The BCU North West Regional Weekend at Teesside has, over the last few years earned a reputation as the highlight of the region's paddling calendar.
The event offers paddlers from across the region the opportunity to get together with like-minded people in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere and compete in a series of competitions on the Saturday, attend coaching sessions on the Sunday, and on both days, simply enjoy the facilities and water offered by the whitewater centre.
The event is open to paddlers from across the North West region. Groups and individuals are welcomed, and the event is open to paddlers of all ages.
On competition day, there will be 6 different events; downriver race, canoe polo challenge, sprint, flat-water slalom, freestyle and the ergo challenge.
For each competition there will be 5 divisions;under 13, under 16, men, women and veterans (over 40).
Prizes, sponsored by Nookie, will be awarded to the:
Courses - The coaching day provides an excellent opportunity for paddlers of all ages and abilities to learn new skills, improve technique, or try a new discipline.
Courses will range from one star flat-water skills, and beginners white-water, through to advanced white water skills and freestyle.
A list of available courses will be posted at the registration desk on the Saturday, although if any specific requests are made, attempts will be made to satisfy them. Paddlers will be asked to sign up for courses, and depending on demand and availability of coaches, a course schedule will be posted on Sunday morning.
People who do not attend on Saturday are welcome to sign up for courses on Sunday morning subject to availability.
As in previous years, Brookbank Canoes of Stockport will be on site for the whole weekend with a wide range of demonstration boats and equipment. All paddlers are invited to try boats and equipment without obligation.
Paddlers may register on Saturday for both days, or alternatively on each day, for that day only.
Please note registration will begin at 10am both days.
A £5 refundable deposit will be required for bibs.
Paddlers will be able to pay on arrival at the site on both days.
Spectators will be able to view free of charge and are positively encouraged and welcomed.
You may wish to book your places in advance, this can be done by contacting event organiser: Andy Noblett
via email : andynoblett@bluecarrots.com.
http://www.clitheroecanoeclub.org.ukThis year all young white water and freestyle paddlers are invited to take part in a new series of events up and down the country.
At each event there will be the opportunity to:
Get free coaching on river safety, river skills and freestyle
Meet and paddle with freestyle stars from the GB team
Compete in a fun freestyle competition
Each competition will contribute to a national series for age groups <12 <15 <18 - with the best three events to count. Venues and dates for 2005 as follows:
Llangollen River Dee April 2/3rd
Nottingham May 2nd
Boulters River Thames August 6/7th
Nene August 20/21st
Teesside September 11th
Dartmoor October 22/23rd
For more information contact
Matt Tidy, BCU Paddlesport Development Officer,
The National Youth Freestyle Series is a group of events run by volunteers who want to offer something more than has been offered before, particularly at the 'grass-route' and youth level. Llangollen hosted the first event in this series: the sun shone, the river was at a nice 5 on the gauge, free coaching, plenty of fun and smiling faces all around... and what did it cost? Only the standard water fee charged by JJ Canoeing and Rafting centre.
After signing in and changing into our gear we split into two workshop groups. Pete Catteral (coach of the very successful GB Freestyle Team) and Liam F headed up the first group who worked on freestyle moves at the bottom wave while myself, Phil Hadley and Vicky Barlow took the others for a 'River Skills' session.
The idea of this workshop was to develop river skills such as reading white water, ferrygliding, breaking in and out and group control / spacing. It seemed that everyone got something out of it, even with abilities ranging from novice to moving water up to a div 1 slalom girl! There is always something you can learn.
In this session we worked on anything from entering the hole and holding a front surf to nailing cartwheels; focusing on the building blocks of good technique such as leading with your head, looking into the hole and torso rotation. In just an hour and a half EVERYONE had made substantial progress and importantly had fun too!
The group then had some 'free time' to play at the hole before they had to be prised off the water for lunch! After some well-earned nosh (that curry... mmm...) we switched workshops and those that had done the river skills in the morning did the freestyle session; while the other group did 'river safety'.
This session aimed to teach the youngsters river safety skills such as use of throwlines, swimming in white water (although we didn't actually make them swim) and rescuing techniques. This was probably the workshop the kids were least enthusiastic about beforehand, but once started they seemed keen to learn.
