Ceufad Summer 2022

Issue 151 Summer 2022 £2.50

ceufadKAYAK CYLCHGRAWN CANŴ CYMRU JOURNAL OF CANOE WALES

INTERVIEW: BEN HIGSON SURF KAYAK DEVELOPMENT DAY ANGLESEY SEA KAYAK SYMPOSIUM #SHEPADDLES CYMRU FESTIVAL THE BIG PADDLE CLEANUP

LOWRI DAVIES WORLD FREESTYLE CHAMPIONSHIPS, NOTTINGHAM @KIM_JONES_PHOTOGRAPHY

editorial

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hen I was editing this issue I had to keep checking there were only 40 pages. I was dropping in so much content I thought that some extra pages must have crept in without me noticing. Nope, it is 40 pages and somehow there are 10 articles in here, which is a Ceufad record! (And there could have been more – a lot has been happening on the water.) It’s fantastic that there is so much to feature, the paddlesport community has been very active over the spring, with festivals (p16), expeditions (p20), paddle cleanups (p28) and development days (p14).

One event that I wish we could have included is the World Freestyle Championships (the medals will have been decided by the time this is published). Lowri Davies and Ben Higson will be flying the flag for Wales and will have the support of a home crowd as the Champs are in Nottingham. Fingers crossed they can bring back a couple of medals!

There have been other competitive successes too. Megan HamerEvans (Seren Dŵr) took silver in the team run at the Slalom European Championships. And Hannah Stephens (Cardiff Bay Kayakers) won bronze in the Women's Open K2 200m at the National Sprint Regatta.

No doubt the summer will be even busier … just hope there’s enough room for everything in the autumn issue!

Vicky Barlow Editor ceufad@canoewales.com

Ceufad Ed Ceufad

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CEUFAD

@Ceufad

ceufad

Ceufad is the official magazine of Canoe Wales. It is produced by members & the views expressed are not necessarily those of Canoe Wales or the magazine’s editor. Ceufad is free to members of Canoe Wales.

SUBSCRIPTIONS are available to non-members for £10 for 4 issues from Canoe Wales.

ADVERTISING For advertising rates contact Vicky on: ceufad@canoewales.com SUBMISSIONS Articles are always welcomed & should be submitted as Word files, however, typed articles are also accepted. Images can be prints or tiff/jpeg/RAW files (preferably 300ppi). These will be returned.

CONTACT ceufad@canoewales.com – 01678 521199 Ceufad, National White Water Centre, Bala LL23 7NU Ceufad is produced quarterly in Spring (March), Summer (June), Autumn (Sept) and Winter (Dec).

NEXT ISSUE: AUTUMN DEADLINE: 15th AUGUST Ceufad welcomes all contributions but reserves the right to edit & condense to fill the space available.

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

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Info and updates from Canoe Wales

Events Festivals, symposiums and races

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Reviews

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Waters of Wales – WoW

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Q&A Ben Higson

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Surf Kayak Development Day

Hatha padded leash Velcro waist belt

Pam Bell shares the history and aims of WoW

Meet the Canoe Wales Paddler of the Year

Developing surf skills at Newgale beach

CONTENTS 16

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Canoe Wales News

#ShePaddles Cymru Festival The first-ever #ShePaddles Festival launches at Plas y Brenin

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Loch Shiel

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Club News

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The Big Paddle Cleanup

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A wet and windy Scottish canoe trip of many plans

TOP's coach education scheme and club affiliation partnership

Time to clean up our waterways!

Anglesey Sea Kayak Symposium One of the UK's biggest sea kayak events

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Destination Wales Your guide to paddling the Conwy Estuary

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The Rubik's Cube The benefits and challenges of a school 'Outdoor Department'

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COVER #SHEPADDLES CYMRU FESTIVAL, PLAS Y BRENIN PETE CATTERALL

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CANOE WALES – OUR TEAM Alistair Dickson

AVAILABLE TO ALL PADDLEBOARDERS

CEO

MEMBER SERVICES TEAM Pete Catterall Coaching and Development Manager Val Ephraim Administrative Officer Paula McKenna Interim Communications Officer Ellen Roberts Finance Officer Phil Stone Places to Paddle Manager Cath Sykes Lead Safeguarding and Equality Officer Lydia Wilford Development Officer PERFORMANCE TEAM Thomas Power Performance Manager Jonathan Davies Talent Pathway Officer (North) Gareth Bryant Talent Pathway Officer (West) James Pigdon Talent Pathway Officer (South) Serena Williams Sprint Coach Giacomo Leighton Slalom Talent Coach Andrew Kettlewell Slalom Performance Coach DIRECTORS Kerry Chown Jet Moore Andy Booth Elsa Davies Lowri Davies Rhys Green David Wakeling Ieuan Watkins

NEW WASHDOWN STATIONS HELPING PADDLERS TO 'CHECK CLEAN DRY'

www.canoewales.com admin@canoewales.com 01678 521 199 National White Water Centre, Frongoch, Bala, Gwynedd, LL23 7NU @canoewales

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British Canoeing Awarding Body (BCAB) has today announced the new SUP Safer course which is designed for anyone new to or relatively inexperienced in Stand Up Paddleboarding, wanting to gain knowledge and raise their awareness of their personal safety.

This 4-hour programme will be delivered in a sheltered water environment and will encourage participants to explore safety themes in a fun, educational and engaging way.

It will be suitable for all ages and great for individuals, families and groups wanting to expand their SUP safety practices when on the water.

Over the last couple of years, membership of Canoe Wales has doubled, with many of our newest members focusing on SUP and paddleboarding on waterways such as Llyn Tegid, Llyn Padarn, Cardigan Bay and many other stretches of the Welsh coastline.

The SUP Safer course is part of a wider programme of raising safety awareness within the paddling community, especially the SUP community – many of whom are new to paddling, and don’t yet belong to an NGB or membership organisation.

You don’t need to be a member of Canoe Wales or British Canoeing to register for the course, and all course participants will receive a digital certificate upon completion.

Find out more about the SUP Safer course from British Canoeing Awarding Body: www.britishcanoeingawarding.org.uk/new-for-2022/

Chair Vice Chair Finance Director

CONTACT CANOE WALES

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NEW SUP SAFER COURSE

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Three new washdown stations have been installed and are now operational at the National White Water Centre (Afon Tryweryn), Llandysul Paddlers Canoe Centre (Afon Teifi) and at Plas y Brenin National Outdoor Centre (Llynnau Mymbyr and the Llugwy).

All three washdown stations were organised by Canoe Wales and kindly funded by the Welsh Government to help paddlers Check Clean Dry to stop the spread of invasive non-native species (INNS). We're also working with NWWC to build a second washdown station at the Tryweryn to make it easier for all paddlers to access these facilities.

MEMBER SAFETY ENGAGEMENT WORKSHOP HOW TO ENGAGE WITH NEW AND INEXPERIENCED PADDLERS Have you ever stood at a launch spot watching inexperienced paddlers launch without the appropriate kit and equipment and understanding of the relevant tidal or wind conditions?

You feel like you want to say something but are not sure how to approach, only to see them having to be rescued moments later…

Canoe Wales is working with the RNLI to support experienced paddlers with the engagement tools and techniques required to engage with and support new and inexperienced paddlers at a coastal launch spot or beach. In doing so, we hope we as a CW community can decrease the number of safety incidents happening across the Welsh coastline.

This initiative started with an interactive webinar in May delivered

by Pete Catterall (CW Coaching & Development Manager) and Alice Beetlestone (RNLI Water Safety specialist). It was so well attended that we will be running it again on Tuesday 12 July, from 7pm to 8pm.

The online workshop aims to give experienced paddlers the engagement tools required to speak effectively to those who may need support and check they understand the conditions and are

considering any risks relevant to their journey.

This is not about preaching how to be safe on the water, but rather about focusing on the steps of how to engage with new and inexperienced paddlers who may benefit from your experience and understanding of the local environment.

For more info and to book a free place visit our JustGo Paddling Hub. You will then be sent the Zoom meeting details.

CANOE WALES PARTNERS WITH TALENT PATHWAY ID VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO EVIDENCE THE HEALTH AND WELLBEING IMPACTS OF PADDLESPORT Canoe Wales has announced a new partnership with Talent Pathway iD, an elite sports performance analytics company, to help understand the wellbeing of their members and drive future Welsh talent.

Canoe Wales has become the latest elite sport's governing body to choose the TPiD Platform. We will use it throughout our organisational structure to support various departments and highperformance teams. This crucial work will enable Canoe Wales to have greater oversight away from the monitored activity within our membership programmes. This is hugely important to ensure equal diversity within Welsh paddlesports whilst also helping to widen the talent pool and opportunities for the Welsh public.

As part of this CW is looking for is looking for volunteers from our membership to help evidence the health and wellbeing impacts of paddlesport. » Perhaps you are a paddler who was frustrated with the lockdown restrictions in 2021? » Maybe your paddling has been restricted by waterway or paddlepoint closures?

» Possibly you are a regular paddler who would be really interested to know how your health and wellbeing is affected by paddling (and other physical exercise) over time?

If you have answered ‘yes’ to any of the above, we would love you to help create the evidence that will help us advocate for paddlers rights and access going forward.

If you’re interested in being part of the project, please register via the JustGo Paddling Hub.

NEW PADDLING TRAILS 3 NEW TRAILS AVAILABLE TO DOWNLOAD We have launched 3 new fantastic paddling trails on our website; Llangollen Canal Horseshoe Falls to Chirk, Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal - Brecon to Gilwern - and - Gilwern to Sebastopol.

