GBSUP LLANDEGFEDD PURSUIT @SUPJUNKIE.UK
golygyddol
Rwyf wrth fy modd â'r llun hwn o ras ymlid PADPF(GBSUP)
Llandegfedd. Mae'n dangos bod cymaint mwy i rasio na'r llinell derfyn. Mae'n ymwneud â chymuned o athletwyr sy'n rhannu angerdd am eu camp ac sydd (yn bennaf!) yn cefnogi ac yn annog ei gilydd. Am rownd o rasio PAD (SUP) yng Nghymru eleni edrychwch ar adroddiad Emily King ar t26. Wrth siarad am gefnogaeth ac anogaeth, mae Joey Chapman wedi ysgrifennu erthygl wych ar wneud y gorau o'ch cyflawniadau mewn chwaraeon padlo, waeth pa mor fach. Mae'n atgof gwych pam mae'r rhan fwyaf ohonom yn caru chwaraeon padlo, a'n bod ni i gyd yn cael diwrnodau gwael! Darganfyddwch sut y gallwch chi ddathlu'r pethau bach ar d24.
Diolch yn fawr i Joey, Emily a'r holl gyfranwyr i Geufad, heboch chi byddai'n gylchgrawn diflas iawn. Mae'n wych gallu cynnwys cymaint o wahanol agweddau ar chwaraeon padlo: caiac dŵr gwyn, rasio PAD (SUP), slalom, caiacio môr, polo canŵ ... Ac i adlewyrchu'r amrywiaeth yma mae
Canŵ Cymru ar fin troi'n Paddle Cymru. Newidiadau mawr yn 2025!
Vicky Barlow
Golygydd
Ceufad
editorial
Ilove this photo from the GBSUP Llandegfedd pursuit race. It shows there’s so much more to racing than the finish line. It’s about a community of athletes who share a passion for their sport and who (mostly!) support and encourage each other. For a round-up of SUP racing in Wales this year check out Emily King’s report on p26. Speaking of support and encouragement, Joey Chapman has written a great article on making the most of your achievements in paddlesport, no matter how small. It’s a fantastic reminder as to why most of us love paddlesport, and that we all have bad days! See how you can celebrate the little things on p25.
A big thanks to Joey, Emily and all the contributors to Ceufad, without you it would be a very dull magazine. It’s great to be able to feature so many different aspects of paddlesport: whitewater kayak, SUP racing, slalom, sea kayaking, canoe polo … And to reflect this diversity Canoe Wales is about to become Paddle Cymru. Big changes in 2025!
Vicky Barlow Editor
ceufad@canoewales.com
Ed Ceufad @Ceufad
Ceufad yw cylchgrawn swyddogol Canŵ Cymru ac mae’n rhad ac am ddim i’w aelodau. Cynhyrchir y cynnwys gan Canŵ Cymru, ei aelodau a chyfranwyr eraill, felly nid yw’r safbwyntiau a fynegir o reidrwydd yn rhai Canŵ Cymru na golygydd y cylchgrawn. Cynhyrchir Ceufad bob chwarter yn y Gwanwyn (Mawrth), Haf (Mehefin), Hydref (Medi) a'r Gaeaf (Rhagfyr)
RHIFYN NESAF: GWANWYN DYDDIAD CAU:1 CHWEFROR
I gael gwybodaeth am DANYSGRIFIADAU, HYSBYSEBION a CHYFLWYNIADAU: www.canoewales.com/ceufad ceufad@canoewales.com
Ceufad Ed Ceufad @Ceufad ceufad@canoewales.com
Ceufad is the official magazine of Canoe Wales and is free to its members. Content is produced by Canoe Wales, its members and other contributors, so the views expressed are not necessarily those of Canoe Wales or the magazine’s editor. Ceufad is produced quarterly in: Spring (March), Summer (June), Autumn (Sept) and Winter (Dec) NEXT ISSUE: SPRING DEADLINE: 1 FEBRUARY For info on SUBSCRIPTIONS, ADVERTISING and SUBMISSIONS: www.canoewales.com/ceufad ceufad@canoewales.com
4 Newyddion Canŵ Cymru
Gwybodaeth a diweddariadau fan Canŵ Cymru
Info and updates from Canoe Wales
In the Flow
The latest paddlesport products and news
Brwydr ym Mhwll y Castell
Twrnamaint Polo Canŵ Rhyngwladol Julie Morris
The Battle at Castle Pond Julie Morris International Canoe Polo Tournament
16 Q&A Huw Butterworth
Interview with CW Inspiriring Paddler of the Year 2023 20 2025 Year Planner
Pull-out guide to what's happening next year
CYNNWYS CONTENTS
Isla Carmen Sea kayaking in the Sea of Cortez 16 26 34 10
22 Llwyddiant Slalom Gogledd Cymru
Dewis llwyddiannus i Slalom Gogledd Cymru
23 North Wales Slalom Success
Selection success for North Wales Slalom 24 Dathlu Popeth!
Joey Chapman yn rhannu pump uchel
25 Celebrate Everything!
Joey Chapman shares a high five
26 Making Waves in Wales
SUP racing round-up 30 Plastic Free yr Wyddfa
Keeping our mountains and waterways clean
/ COVER
CANŴ CYMRU — EIN TÎM
Alistair Dickson Prif Weithredwr
TÎM GWASANAETHAU AELODAU
Andy Turton Rheolwr Hyfforddi
Val Ephraim Swyddog Gweinyddol
Suzanne Parkin Cynorthwyydd Llywodraethu ac Aelodaeth
Bonnie Armstrong Arweinydd Cyfathrebu a Marchnata
Ellen Roberts Swyddog Cyllid
Phil Stone Rheolwr Lleoedd i Badlo
Kerry Skidmore Swyddog Arweiniol Diogelu a Chydraddoldeb
Lydia Wilford Swyddog Datblygu
Emily King Arweinydd PAD/SUP
TÎM PERFFORMIAD
Sid Sinfield Rheolwr Perfformiad
Jonathan Davies Swyddog Llwybr Talent (Gogledd)
Gareth Bryant Swyddog Llwybr Talent (Gorllewin)
James Pigdon Swyddog Llwybr Talent (De)
Giacomo Leighton Talent Slalom - De
Emily Davies Talent Slalom – Gogledd
CYFARWYDDWYR
Kerry Chown Cadeirydd
Jet Moore Is-gadeirydd
Andy Booth Cyfarwyddwr Cyllid
Elsa Davies
Alun Davies
Allan Binstead
Ruth Hall
Tanya Neilson
Dave Kohn-Hollins
David Eade
CYSYLLTWCH Â CANŴ CYMRU
www.canoewales.com
admin@canoewales.com 01678 521 199
Canolfan Dŵr Gwyn Genedlaethol, Frongoch, Bala, Gwynedd, LL23 7NU
NEGES GAN Y PRIF SWYDDOG GWEITHREDOL, ALISTAIR DICKSON
HWYL FAWR, 2024!
Rhyfeddol pa mor gyflym mae'r flwyddyn wedi hedfan! Mae hi wedi bod yn flwyddyn o uchafbwyntiau lu — digon o law, Gemau Olympaidd bythgofiadwy ym Mharis, lansiad
Chwaraeon Dŵr Glân Cymru Wales (y byddaf yn dod ato nes ymlaen), ac anturiaethau a llwyddiannau padlo di-ri.
DIOLCH YN FAWR IAWN
Yn gyntaf, hoffwn ddiolch i'n holl aelodau a fynychodd y CCB (AGM) yn ôl ym mis Tachwedd. Roedd yn wych gweld cymaint ohonoch yno, yn mynd ati i ymgysylltu a chefnogi'r newidiadau mawr i'n cymdeithas. Mae eich cyfraniad wedi ein helpu i gyflawni dwy garreg filltir allweddol: 1. Ail-frandio i Paddle Cymru, yn effeithiol o'r Flwyddyn Newydd.
2. Ethol dau gyfarwyddwr newydd anhygoel — Jim Potter a Megan Hamer-Evans — sy'n dod â chyfoeth o frwdfrydedd, profiad, a syniadau ffres i'r Bwrdd.
Cawsom hefyd fwynhau straeon ysbrydoledig gan Tavi Murray, Russell Scaplehorn, ac Emily King am eu hanturiaethau padlo anhygoel. Rhaid sôn yn arbennig am ein Cadeirydd, Kerry Chown, a rannodd y newyddion diweddaraf wrth gyhoeddi ei phenderfyniad i roi'r gorau iddi fel Cadeirydd ym mis Mai 2025.. Mae Kerry wedi bod yn gonglfaen Canŵ Cymru ers 2018 a chymerodd rôl y Cadeirydd ym mis Chwefror 2020. O dan ei harweinyddiaeth, tywysodd ni ni drwy heriau COVID-19, arwain gwelliannau llywodraethu critigol, a mynd i'r afael â materion cymhleth di-ri lle profodd ei harbenigedd fel uwch gyfarwyddwr AD (HR) yn amhrisiadwy. Ar ran pob un ohonom, diolch, Kerry, am eich ymroddiad a'ch arweinyddiaeth. Yn bersonol, byddaf yn colli ei chyngor doeth wrth i ni ddechrau chwilio am ei holynydd yn gynnar yn 2025.
CYNGHRAIR CHWARAEON DŴR GLÂN CYMRU
Ychydig cyn y CCB, mynychais Gynhadledd Gynaliadwyedd Cymdeithas Chwaraeon Cymru, lle lansiwyd gyda balchder Cynghrair Chwaraeon Dŵr Glân Cymru mewn partneriaeth â Triathlon Cymru, CHB Cymru (RYA Wales), a Rhwyfo Cymru Mae'r fenter hon yn adeiladu ar fomentwm cynghrair y DU gyfan, gan deilwra ei hymdrechion i fynd i'r afael â heriau unigryw Cymru, yn enwedig wrth ddal cwmnïau dŵr yn atebol am lygredd yn ein dyfrffyrdd. Ffocws allweddol yw'r ymgynghoriad cyfredol ar ailddosbarthu dyfroedd 'ymdrochi' fel dyfroedd 'hamdden', gan sicrhau bod polisïau'r llywodraeth yn adlewyrchu anghenion pob cyfranogwr chwaraeon dŵr. Mae hwn yn gam sylweddol ymlaen, ac rydym eisoes yn gweld cynnydd ystyrlon.
EDRYCH YMLAEN AT 2025
Yn y cyfamser, y tu ôl i'r llenni yng Nghanŵ Cymru, rydym wedi bod yn gweithio'n galed yn cynllunio ar gyfer 2025. Ymhlith yr uchafbwyntiau mae:
» Lansio gwefan newydd wedi'i chynllunio i'w gwneud hi'n haws i aelodau ac ymwelwyr ddod o hyd i wybodaeth.
» Buddsoddi yn JustGo i symleiddio ein prosesau mewnol, gan wella effeithlonrwydd a darparaeth o wasanaethau.
» Mwy o ddigwyddiadau a gweithgareddau sy'n gwasanaethu ein cymuned eang a'n grwpiau defnyddwyr.
» Polisi a ffrydiau gwaith Cydraddoldeb newydd i ymgysylltu’n well â chyfranogwyr heb gynrychiolaeth ddigonol.