After their second sessions, we all met once more for a fun downriver race from the eddy below the top weir down to the bottom wave. Unfortunately my finishing judge, Mark Darby, took his first swim in 7 years on his way down to the finishing line due to a run in with a raft; which delighted the youngsters no end but possibly brought me even more glee! Luckily, Pete Astles had raced off ahead of the pack and witnessed Gareth McMann steaming into the lead in his Riot Disco, hotly chased by Hannah Brand in her Riot Air who showed us all 'transferable skills' from her slalom! Well done also to Gregg Addicott who was the 3rd youth, although an honourable mention to Gavin Layton (Arron's Dad) who was actually the 3rd to finish! We finished the day off with fun and games down at the wave, until the kids had to be crow-barred off again at about 4pm.
Sunday saw a few extra kids so we re-jigged the groups and those who'd been there yesterday did flatwater freestyle skills with Sid Sinfield and myself; while those who'd just joined us did a river skills session with Carl. Tanni Hargreaves, who had only ever been on the Conwy before, was lucky enough to have one-to-one coaching from Liam all morning.
This was an opportunity for us to work on double pumps, cartwheels, stalls and even flatwater loops. We split into small groups of people of similar standard who wanted to work on the same things and in a very small amount of time you could see people using the tips they were getting.
After an hour we swapped over, the river skills session now involving challenges set by Carl and Sid over the bottom section of Mile End Mill. This was very well received. We all love a challenge, especially if it is one we didn't think we could do, but in fact we can! Before lunch there was again opportunity to practice in the wave in preparation for the afternoon competition. Even Tanni was showing us how it's done, by going in the wave with Liam. I'm sure at one point it was HER rescuing HIM...
With a scoring system that rewarded everything from rolls in the hole, front surfs and enders to aerial loops; there was something for everyone. And as a bonus, each competitor got three 45 second rides to strut their stuff and only the best two counted. By now everyone had gotten to know one another and the moral support was great to see. Hannah Brand styled her way to first place with the 2 highest scoring rides of the competition, winning herself a Soulboater hoody and T-shirt; Jonny Noblett showed good control and consistency to come in second place (winning a T-shirt and beanie from Soulboater) with eleven year old Arron Layton spinning his way into 3rd place overall and top under 12. As Arron is already sponsored by Soulboater it seemed a waste giving him anymore of their clothes, so he won himself "Blazing Paddles" for bedtime reading! Showing a great attitude and mixing in old skool air guitars, with spins and such, was Nathan O'Callaghan who finished 4th overall, earning himself a cool Soulboater Tee.
Tanni Hargreaves showed great courage going into the wave again with Liam for the competition and even gave the judges some cheeky waves while surfing away! She finished top under 15 and won a Soulboater hoody and T-shirt. Ben Brayfield, Callum Stone and Nathan all won more stylish Soulboater gear for particularly entertaining the judges with paddle tricks, hand rolls and even swimming for the cause! While I am talking prizes; Gareth won a hoody and tee, Hannah got another T-shirt and Gregg got some mini eggs for their efforts in the downriver race. Thank you very much to Soulboater for the generous prizes and Boningale Manor for the eggs!
We finished off in style with an awesome King of the Wave contest. 10 kids, an unannounced period of time and one wave = mayhem, fun and a fantastic spectacle. Well done to all those that took part and thank you for playing fairly! Hannah Brand maintained her Queen of the Wave status with Arron Layton being jointly honoured King. But like any good card game, there was a Jack... well actually his name was Nathan... who was technically on the wave when the whistle blew, only he was upside down! They each got a mug of mini eggs, as I'm sure is traditional at the crowning ceremony of any royal family.