Each trail is available to view and download and includes start/finish locations, distances, portages, a full colour map, trip description and GPX file.

Check out all the paddling trails at: www.canoewales.com/paddling-trails

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EVENTS J 16 -17 FBOR'22 FISHGUARD BAY OCEAN RACE Fishguard U L A major downwind race for ocean racing skis, along Pembrokeshire’s wild, award-winning north coast between Goodwick Beach and Newport. Paddlers from all over the UK and beyond compete to show their extreme fitness, navigation, boat-handling and seamanship skills, to win this “black-belt,” no-holds-barred ocean race. www.fishguardoceanrace.uk J 22-24 T FEST National White Water Centre U L The T Fest at the National White Water Centre is a weekend packed with paddling events, prizes, trade stalls, evening talks, films, food, music and dancing. Get some coaching, race head-to-head, go boating, catch up with friends, throw some shapes and then do it all again on Sunday. Job done. www.facebook.com/trywerynfest J 27-31 GLOBAL BUSHCRAFT SYMPOSIUM Glan Llyn, Bala U L GBS is an international gathering to promote bushcraft, survival, and traditional skills instruction through the open exchange of philosophies, pedagogical methods and dissemination of best practices within the industry. It is open to anyone with a strong interest in these areas but is primarily aimed at those involved in the instruction, teaching and sharing of the skills and knowledge bases involved. www.globalbushcraftsymposium2022.com

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LLANDYSUL RIVER FESTIVAL LLANDYSUL PADDLERS

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LLANDYSUL RIVER FESTIVAL Llandysul A 4-day paddlesport extravaganza with activities and coaching for all. The festival has been running for many years and keeps on getting bigger and better. River swimming, rafting, paddleboarding, come-and-try it sessions ... activities for all ages and abilities. This is an action-packed, family-friendly festival with evening events, camping and a serious amount of fun! www.llandysul-paddlers.org.uk/river-festival

O 28-30 THE WELSH OPEN CANOE SYMPOSIUM Glan Llyn, Bala C T The Open Canoe Symposium has become the premier event for open canoeists across the UK. Organised and run on a voluntary, not-for-profit basis, the hosting of the event now rotates annually between Wales, England and Scotland in a three-year cycle. Its aim has always been to bring together people of all levels of experience and ability in a sharing of enthusiasm for and knowledge of all aspects of open canoeing. The Symposium features trade stands, demo boats, stacks of workshops and evening entertainment, including a talk from special guest Kevin Callan, renowned Canadian adventurer, paddler, writer and speaker. www.raygoodwin.com/open-canoe-symposium

REVIEW H AT H A P A D D E D L E A S H V E L C R O WA I S T B E LT AN ALL-IN-ONE LEASH AND BELT COMBO A lot of attention has been given to waist leash systems in the past few years, with many an opinion thrown into the ring as to which system is or isn't the best, why waist leashes should or shouldn’t be used, what size buckle is the best, how many points of release it should have as a minimum, and so on. Add to this the price point, and you have a minefield of considerations. Hatha have attempted to simplify the situation for the recreational tourer, who isn't going to be SUP’ing on whitewater rapids or any other raging torrent of moving water, with an allin-one leash and belt combo. It is their Quick Release Padded Non-Slip Leash Waist Belt. It could even serve the race market with its sleek, yet comfortable, no-tangle design.

Designed to be comfy and simple, Hatha have developed the belt with the leash attached, integral to the design, all one piece. It is a soft, padded, 7mm thick neoprene belt, with textured latex grippers on the inside, attached to the strong nylon outer belt, which houses the marine-grade leash ferrule attachment.

The leash coil part is fully removable with an FCS type hex key, making the replacement possible.

The belt itself comes in 4 sizes, small, medium, large and XL, which do come up quite small in sizing, so best to order the next size up from your normal clothing.

I’m a small waist normally and fit a medium quite nicely. It also has additional features such as a key pocket and an additional loop for attaching your own leash system if you wanted to use the belt only.

The ‘quick release’ mechanism is Velcro, which adds a little adjustment. This belt is different to the other quick release belts that some people will be more used to; those with the plastic cam buckle that secure a webbing or nylon belt and release when a toggle or belt tail is pulled. The advantage of this belt is that no threading of a belt through a buckle is required and therefore, no jamming can occur either.

The position of the leash attachment to the belt is ideal, it is strong and central, allowing easy location of the red release tab on the belt if the ferrule is square in the middle of the back. If the belt is put on with the logo upright it is designed for a right-handed release, but obviously can be put on upside down for a left-handed release preference.

OVERALL I have been using this belt and leash through the autumn and winter months, both over a drysuit and over a wetsuit. It has served me well whilst running safety courses, instructor, and leader courses, whilst coaching, whilst training and in my general paddling in a variety of environments.

SIZES Small Medium Large XL

RRP

26-30 28-32 35-38 38-41

£35

AVAILABLE FROM www.hathaboards.co.uk

REVIEW: DAVE BROWN

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Waters of Wales - WoW

ARTICLE: PAM BELL

Waters of Wales (WoW) – what’s it all about? Well, here's my account (views are my own).

WoW was founded in 2014 by Bob Mackay, Andy Quick and Pam Bell (me). To explain why, backtrack to a chilly spring morning in 2008, when Phil Blain, Ash Charlwood, Richard Harvey and I went to Cardiff Bay on behalf of Canoe Wales. To deliver, by canoe, the biggest petition the Welsh Assembly had received ...

“THE ‘PADDLE TO THE SENEDD’ DEMONSTRATED THE STRENGTH OF FEELING ABOUT THE ISSUE, IT GENERATED POSITIVE RADIO AND TV COVERAGE, AND ACHIEVED OUR AIM OF GETTING THIS PETITION ONTO THE TABLE AS EARLY AS POSSIBLE IN THE NEXT GOVERNMENT TERM, AND THAT IT WOULD NOT GO UNNOTICED.”

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The Petitions Committee held a short inquiry, and their subsequent press release gave cause for optimism: “Access to inland water in Wales is a right of equity and social justice. The current situation regarding rights to inland water in Wales is confusing, untenable and unworkable; there should be the same right of public access as there is in Scotland.”

“The rivers of Wales are a natural ‘gift’ that everyone should have the right to enjoy.”

“Access should not be based on the vagaries of permissions bestowed or ability to pay, but on the fundaments of equity and social justice.”

The genie was out of the bottle; but predictably, opponents to access were desperate to get it back in and seal the stopper! Faced with a backlash from an influential lobby; a second Welsh Assembly enquiry u-turned and recommended: “.. the setting up of voluntary access agreements by landowners.”

Years of talking, a lot of public money spent, and the can kicked down the road …

Fast-forward to 2014. The old access gang had disbanded after Welsh Government took ownership of the problem, but amid general frustration at the lack of progress, some of us started to burn a lot of midnight oil discussing taking back the initiative.

WoW was born! Bob, Andy and I published a Facebook page and got to work …

Government had always tried to polarise the issue into a conflict between two activities. WoW’s founding principle was, and continues to be: “Responsible open access for ALL, for any sustainable purpose.”

An early priority was to establish the intentions of Welsh Government. They made it clear they would not legislate in their term of office, so we started to plan for the next. Given that Welsh and

English governments cite lack of clarity in the legal situation as a sticking point to progress, we attempted to petition the government to divulge the legal advice they had received about the status of public rights of navigation. That petition was rejected outright.

In February 2016 we delivered a petition calling for land reform, timed to be in place for commencement of the next government. On the same day we met with, and received the support of, three Assembly Members. On 14 Feb 2016, with our petition to be discussed for the first time, a flotilla paddled across Cardiff Bay while swimmers and supporters assembled on the waterfront. Very early that morning, the Minister announced a Welsh Government consultation on access. If the intention of the dawn announcement was to take the wind out of our sails, it didn’t work. The ‘Paddle to the Senedd’ demonstrated the strength of feeling about the issue, it generated positive radio and TV coverage, and achieved our aim of getting this petition onto the table as early as possible in the next government term, and that it would not go unnoticed.

It was also a great day out!

The WoW petition held its ground ‘under consideration’ for 3 years. During this time, we responded to each ministerial statement on the subject and worked with British Canoeing and other activities’ representative groups, on responses to the Welsh Government consultation, contributing to a robust response while producing our own. It became clear early in the process that this will be a long game and, while it plays out, the bluespace environment, and existing access to it, face increasing threats. Raising awareness of threats, and protecting what we have, became increasingly important.

Supporters outside the Senedd.

Delivering the petition. Left to right: Neil McEvoy AM, Bob Mackay, Mike Hedges AM, Pam Bell, Ben Mackay, Steffan Lewis AM. One such threat to access is the 2026 deadline for recording rights of way. In 2019 we hosted two well-attended ‘Restoring the Record’ training days and identified a need for something more tailored to the needs of recreational bluespace users.

Covid-19 prevented events in 2020-21, but with the situation regarding ‘forgotten’ routes currently unclear, and no guarantee that the threat has gone away; we are making new plans.

Apart from the short-term challenges of lockdown and restrictions on activity, the pandemic highlighted wider challenges to access.

The surge in outdoor recreation adds weight to the case for open access, but also fuels the demand for restrictions to prevent overcrowding and antisocial behaviour. Antisocial behaviour and littering have been cited as causes of ecological damage and pollution, yet the presence of the

Paddle to the Senedd. public leads to identification and calling out of environmental damage and pollution.

