DAUNTSEY’S

Embracing Adventure: Jasmine and Luka’s Journey in the Devizes to Westminster Canoe Race

In an inspiring tale of resilience and adventure, Luka and Jasmine, two international pupils from Dauntsey's, embarked on a remarkable journey by participating in the prestigious Devizes to Westminster Canoe Race over the Easter weekend. Despite limited prior experience on the water, their shared desire for something different propelled them into the realm of competitive canoeing.

Dauntsey’s has been involved in the Devizes to Westminster Canoe Race for over 40 years and enthusiasm for this event amongst the school community has only grown over time. Each year seven pairs of Lower Sixth pupils are entered into the race which sees crews paddle 125 miles over a three-day period. To prepare for this race, each pair dedicates extraordinary amounts of time from January through to Easter training – and it is not just physical preparation that is required, the crews build up mental resilience and learn to rely on their teammates in a way they may not have done before. They also learn to expect the unexpected and to cope when challenges are thrown their way.

For Jasmine, the race represented more than just a physical test—it was a personal quest to break free from her comfort zone. ‘This experience was so different from anything I have experienced before,’ she reflects. ‘It pushed me to try something new, to embrace the unknown. I also have come away with some incredibly strong friendships, that otherwise may not have developed.’

Luka was left feeling inspired and hungry for more adventure and is hoping to sign up for the school’s very own Brecon’s Challenge this summer.

‘Extreme rainfall this year meant that the race was not able to continue through to Westminster, but that did not take away from the incredible sense of achievement and accomplishment that I felt after paddling 100-miles. It was an unforgettable journey.’

Jasmine and Luka are both in the Lower Sixth at Dauntsey’s. Both joined from Hong Kong in Year 10.