All-in-all a great weekend and I can only hope the kids enjoyed it as much as I did! Thanks once again to everyone who helped me put this event on: Sid, Pete Catteral, Pete Astles, Phil, Liam, Carl, Mark, Vicky and Soulboater. If you are under 18 and fancy some coaching and/or a fun freestyle get yourself to one of the Youth Freestyle events around the country:
Nottingham May 2nd
Boulters August 6th
Nene August 20-21st
Teesside September 11th
Dartmoor October 22-23rd
For more info or an entry form for these events, please visit www.ukfreestyle.com, contact Matt Tidy mattPDO@aol.com.
| Event | Date | Status | Organiser |
| Llangollen River Dee |
April 2-3 2005 |
TBC | Lowri Davies lod3@aber.ac.uk |
| Nottingham HPP |
May 2 2005 |
Confirmed | Danny@ Desperate Measures danny@desperate-measures.co.uk |
| Washburn | TBA | TBA | Matt Deaves matt_dv8r@hotmail.com |
| Boulters River Thames |
August 6 2005 |
Confirmed | James Farquarson james@thamesweirproject.co.uk |
| Nene | August 20-21 2005 |
TBC | Ollie Castle oliver.castle@parknplay.com |
| Dartmoor | October 22-23 2005 |
Confirmed | Muppet muppet@nookie.co.uk |
| Teeside | May 22 2005 ? |
TBA | Bobby bobby@tfrankham.fsnet.co.uk |
Brookbank canoes in association with the leading manufacturers are putting on a 1 day event where you can try out various types of Canoe and Kayak for free.
If you are considering buying a canoe or kayak, expert advice and help is on hand to show you how to get started.
You may want to bring a set of spare clothes for trying certain types of kayaks but otherwise just turn up. You do not have to get wet as we can get you in to many types of canoe and keep you dry.
Free demos, FREE helpful advice.
Available to try on the day will be - Sit On Tops, Whitewater kayaks, Open Canoes, General purpose kayaks, Touring and Sea Kayaks.
Brands available to try include Pyranha, Perception, Wavesport, Dagger, Mad River Canoes, Wilderness Systems, Island kayaks, Mobile Adventure Canoes, Islander Sit On Tops, P & H Sea Kayaks and more to be confirmed.
The event is being held at Trafford Water Sports Centre, Sale Water Park, Manchester (just off J6 of the M60)
On site facilities include parking, changing rooms, restaurant, etc.
Please call 0161 474 1499 to book and enquire about a demo for specific kayaks or canoes.
April 28th Northgate Arena TBC
July 14th Clitheroe TBC
September 22nd Waterside Lodge Southport
NW ACM 2005
December 10th Merseysport
All welcome phone the committee for details
It is with regret that I have to report the death of Eric. He had been unwell for the last few years so it comes as no great surprise, but is still a great loss.
He will be remembered mainly for devising and running the Leven test during the 60s to the 80s. Though a small race in distance, it became very popular with huge numbers of paddlers turning up. He established a superb handicap system dependant on water level, so that one could compare the times of different runs at different times of the year, despite the different water levels. You also received a small badge in the form of a dipper, - bronze for anything over seven minutes thirty and silver for under seven minutes (if I remember rightly?). Only the winner of the series won a gold. However there must be many small bronze and silver dippers hidden in peoples drawers or sitting on mantelshelves!!
He was also an active paddler and I remember him paddling down the Eden when he was in his late 80's - I only hope I can still do that when I am 80!!?
He had also paddled all over the world having been on the first British descent of the Colorado - a superb and strong character and a great loss to the canoeing world, he will be remembered fondly by many people. Nigel Timmins
I don't get to many weekends to paddle for myself, so when the LCO/RCO meeting cancelled last Saturday September 18th I went off to try out the Seaquest race at Fleetwood run by the Outdoor Adventure Group.
What a great race - It starts on the sea front in Fleetwood and a short paddle brings you to the entrance to the river Wyre which you then run up with the tide before turning and coming back with the out going tide. On the way you have to visit 10 check points.
It is run over 22km which seemed very daunting, but I need not have worried as the tide was running well - at least 5 knots at the entrance to the estuary. It almost seemed a shame to have to head to the shore to pick up a marker. Most people were in sea boats, which was just as well as it was fairly rough with a strong westerly of force 5 to 6. However an open boat with 5 people in it completed the course, though they did take a swim trying to get through the shore break at the start - amazing and a superb achievement.
Plastic sea boats are preferable as you have to land to clip some 5 of the markers and I felt for those competitors in nice glass boats running them up the stony/rocky beaches. As the tide whisks you off up to the top of the course the scenery is very pleasant with just one chemical works spoiling the view. At just over half way you pull in to a slipway to clip a marker and much to my surprise found water, tea, coffee, and chocolate biscuits on offer (there was even a pub which I believe some competitors visited!!) A very civilised touch - and it got better as there was a free BBQ after the event.