WoW believes that the answer is public education, empowerment and engagement, enabled by legislation. Our 2021 ‘Bluespace Manifesto’ for government at all levels was circulated as widely as possible to candidates for the Senedd election and the 2022 Welsh local government elections. The manifesto has been well received by politicians across the spectrum.

Building on an area outlined in our manifesto, reservoirs could play a major part in access to bluespace, given the will. Our 2022 ‘Bluespace Charter for Responsible Access to Reservoirs for ALL’ covering Wales and England, forms the basis of our reservoir campaign.

WoW started out as a small group working informally to address an issue that affects

“APART FROM THE SHORTTERM CHALLENGES OF LOCKDOWN AND RESTRICTIONS ON ACTIVITY, THE PANDEMIC HIGHLIGHTED WIDER CHALLENGES TO ACCESS. THE SURGE IN OUTDOOR RECREATION ADDS WEIGHT TO THE CASE FOR OPEN ACCESS, BUT ALSO FUELS THE DEMAND FOR RESTRICTIONS TO PREVENT OVERCROWDING AND ANTISOCIAL BEHAVIOUR.” SUMMER 2022

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“IN THE 40 YEARS I’VE BEEN INVOLVED, ACCESS HAS BEEN A LONG, UPHILL STRUGGLE, AND I CAN’T SEE THAT CHANGING ANY TIME SOON! THE URGENCY HAS CHANGED; THERE IS FAR MORE AT STAKE THAN WE KNEW 40 YEARS AGO. THE IMPORTANCE OF BLUESPACE FOR HEALTH AND WELLBEING IS NOW GENERALLY ACKNOWLEDGED.”

the majority. Awareness-raising and public engagement are crucial, and for this we rely heavily on social media, while taking the message to the wider public whenever possible, by attending events such as OCA Canoefest and Royal Welsh Show. Asked why there was no ‘WoW’ group for England, we recently set up Bluespace Access Throughout England - ‘BAThE’ - social media groups.

Our activity has so far been constrained by what individuals could afford to self-fund, supplemented by welcome donations in money or services, from supporters. By 2019 it had become apparent that the task was rapidly expanding beyond our resources, and we used the break created by lockdown to register as a charity: ‘Bluespace ACT’. Andy, Bob and I were joined as trustees by Ivan Lawler MBE. Among our aspirations going forward with charitable status are; more active and rewarding opportunities for volunteers, and raising funds for projects that would otherwise be out of reach.

In the 40 years I’ve been involved, access has been a long, uphill struggle, and I can’t see that changing any time soon! The urgency HAS changed; there is far more at stake than we knew 40 years ago. The importance of bluespace for health and wellbeing is now generally acknowledged; while recognition of the climate emergency has shown that the very life of our bluespace depends on public access to nature; not just for recreation (important as that is) but to protect for future generations.

A movement is growing and gaining momentum. The injustice of public exclusion is more widely recognised and challenged.

Diverse populations and ‘user groups’ are coming together, with access to water inextricably entwined with access to land. At the recent 90th anniversary celebrations of the Kinder Trespass, access to water was mentioned by almost every

Left to right: Bob Mackay; Ann Mackay; Pam Bell.

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Restoring the Record training in Newtown.

Paddle to the Senedd. speaker. One of the speakers commented that over the years nothing has been achieved by going cap-in-hand and asking politely. Forty years in access bears that out!

WoW’s founding principle, ‘responsible open access for all’ continues to be the benchmark for everything we do. We will continue to press for this – politely, but not cap-in-hand.

Live for White Water?

Coaching at NWWC Courses 2022 RAFT GUIDE TRAINING (3 DAYS) TBC

£250 pp

BC WHITE WATER SAFETY & RESCUE 13–14 August £210 pp 22–23 October

BC ADVANCED WHITE WATER SAFETY & RESCUE 19–20 June

£210 pp

RESCUE 3 – WRT PRO 1–3 July

£290 pp

RESCUE 3 – WRT ADVANCED 2–5 July

£390 pp

BC WHITE WATER KAYAK LEADER TRAINING TBC

£290 pp

BC WHITE WATER KAYAK LEADER ASSESSMENT 16 or 17 June

£200 1:2 / £250 1:1

REC OUTDOOR FIRST AID 9–10 June 12–13 Nov

£150 pp

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

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

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

1 coach:1 person: 1 coach:2 people: 1 coach:3 people: 1 coach:4 people:

£198 per person, per day £99 per person, per day £77 per person, per day £66 per person, per day

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

Booking office: 01678 521083 Email: info@nationalwhitewatercentre.co.uk Website: www.nationalwhitewatercentre.co.uk/courses

Q&A

Ben Higson

Paddler of the Year 2021

Ben Higson is a is a rising star in freestyle. He’ll be representing GB at the World Champs in Nottingham this summer (his second World Champs) and was 6th Junior K1 at the European Championships last year (missing the final 5 by 7 points). Despite the challenges of lockdown, he came 2nd (Junior K1) at the British Champs, racking up his highest score to date. And it’s not just about competition, he mentors and coaches other paddlers and is always willing to share his skills and encourage others. It’s no surprise that he is the Canoe Wales Paddler of the Year. Ceufad caught up with him in the run up to the World Championships to find out more…

“THE FIRST BIG COMPETITION I COMPETED IN WAS THE 2019 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS IN SPAIN. I WAS ONLY 14 AT THE TIME AND IT WAS AMAZING PADDLING WITH THE BIG NAMES WHO I HAD ONLY DREAMED OF MEETING.”

When and why did you start paddling?

My mum was a competitive slalom and polo paddler so I was brought up around kayaking.

I first properly kayaked independently when I was 4 years old.

What disciplines do you paddle?

I compete in freestyle and I used to compete in slalom at div 2 and polo at club level. I really enjoy whitewater kayaking as well, especially technical creek boating.

Why do you like competitive paddlesport and why freestyle?

I like the freedom and creativity available in freestyle kayaking. I also feel kayaking is very unique, which I like.

Over the years you been involved in freestyle it has changed a lot; new moves and different competition format. Are there any changes you’d like to see and how do think freestyle will develop over the next 10 years?

Over the years I've been involved with freestyle, it has changed a lot. I would like to see new bonus and trophy levels added to the score sheet. I would expect freestyle to continue to grow and new point barriers broken.

What was your first major competition and what was it like being on the squad for the first time?

The first big competition I competed in was the 2019 World Championships in Spain. I was only 14 at the time and it was amazing paddling with the big names who I had only dreamed of meeting.

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How did it feel making selection for this year's World Championships (in first place!)?

I was obviously very happy and proud of myself, however, I am now focusing on competing in the Seniors category next year.

The Worlds are in July. How are you preparing and what’s your training schedule?

I am currently doing 1-3 hours kayaking a day, with mental preparation off the water as I don't want to be tired.

How do you fit in with school and exams?

I have luckily finished all my exams for this year, however, I do have school until the end of July.

As well as exams and training you also coach and mentor other paddlers at your club and training camps. What motivates you to do this?

I am really grateful for all the support I had on my come-up, so I am now seeing it as giving back to the community.

Any advice to young shredders out there?

Don't give up, it took me 3 years to learn to loop.

You’ve met a lot of world-class paddlers; who’s your paddling hero and why?

I couldn't give you one name, I think every big name has influenced me to an extent. At the moment I really enjoy watching David McClure as he has a similar style to me.

You’re also a river runner; and were on a multiday trip on the Magpie River in Canada. Is this something you’d like to do more of?

I really enjoyed the Magpie expedition; it was one of the best experiences I've ever had. It built me both as a kayaker and a person. I would love to go on more expeditions in the future.

What do you want to achieve in the future?

I don't really have a set goal after the Worlds, however, I want to kayak for the rest of my life.

“I REALLY ENJOYED THE MAGPIE EXPEDITION; IT WAS ONE OF THE BEST EXPERIENCES I'VE EVER HAD. IT BUILT ME BOTH AS A KAYAKER AND A PERSON. I WOULD LOVE TO GO ON MORE EXPEDITIONS IN THE FUTURE.”

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Surf Kayak Development Day ARTICLE: PAUL BRAMBLE

“CONDITIONS ON THE DAY WERE A LITTLE SMALLER THAN IS USUALLY IDEAL FOR SURFING BUT, FOR THAT DAY’S PURPOSES, PRETTY GOOD WITH THE FORECAST OF GRADUALLY INCREASING CONDITIONS THROUGHOUT THE DAY.”

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n the last Saturday in April the Wales Surf Kayak committee ran its first development weekend of the year, starting out at Newgale beach in Pembrokeshire in order to raise the profile of this niche sport and bring-on new talent. Coaching was provided by Paul Bramble of PB Paddlesports.

The day started with a round of introductions and a discussion of development goals. For this session all the attendees had at least some previous experience of surf kayaking and some had bought their own surf kayaks. It was good to see a range of ages from juniors upward.

For those that hadn’t brought their own specialist surf boats or just fancied a change there was the opportunity to try one of the team development boats. These sleek carbon-Kevlar® composite boats with flat, planing hulls and wavegripping rails require a bit of careful outfitting with a jigsaw of foam blocks but, once that’s done, they unlock the full potential of sea waves.

Surf boats fall into two main classes, the first of which is the shorter, high-performance kayak,

with an array of fins protruding from the hull. It finds a natural home in the power-pocket of the wave and allows the rider to make blisteringly fast turns, lips, airs and do other tricks on the wave. The other class is the elegant, longer International Class boats that never have fins and rely entirely on their rails for grip on the waves to provide a more flowing ride.

