Despite the best efforts of the weather, there was still something for everyone last weekend.
On Saturday we had people all over the country. The club ran a mixed K2 session on the Thames at Wolvercote. It’s always good to get out on the river as a change to the canal, and as the “mix” refers to abilities rather than gender, it’s a great opportunity for the less-fast paddlers to get in a boat with someone speedier. Although it was meant to be partly about skills – it was definitely more about racing each other!
Elsewhere, Joe P was racing for a place in the team for the European Championships and the K4 races in Sanabria. This was the first assessment race for this selection, and had to be moved at the last minute from Worcester (currently under water) to Elmbridge Canoe Club. Joe and his K2 partner – Tim G-P from Chelmsford – had a good day, with an overall 2nd place. Selection won’t be announced until after this weekend’s K1 assessment, but fingers crossed …
Away from the flatwater, the wildwater team – Jack C, Rob J and George U found their race near Bala cancelled due to the amount of water Wales was also under, so re-routed to the Llangollen where they were able to get some good practise in on the Dee. After a 12 mile paddle, they were very disappointed to find the pub at the finish was closed for refurbishment though! Looking for even bigger waves, Arthur U was in Devon taking part in the ICON Sports Classic – a 17km downwind surfski race from Woolacombe to Combe Martin Last year they had very flat conditions, but this year was quite different. He and his partner Matt H (Royal) were 5th – not bad for flatwater paddlers! Hopefully some photos to follow.
The club was still far from empty though, as the second set of beginner courses also started on Saturday – we look forward to seeing some of them racing in the future.
Sunday should have seen many more from the club taking on saltwater at the Southampton Hasler, but sadly that was also cancelled, due to the high winds that were forecast. Luckily, Leighton Buzzard Canoe Club kindly allowed late entries for their race, and a few juniors made the most of it. Jasper B made a welcome return to marathon racing, storming away with Div 7 K1 from the start, and getting promoted, whilst, Harry C and Jessie U celebrated the end of GCSEs with 3rd in Div 4 K2.
This weekend we have a good turnout at the Oxford Falcon Hasler race on Sunday although with Rob J and Robyn W getting married on Saturday, we may not be at our best. 😕
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