A Superb event that should definitely be more supported by NW paddlers. So come on you lot -- stir yourselves next year and when you get your new diary, - go and pencil in September the 17th (the date I think for next years race) See you there!!
Next SEAQUEST 17TH SEPTEMBER 2005
| 1 | Barry Howell | Seaquest | Mens | 3:47:12 |
| 2 | Mike Ward | DNC | Mens | N/A |
| 3 | Martyn Beard | DNC | Mens | N/A |
| 4 | Chris Packman | Seaquest | Mens | 3:22:37 |
| 5 | Bill Todd | Seatour | Mens | 3:53:40 |
| 6 | Jenny Reilly | DNC | Womens | N/A |
| 7 | Neil Ackerley | DNC | Mens | N/A |
| 8 | Chris Jones | Seatour | Mens | 3:38:40 |
| 9 | Carl Walker | DNC | Mens | N/A |
| 10 | Chris Ryan | DNC | Mens | N/A |
| 11 | Andrew Kay | Seatour | Mens | 3:54:40 |
| 12 | John Roberts | Seatour | Mens | 2:32:25 |
| 13 | Martin Meling | Seaquest | Mens | 3:47:50 |
| 14 | Steve Watson | Seaquest | Mens | 3:47:50 |
| 15 | Eric Seville | Seatour | Mens | 3:54:40 |
| 16 | Jordanna Seville | Seatour | Womens | 3:39:22 |
| 17 | Alex Elkington | Seatour | Womens | 3:39:22 |
| 18 | Nigel Timmins | Seaquest | Mens | 2:56:50 |
| 19 | Caroline Pittendreigh | Seaquest | Womens | 3:32:20 |
| 20 | John Ackerley | Seatour | Mens | 3:39:22 |
| 21 | Paul Collins | Seatour | Mens | 2:25:10 |
| 22 | Rick Patterson | Seaquest | Mens | 3:47:50 |
| 23 | Mark Jackson | DNC | Mens | N/A |
| 24 | Robin Ansell | Seaquest | Mens | 03:22:06 |
| 25 | Andrew Hecton | DNC | Mens | N/A |
The River Wyre in Lancashire is a most unusual river as it goes from hill to sea in one area, rising in the Forest of Bowland and flowing out to sea into the Morecambe Bay at Fleetwood. In this distance it flows though rapids, rural settings and a wide estuary.
The event is to be held in the lower reaches of the river and as well as taking in the historic port of Fleetwood, competitors will have an opportunity to travel past an SSI and travel alongside hidden villages lost in medieval times.
The event, which will involve locating checkpoints, will run up-stream with the flooding tide, take in the benefits of slack water and then use the ebb of the river to return to the finish. The competitors will need to be fit to cover the 22Ks, have good map reading skills and be competent at self-rescue in the event of a capsize.
The estuary will offer many interesting challenges to the paddlers, noting the wildlife, navigational skills, reading the water and timing their run to match the flow of the tide. Local experts will be on hand on the day to give advice. You may compete as an individual or team and in any type of canoe or kayak. All paddlers completing the course will receive a certificate showing their time. A shorter course will be used in the event of unfavourable weather conditions. Any proceeds will be donated to the R.N.L.I
Bring the family and friends! Fleetwood has, a first class swimming pool, the Marine Hall with a selection of cask ales, markets, shops and the retail area of Freeport. Wyre Borough Council Tourist Information Tel 01253 891000 will be pleased to help with finding accommodation etc.
The Outdoor Adventure Group invites you to come and make this event a success and an annual opportunity to paddle this interesting River.
ENTRY FORM in (Microsoft Word Format)I last paddled the Goyt from Brabyns Park to Otterspool early in the year (2004) with a couple of mates. The prevailing lively water level made for an enjoyable trip and a couple of fallen trees added interest but didn't give any serious call for alarm.
When asked if I would help lead a small group of college students on the same stretch in June, I willingly obliged. After all, it's a fairly scenic experience and one which I have never tired of in 30 years of paddling. After a long spell with no significant rain, I had joked with the college tutor as to whether walking boots would be more appropriate than kayaks! The 'bump-and-scrape' conditions, as it happened, turned out to be a godsend.