» Hyfforddwr Perfformiad Newydd (Jon Haylock) i gefnogi ein rhaglen Slalom ar lefel Talent a Pherfformiad.
» Mawr y Gwanwyn Chwaraeon Dŵr newydd – fel y Glanhau Mawr Padlo ond sy'n cynnwys yr holl CLlC (NGB) i chwaraeon dŵr yng Nghymru.
» Digwyddiadau PAD (SUP) AquaPaddle newydd – fel parkrun ond ar gyfer padlwyr. Digwyddiadau yn cael eu cynnal ar hyd a lled Cymru.
MYFYRDODAU TERFYNOL
@canoewales
Mae 2024 wedi bod yn flwyddyn gorwyntog arall, yn llawn heriau a chyflawniadau. Mae'n ymddangos mai newid a thwf yw'r cysonion yn ein byd! Wrth i ni nesáu'r at ddiwedd y flwyddyn, gobeithio y byddwch i gyd yn mwynhau seibiant haeddiannol gyda ffrindiau a theulu dros gyfnod yr ŵyl. Edrychaf ymlaen at eich gweld mewn digwyddiadau a gweithgareddau yn 2025. Dyma flwyddyn wych arall i ddod!
CYFARFOD CYFFREDINOL BLYNYDDOL CANŴ CYMRU
2 GROESO AC 1 FFARWEL
Ymddangosodd CCB blynyddol CC ar ein sgriniau eto, fel digwyddiad ar-lein gyda'r nos. Eleni gwelwyd nifer nodedig o aelodau'n mewngofnodi, heb os, yn awyddus i fwrw eu pleidleisiau ar gyfer y ddau aelod newydd o'r bwrdd. Dechreuodd y digwyddiad gyda chroeso gan Kerry Chown (Cadeirydd CC), a gyflwynodd Tavi Murray a Russell Scaplehorn, a oedd yn barod i ddarparu sgwrs y noson. Roedd Tavi a Russell yn rhan o grŵp a gwblhaodd gylchfordaith o Gymru yn yr haf. Fe wnaethon nhw badlo 950km dros 27 diwrnod a chodi £2280 i'r SCBBA (RNLI). Roedd eu sgwrs yn ein harwain ar daith o amgylch yr arfordir, ar hyd y camlesi ac i'r aberoedd, a thrwy stormydd a heriau eraill. Roedd yn ddechrau gwych i'r noson!
Daeth busnes arferol y Cyfarfod Cyffredinol Blynyddol nesaf, a chafodd y gwylwyr ddiweddariad ar Fwrdd CC. Cawsant drosolwg hefyd o'r pum enwebai ar gyfer y ddwy swydd etholedig wag ac roedd yn bryd pleidleisio.
Roedd hi'n amlwg fod y pleidleisio yn un o ganolbwyntiau allweddol y noson, roedd llawer o bleidleisiau drwy ddirprwy wedi eu derbyn yn dangos y diddordeb a'r ymgysylltiad a hefyd safon uchel y pum ymgeisydd. Ar ôl i'r pleidleisiau gael eu cyfrif a'u cadarnhau, dewiswyd Megan Hamer Evans a Jim Potter fel y ddau ymgeisydd. Gobeithio y bydd y ddau yn ymddangos yn rhifyn gwanwyn Ceufad!
Yna rhoddodd Kerry ei hadroddiad Cadeirydd lle cyhoeddodd y byddai'n rhoi'r gorau i'w swydd fel Cadeirydd fis Mehefin nesaf. Dilynodd Alistair Dickson, Prif Swyddog Gweithredol, ddiweddariad o weithgareddau'r gymdeithas ar draws y gwahanol feysydd swyddogaethol.
Yna dilynodd Andy Booth, Ymgynghorydd Ariannol, a rhoddodd ddarlun manwl o sefyllfa ariannol Gwerthiannau a Gwasanaethau CC ill dau. Cymerwyd pleidleisiau lle cymeradwywyd y cyfrifon fel y'u cyflwynwyd ac ailbenodwyd Bevan Buckland LLC ar gyfer 2024-25.
Yna cyflwynodd Kerry gynnig y Bwrdd i newid enw masnachu Canŵ Cymru i Paddle Cymru. Cafodd hyn ei gymeradwyo gydag 80% o bleidleiswyr yn cymeradwyo'r newid.
Yna caewyd y Cyfarfod Cyffredinol Blynyddol ffurfiol, gyda diolch yn cael ei roi i Kerry am ei chyfnod fel Cadeirydd CC (yn ystod rhai amseroedd heriol!), ac i'r aelodau am ymuno ar-lein a bwrw eu pleidleisiau. Gorffennwyd y noson gyda chyflwyniad gan Emily King, Arweinydd PAD CC, am ei ras PAD Eithafol 200km ar y Tafwys, a oedd yn swnio fel cyfuniad anhygoel o antur a blinder! Mae'r holl gyflwyniadau bellach wedi'u cyhoeddi a gellir cael mynediad atynt ar: www.canoewales.com/agm-2024
HWYL FAWR CANŴ CYMRU, HELO PADDLE CYMRU!
CYFNOD NEWYDD I'R CORFF LLYWODRAETHU CENEDLAETHOL AR GYFER CHWARAEON PADLO YNG NGHYMRU
Cafodd yr enw newydd a'r adnabyddiaeth brand eu cymeradwyo gan aelodaeth CC yn dilyn y Cyfarfod Cyffredinol Blynyddol ym mis Tachwedd. Mae hyn yn dilyn proses helaeth o ymgynghori â chymuned padlo, partneriaid a rhanddeiliaid CC dros y ddwy flynedd ddiwethaf. Mae hefyd yn dilyn cynnig y Ffederasiwn Canŵio Rhyngwladol i ddod yn Paddle Worldwide, a gytunwyd yn y gyngres flynyddol ym mis Tachwedd. Yn dilyn y bleidlais, bydd Canŵ Cymru yn diweddaru'r brandio ac yn lansio gwefan newydd ymhen wythnosau i ddod. Cadwch lygad allan am y diweddariadau!
Megan Hamer Evans
Tîm Cylchfordeithio Cymru
Y Tafwys Eithafol 200km
Jim Potter
CANOE WALES – OUR TEAM
Alistair Dickson CEO
MEMBER SERVICES TEAM
Andy Turton Coaching Manager
Val Ephraim Administrative Officer
Suzanne Parkin Governance & Membership Assistant
Bonnie Armstrong Comms & Marketing Lead
Ellen Roberts Finance Officer
Phil Stone Places to Paddle Manager
Kerry Skidmore Lead Safeguarding and Equality Officer
Lydia Wilford Development Officer
Emily King SUP Lead
PERFORMANCE TEAM
Sid Sinfield Performance Manager
Jonathan Davies Talent Pathway Officer (North)
Gareth Bryant Talent Pathway Officer (West)
James Pigdon Talent Pathway Officer (South)
Giacomo Leighton Slalom Talent Coach
Emily Davies Talent Slalom – North
DIRECTORS
Kerry Chown Chair
Jet Moore Vice Chair
Andy Booth Finance Director
Elsa Davies
Alun Davies
Allan Binstead
Ruth Hall
Tanya Neilson
Dave Kohn-Hollins
David Eade
CONTACT CANOE WALES
www.canoewales.com
admin@canoewales.com 01678 521 199
Canolfan Dŵr Gwyn Genedlaethol, Frongoch, Bala, Gwynedd, LL23 7NU
@canoewales
MESSAGE FROM THE CEO, ALISTAIR DICKSON
GOODBYE, 2024!
Amazing how quickly the year has flown by! It’s been a year of many highlights — plenty of rain, the unforgettable Paris Olympics, the launch of Clean Watersports Cymru Wales (which I will come onto), and countless paddling adventures and successes.
A BIG THANK YOU
First, I want to thank all our members who attended the AGM back in November. It was fantastic to see so many of you there, actively engaging and supporting the major changes to our association. Your input helped us achieve two key milestones:
1. Rebranding to Paddle Cymru, effective from the New Year.
2. Electing two incredible new directors — Jim Potter and Megan Hamer-Evans — who bring a wealth of enthusiasm, experience, and fresh ideas to the Board.
We were also treated to inspiring stories from Tavi Murray, Russell Scaplehorn, and Emily King about their incredible paddling adventures. A special mention goes to our Chair, Kerry Chown, who shared updates while announcing her decision to step down as Chair in May 2025.
Kerry has been a cornerstone of Canoe Wales since 2018 and took on the role of Chair in February 2020. Under her leadership, she guided us through the challenges of COVID-19, spearheaded critical governance improvements, and tackled countless complex issues where her expertise as a senior HR director proved invaluable. On behalf of all of us, thank you, Kerry, for your dedication and leadership. Personally, I will miss your wise counsel as we begin the search for your successor in early 2025.
CLEAN WATERSPORTS CYMRU ALLIANCE
Just before the AGM, I attended the Welsh Sports Association Sustainability Conference, where we proudly launched the Clean Watersports Cymru Alliance in partnership with Welsh Triathlon, RYA Cymru Wales, and Welsh Rowing
This initiative builds on the momentum of the UK-wide alliance, tailoring its efforts to address Wales’ unique challenges, particularly in holding water companies accountable for pollution in our waterways. A key focus is the current consultation on reclassifying ‘bathing’ waters as ‘recreational’ waters, ensuring government policies reflect the needs of all watersports participants. This is a significant step forward, and we’re already seeing meaningful progress.
LOOKING AHEAD TO 2025
Meanwhile, behind the scenes at Canoe Wales, we’ve been hard at work planning for 2025. Highlights include:
» Launching a new website designed to make it easier for members and visitors to find information.
» Investing in JustGo to streamline our internal processes, improving efficiency and service delivery.
» More events and activity serving our broad community and user groups.
» New Equality policy and workstreams to better engage underrepresented participants across the board.
» New Performance Coach (Jon Haylock) to support our Slalom programme at Talent & Performance level.
» A new Big Watersports Spring Clean – like the Big Paddle Clean but involving all watersports NGB’s in Wales.
» New AquaPaddle SUP events – like parkrun but for paddlers. Events taking place all over Wales
FINAL REFLECTIONS
2024 has been another whirlwind year, full of challenges and achievements. It seems that change and growth are the constants in our world!
As we wrap up the year, I hope you all enjoy a well-deserved break with friends and family over the festive period. I’m looking forward to seeing you at events and activities in 2025. Here’s to another great year ahead!
CANOE WALES ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
2 WELCOMES AND A FAREWELL
The annual CW AGM landed on our screens again, as an evening online event. This year saw an impressive number of members logging on, no doubt keen to get cast their votes for the two new board members.
The event kicked off with a welcome from Kerry Chown (CW Chair), who then introduced Tavi Murray and Russell Scaplehorn, who were lined up to provide the evening’s talk. Tavi and Russell were part of a group who completed a circumnavigation of Wales in the summer. They paddled 950km over 27 days and raised £2280 for the RNLI. Their talk carried us on a journey around the coastline, along the canals and into the estuaries, and through storms and other challenges. It was a strong start to the evening!
