This weekend saw the first big race of the year. Organised by Richmond Canoe Club the Frank Luzmore Memorial Marathon is run over the 20.5km and 3 portages between Elmbridge Canoe Club and Richmond Canoe Club.

The weather was kinder to the athletes this year, but there wasn’t much flow on the river to help the paddlers. Only a few made the journey from the club, but all had good races.

The new pairing of Jessie with Falcon’s Klara took a great win in the U16 girls – 4 minutes ahead of their nearest rivals, and in a time that would have seen them second in the U18 race. Joe P, with Philip from RLSCC was 4th in the Senior Men’s race, even though Philip is still officially a junior, and they would no doubt have been closer but for getting caught up in traffic at a portage.

With over 50 boats on the start line the Mixed K2 was the biggest race of the day. Banbury’s Dan Golder quickly navigated through to the front group, to finish 2nd with Welsh paddler Jasmine, whilst the only full Banbury crew on the day was Felicity and Mark, who finished 38th.

A good start to the new year, and many thanks to Richmond Canoe Club for running the race, and Elmbridge Canoe Club for hosting the start.