Once on the beach we had a quick but important safety briefing – questions encouraged – including, where to surf, signals from the beach, dangers to watch-out for (today it was mostly collision with other kayakers), what to do about it and how to avoid it in the first place. Then, for fun, to warm-up and loosen the joints we had a quick session of ‘fairground horses’ on the beach.

Then, out onto the water for a quick tenwaves-worth of surfing to warm up and to have a look and gauge the needs of each participant.

Conditions on the day were a little smaller than is usually ideal for surfing but, for that day’s purposes, pretty good with the forecast of gradually increasing conditions throughout the

day. The small waves allowed for a bit of fun and good concentration on technique without having to worry about what was coming.

With ten waves over, a recall to the beach and then some suggestions as to how to improve and an exercise to try, then back into the surf. That was the pattern for the morning until lunchtime; out in the surf and then recall to the beach, either as a group or individually for comment and encouragement. Some came in under wave or paddle power in the boat, some came in pushing a boat having capsized and come out – all part of the learning.

As it turned out lunchtime was at around low tide, when conditions at Newgale tend to go a bit flat, so there was plenty of time for lunch, tea, a chat, and a bit of recovery.

The afternoon session started out on the beach with a few games and discussion on the theme of ’surf etiquette’ which forms the highway code in the surf zone. This ensures that everyone shows good manners, can maximise the potential of a ride and reduce the likelihood of collisions.

Both board and kayak surfers follow the same surf etiquette.

The afternoon session followed much the same pattern as the morning one although one particular beach-based exercise must have baffled onlookers as they watched – spray-deck wearing people carrying paddles weaving along the beach in a series of wiggly lines in what I had heard described as ‘beach surf ballet’.

Surprisingly good fun but you’ll have to come along to find out what that’s all about.

The afternoon carried on until everyone had had enough and retired to the car park for a debrief, to load kit and say goodbye to everyone not coming to the Sunday session.

Sunday brought an increase in surf conditions, so we moved to Whitesands beach near St. Davids, which was better suited to the forecast. Given that everyone on day two had been with us the previous day, the bigger, running waves and clear, welldefined pockets (the powerful bit of green water closest to the breaking part of the wave where surfers like to play) proved an ideal opportunity to build on the techniques of the earlier session and get a good look at the performance that the surf kayak could bring. A good time to try a criticalpart take-off, bottom turns, top turns and maybe, if brave enough, try to catch the lip of a breaking wave for a fancy finishing manoeuvre.

FIND OUT MORE for info on

development days or surf competitions in Wales keep an eye on: www.facebook.com/ WalesSurfKayakingpage/

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#SHEPADDLES CYMRU At the start of May, I was lucky enough to get to attend the first-ever #ShePaddles Cymru Festival at Plas y Brenin in North Wales. It was one of the most enjoyable paddling events I have ever attended and certainly one I will be attending in the future. The weekend was incredibly well organised and the range of activities on offer was fantastic. 74 women attended as participants and the excitement and positivity throughout the weekend was infectious. I wanted to share my experience of the weekend in a bit more detail.

WORDS:

DEL READ

P H OTO S : D E L R E A D OR AS CREDITED

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WHAT IS A #SHEPADDLES CYMRU FESTIVAL? In order to understand the festival, it is important to understand what #ShePaddles is all about! Essentially it is an initiative aimed at addressing the gender gap that exists in participation in paddlesports. This is not just aimed at increasing entry-level participation but supporting women to progress at every level in paddlesports. I was a #ShePaddles ambassador for British Canoeing in 2020-2021 and there are so many positive ripples that have stemmed from the #ShePaddles initiative, and this festival is an example of one of those ripples.

I have always been a big advocate for increasing women’s participation in paddlesports and I was thrilled to hear of a #ShePaddles Cymru Festival taking place at Plas y Brenin in order to do just that! It was only when I was talking to Katie Simmons at the event, who is one of this year’s #ShePaddles Cymru ambassadors, that I realised this weekend had been her idea. She had planted the seed of a festival and then the good folks over at Canoe Wales and Plas y Brenin got on it with, putting such a successful weekend together.

Essentially this was a weekend aimed at introducing women to a variety of paddlesports and allowing women to have fun in a safe and relaxed environment.

The weekend consisted of 2 days of paddling and a party on Saturday evening. The first day consisted of tailored workshops and activities on-site, the second day was a variety of paddling adventure days.

FESTIVAL

DAY 1 – WORKSHOPS Saturday morning was a buzz of excitement as women arrived for the weekend and the networking began! The day started with a welcome talk from Canoe Wales and Plas y Brenin. The talk was short and sweet but to see a room of nearly 100 women and feel the excited energy in that room was pretty special.

The day was split into two workshops, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. There had been a wide range of workshops to choose from and women had signed up before the event. Each workshop was being run by specialised instructors and was limited in numbers to ensure personalised coaching could be provided for each woman.

In the morning I joined the ‘introduction to stand up paddle boarding’ with a fantastic coach called Emily.

The group had a ‘meet and greet’ prior to getting on the water where introductions could be made and we could have a chat about what we wanted from the session. As a kayaker, I had wanted to try a session in a paddling discipline I wasn’t confident in. I had bought a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) about a month previously but only taken it on whitewater and was in desperate need of some basic skills coaching. I was pleasantly surprised over the weekend to find many women had done the same thing. They had seized the opportunity to try something new and chosen workshops outside of their normal choice of craft.

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We got geared up and collected the SUPs. The nice thing about the weekend was that Plas y Brenin provided all equipment. Most of the women in my session did not own a SUP, so it was great that this was a barrier that could be immediately removed.

After a quick safety introduction, we got on the lake.

We paddled up the lake and wow oh wow – what a view! It was a gloriously sunny day and paddling up the lake towards the mountains of Snowdonia was mesmerising. We worked through some different skills set out by Emily and I was amazed I managed the whole session without falling off my board. Just as we are coming back in though, Emily suggests we try step back turns. This is a skill that is very applicable to whitewater and so I threw myself (literally) into mastering it. 10 minutes and 10 swims later, our session ended and I had achieved my step back turn!

After a lovely lunch break of food and chatting to other women, I joined the freestyle kayaking workshop with Lowri Davies. This session was focused on flatwater freestyle and was so much fun.

The two women who joined me were a great laugh and we literally spent a couple of hours falling on our faces and laughing. Lowri is a brilliant freestyle paddler and coach and having such personalised coaching from her is always a pleasure!

The afternoon session ended but the fun did not.

I attended a couple of great talks from Pete Astles (founder of Peak UK), a lady from the RNLI and a

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talk on freestyle from Lowri. Whilst these were going on, there was also an opportunity for SUP yoga and to attend a rolling clinic in the pool.

After all this excitement, dinner was very appreciated as was an opportunity for some gin tasting and a live band for some dancing!

DAY 2 – THE BIG DAY OUT Sunday was all about the big day out! Women had the chance to choose a trip to attend, these included whitewater kayaking, SUP adventures, sea kayaking, canoeing and more. Having not done much sea kayaking before I opted for this one! We had a great day out at Anglesey being led by Eila and Dave.

Wow wow wow. If you ever get the chance to sea kayak around Anglesey – take it!! It was my first time and I was in absolute awe of how beautiful it was. The environment was incredibly scenic and the vibes from the women in my group were great.

It was a proper day trip out and I cannot believe how much amazing wildlife we saw. Definite highlights though had to be seeing a seal and the hundreds of moon jellyfish! My friend Jess even showed me how to hold one and it has to be one of the cooler experiences I’ve ever had. We even managed a circumnavigation and stopped for ice cream!

We got back to Plas y Brenin exhausted but ecstatic. After a quick closing talk, everybody said their goodbyes and left for home. What a weekend!

JESS SHREEVE

LISA DICKINSON

OVERALL THOUGHTS As I said in my introduction, this was one of the nicest and most enjoyable paddling events I have ever attended. It was such a well organised weekend. Everything was so calm and I am honestly so impressed at how smoothly everything went. The range of sessions was great and it was lovely to see so much excitement and positivity all weekend from everyone involved.

A big THANK YOU to everyone who was involved in pulling such a fantastic weekend off including the team at Canoe Wales, all of the staff at Plas y Brenin, the external coaches who came to deliver sessions, and all of the sponsors who came along to support the event. A big thank you in particular to Pyranha kayaks for inviting me along!

JESS SHREEVE

DEL READ is a super happy, super keen

whitewater kayaker, who gets out on the water at every opportunity. In August she'll be paddling 24 hours on the River Dee to raise money for charity.

Check out her blog: www.delkayaks.co.uk

#SHEPADDLES CYMRU run

regular events, trips and socials.

Facebook #ShePaddles Cymru www.canoewales.com/shepaddlescymru

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Loch Shiel A wet and windy Scottish canoe trip of many plans WORDS: BETH DARBY P H OTO S : AS C R E D I T E D

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JOSH KNIGHT

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E JOSH KNIGHT

ELFFIN ELLESCHILD

JOSH KNIGHT JOSH KNIGHT

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very good adventure starts with a road trip. Ours started at 5.30am in the university car park in the dark and rain. Coordinating 25 people, each with a week’s worth of kit, 2 minibuses and canoe trailers, along with 16 canoes is no easy task.

By 7am we were finally ready to leave. Just over 24 hours later we arrived at our first wild camp site.