The normal business of the AGM came next, and viewers received an update on the CW Board. They also received an overview of the five nominees for the two vacant elected positions and it was time to vote.
It was clear the voting was a key focus of the evening, many proxy votes had been received demonstrating the interest and engagement and also the high calibre of the five candidates. Once the votes had been counted and confirmed, Megan Hamer Evans and Jim Potter were selected as the two candidates. Hopefully they will both feature in the spring issue of Ceufad!
Kerry then gave her Chair’s report where she announced she would be standing down as Chair next June. Alistair Dickson, CEO, followed with an update of the activities of the association across the various functional areas.
Andy Booth, Financial Consultant, then followed and gave a detailed picture of the financial situation of both CW’s and CW’s Sales and Services. Votes were taken where the accounts were approved as presented and Bevan Buckland LLC were reappointed for 2024-25.
Kerry then introduced the Board’s proposal to change the trading name of Canoe Wales to Paddle Cymru. This was approved with 80% of votes in approval of the change.
The formal AGM was then closed, with thanks given to Kerry for her time as CW Chair (during some challenging times!), and to the members for joining online and casting their votes. The evening was finished with a presentation from Emily King, CW SUP Lead, about her Thames Ultra 200km SUP race, which was sounded like an amazing combination of adventure and exhaustion!
All presentations have now been published and can be accessed at: www.canoewales.com/agm-2024
GOOD BYE CANOE WALES, HELLO PADDLE CYMRU!
NEW ERA FOR THE NATIONAL GOVERNING BODY FOR PADDLESPORT IN WALES
The new name and brand identity were approved by the CW membership following the AGM in November. This is following an extensive process of consultation with CW’s paddling community, partners and stakeholders over the past two years. It’s also following the proposal of the International Canoe Federation to become Paddle Worldwide, which was agreed at the annual congress in November. Following the vote, Canoe Wales will be updating the branding and launching a new website in weeks to come. Keep an eye out for updates!
Megan Hamer Evans Jim Potter
Round Wales Team
Thames Ultra 200km
Canolfan Tryweryn
Thank you to all our lovely paddlers, and here’s to another happy, boat-filled year!
2025 COURSES
REC 1st Aid
RESCUE 3 WRT Pro / WRTA Raft Guide Training
BCAB white water safety courses, leader and coach training and assessment
Kayak and canoe skills courses throughout the year, from intro to white water & running the lower river to working on the upper river & improving your freestyle.
If you can’t find what you’re looking for, give us a call on 01678 521083.
Don’t forget, Canoe Wales members get a massive 25% discount off NWWC courses! Gift vouchers are also available for all our activities.
She Paddles
In addition to our She Fest weekend, we are also planning female specific courses in white water safety, leadership and skill boosting!
Gabon Unchartered follows the SEND crew of Dane Jackson, Kaleb Grady, Adrian Mattern and the late Bren Orton as they attempt to run the Ivindo, a huge river in a remote part of Gabon, West Africa. They’re not alone — 2 legendary kayakers join them to document their amazing adventure. Olaf Obsommer, who attempted a first descent of the river in the 2000’s, is behind the camera. David Arnaud directs and edits the film, going the extra mile to capture what it takes to be part of
This film is not just for diehard white-water paddlers, it’s for any adventure enthusiast. It shows the SEND crew paddling their usual hardlines in incredible style, but also reveals what it takes for this team to be so successful. It shows the personalities, friendships and camaraderie, along with the discussions and decision-making that goes into paddling these next-level drops and rapids. In the words of David, ‘…while the Go Pros, drones and cameras have become part of the ride, in the end you don’t send it just for the Gram. You send it for yourself, and you send it for each other. So, what is this SEND team really about? Maybe a better question to ask is, don’t we all need a
The Banff Mountain Film Festival is back with a brand-new line-up of captivating short films packed with extreme journeys, intriguing characters and stunning cinematography. Join the world's top outdoor filmmakers and adventurers as they paddle, ride, run, ski and climb through
With exciting nightly prize giveaways and a theatre packed with adventure lovers, this is an unmissable event from the world's most prestigious mountain festival. Spark your passion for
The line-up will be released in December, but the dates and locations have been confirmed, with
On a cold, grey morning in April 2024, friends Kerry Lewis and Nadia Weigh set a new world record as the fastest female crew to kayak the length of the Thames. Paddling a punishing 200km journey from Lechlade to Teddington Lock in an incredible 21 hours and 33 minutes. The journey to this moment had been equally challenging. Months of intense preparation; training six days a week, with one “long day,” where they’d paddle pretty much all day. However, they said the hardest part wasn’t the training itself but all the logistical aspects. Organising support crews, deciding on the best equipment, and paddling safely in the dark. And the winter conditions were brutal — wind, high water levels, high flow and even fallen trees in the river made training a real test of patience. Not to mention river crossings in underwear and exhaustion-induced hallucinations! Their goal wasn’t just to set a new record; they were raising money for the charity ‘Women in Sport’ and raised over £3,300 in donations. In their own words “if we’ve learned anything from this experience, it’s that you don’t have to be the fastest or the best — you just have to be willing to try. So many women hold themselves back because we think we’re not good enough, but honestly,
ERTHYGL: ROWAN KETTLE
The Battle at Castle Pond
ARTICLE: ROWAN KETTLE
Ar benwythnos y 3ydd a'r 4ydd o Awst 2024, cynhaliodd Clwb Canŵio'r Ddraig, mewn partneriaeth â Phadlwyr Sir Benfro, Dwrnamaint Polo Canŵ Rhyngwladol Julie Morris (y 25ain gystadleuaeth Agored Gymraeg) ym Mhwll y Castell godidog ym Mhenfro. Daeth timau o bob rhan o'r DU ynghyd am ddau ddiwrnod o gystadlu ffyrnig, i gyd yn erbyn cefndir syfrdanol Castell Penfro, gan greu awyrgylch bythgofiadwy i chwaraewyr a gwylwyr fel ei gilydd Nid dim ond gwledd weledol oedd y lleoliad hanesyddol; Darparodd lwyfan perffaith ar gyfer polo canŵio lefel uchel, camp sy'n adnabyddus am ei symudiadau cyflym a'i sgil heriol. Tynnodd y digwyddiad dorfeydd mawr drwy gydol y penwythnos, yn enwedig wrth i'r twrnamaint gyrraedd ei rowndiau uchafbwyntiol, gyda thwristiaid a phobl leol yn leinio'r ardal i wylio'r gemau gwefreiddiol yn datblygu.
DIWRNOD 1: Y GYSTADLEUAETH YN CYNHESU
Fe ddechreuodd y cystadlu’n gynnar fore Sadwrn wrth i dimau daro'r dŵr yn barod i fentro am le yn y rowndiau terfynol. Yn ystod y diwrnod cyntaf gwelwyd cymysgedd o gemau agos a pherfformiadau hynod, gyda phob tîm yn cystadlu am safle cryf yn mynd i mewn i rowndiau terfynol dydd Sul.
Yn Adran 1, daeth Clwb Canŵio Avon i'r amlwg fel y tîm amlwg, gan orffen ar frig eu grŵp ar ôl cyfres o berfformiadau dominyddol. Sicrhawyd lle yn y rownd gynderfynol, ochr yn ochr â Dragon Black, Dragon Red, a Rhondda Rhinos, pob un ohonynt yn cynnal arddangosiadau trawiadol o sgil a strategaeth. Roedd lefel y gystadleuaeth yn eithriadol o uchel, gyda'r timau'n dangos tactegau wedi'u cydgysylltu'n dda, atgyrchion miniog a phenderfyniad diwyro.
Gwelodd Adran 2 gystadleuaeth ddwys yr un fath, gyda Chlwb Canŵio’r Llychlynwyr ar frig eu grŵp ar ôl cyfres o fuddugoliaethau awdurdodol. Yn y pwll arall, cymerodd Dragon Ravens reolaeth, gan ennill eu lle yn y rowndiau terfynol wrth i'r gystadleuaeth gulhau i'r timau gorau. Erbyn diwedd dydd Sadwrn, roedd y llwyfan wedi'i osod ar gyfer diwrnod cyffrous o gemau a rowndiau terfynol ddydd Sul, gyda digon o botensial ar gyfer cyffro a syrpreisys.
DIWRNOD 2: ERGYDION TERFYNOL A GEMAU TERFYNOL Wrth i ddydd Sul wawrio, roedd yr awyrgylch o gwmpas Pwll y Castell yn drydanol. Roedd y rowndiau terfynol yn y ddwy adran yn addo gobeithion uchel a gemau dwys, gyda phob gêm yn cymryd arwyddocâd ychwanegol wrth i'r twrnamaint agosáu at ei derfyn.
Yn Adran 2, gwelwyd y Llychlynwyr ac Avon 2 yn mynd ymlaen i'r rownd derfynol, y ddau dîm wedi dangos cysondeb a rhagoriaeth dactegol trwy gydol y penwythnos. Roedd y rownd derfynol ei hun yn ornest dda, gyda’r Llychlynwyr yn profi'n rhy gryf i Avon 2, gan sicrhau buddugoliaeth o 5-2 i gymryd teitl Adran 2. Amlygodd eu rhediad diguro dros y penwythnos eu hansawdd a'u gwaith tîm, tra gall Avon 2 fod yn falch o orffen yn ail ar ôl perfformiad cadarn. Daeth Ieuenctid y Rhondda Rhinos yn drydydd gyda buddugoliaeth haeddiannol dros Smyglwyr Bude yn y gêm ail-gyfle.
Daeth uchafbwynt y twrnamaint yn rownd derfynol Adran 1, a welodd Rhondda Rhinos yn wynebu Dragon Black. Daeth y ddau dîm â'u gorau i'r rownd derfynol, gan arddangos gwaith tîm eithriadol, trawsnewidiadau cyflym a chwarae tactegol. Mewn gêm gyflym a chystadleuol agos, daeth Rhondda Rhinos i'r brig yn y pen draw, gan sicrhau buddugoliaeth o 6-4. Gwnaeth eu perfformiad disgybledig a'u cyflawniad sydyn wrth ymosod y gwahaniaeth, gan eu coroni’n bencampwyr Adran 1.
PENWYTHNOS LLWYDDIANNUS O BOLO CANŴ
Roedd Twrnamaint Rhyngwladol Julie Morris 2024 yn llwyddiant ysgubol, gan ddarparu penwythnos llawn polo canŵio cystadleuol ar ei orau. Mae Clwb Canŵio'r Ddraig yn estyn diolch enfawr i'w gefnogwyr, yn enwedig Padlwyr Sir Benfro a Paddlewest, y gwnaeth eu cefnogaeth y digwyddiad yn bosibl. Helpodd eu cyfraniadau i sicrhau bod y twrnamaint yn cael ei redeg yn esmwyth, gan ganiatáu i chwaraewyr a gwylwyr fwynhau penwythnos di-dor o weithgareddau.
Llongyfarchiadau mawr i Rhondda Rhinos a’r Llychlynwyr, enillwyr Adran 1 ac Adran 2 yn y drefn honno, ond hefyd i'r holl dimau a gymerodd ran ac a wnaeth y twrnamaint eleni yn ddigwyddiad mor wefreiddiol. Gyda thwrnamaint rhyngwladol Julie Morris 2024 bellach ar ei derfyn, edrychwn ymlaen at groesawu timau a gwylwyr yn ôl i Bwll y Castell ar gyfer twrnamaint cyffrous arall yn y dyfodol.