Along the way we encountered around 10 fallen trees which, but for one, did not cause any undue problems given the extremely low water levels. In more normal levels, however, at least half of the trees could have presented serious risks to a group of inexperienced paddlers.
The final fallen tree was near the end of the long rapid immediately above the Manchester CC site. This completely blocked the river but obligingly left a metre and a half gap along the western edge to portage. In higher water levels, an inexperienced group may well be at serious risk if it doesn't pull out well above the tree or even at the beginning of the rapid.
Even more worrying are the half dozen or so trees which seem perilously close to joining the ones which are already down. These create several spots where lingering to admire the view is definitely not to be recommended!
To paddle or not? Well, as an individual paddler, one has the choice knowing what the risk might be. For potential group leaders, I would seriously recommend giving the river a cautious run a day or two before the group trip to carry out your own risk assessment in relation to the ability of the group and the prevailing water levels.
You may decide that your particular group can handle the risks. For me, I won't be going near this stretch of river with a group again until the fallen trees are cleared and the lingering ones are gone. This river is in a serious state of decline and, in my opinion, needs urgent work doing on it before it can once again be considered safe.
The first part of this years Duke of Edinburgh's Award expedition was to Cork, Ireland in June. The second part is to Norway later this month - August.
The group to Ireland consisted of four young people, all with learning difficulties: two girls and two boys, we had two adult paddlers from the youth club and a local instructor - Jim Kennedy, Atlantic Sea Kayaking, based in Cork.
Pre visit training had been carried out at the Salford Quays and on local canals.
To assess the strength and paddling skills of the group, on the first day we paddled in Castletownsend Bay. The group responded well, but with one of the group needing to be towed. Young people are doing less exercise and fitness levels are becoming an issue, when taking groups out.
It was decided basic skills needed to improve and this assessment formed the programme of the first few days.
On the second day the weather was poor so in the morning we went to Skibereen Heritage Centre to study the nature of Loch Hind and the history of Skibereen. Skibereen was hit hard by the potato famine. Later, camping on the island we were to see some of the crofter's cottages, which had been vacated by the locals during the famine.
As the weather cleared Jim took us onto Loch Hind, concentrating on basic skills, communication and teamwork. Loch Hind is an inland tidal sea loch and as the group paddled we were introduced to a variety of interesting sea life, which lived there.
On the third day, we set off from Loch Hind through the connecting rapids, out into a bay surrounded by cliffs leading out to sea. We took this opportunity to explore the caves and venture out into the open sea - just a little.
We had booked a large self-catering cottage for the week. Prior to going we had decided to reduce house rules to a minimum - two - no smoking and privacy in rooms. These were applied with some consistency. In the group we had a looked after child, so privacy in the bedrooms was an important issue. By reducing the number of rules, we reduced confrontation and also enabled us to explain the importance of individual responsibility when rules were broken.
The focus of the trip was an overnight camp and paddle. We met Jim at the Skibereen roundabout - Irish time. Drove to Turks Head. The group loaded their boats, reminding the group it needed four to move the loaded boats. The emphasis was on experiential learning - the group did things themselves - little help from the adults. I am an expert in sitting there and looking like I am doing nothing.
Weather conditions were mild, with grey clouds above. A slight breeze, but first real open sea kayaking for the group. Anxiety was high especially for the two girls. First we paddled to East Skeem Island, but felt the camping would be poor. You could see the sense of relief and achievement in reaching the first island. Paddling around to the north of the island, the group then decided to paddle to West Skeem Island. This was quite nice, but a little too cultivated, a nice new renovated cottage, but a family of seals living in the small bay by the cottage, almost swung it. Watching them watch us gave the girls a real buzz.
We then decided to paddle back to the side of East Skeem, we had not explored. Paddling into a small bay and onto the beach, the seals seemed to follow us, intent on viewing us as the new wildlife in the area.