Early the next day, we headed into Fort William for last minute food and kit purchases. Once our shopping was completed our 2 groups went our separate ways. My group headed to look at Loch Shiel from Glenfinnan, but the wind was too strong there, so we continued to look for another spot to start paddling. Several hours and plans later, we ended up on the shores of Loch Moidart

by Tioram Castle. We had lots of time on our hands, so we set up a camp village with all our tents and tarps. We did our best to get a fire going but the wet conditions defeated us in the end, so we retreated to the lecturers’ camp and fire to make dinner.

The next day saw our first day of paddling on Loch Shiel from Acharacle. For some of the group it was their first time in a canoe, so two of the canoes were tied together in a catamaran. Once our boats were sorted, we had our last proper bathroom trip for a few days.

After that, we were ready to get on the water, heading northeast. We made our way steadily up the loch with plenty of rest breaks for those getting used to their canoes. After a little while, we decided to try our hand at sailing all in one big group off one sail, which ended with us just drifting to the other side of the loch only to eventually paddle back across. There’s an interesting ancient burial ground on an island which we stopped to have a look and made use of the old moorings. The next stop of the day was to find a camp spot and the 1st year Adventure Filmmakers did us proud with the spot they found. We had 2 successful campfires that night and had fun chatting round both.

The following day we had a lazy morning of tasty breakfasts including pancakes. My canoe partner and I were given the chance to paddle ahead of the others on our own which felt freer than sticking together in one big group. After a brief meet up, we set off again to find a spot for lunch, which we did on what we christened Lunch Island. On the way there, and once we arrived, we were battered by wind, hail, and rain with random bursts of sunshine and rain. From there we battled against strong headwinds a short way up the loch before deciding to try and wait out the wind.

Once we eventually decided to continue our journey up the loch, the heavens opened with wind and hail that seemed never ending. Defeated, we decided to retrace our tracks and find a camp spot back towards the Acharacle end of the loch. We ended up heading all the way back to the previous night’s camp spot, only to find that it had been taken by some sea kayakers we’d seen earlier in the day. This was a real low point for our group with us all desperate to find somewhere to stop and camp. We had many fruitless stops to try and find somewhere to camp until one of our lecturers found

JOSH KNIGHT

JOSH KNIGHT

JOSH KNIGHT

what turned out to be our favourite camp of the trip. After hitting such a low point towards the end of the paddle, we had our favourite moment in the evening with all of us around one campfire sharing sweet potato chips.

The next morning, we continued to “retrace our strokes” back towards Acharacle, once again against a head wind. At Acharacle we had a brief café stop before jumping back on the water. As I was pulling the canoe towards the edge of the loch, I manged to fall and roly-poly backwards landing with my head fully submerged without getting any other part of me wet, making me the first to fall in on the trip! We then paddled down the River Shiel over some moving water, yet we still managed to spend a lot of it paddling into the wind. We stopped just before the major rapid to have a look and decided that no one would paddle it. As we pulled up, we thought for a moment that we were going to lose a pair backwards down the rapid, but we managed to grab hold of them.

By the rapid there were a series of pools which we portaged down, floating down in the boats for some of it and lining the boats down in the shallower sections. This was my highlight of the

trip, learning new expedition techniques and it just felt really cool! From there we paddled round to Tioram castle again. Some of us saw a seal on our way round and others saw an otter. I also collected some mussels, which I later regretted when it came to preparing and cooking them, but they did taste good! Our mood was dampened slightly just after landing on the beach by high winds and a hailstorm… again.

We decided to spend the next day as tourists after loading the canoes up, which involved a short paddle round the castle for some of us. We had a look at the Harry Potter viaduct before heading into Fort William for some showers and some shop browsing. The other group had found somewhere to camp in Cumbria, so we headed off to join them, cutting some time off the next day’s journey. The next day we got an early start and made it back to Carmarthen just after lunch time. We made quick work of sorting, cleaning, and drying kit before heading home. Despite the weather and the constantly changing plans, or perhaps because of them, we learnt a lot, especially about expedition planning. We also had lots of fun, and it gave me a renewed enjoyment for paddling.

“BY THE RAPID THERE WERE A SERIES OF POOLS WHICH WE PORTAGED DOWN, FLOATING DOWN IN THE BOATS FOR SOME OF IT AND LINING THE BOATS DOWN IN THE SHALLOWER SECTIONS. THIS WAS MY HIGHLIGHT OF THE TRIP, LEARNING NEW EXPEDITION TECHNIQUES AND IT JUST FELT REALLY COOL!” SUMMER 2022

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C L UB N E W S

The Outdoor Partnership Coach Education Scheme and Club Affiliation Partnership ARTICLE: LEIL A CONNOLLY P H OTO S : S E R E N DŴ R S L A L O M C L U B The Outdoor Partnership (TOP) has grown into a National Charity since 2005. We now have staff across the UK and, more recently, 4 new members of staff have joined the team covering Mid and South Wales. We have a new 10-year strategy to work towards, very much focussed on partnering up with grass root organisations and supporting the people of Wales and across the rest of the UK to take up outdoor activities as a life-long pursuit. I am the Central South Wales Outdoor Activity Development Officer, funded by the Welsh Government’s Enabling Natural Resources and Wellbeing Grant, and I am completely behind this vision of ‘Enhancing people’s physical and mental wellbeing through outdoor activity’ and improving access to all kinds of outdoor activities and increase engagement within communities.

Working with clubs is just one aspect of our roles as Outdoor Activity Development Officers for TOP. We didn't know what kind of reaction we would get when we started to approach clubs to see whether they wanted support for their volunteer coaches to upskill.

TOP have been running a successful Coach Education support for Club Volunteers in North Wales for some years, building good relationships with National Governing Bodies and outdoor activity clubs, but it was something very new in South Wales.

Our posts in South and Mid Wales had only started in July and, due to lockdown, I was worried it would be a hard challenge to engage with clubs, especially when they were not even allowed to run sessions!

As I approached many different outdoor clubs, including mountain biking, hiking, surfing and lifeguarding, it was the paddlesport clubs who jumped up and held their hands and paddles highest for any support they could get! This was excellent, especially as in Central South Wales we have a good number of paddlesport clubs, providing a wide variety of genres of paddlesport; slalom, white water, kayak polo, sea kayaking and more.

It's amazing how well organised the paddlesport clubs are and how a key volunteer or two can make so much opportunity for others to enter a sport and progress. Part of this progression is to step up the ranks in the club and become a volunteer themselves. I started my pathway to paddling with a club when I was 11 years old, then didn’t paddle again until I was 24, but I could remember how to hand roll from my pool sessions, and I still feel grateful to those volunteers who invested their time and instilled a feeling of excitement about becoming a paddler in me.

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“AS I APPROACHED MANY DIFFERENT OUTDOOR CLUBS, INCLUDING MOUNTAIN BIKING, HIKING, SURFING AND LIFEGUARDING, IT WAS THE PADDLESPORT CLUBS WHO JUMPED UP AND HELD THEIR HANDS AND PADDLES HIGHEST FOR ANY SUPPORT THEY COULD GET!”

Blasted Covid had pretty much put all these clubs into hibernation, it had surely put a hold on all areas of personal and professional development, most of us had experienced some skill fade and many coaches had lost confidence. There hadn’t been many opportunities for new paddlers to enter the sport and progress, and to get any training and qualifications. So it turned out it was definitely good timing to contact these clubs to offer support!

They were raring to get up and running again!

Clubs have to become Affiliated members of The Outdoor Partnership to gain our support. To access Coach Education financial support for their volunteers, clubs need to pay a fee of £150 a year. Clubs can opt in and out of this each year dependent on their needs within a year. The fee last year was waivered due to Covid, we just really wanted to help clubs get back up on their feet!! The Coach Education support is basically an opportunity for club volunteers to access subsidised training and qualifications, including recognised National Governing Body awards, so clubs can entice and reward new coaches and develop their existing volunteer coach base.

Without these volunteer coaches, there is no club!

The Outdoor Partnership generally don’t organise or run courses, we focus on the clubs’ needs and their volunteer pathway plan.

We provide support for individual volunteers that need access to training and qualifications, so we support them and pay the provider for the space, so the volunteer is only paying a fraction of the cost, normally £20 per day of training. As we know and appreciate, becoming a coach can be a lengthy process and it is rather costly, especially if the end point is to be offering your time and skills to

others for free! It often still costs the volunteers quite a bit even if we are subsidising the cost of the courses, as they still need to pay their NGB membership, course registration fee and sort out their own kit and transport, but we try to make it a little easier on the pocket!

The first club we engaged with was Seren Dŵr Slalom Club, based at Cardiff International White Water Centre. Tavi (pronounced Teifi) was my contact for the club, she made my life so much easier, she saw the potential in many of her young paddlers and was eager to get a group of young paddlers coaching and therefore increase club numbers. She had a hardy group participate in their BC Core Coach 2-day course in bitterly cold and stormy February conditions! Tavi was excellent at supporting her club but also supporting me and made me feel like this was going to be a successful start to the The Outdoor Partnership Coach Ed Scheme here in Central South Wales.