MWY O WYBODAETH Yn hoffi’r syniad o bolo canŵ? Chwiliwch am eich clwb agosaf ar www.bit.ly/3B96uZ1
On the weekend of the 3rd and 4th of August 2024, Dragon Canoe Club, in partnership with Pembrokeshire Paddlers, proudly hosted the Julie Morris International Canoe Polo Tournament (the 25th Welsh Open) at the stunning Castle Pond in Pembroke. Teams from across the UK gathered for two days of fierce competition, all against the breath-taking backdrop of Pembroke Castle, creating an unforgettable atmosphere for both players and spectators alike.
The historic location was not just a visual treat; it provided the perfect stage for high-level canoe polo, a sport known for its fast-paced action and demanding skill. The event drew large crowds throughout the weekend, particularly as the tournament reached its climactic stages, with tourists and locals lining the area to watch the thrilling matches unfold.
DAY 1: COMPETITION HEATS UP
The action kicked off early on Saturday morning as teams hit the water ready to stake their claim for a spot in the finals. The first day saw a mix of closely fought games and standout performances, with every team vying for a strong position heading into Sunday’s knockout stages.
In Division 1, Avon Canoe Club emerged as the standout team, finishing at the top of their group after a series of dominant performances. They secured a spot in the semi-finals, alongside Dragon Black, Dragon Red, and Rhondda Rhinos, all of whom put on impressive displays of skill and strategy. The level of competition was exceptionally high, with the teams demonstrating well-coordinated tactics, sharp reflexes and unwavering determination.
Division 2 saw similarly intense competition, with Viking Canoe Club topping their group after a string of commanding victories. In the other pool, Dragon Ravens took control, earning their place in the knockout stages as the competition narrowed down to the best teams. By the end of Saturday, the stage was set for an exciting day of knockouts and finals on Sunday, with plenty of potential for upsets and surprises.
DAY 2: KNOCKOUTS AND FINALS
As Sunday dawned, the atmosphere around Castle Pond was electric. The knockout rounds in both divisions promised high stakes and intense matchups, with each game taking on added significance as the tournament neared its conclusion.
In Division 2, the semi-finals saw Viking and Avon 2 advance to the final, both teams having displayed consistency and tactical excellence throughout the weekend. The final itself was a well-fought contest, with Viking proving too strong for Avon 2, securing a 5-2 victory to take the Division 2 title. Their unbeaten run across the weekend highlighted their quality and teamwork, while Avon 2 can be proud of their runners-up finish after a solid performance. Rhondda Rhinos Youth took third place with a well-earned victory over Bude Smugglers in the playoff match.
The highlight of the tournament came in the Division 1 final, which saw Rhondda Rhinos face off against Dragon Black. Both teams brought their best to the final, showcasing exceptional teamwork, quick transitions and tactical plays. In a fast-paced and closely contested match, Rhondda Rhinos ultimately came out on top, securing a 6-4 victory. Their disciplined performance and sharp execution in attack made the difference, crowning them the Division 1 champions.
A SUCCESSFUL WEEKEND OF CANOE POLO
The Julie Morris International 2024 was a resounding success, delivering a weekend full of competitive canoe polo at its finest. Dragon Canoe Club extends a huge thank you to its supporters, especially Pembrokeshire Paddlers and Paddlewest, whose support made the event possible. Their contributions helped ensure the smooth running of the tournament, allowing both players and spectators to enjoy an uninterrupted weekend of action.
Congratulations are in order for Rhondda Rhinos and Viking, the winners of Division 1 and Division 2 respectively, but also to all the teams who participated and made this year’s tournament such a thrilling event. With the 2024 edition of the Julie Morris International now at its conclusion, we look forward to welcoming teams and spectators back to Castle Pond for another exciting tournament in the future.
MORE INFO
like the idea of canoe polo? Look for your nearest club at www.bit.ly/3B96uZ1
Q&A
Huw Butterworth Inspiring Paddler
of the Year 2023
Huw Butterworth is a whitewater kayaker from South Wales who has carved himself a place amongst the best paddlers of his generation. He has been part of groundbreaking paddling trips and has kayaked some of the world’s best rivers. He’s also one of the 3 paddlers behind Pistyll Productions and has produced some amazing paddling videos, with their YouTube channel racking up nearly 250,000 views. In 2023 he paddled in New Zealand, Norway and the west coast of America, before completing a 100km, ‘leave no trace’ descent of the legendary Sary Jaz river in Kyrgyzstan. He then returned to Europe to catch the end of the Alpine whitewater season. An impressive 12 months of kayaking! It’s no surprise he was named the Canoe Wales Inspiring Paddler of the Year 2023. And he’s finishing 2024 in style – in Chile where he took time out between rivers to chat to Ceufad.
What are you doing in Chile?!
A very good question! Chile has been a dream destination for me for quite some time now because of its endless high-quality whitewater and waterfalls. So, when a bunch of my mates said they were going for a month and asked if wanted to join, I booked my flights and yeah, here I am, enjoying the world class kayaking Chile has to offer!
When and why did you start paddling?
I first started kayaking at Llandysul Paddlers at an ‘Open Lake’ Session, where we could go down and spend the day trying out different boats and inflatables. And as an 8-year-old I was hooked on spending my time paddling around the lake and down the Teifi.
You were on the Welsh slalom team till you were 17, then made the move to whitewater kayaking. What prompted the switch?
I spent a big part of my journey in a slalom boat and training for the Welsh team, a time which I am forever grateful for, but as I got older I realised I got more enjoyment from the world of whitewater. So, in the summer of 2019 I moved to spend the season in Austria, working as a raft guide. That gave me so many opportunities to improve my skill in a creek boat, and was probably what gave me the confidence to try and pursue kayaking as a career.
SARY JAZ ANDY KETTLEWELL
You’ve paddled in some amazing places – Norway, New Zealand, USA, Kyrgyzstan, Chile … but Ötztal, Austria is where you’ve lived for the past 5 years. Why Ötztal?
Like I mentioned before this is the place where I first started to realise it was possible to travel the world and see all these amazing places with my kayak. That, combined with it being an amazing training ground for when I’m not away on a trip, is why it quickly became like home to me!
You recently completed a 100km, ‘leave no trace’ descent of the legendary Sary Jaz river in Kyrgyzstan; kayaking (and hiking!) in some of the most remote terrain/places. What was the motivation behind this?
Andy Kettlewell was the biggest motivator for this. He put in so many hours of planning and made it possible for me to join them on the trip as he lent me the money for the flights. But when someone invites you on a trip to an extremely remote part of the world to spend 10 days kayaking and hiking with your mates it’s hard to say no!
What were the most challenging parts of the Sary Jaz expedition?
There were so many times on this expedition we were faced with difficult situations, but the most challenging part was climbing up the Kuyukap creek on the 6th day. We spent 11 hours towing,
“THERE WERE SO MANY TIMES ON THIS EXPEDITION WE WERE FACED WITH DIFFICULT SITUATIONS, BUT THE MOST CHALLENGING PART WAS CLIMBING UP THE KUYUKAP CREEK ON THE 6TH DAY. WE SPENT 11 HOURS TOWING, CARRYING AND THROWING OUR BOATS UP THIS 4KM SECTION.”
MELLTE JOHN HAINES
LA LEONA ANDY KETTLEWELL
carrying and throwing our boats up this 4km section. This would have been hard enough of an undertaking even without all the boats, but when you have to heave a 40kg loaded boat around with you, it adds a whole other element of difficulty!
The Sary Jaz was a pretty epic undertaking – is it the best paddling trip you’ve done, or do you have another favourite?
It’s hard to say what the best kayaking trip has been because each one is different for their own special reasons. What made this mission one of the most memorable for me was the group of boys I went with. We went on this trip with the main goal of having the most fun possible, whilst exploring one of the most remote places any of us had ever been. I’d say we succeeded in doing that!
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned from whitewater kayaking?
To always appreciated where you are and who you are with. My best memories are those when I’m in the middle of nowhere, the only way to get there is by using the river and I’m surrounded by my friends. And sometimes I’ll only realise how good of a time it was after it has happened.
Any advice for paddlers looking to become full-time paddling adventurers?
Being friendly and approachable has got to be the most important thing, that along with making sure you’re doing it for the love of kayaking, usually results in being able to pursue the sport full time!
You’re one of the 3 paddlers behind Pistyll Productions, which puts out some amazing, inspirational videos. What’s your role within the team and what are the biggest challenges of filming whitewater?
Aha thank you! Yeah, I have been kayaking with John and Andy for a really long time and am always grateful for time on the water with them. When it comes to filming I’d say we all have a similar role of making sure we all get shots of each other. Then whoever is most stoked or has an idea for a cool video usually makes the film. The hardest part has got to be filming whitewater in the sunshine because the water is always really bright and it’s difficult to balance it with the rest of the scenery.
Any advice for aspiring film makers?
When I first started making films with the rest of the Pistyll crew I had no idea how to use a camera, but what helped me was no matter where I was going to always take it with me and think up interesting concepts to film and just practicing. Not all the films I’ve made have made it online but all that time behind my camera has broadened my skill set to where I am today.
SAUT DE DOUBS ENZO DORDOR
WELLERBRUCKE JOHN HAINES
Your kayaking and videos inspire a lot of paddlers – who inspires you?
There have been so many people that have inspired and supported me through my career, one of the biggest influences has got to be Gareth Bryant. He started me off kayaking and was always on hand for some extra coaching, sharing some friendly advice or just driving us around to go to different rivers! Now that I can kayak all year round there are always people inspiring me, from the people I paddle with all the time to my girlfriend who is always supporting me on my adventures around the world!
The epic paddling trips you racked up in 2023 have resulted in well-deserved CW Award. How did it feel being named the Inspiring Paddler of the Year?
I am very grateful for this award, I’m always stoked when someone tells me that they enjoyed my videos or have been inspired by my kayaking so to win an award for that really means a lot!
What’s next? Any trips in the pipeline?
There are always ideas for trips and places I want to go. I think next year I will spend some time exploring in Brazil. I would like to go further north in Norway this summer and end the year in New Zealand or at the Zambezi. Loads of ideas and opportunities, hopefully I can make some good videos to do them justice!
FOLLOW
Huw Butterworth: Instagram: @huwkayak Pistyll Productions: YouTube & Instagram: @PistyllProductions
WELLERBRUCKE JOHN HAINES
WELLERBRUCKE JOHN HAINES
LLWYDDIANT SLALOM GOGLEDD CYMRU
Llongyfarchiadau mawr i'r padlwyr a ddewiswyd ar gyfer Rhaglen
Slalom Canŵ Cymru. Mae eich ymroddiad a'ch ymrwymiad dros y 12 mis diwethaf wedi talu ar ei ganfed yn wirioneddol, ac mae'r cynnydd rydych chi i gyd wedi'i wneud yn gymeradwy. Gwaith da i bawb!