We unloaded the boats and decided to pitch the tents by some derelict crofters cottages. They were small and made you think about the hard life the inhabitants must have lived. The cottages probably dated back to the famine day's -of the 18th Century. Skiberreen district was hit particularly hard by the potato famine. Now on the island were cows, goats, a fox and ourselves. We glimpsed the red Reynard on the hillside and to later catch him roaming the hillside at night by the brightness of his eyes. It seems the fox's swim from island to island and likely there was a family on the island.
The first glimpse of the cows was to see one wading in the sea by the shore - a weird sight to be sure.
The group was left to set up their own tents. Only help from us was to remind them of the time and the impending darkness, keeping them focused. They coped superbly. In the wall of one of the derelict cottagers a sculpture of what looked like a Celtic fertility symbol, had been placed. Several years prior we had seen similar sculpture at Lisemore Cathedral. Though this one did look quite new.
In the morning we woke up to the sound of cows munching on the grass by the side of the tents - sturdy beasts they were - and fresh cowpats.
The weather was clearing and we expected a good clear hot day. A breakfast of muesli, followed by bacon and beans. Again the group had to look after themselves, which they did. Again we underestimated them. They took their time but got organized. We started paddling back at 11 instead of 10. We had looked at the maps, identifying transits, moving from one to the other. The day was turning into brilliant sunshine. Members of the group were taking turns leading us back to Baltimore. We reached Baltimore about 2 pm, packed the equipment and settled onto a bench on the sea front for well-deserved afternoon lunch - sandwich and a drink.
The group enjoyed the trip and the two girls have since been paddling in the Lakes with us.
run by Wallasey District Scouts
This very successful event is taking place for the 29th continuous year. As usual the support of the kayak and canoe coaches throughout the North West is required in order to keep the event the success it is.
As a Coach and/or Scout Form Water holder I am asking you to offer your services for the weekend. It is an opportunity to meet other coaches on and off the water and work with experienced and senior coaches outside your normal circle. It is as much about the social as it is about the coaching. Support would be available from assistant coaches, if necessary, or alternatively opportunities may exist for aspirant coaches to work with the next grade above.
If you do volunteer you would be coaching within your qualification young people to adults, from fun session to L2 Coaching Training in kayak, or one and two star canoe.
If you are interested please could you fill out the reply slip below and return it to me either via email or snail mail - 7 Heyes Drive Wallasey Wirral CH45 8QL.
If you require any further information or have any queries please do not hesitate to contact me either via email ianalisonbell@btinternet.com or telephone 0151 638 1555.
Thanking you in advance for your time and commitment for canoeing and Scouting.
The annual access seminar was held on 15th January 2005. It was attended by 42 people including four BCU staff, 2 EA staff, a Rights of Way officer and researcher from Brighton University. Many people claim to have enjoyed it so please think about coming next year.
The government (Defra) have commissioned a third stage of the research study by Brighton University. This comprises attempts to negotiate access agreements on two sample rivers, these are the Waveney in Norfolk and the Mersey from Stockport to Carrington. They started work in December and hoped to finish in April. We have been involved in providing information and now await their report.
A canoe guide to the Weaver Navigation has been published by BW and local authorities; thanks to the work by Dave Moore.
We need paddlers to get involved in Local Access Fora, these were set up under the Countryside and Right of Way Act and are now relevant to canoeing access as Defra have instructed them to look at access to and along water. There will be a Forum for each Unitary Authority - Metropolitan Borough or County Council and they are currently recruiting members. Contact your local authority and find out, it is vital we are represented.
Rivers (We still need Access Officers for the Croal, Hodder, Tame and Lower Irwell.)
Mersey Corrider White Water Site - Stockport MB Council have commissioned the feasibility study into the scheme and we await the report.
Email chcleaver@tiscali.co.uk
This season Macclesfield dominated the Hasler Racing from the start. Large turnouts and organised selection enabled Si Nixon and the Macc team to win all but one event, when they came a close second. Freestyle came in second in the Hasler event with Runcorn and Chester following. The two smaller clubs out pointed Chester yet again by dint of turning up and competing in the North West Region on a regular basis.
Adlington are making a welcome come back to competition with a newly growing membership and they hope to organise two races in next seasons calendar. It is good to see new faces on the circuit and this is down to Neil and Sean at Adlington.