Here is what Tavi from Seren Dŵr said: “Our club, Seren Dŵr, is a slalom club and we typically have a lot of keen teenagers paddling. Over the long Covid lockdowns we lost quite a few members, and most importantly, our club coach. We’ve had to build back both members and coaches – the problem being that you can’t have one without the other! Our numbers have slowly crept back up, but the injection of coaching expertise enabled by funding from The Outdoor Partnership is now allowing us to really start taking big steps forward. Nine of our members took coaching courses with two becoming qualified Paddlesports Instructors and seven doing core coach or slalom specific coach training. We really pleased that five youth members stepped forward and did

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the training, and we are also proud that four of the those trained were female. We have just started a Youth Introduction to Slalom course and most of those trained are helping run it. We really feel we are moving forwards and are very excited, although of course the path to being a qualified coach is quite a long one and we know our members will need our continued support to ensure they successfully achieve the award.”

Many other clubs started engaging soon enough. It was tough!

We were still having Covid restrictions, and we really didn’t know from one day to the next what would be allowed, or who was going to get Covid and whether courses would be cancelled. But we decided to continue... adapt and overcome… It was clear that these clubs are peoples bolt holes to sanity. It is their community, their sport to keep them active, and their time out. These clubs couldn’t stay hibernating, they needed to be up and running; people needed them!

Key volunteers from Rhondda Paddlers, Aberfan Canoe Club, Bridgend Canoe Club, Dragon Paddlers Canoe Club, Cardiff Canoe Club rallied around to organise their paddlers that they felt would be best placed to attend training and/or assessments. Zoe from Aberfan Canoe Club described it well, “it was like herding cats”, trying to organise individuals to do paddlesport courses when it’s winter, freezing cold or maybe they have been off the water for some time. Maybe they don’t have the current pre-requisites, many doubting their ability to step up and coach, others just struggle with balancing work and having the time off to attend training. All the work that is put in behind the scenes to keep these clubs up and running successfully is not always seen and recognised. These key volunteers really work hard to support their up-and-coming volunteer coaches, and deserve a huge round of applause!

On top of the club efforts, it turned out we have awesome local paddlesport providers. Talk about patient! Again, not knowing whether courses could go ahead or, whether numbers would change days before a course, which they inevitably did! It was great to get to know them better and see how passionate they are about working with paddlesport clubs, it showed it was definitely more than just a job to them!

It isn’t just the training and qualifications we support clubs with. At The Outdoor Partnership, we also assist and support clubs to go for grant applications, look for new venues, assist advertising sessions if they require this, and make volunteer action plans. Basically, we try to compliment, and not to duplicate, the support they already receive from Canoe Wales. We are just another string to their bow.

Our first year of providing Coach Education support to clubs in South and Mid Wales was a huge success. In Central South Wales alone we had several paddlesport clubs becoming TOP affiliated members. I feel hugely proud of the club volunteers who participated in this scheme and how many individuals we helped along their Paddlesport pathway; 6 WWSR, 6 FSRT, 6 Core Coach, 1 Paddlesport Leader, 1 Slalom specific coaching course, 13 Paddlesport Instructors and 2 REC2 First Aid!!

MORE INFO

To find out more about The Outdoor Partnership and the support they can offer visit: www.outdoorpartnership.co.uk

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“OUR FIRST YEAR OF PROVIDING COACH EDUCATION SUPPORT TO CLUBS IN SOUTH AND MID WALES WAS A HUGE SUCCESS. IN CENTRAL SOUTH WALES ALONE WE HAD SEVERAL PADDLESPORT CLUBS BECOMING THE OUTDOOR PARTNERSHIP AFFILIATED MEMBERS.”

MEMBERSHIP DISCOUNTS Canoe Wales has joined forces with some great retailers to give their members* a range of exclusive discounts and special offers.

So, if you’re thinking of buying some new kit or planning a trip in the UK or overseas check these out; you might save some serious money! * Available to ‘On the Water’ and ‘On the Bank’ members

Cotswold Outdoor

15% discount in store & online

Snow + Rock

15% discount in store & online

Runners Need

15% discount in store & online

Kayak Session

discounted subscription

Up and Under

range of discounts available

Aquapac

30% discount online

Aqua Plugs

up to £20 off a new pair of Aqua Plugs

NWWC

money off facility fees

Trusted Travel

up to 30% off airport parking

Skiline

5% off skiing holidays

Adventure Alternative

5% off adventure holidays

Undiscovered Mountains

5% off kayak or outdoor activity holidays

For more details: www.canoewales.com/discounts To become a member: www.canoewales.com/membership

E

The Big

Paddle Cleanup

PEMBROKESHIRE PADDLERS

arlier this year paddlers were asked to show their support for Wales’ blue spaces by getting involved in Glanhad Mawr wrth Badlo / The Big Paddle Cleanup from 4-12 June. With around 2.1 million people paddling at least once a year in the UK the aim was to rally the paddling community and remove 1000 sacks of litter from the UK’s inland waterways and coastal waters.

Clubs, groups and individuals were invited to organise or take part in a paddling cleanup, accessing the hard-to-reach places and removing litter and other rubbish from our waterways.

Litter-picking kits were available to make collecting the rubbish as easy as possible, and groups were asked to log their activity on the ClearAccessClearWaters Cleanup map.

Thirty clubs in Wales requested litter-picking kits and here are some of their acheivements.

CARDIFF CANOE CLUB

CLARE RUTTER BRECON CANOE CLUB

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RIVER TAFF Fourteen members met for a river cleanup on the River Taff in Pontypridd. We accessed the river just below the bridge connecting Llys Cadwyn and Ynysangharad War Memorial Park.

Starting out by collecting litter along the bank and wading in shallow water to remove larger obstacles like scaffolding poles and shopping trolleys, we eventually split into several groups.

The majority of club members collected from the water, following the river to the confluence of the Taff and the Rhondda, whilst a small group carried on alongside the riverbank through the park (where it was accessible and safe to do so).

Unfortunately we came across so much rubbish that the river team had to ferry back up river to the get-in several times to drop off bags and debris before carrying on downriver. Once both teams were reunited below the river confluence, we set about collecting more litter on both sides of the riverbank, clearing a long-standing obstacle in the centre of the flow (that kept accumulating new flotsam and jetsam with every flood), and finally moving all our bounty to higher ground so the council would be able to collect it.

We're very grateful to our volunteers, to Canoe Wales for providing us with the litter picking equipment and to Pontypridd Town Council for providing council waste bags and coordinating refuse pick-up.

ANNA HAMMER – CARDIFF CANOE CLUB

BRECON CANOE CLUB

PEMBROKESHIRE PADDLERS

CLWB ANTUR DYFFRYN PERIS

RIVER USK & RIVER TAFF One of our members collected a very small quantity of litter (1 bag) from the banks of the River Usk in Brecon town after an exhaustive search; testament to at least some of our rural rivers being in quite good shape litter-wise!

In contrast, five of us paddled the Taff from the outskirts of Cardiff to the Bay and collected litter on just one short section (all we had time for, unfortunately). We collected just a tiny percentage of the debris gathered in trees etc. over a 1km section of river but even so managed to fill 3 bags! But at least our small contribution means that’s 3 bags-worth of plastic etc. that’s no longer there...

CLEDDAU ESTUARY Thirteen volunteers paddled from Dale to Watwick Bay with kayaks and open boats in a fairly strong westerly breeze. We landed on the beach and cleared up the rubbish, mainly from the high tide line. Loaded the open boats with the sacks of rubbish and paddled back towards Dale stopping off at Castle Bay for a second cleanup. 6 bags filled.

LLYN PADARN Glad to see Llyn Padarn so clean but now even cleaner!

DYSYNNI PADDLING CLUB DYSYNNI RIVER 22 club members paddled the Afon Dysynni from the Bailey Bridge to Ynysmaengwyn community woodland, collecting litter on the way. 6.5km cleaned and 7 bags filled.

SNOWDONIA CANOE CLUB ABERMENAI POINT Six volunteers paddled Aberforeshore to Abermenai Point collecting 15 bags over 841m.

CLARE RUTTER CANOE WALES BIG PADDLE CLEANUP OFFICIAL SUPPORTER An honorary mention to Clare who did an amazing 6 litter-picks during Cleanup week; Swansea Canal, River Amman, Patch Beach, Borth Beach, Aberavon Beach and Poppit Sands. During this time she collected 7 bags of litter, the most common items of rubbish were: food packaging, plastic bottles, glass bottles, bottle tops and caps, cans, rope, fishing line and nets. The most hard-hitting; a toy tag on the beach on the first day of the campaign that said 'Keep our sea plastic free. Take me home'.

A huge thank you to all the clubs, volunteers and paddlers who took part in the Cleanup and helped improve the health of our waterways and made them better spaces for us all to enjoy.

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ANGLESEY SEA ANGLESEY SEA KAYAK SYMPOSIU KAYAK SYMPOSIUM M A R T I C L E : P E T E C AT T E R A L L

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A

s with most events, the NDK Anglesey Sea Kayak Symposium had endured a two-year, Covid-enforced break, which meant at this year’s Symposium the were a lot of enthusiastic kayakers eager to catch up and get out on the water!

The Symposium is now approaching its 40th year and over the decades has grown in popularity and reputation. It started out as the Nordkapp Meet, where Nordkapp owners could meet up to paddle, share stories and plan trips. It is now a fully-fledged Symposium attracting about 200 kayakers from around the world, who come together to paddle, learn, socialise and get some kayaking destination inspiration. The event is a great mix of guided tours - paddling along the amazing North Wales coastline under the guidance of a local expert - and coaching sessions - learning new skills and techniques in realistic conditions.