DATHLU DEGAWD O LWYDDIANT
Wrth i Slalom Gogledd Cymru ddathlu ei 10fed flwyddyn fel rhaglen ffyniannus, edrychwn yn ôl ar dymor rhyfeddol arall. Eleni, mae gennym 29 o badlwyr ifanc yn falch o wneud eu marc yn safleoedd y DU.
Dyma ddadansoddiad o'u cyflawniadau trawiadol:
» 6 Uwch: yn arwain y criw gyda sgiliau a phenderfyniad eithriadol.
» 6 Adran Un: yn arddangos talent a photensial ar gyfer lefel Uwch.
» 12 Adran Dau: dangos ysbryd a thwf cystadleuol cryf.
» 5 Adran Tri: adeiladu sgiliau sylfaen ac ennill profiad amhrisiadwy.
» 9 Padlwr Newydd: paratoi i rasio a gwneud eu hymddangosiad cyntaf yn 2025, yn llawn addewid a brwdfrydedd.
DIOLCH O GALON
Ni fyddai dim o hyn yn bosibl heb gefnogaeth ac ymrwymiad anhygoel gan amrywiol gyfranwyr. Diolch yn fawr iawn i:
» Hyfforddwyr Gwirfoddol: am neilltuo oriau di-ri i hyfforddi a mentora.
» Timau Achub Dŵr – am sicrhau diogelwch a thawelwch meddwl yn ystod cystadlaethau.
» Cefnogaeth ar y Lan: am eu presenoldeb a'u hanogaeth ddiwyro.
» Rhieni: am eu cefnogaeth ddi-baid a'u cyfranogiad yn rheolaidd.
» Pwyllgor y Clwb: am eu harweinyddiaeth a'u hymdrechion sefydliadol sy'n cadw'r rhaglen i redeg yn esmwyth.
Mae cyfanswm o 18 padlwyr o Slalom Gogledd Cymru wedi cael eu dewis ar gyfer Rhaglen Slalom Canŵ Cymru. Mae eich gwaith caled a'ch ymroddiad yn wirioneddol ganmoladwy, ac mae'r cyflawniad hwn yn dyst i'ch dyfalbarhad a'ch dawn. Cadwch ymlaen â’r gwaith gwych! Gyda'n gilydd, rydym yn parhau i adeiladu dyfodol mwy disglair i'n padlwyr ifanc, gan feithrin talent ac angerdd ym myd canŵio slalom. Edrych ymlaen at fwy o dymhorau llwyddiannus o'n blaenau!
PERFFORMIAD
Robin Taunt, Lara Elcock, Lorelei Kennan, Toby Sutcliffe, Oli Snowden
TALENT
Joel Johnson, Tom Kearsley, Lewis Rogers, Alex Kennan, Rose Davies, Izzy Booth, Connie Albrighton, Rowan Sutcliffe
RHANBARTHOL
Caitlin Potter, Alix Soyoglu, Bill Soyoglu, Dexter Gray, Ben Neal
ERTHYGL: JONATHAN DAVIES
NORTH WALES SLALOM SUCCESS
ARTICLE:
A huge congratulations to the paddlers who were selected for the Canoe Wales Slalom Programme. Your dedication and commitment over the past twelve months has truly paid off, and the progress you have all made is commendable. Such good work everyone!
CELEBRATING A DECADE OF SUCCESS
As North Wales Slalom celebrates its 10th year as a thriving programme, we look back on another remarkable season. This year, we are proud to have 29 young paddlers making their mark in the UK rankings.
Here's a breakdown of their impressive achievements:
» 6 Premier: leading the pack with exceptional skills and determination.
» 6 Division One: showcasing talent and potential for Premier level.
» 12 Division Two: demonstrating strong competitive spirit and growth.
» 5 Division Three: building foundation skills and gaining invaluable experience.
» 9 New Paddlers: preparing to race and make their debut in 2025, full of promise and enthusiasm.
HEARTFELT THANKS
None of this would be possible without the incredible support and commitment from various contributors. A huge thank you to:
» Voluntary Coaches: for dedicating countless hours to training and mentoring.
» Water-Based Rescue Teams: for ensuring safety and providing peace of mind during competitions.
» Bankside Support: for their unwavering presence and encouragement.
» Parents: for their relentless support and involvement on a regular basis.
» Club Committee: for their leadership and organizational efforts that keep the programme running smoothly.
A total of 18 paddlers from North Wales Slalom have been selected for the Canoe Wales Slalom Programme. Your hard work and dedication are truly admirable, and this achievement is a testament to your perseverance and talent. Keep up the fantastic work! Together, we continue to build a brighter future for our young paddlers, fostering talent and passion in the world of canoe slalom. Here’s to more successful seasons ahead!
PERFORMANCE
Robin
TALENT
REGIONAL
Taunt, Lara Elcock, Lorelei Kennan, Toby Sutcliffe, Oli Snowden
Joel Johnson, Tom Kearsley, Lewis Rogers, Alex Kennan, Rose Davies, Izzy Booth, Connie Albrighton, Rowan Sutcliffe
Caitlin Potter, Alix Soyoglu, Bill Soyoglu, Dexter Gray, Ben Neal
JONATHAN DAVIES
POPETH! DATHLU
ERTHYGL: JOEY CHAPMAN
Mae pob rhifyn o'r cylchgrawn hwn yn drysorfa o ysbrydoliaeth, yn llawn straeon rhyfeddol am anturiaethau epig. Ni allaf helpu ond teimlo rhuthr o gyffro wrth iddo lanio ar stepen fy nrws, gan fy nghysylltu â churiad calon fywiog ein cymuned anhygoel. Mae pob tudalen yn ein gwahodd i freuddwydio'n fwy a chychwyn ar ein hanturiaethau ein hunain!
Yn ddiweddar, yn ystod sesiwn hyfforddi, fe wnaethon ni blymio i'r hyn sy'n gwneud padlo mor arbennig i ni. Fe wnaethon ni archwilio'r llawenydd o dreulio penwythnos ar y dŵr a'r emosiynau pwerus sy'n codi gyda phob strôc. Roedd yn ysbrydoledig trafod sut y gallwn harneisio'r positifrwydd hwnnw — p'un a ydym yn ein cychod neu'n mwynhau amser gyda'n cyfeillion padlo. Mae pob eiliad ar y dŵr yn ein hatgoffa o'r antur, y cysylltiad a'r gorfoledd sy'n tanio ein hangerdd! Dyma fy ymgais o'r galon i rannu'r hyn rwy'n wirioneddol ei garu am fod yn arweinydd chwaraeon padlo ac yn hyfforddwr.
Gadewch i ni gymryd eiliad i fyfyrio ar y straeon ysbrydoledig a'r anturiaethau epig a ddangosir yn y cylchgrawn hwn. Dyma ychydig o gyfrinach; daw pob un o'r straeon hynny gan rywun a oedd unwaith wedi cael trafferth gosod ei orchudd gwrth-ddŵr neu wedi dod a gadael eu hunan-gred gartref — ymddiriedwch ynof i, rwyf wedi bod yno hefyd. Mae'n atgof pwerus bod pob arbenigwr wedi dechrau fel dechreuwr a, thrwy angerdd a dyfalbarhad, gallwn i gyd gychwyn ar ein teithiau anhygoel ein hunain.
Yr haf hwn, roedd llawenydd fy mab wrth daflu creigiau a thasgu yn yr afon yn heintus. Allwn i ddim helpu ond teimlo hyd yn oed mwy o gyffro pan fyddai'n rhedeg ata'i, gan weiddi, "Dad, rhwyfa rhwyfa!". Yn ddim ond dau a hanner, efallai na fydd yn deall y rhan padlo eto, ond y pump uchel, yr hwyl a'r hyfrydwch llwyr ar ei wyneb sy'n llenwi fy nghalon gyda llawenydd. Mae'n atgof hyfryd ei fod yn rhannu fy nghariad at y dŵr, gan gofleidio positifrwydd ym mhob eiliad. Oherwydd yr ysbryd hwnnw, rydym wedi parhau â'n hanturiaethau gyda'r nos ar y llyn, hyd yn oed yn yr aer oer ym mis Hydref, gan ymhyfrydu yn y pumoedd uchel diderfyn a'r banllefau. Mae'n daith wych rydyn ni arni gyda'n gilydd, ac rwy'n coleddu pob sblash ar hyd y ffordd. Gadewch i ni fynd ag ef yn ôl i'r foment gyffrous honno pan fyddwch chi'n cael eich gorchudd gwrthddŵr arnoch chi eich hun o'r diwedd, nid yw'n ddim llai na hudol. Mae'n garreg filltir sy'n haeddu pat fewnol
buddugoliaethus ar y cefn, a phe bawn i yno, byddech yn bendant yn cael pump uchel i chi'ch hun!
Dyma'r buddugoliaethau bach sy'n goleuo ein llwybr, gan arddangos ein twf a'n potensial diderfyn, gan baratoi'r ffordd ar gyfer anturiaethau hyd yn oed yn fwy mawreddog o'n blaenau. Dathlwch bob llwyddiant, oherwydd mae pob un yn dod â ni'n agosach at feistroli ein nwydau!
Rydyn ni i gyd wedi cael y dyddiau hynny ar y dŵr pan nad oes dim yn ymddangos yn clicio — byddai'r dyddiau pan mae'n teimlo fel bod aros adref wedi bod yn haws. Ond dyma'r gwir; fe wnaethoch chi droi i fyny. Rydych chi wedi cyflawni cymaint ag oedd unwaith yn teimlo'n annirnadwy. Llwytho cychod? Pump uchel! Wedi gwisgo ac yn barod i fynd? Pump uchel! Cynllunio a pharatoi? Pump uchel! Yn padlo gyda’ch holl ymdrech ar y diwrnod hwnnw? Pump uchel!
Cofiwch, pan ddechreuoch chi ar y daith padlo hon am y tro cyntaf, roedd y cerrig milltir hyn yn teimlo bydoedd i ffwrdd. Ond dyma chi, yn eu concro gyda phob strôc.
Felly, y tro nesaf y byddwch chi'n cychwyn ar antur padlo, cymerwch eiliad i roi pump uchel mewnol haeddiannol i chi'ch hun neu rannu un gyda ffrind. Mae pob cyflawniad bach yn garreg camu, yr un cerrig camu sydd wedi cynnwys ynddynt straeon anhygoel rydych chi'n eu hedmygu. Tenynnau diogel!
Joey
YNGLŶN Â
Mae Joey Chapman yn Uwch
Gyfarwyddwr yng Nghanolfan Canŵio Padlwyr Llandysul. Hyfforddi mewn caiac dŵr gwyn, canŵio. Darparwr amryw o Wobrau Canŵ Cymru. Cyswllt ar gyfer ymholiadau hyfforddi / cwrs: lpbookings@aol.com
EVERYTHING! CELEBRATE
ARTICLE: JOEY CHAPMAN
Every issue of this magazine is a treasure trove of inspiration, brimming with extraordinary stories and tales of epic adventures. I can’t help but feel a rush of excitement as it lands on my doorstep, connecting me to the vibrant heartbeat of our incredible community. Each page invites us to dream bigger and embark on our own adventures!
