking plan comes to a screeching halt (literally) when you run out of flow – it’s back to the drawing board, to start out with a new start-time or position. Bum. Still with me? Yawn. Once you have the optimum start-time for that start-point, it’s now time to repeat the whole process for paddling in the opposite direction. Oh yes.

And then... it’s time to repeat the whole thing yet again, this time for any alternate start-points. Always looking for the fastest plan.

Eventually a trend for an optimum start-time and position forms – mind numb, now is time to put your feet up and take a break.

For the Jura record, the various iterations covered 24 sides of notes.

Now the plan takes a back-seat for a while and its back to the paddling.

A week or two later the plan is revisited and reviewed with fresh eyes. The double checking often finds mistakes unfortunately, though better found here than half-way around on the day. As the plan becomes familiar it starts to form a picture mentally too.

It’s surprising how such a plan formed many miles away from an unknown area, can all seem familiar when the paddling finally arrives.

If all is well it’s time to look at the tidal flows in more detail next and lay out all the GPS waypoints, trying to follow the fastest flow for the fastest route. Paddling on the day will closely follow the GPS route laid down at this stage.

Once the waypoints are finalised the planning sheet can be completed too. This laminated sheet sits on the spraydeck with bearings and distances for each leg. It also has arrival timings for each waypoint. On the day the aim is to paddle to these timings, arriving within a few minutes of the each one hopefully. If not then either the paddling or the plan needs a re-tweak on the fly.

THE TRAINING While all this has been going on, the training continues of course.

Time in the boat is important; mileages are patiently increased on the long-paddles. Training sessions predominately revolve around interval work or sub-hour continuous paddles, though too many long-miles can lead to fatigue rather than fitness gain.

There’s also a technical component of course. Skills need sharpening - self-rescues, nav, pacing, moving-water, windy paddling and so on.

Ceufad

| 35

Sunrise on record day

Finished!

Looking through the Corryvreckan

Along the way I like to use Progress Records, if they fit in the calendar. These are shorter attempts that are useful to check fitness and to allow a real-life opportunity for familiarisation with the long-distance paddling routine and kit. They also give a fitness benefit if timed correctly, and if the main goal for the year doesn’t happen then at least you can walk away from the season with something. If a progress record doesn’t fit in, then a long, local time-trial steps in to fill the familiarisation gap.

THE LOGISITICS It’s all for nought however if you don’t make the start line on time. So, as it is the way for any trip, the hum-drum stuff has to be considered too – ferry crossings, accommodation, holiday time and such, all have to be organised. Without all of this the attempt doesn’t happen anyway.

THE DAY The day finally arrives though. Shoulders have been worked, ferries have been sailed, maps have been learnt and the plan has been viewed, and re-viewed until it dribbles out of your ears.

Now is time to get on with the job.

JURA REVISITED We arrive and the forecast predicts a weather window later, though only of 2 days max. There’s no point setting out if you don’t have good weather, you are going to waste your time and a lot of effort. The Corryvreckan is not an easy place to take a look at; it doesn’t need much weather to make it an unpleasant spot

36 | Ceufad

to be either. So with a 36 mile lead-in I want the odds on my side as much as possible.

Good weather and no-swell is the order of the day, I don’t want to be caught out at the top turn. So we hang around for a day or two, waiting for the weather. A few last-minute easy paddles and a little exploring fill the time and take the mind off things.

I’d previously decided that a paddle-in and camp on the beach in the north, wasn’t for the best. So a night in the van sleeping on the water’s edge is the score instead. The beach faces east, half-way up the island. During the night we both awake to the sound of surf dumping on the beach. Coming from the Atlantic-west it must be big to make it through the gaps at the end of the island and all the way up to here! There isn’t much sleep. Eventually a chill, sunny morning breaks though, to reveal the boisterous surf is actually only a few inches high!

Relief...

Closely followed by nerves...

As realisation dawns, the day is on.

And so, down to the start-point at Craighouse. Perfect calm weather. Clocks started and away.

All goes well initially, it’s time to get into a nice rhythm, to not start out too fast. Turning into the Sound of Islay I can see the flow is building nicely. It’s a calm, clear day – just a slight haze in the distance, the faster water is easy to follow. Half-way down the sound I’m up on time, making a pleasing 9 knots, chasing the flow. It’s better than being down, but I still don’t want to get to the Corryvreckan too early and have to sit around getting cold – that’s effort wasted too.

Last minute training

Job done

Out of the sound, well up on time now, barren moorland and the grey lumps of the Paps rest over to the right-hand side. Ahead and to the north, Mull lies in the hazy distance. The smaller isle of Colonsay lies across to the west, a few miles out.

Clearing the shelter of the sound brings a gentle swell from the north and west, a chill north breeze forms too. It’s not strong but it adds a little to the level of effort required and starts to cool my arms. Progressing north the swell increases, just enough to spoil the paddling rhythm. And as the sun rises higher over the hills, the breeze strengthens too, it starts to get a little cold.