Nigel Dennis kicked the event off with a warm welcome and briefed everyone for the weekend ahead. He’d brought a huge fleet of demo boats, great if you wanted to try something new or for those who couldn’t travel with their boats, and with paddlers from the USA, Norway, Spain, Estonia, Germany, Switzerland and France there were a few of those! Steve from Whetman Equipment was on hand with all his latest sea kayaking safety and rescue gear. He delivered some great sessions on the water, where paddlers could practise for all eventualities and scenarios in realistic conditions.

Chris from Reed Chillcheater was coaching Greenland rolling clinics and had his awesome range of equipment on sale. The options for guided trips covered everything; from easier journeys taking in the best of the Anglesey coastline for those new to sea kayaking, to trips through various tides races at intro and advanced levels.

Whether you wanted to discover new skills or new destinations there was a session for you. After a full day on the water it was time to return to Anglesey Outdoors to dry kit and replenish energy ready for the next day. Although some additional energy was burnt on the dance floor! The Symposium is a real social event and has a great atmosphere both on and off the water. The Paddlers Return pub was the scene of the most socialising, with plenty of drinking, dancing and story swapping!

At the end of the weekend it was time to pack up and head home, but not before finalising kayaking trips and joining a few more paddling groups! For those who wanted to gain British Canoeing coaching and leadership qualifications there was the option to stay on for a few more days, great for those wanting to make the most out of their trip to N Wales.

2023 will be the 40th year, and Nige is planning a special anniversary Symposium; a big event to celebrate the sea kayaking community all in one amazing location. The 2022 event was pretty awesome, so 2023 should be amazing!

MORE INFO The Anglesey Sea Kayak Symposium takes

place around the early May bank holiday weekend and is based at Anglesey Outdoors near Porth Dafarch It's a chance to meet and greet old friends and new, share your experiences and learn practical tips from those in the know. www.angleseyseakayaksymposium.co.uk

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DESTINATION WALES © freevectormaps.com

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

In this article we take you on a tidal journey along the scenic Conwy Estuary.

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

CONWY ESTUARY The Conwy Estuary is truly spectacular, with stunning views of the mountains of northern Snowdonia, the imposing Conwy Castle, vibrant marinas and the solitude of rolling countryside. As it’s tidal you can paddle it any time of year and, if you get the timings right, you’ll get some tidal assistance all the way. This is best paddled as a return trip; the route described is 19 miles, however, it can be easily shortened; just choose a distance and turning point. This is an exposed stretch of water so check the forecast and choose a calm day.

CLASS/GRADE

USEFUL RESOURCES

The suggested trip has been defined as follows: Moderate: some exposure to tidal streams, longer periods without access/egress points.

Tide times: www.ukho.gov.uk/easytide Map: Explorer OL17 Snowdon/Yr Wyddfa

MODERATE WATER

Deganwy

A55 A546

Conwy

A55

B5106

Glan Conwy

Conwy Estuary Start/finish: Deganwy slipway LL31 9EJ – SH 77870 79111 Distance: 19 miles (return - can easily be shortened) It’s best to go with the flow on this trip and follow high water as it rises and flows inland towards Dolgarrog. Aim to arrive at Dolgarrog footbridge at high water (this is approx 30 mins after high water at Conwy). At the footbridge wait for the tide to turn then follow it back to the Deganwy slipway. As the tide drops the mudflats at the edge of the estuary become exposed, so it’s best to paddle this at high water. This is an open of stretch of water that is exposed to the wind, which can have a serious impact on the conditions and the ability to paddle. Check the forecast and choose a calm day. You can easily shorten this trip by choosing an earlier turning point.

DESCRIPTION Park in the Deganwy station car park on the east shore; it’s a short walk to the slipway along the road (level crossing). Alternatively, the slipway can be driven onto to unload. Access to the water is via the slipway or an adjacent floating pontoon. (There is an alternative parking/ access point near Conwy Marina on the west shore – see ‘Variations’).

Paddle into the estuary and head inland, towards the obvious arch of Conwy Bridge on the west shore. As the tide is constricted by the bridge the flow can strengthen and speed up, so be careful to avoid any moored boats or moorings. Continue past the harbour, the walled town and towards the imposing towers of Conwy Castle. As you paddle under the bridge have a quick look up; there are actually 3 bridges; road, foot and rail!

After you’ve paddled under the bridge(s) the flow eases again and you’ll head towards an obvious bend in the river. On the outside of the bend (east shore) is Conwy Nature Reserve so keep an eye out for the local birdlife. The estuary now starts to narrow and the scenery changes with fields and woodland on your right (west shore) and the small town of Glan

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A470

B5106

Tal-y-Cafn

Tal-y-Bont

Dolgarrog

A470

Approaching Tal-y-Cafn bridge on the return journey Conwy on your left (east shore). Enjoy the spectacular views of the mountains of northern Snowdonia; these will dominate the horizon for most of your journey inland.

The next major landmark is the road bridge at Tal-y-Cafn, there is a pub here but access is virtually impossible. About 1/2 mile after the bridge the river narrows into a small rocky gorge and the Tal y Cafn rapids. In deep (high) water there a few riffles but at lower levels (low water) there can be exposed rocks and rougher water. There is a small cave in the west wall of the gorge, with a walled entrance.

The river continues its winding course through low-lying farmland, with the occasional reed-covered island to paddle around.

Dolgarrog footbridge soon comes into view – there is a footpath at the west end of the footbridge, so you can get out here to stretch your legs. The bank is a little awkward to negotiate; a 1m grassy bank with some muddy gaps in. Wait here for the tide to turn then follow it back to Conwy. Don’t forget the Tal-y-Cafn rapids and the strong currents through Conwy Bridge on your return journey!

VARIATIONS There is an alternative access point at the Beacons car park (near Conwy Marina). This a staffed car park (fee payable) with a Portaloo.

50m from car park across sand to water/concrete slipway. The slipway can be driven onto to unload. There is also a floating pontoon, however, it is long and narrow and not the easiest for carrying paddlecraft on!

ACCESSIBILITY & FACILITIES DEGANWY There are cafes (some with great views of the estuary), shops and a supermarket in Deganwy.

Deganwy station car park: pay and display, accessible bays. 100m to water along road and across level crossing.

Deganwy slipway: can be driven onto to unload (100m to car park along road and across level crossing).

Public toilets (accessible) on Deganwy slipway.

Conwy Castle from south

TOP TIPS TO STAY SAFE AND PADDLE RESPONSIBLY Be prepared and take the right kit: » Wear a correctly sized buoyancy aid » Mobile phone in a waterproof case » Whistle – to attract attention in an emergency » Map and/or route description » Clothing for the weather conditions + spares in a dry bag » Food, drink & suncream Respect the natural environment and other users: » Respect other waterway users » Be environmentally aware, minimise your impact » Ensure you have the correct licence if required » Observe navigational rules – keep right and give other users space » Check, Clean, Dry after every trip!

PADDLING TRAILS This is one of a series of Paddling Trails produced by Canoe Wales; free downloadable PDFs of the best easier-grade trips that Wales has to offer. Aimed at new paddlers or those preferring an easier grade these PDFs have all the info needed to organise a trip and have a great time on the water. www.canoewales.com/paddling-trails

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THE RUBIK’S CUBE Have you ever been a master of solving the Rubik’s Cube? Are you one of those elite and smart individuals who can twist and turn at different levels and achieve the perfection of all sides showing the same colour in unison? Or has it mystified you and remained unsolvable?

Sadly, we are two of those people who have never managed to quite perfect it! Even through persevering in ‘solving strategies’ and ‘formulas’ that have had us whizzing the cube around this way and that, in a style that doesn’t make you think you will ever get anywhere, to then find another peg is in place, we have never hit that final success. We have come to accept that unless we pull out a few pegs or remove the stickers, it isn’t going to happen!

The Rubik’s Cube is key for us in our work role. We often compare our job to the Rubik’s Cube; we will never be able to smugly say, ‘We have conquered it and are now at the top of our game!’ However, we do love the continued challenge it gives us.

“OUR HEADMASTER HAD BECOME INCREASINGLY AWARE OF HOW BENEFICIAL IT WAS FOR THE YOUNG PEOPLE AT THE SCHOOL TO ENGAGE IN OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES.”

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About 15 years ago, more by default than design, we both found ourselves teaching in a school working with children with emotional and behavioural issues.

Initially we were employed in a school on the south coast of England, working with young people from London. After around 10 years we took a leap of faith and moved to North Wales, where we regularly spent our social time engaging in various outdoor activities.

Miraculously we were offered work in an independent school in Wrexham to start up an ‘Outdoor Department’.

Our headmaster had become increasingly aware of how beneficial it was for the young people at the school to engage in outdoor activities. There were positive changes to their well-being and it had a beneficial effect on their learning in the classroom. The difficulty they had was with using an outside provider, it was hard to work in a progressive way with our particular

A R T I C L E : N I C K Y I R V I N E - WA R D A N T H O N Y WA R D Y

students. The provider and the students didn’t get the opportunity to build up relationships. Also there wasn’t the chance to have the time to meet individual needs.

Currently there are about 60 students, who have very different abilities and personalities.

They range between 7–18 years old. Some have a diagnosis of ADHD, which can translate to having trouble paying attention, controlling impulsive behaviours (acting without thinking about what the result will be) or being overactive.

Some students have a condition called ASD – Autism Spectrum Disorder. This can often cause problems with social, emotional and communication skills. They may repeat certain behaviours and might not want change in their daily activities. Many people with ASD have different ways of learning, paying attention or reacting to things.