Recently, during a coaching session, we dove into what makes paddling so special for us. We explored the joy of spending a weekend on the water and the powerful emotions that arise with each stroke. It was inspiring to discuss how we can harness that positivity — whether we’re in our boats or simply enjoying time with our paddling buddies. Each moment on the water is a reminder of the adventure, connection and exhilaration that fuels our passion! Here’s my heartfelt attempt to share what I truly love about being a paddlesport guide and coach.
Let’s take a moment to reflect on the inspiring stories and epic adventures showcased in this magazine. Well, here’s a little secret; every one of those stories comes from someone who once struggled to put on their spray deck or showed up and left their self-belief at home — trust me, I’ve been there too. It’s a powerful reminder that every expert started as a beginner and, through passion and perseverance, we can all embark on our own incredible journeys.
This summer, my son’s joy in throwing rocks and splashing in the river was infectious. I couldn't help but feel even more excitement when he would run to me, shouting, “Daddy, row row!”. At just two and a half, he may not grasp the paddling part yet, but it’s the high fives, the cheers and the sheer delight on his face that fill my heart with joy. It’s a beautiful reminder that he shares my love for the water, embracing positivity in every moment. Because of that spirit, we’ve continued our evening adventures on the lake, even in the chilly October air, revelling in those unlimited high fives and cheers. It’s a wonderful journey we’re on together, and I cherish every splash along the way.
Let's take it back to that exhilarating moment when you finally get your spray deck on by yourself, it's nothing short of magical. It’s a milestone that
deserves a triumphant internal pat on the back, and if I were there, you’d definitely be getting yourself a high five!
It's the small victories that illuminate our path, showcasing our growth and boundless potential, paving the way for even grander adventures ahead. Celebrate every achievement, for each one brings us closer to mastering our passions!
We’ve all had those days on the water when nothing seems to click — the days when it feels like staying home would’ve been easier. But here’s the truth; you showed up. You’ve accomplished so much that once felt unimaginable. Loading boats? High five! Suited up and ready to go? High five! Planning and preparing? High five! Paddling with everything you’ve got on that day? High five!
Remember, when you first embarked on this paddling journey, these milestones felt worlds away. But here you are, conquering them with every stroke.
So, the next time you set out on a paddling adventure, take a moment to give yourself a welldeserved internal high five or share one with a friend. Each little achievement is a stepping stone, the same stepping stones that have included within them incredible stories you admire.
Safe lines!
Joey
ABOUT Joey Chapman is a Senior Instructor at Llandysul Paddlers Canoe Centre. Coaching in whitewater kayak, canoe. Provider of various Canoe Wales Awards. Contact for coaching / course enquiries: lpbookings@aol.com
MAKING WAVES IN WALES
ARTICLE : EMILY KING CW SUP LEAD
SUP RACING ROUND-UP
This year has been monumental for the paddling community in Wales. Our racing scene is flourishing, bringing people together for exciting and inclusive events. One of our proudest moments was the Fishguard Bay Open Qualifier, showcasing the talent, camaraderie, and potential of our paddlers. Through these races, we're not only building a vibrant network of athletes but also inspiring more people across Wales to grab a paddle and join the fun.
FISHGUARD QUALIFIER: A STEPPING STONE TO GREATNESS
The Fishguard event was a smashing success, uniting both seasoned paddlers and newcomers. Serving as an International Surfing Association qualifier, it selected paddlers to represent Wales at the Copenhagen event held earlier this autumn. Partnering with the Fishguard Open Ocean Racing Ski Championship Qualifier — a challenging 16K open ocean race — made the event even more thrilling.
We couldn't be prouder of our qualifiers, including Emily Evans and Jo Jones, who competed successfully and truly embodied the spirit of determination and community that drives our sport. We caught up with them after Copenhagen to hear about their experiences. A big shout-out to the FBOR team for partnering with us to grow competitive SUP here in Wales!
GBSUP LLANDEGFEDD PURSUIT RACING SERIES
Back in May, Wales hosted the 2024 GBSUP National Series — Round 2: Llandegfedd Pursuit. SUP paddlers from all over the country converged for sprint and distance racing. There was something for everyone — from those wanting a leisurely pace or dipping their toes into their first event, to elite athletes craving fast and furious competition.
Collaborating on events like these showcases our commitment to building a thriving paddling community. We're ensuring Wales is recognized as a hub for amazing venues and racing opportunities at all levels and in all disciplines.
LLANDEGFEDD PURSUIT @SUPJUNKIE.UK
FISHGUARD QUALIFIER
LLANDEGFEDD PURSUIT @SUPJUNKIE.UK
PURSUIT @SUPJUNKIE.UK
WHITE WATER SUP FEST 2024:
RIDING THE RAPIDS
Wales boasts a thriving white water SUP community that's growing every year. With some of the country’s top water courses, it's no wonder this facet of SUP is skyrocketing in popularity. Anthony Ing who runs Stand Up Paddle Board UK hosts an annual competition and SUP Paddle Jam at one of North Wales' finest spots — Llangollen.
Ant, Leanne and their team of volunteers bring together paddlers of all levels for a yearly festival of white water SUP. Top paddlers and novices compete in SUP X games and wave jams, showcasing their skills or trying something new. This two-day festival captures the essence of community, with top trainers and providers sharing their expertise and sense of fun both on and off the water.
AQUA PADDLE POP-UP EVENTS: JOIN THE MOVEMENT
Spring 2025 will herald Canoe Wales' pop-up Aqua Paddle events around the country. Why not sign up and paddle your craft—be it SUP, kayak, or canoe? Emily King, our SUP Lead, will be hitting the road with paddling ambassadors to introduce the community to what Aqua Paddle has to offer.
Aqua Paddle is a timed 5K trial for participants of all levels, run by the community for the community. We hope these events will inspire even more people to get involved and experience the joy of paddling — whether by participating or volunteering to bring our communities onto the water.
These events aim to provide safe, community-run paddles, bringing paddling to new areas just as Parkrun does for running. We need your help to make these events a success! Volunteers from across Wales are invited to get involved, help run these pop-up sessions, and share their passion for paddling with others. Watch out for dates of these events in the new year!
PURSUIT @SUPJUNKIE.UK
AQUA PADDLE for details of your nearest Aqua Paddle event visit the AquaPaddle website: www.aquapaddle.org If your club is interested in hosting AquaPaddle events, please contact Emily King, CW SUP Lead: emily.king@canoewales
FISHGUARD QUALIFIER
LLANDEGFEDD
LLANDEGFEDD
COMMUNITY VOICES: PADDLERS SPEAK OUT
In this edition, we caught up with a couple of Welsh paddlers to hear their thoughts.
PAULA SKEOCH ROBERTS, NORTH WALES
A passionate member of the SUP community, we asked Paula about her thoughts on growing SUP as a sport in Wales.
What inspired you to get involved with growing the SUP racing scene?
Every race we've competed in has such a buzz — a really nice feel. The race community is super friendly and welcoming. It's a shame we don't have much of a race scene here in North Wales, and I'd love to change that. We have fantastic bodies of water and great paddlers. We're working hard to inspire and encourage paddlers to get involved. It's so important for the growth of the sport to get racing in every corner of the country.
What can we do as paddlers to help grow SUP?
As paddlers, we need to support local clubs and events — whether by competing, volunteering, cheering people on, or sharing on social media. More could be done to engage and encourage the youth; they are the future of any sport. It would be fantastic to one day see paddle boarding in the Olympics—it deserves to be there.
Why is volunteering important?
Volunteering is incredibly rewarding and a great way to learn and gain experience. Without volunteers, many events wouldn't happen — the funding isn't always there, or costs are too high for paid roles. Paddle boarding has given me so much; I want to give back. I want to help build a community and encourage others to experience all that SUP has to offer.
What's been the most rewarding part of being part of SUP?
What SUP has given my physical health is the most rewarding. I've struggled with arthritis since I was a child. Paddling keeps me moving and strong. Most of all, it motivates me to stay healthy and active so I can continue doing what I love. For that, I'm very thankful.
JO JONES, WALES MALE ELITE SUP PADDLER
Welsh SUP paddler Jo Jones had his first season of international competition representing Wales after qualifying at this year’s Fishguard Bay Open Racing.
What was your biggest takeaway from competing at the Fishguard Qualifier?
I've done the Fishguard race two years in a row, and it's unlike any other race in the UK. You can train and prepare all you want, but it's impossible to know what the water will be like once you're in the thick of it. Even watching from Fishguard Harbour can be deceiving. It's a true test of ability, which would be impossible without the safety and support in place. For that reason, it's one of my favourite races — organised and supported incredibly well.
How did it feel to represent Wales at the ISA?
Representing Wales was an incredible honour that I honestly can't describe. When I started paddling, I jokingly said it was something I wanted to achieve. But to be on the start line with the likes of Michael Booth, Blue Ewer, Rai Taguchi and so many more top international paddlers was surreal. There’s a real sense of community. Having my parents and girlfriend supporting me made it unforgettable — the first of many, but definitely unforgettable.
How do you see the racing community in Wales evolving in the future?
I see racing in Wales evolving through people like me, who used paddle boarding leisurely while being competitive in other sports but had to withdraw due to injury. Paddle boarding gave me opportunities I thought I'd lost. I believe that engaging competitors who use paddle boarding as cross-training could really benefit the growth of racers. Focusing on grassroots initiatives such as Aqua Paddle, social groups, and university communities is a great way to build the competitive side of the sport — especially with the number of entry-level fun events in the UK alongside more competitive races.
JO JONES, ISA WORLDS, COPENHAGAN
PAULA SKEOCH ROBERTS
LOOKING AHEAD: THE FUTURE OF SUP RACING IN WALES
As we continue to grow our racing community, we're relying on our amazing volunteers and supporters to make these events happen. Whether you're a paddler, a supporter, or just curious, there's a place for you on this journey. Let's work together to make paddling accessible and enjoyable for everyone in Wales.
We're always talking to people who want to see a thriving paddling community. But without your support and local knowledge of your community and environment, we can't reach our full potential. If you or your club could host an Aqua Paddle event, or if you already run a race that could welcome paddlers, we'd love to hear from you!
MORE INFO reach out to Emily King, CW SUP Lead emily.king@canoewales.com
FISHGUARD QUALIFIER
AQUA PADDLE SWISS VALLEY
EMILY EVANS & JO JONES & REPRESENTING WALES AT THE ISA WORLDS, COPENHAGEN
LLANDEGFEDD PURSUIT @SUPJUNKIE.UK
PLASTIC FREE
ARTICLE: ALEC YOUNG, PLASTIC FREE YR WYDDFA OFFICER
YR WYDDFA
Yr Wyddfa has long been a honeypot for tourists in the Eryri National Park. Wales’ tallest mountain is also Europe’s busiest. Its trails welcome 600,000 walkers every year with another 120,000 people taking the train to the summit too. It is home to rare alpine species, its very own beetle and some of the most spectacular views in the country. However, its immense popularity brings unique challenges, and one of the more problematic pressures we experience year after year is that of littering.