Four hours in and the wheels drop off. It’s not unexpected, but I was hoping to last a little longer. At the same time I decide I have to add a cag due to the chill, always a nervous moment pulling it over my head while alone on the water. It’s tighter than the last time I did this too... aah fatboy.

Tidal data for this stretch was vague, and as I head towards the Corryvreckan I’d guessed on some assistance from an eddy towards the north. However its help arrives much further up the coast than I anticipated. Time is lost. While this is a little frustrating, the earlier gains through the speedy Sound of Islay cancel out the loss nicely and I close nervously on the Corryvreckan only a few minutes down. Good.

The tide is not yet running through in the direction I need which is not so good, however it’s only a gentle flow against. There’s spikey water in the narrows, though the swell creeping around the edge of Scarba happily doesn’t make much of an impression.

There’s a definite sense of relief as I make it through. Once through and into the Sound of Jura the conditions are completely different, flat calm and no breeze. The sun feels warm again.

Heading south now, I have to sneak in close to hunt an eddy, the flow in the larger sound is vague and doesn’t appear to have turned yet. But this helps in a way, I find a good eddy and soon am making decent progress south.

Fatigue is setting in now, it has been 8 hours on the go. The admin routine starts to fall apart, as I find any excuse to stop paddling. Dipping self-indulgently into the emergency food it’s time to man-up and get on with the job. A few confused calculations tempt me with a possible sub-10 hour finish. This concentrates the mind now and retrieves hidden reserves - pull hard fatboy.

The tide has turned all along the Jura coastline now and the speed is steadily picking up. I’m pushing hard, the sub-10 goal keeps things focussed.

There’s a minor moment of worry in the later stages, as I take a lazy line off a headland and find myself wallowing in a large eddy, watching the speed drop. Mental calculations sluggishly return a seemingly disastrous post 10-hour finish. Follow the flow fatboy.

I can see the finish-line ahead and slightly right but counterintuitively head out to find the faster water. The speed rises pleasingly once again, the 10-hour goal is back on-line.

Now it’s a final-throes push to the line. Nothing left, the clock stops at 9hrs, 55 mins and 40 secs as I cross the line. I’m pleased to make it under the 10 hours, while the magic box shows 61 miles.

I glide slowly back in, looking over, once again, to the silhouette of the Paps in the distance. At the scruffy beach I’m grateful to stand up once again, while I disentangle from boat and equipment.

Kit is sorted, the boat loaded and hotel food consumed. The sun goes down.

Job done – the plan worked.

Ceufad

| 37

ABERFAN CANOE CLUB BRECON CANAL RACE SUNDAY 10 JUNE 2018

The race will start at 12.30, participants need to be at the start by 12.00 hours The races will be over 1,3,7 and 14 kilometres Parking in the field adjacent to Penkelly Court Farm at Pencelli For more information please visit: www.aberfancanoeclub.com

2018

tour dates

Saturday 17th March

Younguns Meet the Stars As part of the Hurley classic.

*Nene, Northampton

Saturday 28th April

*Holme Pierrepont, Nottingham

Saturday 2nd June

Paddle in the Park, Nottingham

Sunday 3rd June

9am - 10am Registration, 10am start.

9am - 10am Registration, 10am start.

More details TBA by HPP, check their website.

*Tryweryn, North Wales

9am - 10am Registration, 10am start both days.

*Bolters, Maidenhead, London 10am - 11am Registration, 11am start.

Fun events an d mileage challenges na tionwide!

Join in with National Go Canoeing Week and be a part of The Big Adventure!

Whethe r first ve it ’s your the wate nture onto r, a regula or if you’re we wan r paddler, t you to involved get !

Saturday 30th June & Sunday 1st July Saturday 15th September

* These events are part of the tour and will go toward the final results.

Check out our Facebook page and website for more details!

The Younguns Freestyle Tour is open to any paddlers who are aged 18 and under on January 1st 2018. We aim to encourage new paddlers into the sport in a safe and friendly environment.

The only thing you need is a reasonable white water roll and a lot of energy and enthusiasm!

Furthermore parents are free to join their child on the water throughout the day.

www.youngunsfreestyle.co.uk

smile s your Show u e water! on th

izes Fantastic pr up for grabs!

Discover More: rg.uk www.gocanoeingweek.o

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28–29 April

£160 pp

RESCUE 3 – WHITEWATER RESCUE TECHNICIAN PRO 9–11 April

£290 pp

RESCUE 3 – ADVANCED WHITEWATER RESCUE TECHNICIAN 16–19 April

£390 pp

OUTDOOR-SPECIFIC FIRST AID AT WORK 26–28 March

£180 pp

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If you can’t see a suitable date then give us a call.

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Please contact us to discuss your requirements.

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