The highest placed NW club in the Hasler Final was Macclesfield. The course for 4 miles was the unpopular round and round the regatta lake, while the upper divisions got a trip out on the river as well. The portage and the narrow exit from the pool to the river ensured some exciting racing.
The Cheshire Ring again produced some good performances with Macc paddlers winning the K2 race and Freestyle setting a new record for the 3 paddler K1 relay. The K1's all the way had a tough time with paddlers dropping out. This race is probably the toughest in the UK calendar and always provides a fund of stories and lasting memories. As usual the racing was done with commitment and camaraderie and is a credit to Macc canoe club. Also a big thank you to the ground crews with out whom the paddlers could not compete.
I am particularly concerned about numbers that have attended races this year, most races only having between forty and fifty paddlers some less than this. This often means amalgamating Divisions, which usually disadvantages the less accomplished paddlers. Small turn outs can also be a major blow for fund raising, making a big difference to the smaller clubs. There have only been two races this season with quorate races in K1s and from 5/6 K2 down, amazingly both of these were at Chester. In fact Che 2 had the biggest Hasler turn out all season.
The 04/05 season has already had two races at ADL and Che. Macc are in the lead again so far, can any club catch them? Lets hope for bigger turnouts and competitive racing this season.
I would like to take the opportunity to thank all the race organisers for taking the time and trouble to run races as well as the coaches who are taking the sport forward.
The group consisted of four boys, all with special needs of some type: a looked after boy with challenging behaviour and a severe speech difficulty; a 13 year old with challenging behaviour and learning difficulty; a fifteen year old boy with a learning and mobility difficulty; and a fifteen year old with learning difficulties. Staff consisted of two others as well as myself.
The aim of the trip was to complete the Duke of Edinburgh's Award expedition, introduce the group to a different culture and to further develop their paddling skills .
The trip over was not the best with overnight gale forces causing some sickness. We gladly landed at Bergen the following day. The group had decided we would start the expedition on Ulvikfjorden, staying at Ulvik campsite.
The expedition was sited on the fjords leading into Hardanger Fjord: Ulvikfjorden, Osafjorden and Eidfjorden.
Day one was spent on Ulvik Fjord, two sessions, developing skills, comfortability with the paddling environment. Initially the fjords do seem intimidating. You look up the sides, seeing a height, steepness and sheer drop into the water and when you look down into the water a real sense of depth. Simon, our back -up driver saw whales playing about in the area where Osafjorden flows into Eidfjorden. I did not want to believe him, but I had to when the campsite warden confirmed small whales do come up the fjord. Day one was broken into two sessions to assess how much paddling one of the boys could comfortably cope with. He has difficulty walking for long periods and if he sits in a kayak for two long his knees tend to lock. He had chosen kayaking for his expedition, because it took pressure of his knees.
Day two we packed the boats and started in earnest. Paddling down Ulvikfjord, where we stopped for lunch in lovely sunshine, into Osafjord, where the previous day with low dark clouds hovering it looked like a scene from the 'Rings'. One word of warning, watch out for the ferries. They come on you so quick and are very regular. We had intended to camp on the side of Eidfjorden, but when reaching it discovered we had problems finding a point to land and carry our gear up the hill to the site. It seems the population along the banks of the fjord, cling to small areas of cultivated land. So we resorted to our escape route, paddle back across Eidfjorden to where Simon was and return to the campsite. Stuart paddled on to our final destination at Kvanndal, on Granvinfjorden. Stuart on being picked up talked to the group. Originally they wanted to resume the next days paddling from where we had stopped, but on Stuart's advice it was decided to go straight to our final site and paddle Granvinfjord. Which we did !
The Norwegians like their small overnight wooden huts. At Kvanndal where we stayed on the last two nights, it was almost en-suite, with the toilet having underfloor heating - luxury. At Ulvik the hut was a little more basic.
On the final day the group were tired, so they opted to drive up to see the Folgefonn Glacier (in places up to 300 metres thick).
Fortunately the ferry trip back was calmer and from the ship we saw a spectacular firework display in Stavanger Harbour, as well as eating some superb fish and chips in Bergen Harbour, when waiting for the ferry.