In 2020 the Eryri National Park partnered with Geotech services company CGG to deliver a pioneering microplastic survey and quantify the possible effects of this significant influx of people on the environment. From their analysis, CGG created a visual index of the mountain’s microplastic hotspots and the results were shocking; of the 21 soil samples taken all contained traces of microplastics.
Alarmingly the microplastic content of the soil was shown to peak at 5% in areas of high dwell time and foot traffic; namely the railway bridge on the Llanberis path and at the summit.
This sobering evidence galvanised the Authority to take decisive and urgent action to protect the mountain’s biodiversity, soil and watercourses from further microplastic pollution. A popular idea to achieve this was to ride the ground swell around ‘plastic-free’ and aim to make Yr Wyddfa the first Plastic-Free Mountain in the world.
A Plastic-Free Zone would use behaviour science to get the local community and mountain users behind the idea of greater care and responsibility for Yr Wyddfa, and draw a clear line in the sand about acceptable behaviour for this precious landscape. Creating a Plastic-Free Zone isn’t challenge-free of course; it involves rethinking consumer behaviours, finding creative ways to engage with the public and working in consensus with a wide range of people and organisations.
To create this Plastic-Free Zone the Eryri National Park Authority has taken a multi-pronged approach.
Water refill points are now available in all but one of our car parks around Yr Wyddfa and we’re also working with local businesses to provide free refills for visitors.
This is one of the criteria of our bespoke Plastic-Free Yr Wyddfa Business Scheme, which encourages local enterprises to reduce single-use plastics stocked, opt for reusable alternatives and minimise their waste. This scheme is suitable for food and drink, and accommodation outlets, and already we’ve witnessed a network of environmentally minded businesses flourish. Businesses are often the last line of defence for the mountain, with
visitors either heading straight to trails from their hotel or making a final stop to buy a coffee, so by working with the sector to develop plastic-free hacks as well as clear communications about expected behaviours on Yr Wyddfa, we stand a real chance of making change.
"THIS SOBERING EVIDENCE GALVANISED THE AUTHORITY TO TAKE DECISIVE AND URGENT ACTION TO PROTECT THE MOUNTAIN’S BIODIVERSITY, SOIL AND WATERCOURSES FROM FURTHER MICROPLASTIC POLLUTION."
We’ve also been working on an audit framework for the outdoors industry targeting events and race organisers, mountain leaders and adventure pursuits businesses in the Yr Wyddfa zone. In consultation with some of the key industry players we created bespoke criteria for a scheme and we’ve established a self-accreditation scheme which is
"THE RESULTS WERE OUTSTANDING; THE STUDENTS WITNESSED A 127% REDUCTION IN LITTER WHEN THE INTERVENTION TOOK PLACE AND ENCOUNTERED MOUNTAIN USERS
RETURNING DOWN FROM THE MOUNTAIN WITH BAGS OF LITTER COLLECTED FROM THE PATH."
free and available for all organisations in this sector in Eryri. Over the years we’ve seen issues with race markers, plastic water bottles and fly-tipping during some of the more popular challenges taking place locally, and this scheme aims to foster a greater sense of responsibility for the mountain’s trails.
Galvanising young people behind the project has also been a key priority and we’ve conducted workshops and talks with over 30 different schools, with many of the sessions being held in partnership with Keep Wales Tidy. During the first year of the project the bulk of our schools’ engagement was with primary schools – and this included activities such as the designing of the project’s logo and brand assets. This year we’ve taken steps to give teenagers a stake in the future of the mountain and in September the Eryri National Park Authority will be hosting the first-ever environmental youth summit on Yr Wyddfa; inviting 11–18-year-olds from across north Wales to pitch their Big Ideas to solve the single-use pollution crisis. The winners will receive a development grant of £1,500 and will be mentored by facilitators and the Authority to turn their ideas into reality.
A significant part of our work has focused on our communications strategy and being creative with how we talk to mountain users about litter. In the summer of 2023 we launched a 20-week multi-channel campaign themed on the Mabinogion; a series of Welsh folklore tales and the oldest written prose in Britain. We brought some of its most famous characters to life in a series of striking images, shorts and a music video with a commissioned composition, and modelled by social media influencers with traction in the outdoors space. The campaign was centred on the themes of ‘Legends Leave No Trace’ and ‘Litter is Not of The Stuff of Legends’ and images showed these mythical characters surrounded by rubbish in some of Eryri’s most iconic views.
We’ve also taken a more academic approach to our communications. Working with Prifysgol Bangor we’ve been experimenting with a psychological communications framework called COM-B; investigating how capability, opportunity and motivation all influence our behaviour. For summer 2024 we’ll be trialling a comms campaign using this COM-B and eliciting best practices and respect for our environment with questions such as “What does leave no trace mean to you?” and “In nature, who is responsible for our litter”.
This campaign will be primarily digital and it draws on the success of a live COM-B experiment which took place in the spring of 2023. Accompanied by volunteer wardens and equipped with signage and a National Park livery information point vehicle, two Psychology Masters students from Prifysgol Bangor engaged with walkers before they set off on their hikes up the Watkin path up Yr Wyddfa. By catching visitors ahead of their adventures and asking pertinent open questions, based on the COM-B model, the students hoped to ‘nudge’ walkers in the direction of responsible behaviour, equipping them with the capability, opportunity and motivation to make the right choices with regards to litter. The results were outstanding; the students witnessed a 127% reduction in litter when the intervention took place and encountered mountain users returning down from the mountain with bags of litter collected from the path. The success of the project has inspired a repeat experiment for 2024, and the objective is to have a paper which can be published, as well as an evidence-based script
for our volunteer wardens to be able to use in their interactions with walkers in future.
Another trial we’ve been conducting is a bin removal experiment, which has been taking place in both the Rhyd Ddu and Cwellyn car parks around Yr Wyddfa with the goal being to encourage users to take their litter home and prevent overflowing bins and rubbish from being blown across the mountainside. We’ve been piloting several different sign designs, with guidance from Prifysgol Bangor on the language, imagery and tone to use, drawing on evolutionary psychology (for example imagery of eyes to instil a sense of surveillance) and again using the COM-B framework.
Litter and microplastics don’t only pose a threat to land and its biodiversity but to our waterways too. The Glaslyn Lake which sits directly below the Yr Wyddfa peak has become a primary ‘grot spot’ with hundreds of plastic bottles collecting on its northwest shoreline yearly. We must prevent litter from making its way into these bodies of water – the journey down the Afon Glaslyn to the Irish Sea is less than 20 miles and plastic pollution has serious implications for marine life. In 2024 we’re conducting a microplastics survey of the Glaslyn Lake to better understand the impact of peak season traffic on Yr Wyddfa.
We’ve also been conducting a more informal and whimsical experiment, this time on the continuing issue of organic waste on the hill. One of the great misconceptions (even amongst more experienced outdoorsy people!) is that banana peels are an innocent form of litter and will easily decompose in nature. Contrary to common belief it can take a peel up to two years to disappear and, to get the word out there, we launched the Bananacam; a unique solar-powered camera placed on the summit capturing the slow decaying of a banana skin. We’re not far off 300 days already and fragments of the peels are still there for the naked eye to be seen!
How have we fared in our mission to achieve a Plastic-Free status for Yr Wyddfa? The most straightforward answer is we still have a long way to go. Until now we’ve been working off a baseline of 550 kgs of litter found on the mountain (recorded in 2022), but this figure wasn’t a true reflection of the challenge as historically only one volunteer group’s efforts to keep the mountain clean have been counted. This year, with a new system in place, we’re now collecting more data than ever, working with more organisations to help with citizen science and joining up our efforts to record more evidence. Because of this we’ve seen figures skyrocket; a massive 460kgs of litter were collected between the end of March and mid-May in 2024 alone.
The foundations of the project have been laid and we are aiming to create a legacy for the initiative beyond its funding time frame. We have a burgeoning community of plastic-free champions from our local businesses and schools, a growing portfolio of evidenced behaviour change strategies and a series of public awareness campaigns that are grabbing headlines. The next months and years will tell us whether our methods are working, but one thing is certain; we still have a mountain to climb to crown Yr Wyddfa a plastic-free mountain.
MORE INFO to find out more about Plastic-Free Yr Wyddfa, what is has achieved and how you or your club or business can get involved visit: www.bit.ly/4fOXIyC
"LITTER AND MICROPLASTICS DON’T ONLY POSE A THREAT TO LAND AND ITS BIODIVERSITY BUT TO OUR WATERWAYS TOO. THE GLASLYN LAKE, WHICH SITS DIRECTLY BELOW THE YR WYDDFA PEAK, HAS BECOME A PRIMARY
‘GROT SPOT’ WITH HUNDREDS OF PLASTIC BOTTLES COLLECTING ON ITS NORTHWEST SHORELINE YEARLY."
Isla Carmen
Sea kayaking in the Sea of Cortez
WORDS:
PHOTOS:
VICKY BARLOW
PETE CATTERALL
VICKY BARLOW
Sea kayaking is a great way to enjoy encounters with wildlife, whether it’s puffins on Skomer, seals off the Orme or dolphins in Cardigan Bay. However, there’s one other creature that I’ve always wanted to see, and it’s unlikely it will happen on the Welsh coastline, and that’s a whale. To see these from a sea kayak requires a bit of planning, potentially some overseas travel and a good dose of luck. Which is how I wound up in Baja, Mexico last year, with a bag of poop on my deck, blisters on my hands and some of the best wildlife I’ve ever encountered. Oh, and with Pete. It was some of his poop I was carrying.
We’d found some relatively reasonable flights to Loreto and sorted sea kayak hire with Ramon, a local sea kayak guide with a fleet of hire boats. Ramon was a fountain of useful information, offering some great advice as we were prepping for the trip, and also sorting our drop off and pick up, plus a resupply of water mid-trip. Every trip needs a Ramon.
Our plan was to circumnavigate Isla Carmen, one of 5 uninhabited islands which sit within Loreto Bay National Park. The National Park was established in 1996 and is managed by the community, who are keen to protect what has been described as ‘the aquarium of the world’. Not only is there abundant sea life: dolphins, sea lions, sea turtles, rays and tropical fish, but also humpback, grey and blue whales, which migrate through the area in the winter months. This is what we’d come to see!
To help manage and protect the area, there is a fee to enter the National Park and you must provide your trip itinerary. This includes the beaches you’ll be camping on. The Park has a strict ‘leave-no-trace’ policy, which includes packing out all your waste.
It was the ‘leave-no-trace’ policy that found us on our launch beach having our ‘en-suite’ facilities explained to us by Ramon. As there is very little rainfall on the island burying poop is not an option, so the recommended system is to bury it at sea. Ramon handed us a small square of tarp with a long length of line attached. Instructions as follows. Set it up at camp like a litter tray, using sand/pebbles as the litter. Next morning wrap it up like Christmas pudding. Paddle a few hundred metres offshore and drop it in the sea. Then paddled for 10 minutes to allow the sea to clean the tarp, pull it back up and it’s ready for the next camp. This system was quickly named the ‘tarpoodo’. Honestly, it’s the best method I’ve used so far. Not sure how it would stand up to rainy conditions of N Wales though.
