The team for the Hasler Finals kept changing up until the last minute. With injuries creeping in, there was a brand new pairing of James B and David W, who flew around the course to win Div 7. David’s original partner, Tamsen F, was now paired with Irene H and they finished 3rd in Div 8 for more valuable points for the team, and our other medalist was Lizzy H – second in Div 10.
Everyone who completed the course on the day deserved recognition – although the area in front of the spectators looked pretty benign, once boats went out of sight, they were battling strong winds and waves. It was certainly a challenge, and tested skills and stamina.
Young paddler, James L, gave up his chance of glory to help a fellow competitor who had an unexpected swim, and he then accompanied them back to the finish, showing great sportsmanship.
At the end of the day, with the top 3 K2 and top 6 K1 results counting, the team finished joint 6th, tying with near neighbours Falcon, Oxford and Leighton Buzzard.
There’s a couple of weeks off racing now, and then our own Hasler on Sunday 27 October. A great event for those who like portages! Full details are here.
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