Many students have emotional trauma and have suffered abuse.

EXTERNAL LEADERSHIP Our department at school is termed as ‘EL’, which stands for External Leadership. Students attend EL for a full day on a three week basis and it is part of their curriculum.

Though we teach Outdoor Education we use that term really loosely and anyone who has observed our work is bound to question that that is what we are actually teaching!

External Leadership students engage in activities including kayaking, canoeing, SUPs, gorge walking, bush craft, walking and map reading, drowning prevention, camping residentials, independent travel, and in-town orientation. All of which lead to skills for life. At least, that is the plan!

It is about young people having the opportunity to work with others and develop leadership skills in a variety of different activities, whilst challenging themselves in areas of independence and resilience.

It aids our young people to develop life and employability skills, and to build self-confidence, enhancing positive communication with peers and adults. It encourages positive mental health and wellbeing.

All activities are differentiated personally for each student, moving at their pace in order for all to achieve.

Though we plan our programme incorporating these activities it is so much more than that.

We aim for students to learn resilience, selfworth, confidence building, risk taking and risk assessing, and to gain a sense of achievement.

Within this package too comes acceptance, understanding and healing, with times for reflection!

How a typical week will pan out is unpredictable and often surprising.

There can be areas that we have expectations of seeing success… and we don’t!

There can be areas we have attached very little expectations to… and a student thrives.

Some days feel like a complete wash-out; at the end of a session we question ourselves as to whether we’re ‘value for money’ in our role. Then, whilst we’re reflecting, we may identify that tiny spark that has made the day all worthwhile. It may not have come directly from something that we have done but rather from something we have facilitated and often not planned. All of this is what keeps us grounded!

So how do you teach adventurous activities to such a diverse group of characters? Within one group we will have some who are scared of their own shadow, and others with no fear at all and who are ready for more adventure than we can safely offer!

Do we actually teach adventurous activities?

Well, only to the level of the individual. Most learning is from the bottom up; allowing the student to find their feet and to learn through self-discovery. They often dictate their own learning pace and we step in and guide them with little nuggets of knowledge. This way allows ‘all to achieve’, which has to be the most desired outcome. Seeds for bigger and braver things are being planted.

“IT IS ABOUT YOUNG PEOPLE HAVING THE OPPORTUNITY TO WORK WITH OTHERS AND DEVELOP LEADERSHIP SKILLS IN A VARIETY OF DIFFERENT ACTIVITIES, WHILST CHALLENGING THEMSELVES IN AREAS OF INDEPENDENCE AND RESILIENCE.”

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We have learnt not to set our sights too high.

Each young person is a unique individual and, being characters that are frequently unpredictable, we cannot be rigid in our thinking. We often come armed with many plans for a session, incorporating all sorts of aims and outcomes. Then, on arrival of the group to their activity, this can all change in a flash and you are skipping on from Plan A to Plan B and Plan C and so on… thinking fast on your feet.

And this can be for individuals and not necessarily for the group. This attitude can remain with you throughout the whole session as these complex individuals change minute by minute.

Students experiencing high levels of anxiety can find particular activities make them fearful.

This fear can then be manifest in aggression and reactionary, confrontive behaviour. We have to remain mindful of the reasons behind their reactions and not to take it personally.

Our teaching therefore is to fit personal needs and cannot be moulded into a particular teaching style for a group. We need to communicate at their level both mentally and physically, keeping expectations low to meet them where they’re at; treated with full respect, empathy and a regard to their limitations, feelings and abilities.

The staff team remain consistently assertive but not aggressive in their approach. The guidelines and boundaries are clear but enforced with care and encouragement rather than ‘force’.

They remain caring and understanding through their clear instructions and expectations, and consistent in their approach; maintaining personal expectations per student.

Our tool bags are very big and they have to remain full!

Staff will all have different attributes and specialities to bring to the table, and will bring out a variety of tools to fit the job! This may manifest itself in a particular conversation with a child, a joke, a change of scene, sitting around a fire having a toasted marshmallow, giving personal space, giving some responsibility. The list can go on and on!

There are resources within you that you never knew existed and tools you would never use anywhere else except with these unique young people, with the aim for them to succeed and experience a sense of worth. The part that truly keeps you on your toes here is that what worked today, may not work tomorrow. What worked 5 minutes ago, may not have the same effect in the next 10 minutes. Like many of us, our students may need to try and try again before succeeding.

Our plan is for them always to experience a sense of achievement, however great or small. This makes them stronger and more resilient and wanting to learn. We aim to work on the positive side of their actions.

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Working on the positive side of their actions, even when you are being tried and tested to the limit, can often turn things around. For example, when the boundaries are being pushed, thank them for pointing out the possible dangers.

Maybe you’ll say, “That’s a brave thought, even I wouldn’t dare to do it that way!”

Within our department we have an ethos of not saying the word “No”. This is where the challenge comes in!

In our setting this word could be used frequently and it would lose its effect. “No” is an easy word to say and it takes a lot more imagination to word things differently using phrases like: “Have you thought this one through?”

“What do you think is the best way to do it?”

“How about trying it this way?”

Battles need to be chosen carefully otherwise you will lose the child’s interest. » See potential in everyone. » Students with complex needs often find value in being taught Risk v Benefit and being shown how to make a guided judgement. » These students can be super energetic; giving them a responsibility to focus on can help to channel their energy. And many young people thrive on this. » Pick up on an interest they have and build that into your conversation and your lesson. See potential in everyone!

» Be prepared to be flexible; even if that means changing your whole lesson plan. » Don’t feel disappointed if you don’t achieve your aim. If nothing goes according to plan, you have given them a memory to take away and you have kept them safe. There is much you achieve beneath the surface of these children that you are never aware of. It may not manifest itself for some time and can be building their confidence, self-worth and resilience for that outside world! » Keep expectations low! You may have lots planned and find that all a child wants on a particular day is to be paddled around while they lie down in a canoe, or to chill out in a hammock. If that’s how they are leading on the day keep things simple and basic.

Remember that even if they achieve lots in one session they may not the next. There is so much happening in their heads that on some days basic functioning is enough for them. » Learn from the candidates you’re with. They can be the most imaginative, constructive and creative people within their chaotic minds. » Stretch them in their knowledge and take them out of their comfort zones in adventure however big or small, knowing they will all have different thresholds. » Be mindful that the logical thought pattern you have may be illogical to a person with ASD. Explaining to a student that he is not wet

“STUDENTS EXPERIENCING HIGH LEVELS OF ANXIETY CAN FIND PARTICULAR ACTIVITIES MAKE THEM FEARFUL. THIS FEAR CAN THEN BE MANIFEST IN AGGRESSION AND REACTIONARY, CONFRONTIVE BEHAVIOUR. WE HAVE TO REMAIN MINDFUL OF THE REASONS BEHIND THEIR REACTIONS AND NOT TO TAKE IT PERSONALLY.”

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“HAVE SOMETHING IN MIND FOR THE ANXIOUS STUDENT WHO WILL ASK MANY QUESTIONS, OR THE SAME QUESTION REPEATEDLY, AS YOU ARE STILL LEADING THE ACTIVITY WITH THE REST OF THE GROUP. YOU STILL NEED TO BE CARING FOR THEIR ANXIETIES BUT MAYBE WITH BRIEF ANSWERS.”

»

» »

»

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after capsizing and is wearing a dry suit is interesting… For several minutes our student argued his case while standing in the lake; he had to be soaked through as his trainers were wet!

It is important to allow students to join in when they are ready. Sometimes they need to build up trust for their instructors. Young people who have been abused may need a sensitive approach, for example, when you are helping them with adjusting a harness or buoyancy aid.

Talking through what you are doing every step of the way may ease their anxiety, or you let them mirror what you are doing so they can do it for themselves.

Constant feedback is useful for them and they will then move on positively more and more.

Work within your staff group in a way where you can communicate lots without having to say too much in front of the young person.

Just a look or a nod at the right time or a key word can help things to run smoother rather than having discussions in front of the young people. Minimalistic wording is critical. Trust between your colleagues is vital. For example, you may encounter an issue and need to ask a colleague to step in at that point. Often it would not be beneficial to go into long explanations as to why. Being responsive to a request, even without all the details being laid out, can be essential for smoother running of an activity.

Have something in mind for the anxious student who will ask many questions, or the same question repeatedly, as you are still

leading the activity with the rest of the group.

You still need to be caring for their anxieties but maybe with brief answers.

For example, Q: “If I capsize, how will I get out?”

A: “I’ll be there to support you.”

A: “I’ll always be close by.”

A: “Just make your way towards me.” » Then you may have the overconfident child who doesn’t listen. You may need to be prepared to let them go and you go with the flow, and have something and someone in place to pick up the rest of the group where needed.

Refection! This is a big part of our day. We are critical of our work and will pick through and analyse at the end of the day.

For example, we questioned our value when we had a reasonably smooth day; a particular student had only laid in a hammock for the day out in the woodland on a bushcraft session. She had requested hot chocolate and the occasional chat. Then we remind ourselves; this student is very aggressive, they do not sit still for any length of time and are very negatively demanding and confrontational.

What a step forward for this student to find comfort in a hammock (which we liken to a hug) and to be still and quiet, and thoughtful and reflective.

It is evidenced that the adventure/outdoor experience produces life-long memories. This is our aim!

PARTING SHOT Collecting rubbish from the River Taff as part of The Big Paddle Cleanup.

Photo: Anna Hammer – Cardiff Cardiff Canoe Club