With our tarpoodo stowed along with 40 litres of water, and with the latest weather forecast (scorching and breezy) and intel on where whales had been spotted, it was time to smear every inch of exposed skin in sunscreen and set off into the Sea of Cortez!
“FLAT CALM CONDITIONS FOR PADDLING, WHICH MAKE THE RAYS LEAPING OUT OF THE WATER EVEN MORE SPECTACULAR. I DIDN’T KNOW THEY LEAP OUT OF THE WATER. THEY DO. A LOT. BUT NOT QUITE WHEN PETE HAS HIS CAMERA READY. WHICH BECOMES A FUN GAME OF ‘MISS-THE-RAY’.”
DAY 1
24C, light winds, blue skies and warm seas. A good start to the trip. First stop is Isla Danzante – a small island halfway between the mainland and Isla Carmen. A nice spot for lunch, with pelicans and cormorants for company, whilst vultures soar overhead (not sure what the vultures are hoping for …). Then it’s across to Isla Carmen. Our first camp is on Punta Baja – a beautiful sandy beach. Squadrons of pelicans cruise low over the water, heading to their roost for the night. As the sun sets, we see whales breaching across the bay. Missed them by a couple of hours. Sigh.
DAY 2
Woken by the pelican squadron returning from their roost. Bit like bees – they look like they shouldn’t be able to fly, yet somehow, they do.
Flat calm conditions for paddling, which make the manta rays leaping out of the water even more spectacular. I didn’t know they leap out of the water. They do. A lot. But not quite when Pete has his camera ready. Which becomes a fun game of ‘miss-the-ray’. And between the rays are sea turtles, heads bobbing above the water. And then dolphins, big pods hunting along the coastline. Also a carcass of a whale calf being eaten by vultures. Now we know why they were circling. Nice.
DAY 3
Despite factor 30 and sunblock we’re both looking a little ‘rosey’, so time to break out the sun tops – long sleeves and hoods, with baseball caps for additional shade. Just what you need when it’s nearly 30C. The skin on my keyboard-soft hands is also suffering, and I have an impressive array of blisters. Compeed to the rescue. It’s flat calm on the water, perfect for watching rays and turtles. We have an unexpectedly close encounter with a huge ‘fever’ of rays – they surface in the water around us, mouths at the surface, making a strange clicking sound. Then one launches from the water right in front of – a huge flash of silver before disappearing back into the sea again with a loud, wet slap. Paparazzi Pete misses the shot again. We finish the day at a beautiful camp in a circular cove, ringed with a white sandy beach. Scorching hot in the sun, too hot even for the mosquitoes. But when the sun sets they come out with a vengeance. We retreat to the tent and watch the hordes of ravenous vampire insects bouncing off the fly sheet.
DAY 4
A guest joins us for breakfast – a black and white kingfisher! It sits on a nearby branch, diving into the water after a fishy snack. Today is the start
of the north coast, and as we paddle along the coastline the limestone and white sandy beaches give way to wind-sculpted, red, volcanic rock. The swell picks up too … offering a tricky surf landing onto what we think is our next camp spot. We revisit the maps … it’s the wrong beach *huge sigh of relief from me*. Ours is round a small headland, which protects it from the swell, and it’s an idyllic sandy cove with a huge sand dune behind. Must be about 30m high, and brilliant white sand. Our guest for dinner is a hummingbird, which flits around the cliffs and dunes, whilst a kingfisher and a pair of pelicans dive into the rising tide. Speaking of dinner – tonight is Firepot’s porcini risotto. Possibly the best exped meal I’ve had. Pete doesn’t believe me. He doesn’t like mushrooms and is convinced I’m trying to poison him. I tell him not to worry. I won’t poison him. I’ll feed him to the vultures when the time comes.
DAY 5
Resupply day! Ramon’s intern brings us 50 litres of water, fresh tortillas and avocados (top notch lunch), and bonus items of beers and cookies. We like Ramon. Weather forecast is for the wind to change direction and we need to get ahead of it. Which means putting in a long day – 30km+. The north coast delivers stunning scenery, rock
spires, sea stacks and twisted rock strata The coastline is busy with the usual suspects; crows, pelicans and vultures, all crowded together on the low-lying rocks. Then there’s a new kid in town – blue footed boobies. A flock of about 50 bird circling low overhead. By 1.30 we only have 6km across an open bay to finish the day. But I’m pretty broken. A quick pit stop and then it’s head down and paddle on. Highlight is a flying fish. Low point is Pete’s rudder snapping. Fortunately, he muscles through it to the other side of the bay, and manages to do a ‘hope-it-will-last’ repair. Another lovely camp spot – we spend the evening watching a pod of dolphins circling in the bay and an osprey hunting over the water.
DAY 6
Despite finishing the previous day pretty broken, I’m feeling strong on the water this morning, and am setting a good pace. Which Pete confirms by shouting ‘we’re doing 7kmh and we’re only dabbing along!’ Dabbbing? Seriously?? I thought I was paddling quite hard. I momentarily consider burying him at sea. Fortunately the geology saves him as I’m distracted by the bright-white, low limestone cliffs that are ahead of us. It looks like the underside of them is carpeted in seaweed that’s swaying with the current. Nope, it’s
“DESPITE FINISHING THE PREVIOUS DAY PRETTY BROKEN, I’M FEELING STRONG ON THE WATER THIS MORNING, AND AM SETTING A GOOD PACE. WHICH PETE CONFIRMS BY
SHOUTING ‘WE’RE DOING 7KMH AND WE’RE ONLY DABBING ALONG!’ DABBBING? SERIOUSLY??
I THOUGHT I WAS PADDLING QUITE HARD. I MOMENTARILY CONSIDER BURYING HIM AT SEA.”
“AS I PULL THROUGH THE BIGGEST SWELL I SEE A HUGE SHADOW RISE UP UNDER THE BOW OF MY BOAT. EASILY 5M ACROSS (ALTHOUGH MY PANIC-VISION MAY HAVE MAGNIFIED THIS). A HUGE MANTA RAY! I’M GUESSING IT IS AS SHOCKED AS I AM, AS IT QUICKLY DISAPPEARS INTO THE DEPTHS OF THE SEA.”
carpeted in crabs. Hundreds of crabs for hundred of metres, busy scurrying around the rocks. The sight of them is mesmerising (unless you don’t like crabs, in which case it would be terrifying). We round a corner and see a white sandy cove, its limestone walls layered with fossil beds, 30m deep in places. It’s breathtakingly, so we stop to explore, spending an hour scrambling around, marvelling at the fossils.
DAY 7
Silky-smooth seas and a light breeze. Still scorching hot. We’re aiming for Punta Baja – which means we’ve completed our circumnavigation of the island. Arriving at lunch and still feeling fresh we decide to push on and make the crossing back to Isla Danzante. There have been reports of whales in the area, so we think it’s worth pushing on, to spend a couple of easy days on whale watch. Silky-smooth seas give a silky-smooth crossing, until we come out of the shelter of a distant headland, which has been protecting us from a 1m swell. I go from ‘dabbing’ (thanks Pete), to lazer-focused paddling in a couple of strokes. As I pull through the biggest swell I see a huge shadow rise up under the bow of my boat. Easily 5m across (although my panicvision may have magnified this). A huge manta ray! I’m guessing it is as shocked as I am, as it
quickly disappears back into the depths of the sea. ‘Ray!’ I shout to a bewildered looking Pete. He thinks I’m shouting ‘Wave!’ and am playing some sort of idiot eye spy with him. Camp for the night is in a beautiful rocky cove – which is home to a large swarm of bees who seem very keen on damp, sweaty, paddling kit. Particularly Pete’s boating shorts. There is no rational explanation for this. Unless they are attempting a collective effort to carry them off and dump them out to sea. Those shorts are pretty ripe.
DAY 8
Up early and a quick getaway before the bees wake up. Easy paddle up the coast, keeping an eye out for whales … but we find dolphins instead. A mega pod cruising between 2 bays. We pull ashore and spend an hour watching them swimming circuits of the bay. They leap out of the water and swim so close to the shore that we can see the calves with their mothers. Amazing. We reluctantly launch back onto the water, not wanting to move on, and are immediately surrounded by the dolphins, diving under our boats and spiralling out of the water in front of us. Double amazing.
DAY 9
We’re woken at 4am by a fishing boat shining a torch on our tent. We stagger out to work out
what is going on. Turns out our Garmin inReach has sent Ramon an incorrect location – some 50km into mainland Mexico. Despite our paddling prowess he isn’t convinced this is correct, so has tasked a local fishing boat to check the beach we should be camped on, hence the torch and waving.
Having given Ramon’s scout the ‘all clear’ we take advantage of the early morning wake up call to watch a specular sunrise. As the sun rises, so does the temperature. So we wade out for a snorkel, get lightly stung by a couple of jellyfish, swim with a trumpet fish then return to the beach to pack up for the last time. We have one final crossing to the mainland and our pick-up point.
Along with the wildlife, scenery and geology an additional highlight has been the remoteness – the only person we’ve made contact with is Ramon’s fisherman. Other than that, it has only been a few yachts or fishing boats in the distance. Which is nice because Pete seems to spend his life bumping into people he knows. And people he doesn’t know. And by the time he’s asked ‘how you doing?’ (as a polite enquiry, not as a chat up line), I know he’ll have found out the first kayak they paddled and where they took their first swim. So, when we spot some kayakers in the distance, it’s no surprise it comes with a questioning shout of ‘Pete?’. It’s Kevin from Jersey with a group from a canoe club, and some news. A humpback
breached next to them about an hour ago. As we paddle away from them we see it, a series of huge splashes across the bay. It has to be a whale. We go into sprint mode, heads-down, hoping to catch sight of the whale. When we go there it has gone. No sign of it. Nada.
We spot Ramon on the beach and head over, unpacking the boats and loading our kit into his truck. I apologise for the fact that we both smell quite fragrant after 9 days of washing in salt water and only 1 change of board shorts. He smiles politely saying it’s not a problem. The speed at which he rolls down the windows of the truck says otherwise.
It’s a 45-minute drive, I scope out the truck to see how easy it would be to take over the driving if Ramon is overcome by our toxic fumes and passes out at the wheel. Fortunately, it doesn’t come to that. He tells us that the whales have migrated a little earlier this year, which is why we’ve missed them. Like I said to see whales from a sea kayak requires a bit of planning, potentially some overseas travel and a dose of good luck. And we seem to have run short on the luck front. On the plus side it has given us a reason for a return visit …
“WE SPOT RAMON ON THE BEACH AND HEAD OVER, UNPACKING THE BOATS AND LOADING OUR KIT INTO HIS TRUCK. I APOLOGISE FOR THE FACT THAT WE BOTH SMELL QUITE FRAGRANT AFTER 9 DAYS OF WASHING IN SALT WATER AND ONLY 1 CHANGE OF BOARD SHORTS. HE SMILES POLITELY SAYING IT’S NOT A PROBLEM. THE SPEED AT WHICH HE ROLLS DOWN THE WINDOWS OF THE TRUCK SAYS OTHERWISE.”
SHOT OLAF
Arroyo
PARTING SHOT
Arroyo Blanco, Isla Carmen, Mexico
Pete Catterall
Blanco, Isla Carmen, Mecsico
Pete Catterall