All told a good trip.
| 4 Star Kayak Training or Assessment | Sat 26th February | £45 |
| BCU Aquatic First Aid | Sat 23rd April | £45 |
| Sat 18th June | £45 | |
| Sat 17th Sep | £45 | |
| Canoe Safety Test (Training & Assessment) | Sun 6th March | £45 |
| Sun 10th April | £45 | |
| Sun 19th Jun | £45 | |
| Sun 4th Sep | £45 | |
| Level 1 Kayak Coach Train/Assess | Sun 13th Mar | £45 |
| Sun 29th May | £45 | |
| Sun 18th Sep | £45 | |
| Level 2 Kayak Coach Training | 26th & 27th Mar | £90 |
| 2nd & 3rd July | £90 | |
| 29th & 39th Oct | £90 | |
| evel 3 Kayak Training | 26th & 27th Feb | £110 |
| 26th & 27th Nov | £110 | |
| Level 2 Kayak Coach Assessment | Sun 8th May | £65 |
| Sun 16th Oct | £65 | |
| Level 3 Kayak Coach Assessment | 18th 19th 20th November | £130 |
| 11th 12th 13th November | £130 |
Other dates / courses by arrangement - please call to discuss your requirements.
All Course Fees include BCU Certification and will be based in the Clitheroe area, unless otherwise stated.
Funding assistance may be available through Lancashire Council for Voluntary Youth Services - see www.lcvys.org.uk for eligibility
To book contact Andy Noblett 01254 248457 or andyn@bluecarrots.com or Martyn Hartley 01282 771011 (Office hours) or Mhartley@mhartley.fsbusiness.co.uk
Calder Canoe Centre is the joint Training Unit of the East Lancashire Canoe Clubs. BCU Affiliated - Reg No 86117
Just a short note to let you know that Cheshire Scouts have been awarded
£5000+ to purchase a fleet of Sea Kayaks. The funding has come from the Local Network Fund.
The plan is to purchase 5 Cappela (RM)and all kit required. The boats will
be on there own trailer. Part of the funding is for leader training to enable activities to be undertaken by youth groups.
Initially the boats will be either at Chester or Tatton Park, we hope to
move them at some point in the future to Port Penrhyn near Bangor where Cheshire Scouts have a residential facility.
The above is for the information of Groups in the Cheshire and Warrington area. The equipment will be available to groups outside Scouting with the properly qualified leadership. There will be a small hire fee and depositscheme to cover replacement equipment and Insurance.
Part of the funding as I said is for leader training and I am looking at a residential in April or May at Bangor in the form of a Familiarisation to Sea Kayaks / 4 star sea training. This will be followed by 4 star assessments in the Autumn.
Could anyone help or suggest a L4 or above (Sea) to run at least 1 day or more of the residential. Reasonable costs can be met by agreement. This training could be open to Non Scout youth leaders currently active with youth groups.
Further information can be obtained from Alan Reay. alan.reay@cheshirecvys.org.uk Tel 01244 409339 Work or 01829 751257 home.
It's 2 years old, very sturdy and in excellent condition. Will carry up to 16 kayaks. Large wooden storage box below for luggage and equipment. Comes with vinyl cover (box is completely watertight), jockey wheel, spare wheel etc.
Ideal for youth club, canoe club, Scout group etc.
£1500 ONO
Also a range of Europa, Mirage and Dancer kayaks all in good condition.
£150 each. For further information please contact Paul at the address below.
Email chorley.adventure@btconnect.com
www.communigate.co.uk/lancs/chorleyadventureyouthclubPrizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd & 3rd in the following categories:
Under 10, 12, 14 and 16 Girls
Under 10, 12, 14 and 16 Boys
Wavehopper Event River Dee Chester meet at Sandy Lane £3 payable on the day.
A GREAT way to gain points for the Perception Wavehopper Final - this year at see OCTOBER! Every entry helps your Club's points total.
Meet for 9.30am
Contact Chester Canoe Club,
Colin Smith, 75 Stanton Road, Bebington, Wirral, CH63 3AT
Paddlefest Liverpool will be a showcase of young people from all areas of Merseyside taking part in a series of Paddlesport challenges and competitions. The event features all aspects of competition Paddlesport (canoeing and kayaking).
The event is for young people from the ages of 8 years to 18 years regardless of background from novice to experienced canoeists. Entries from disabled and ethnic groups are encouraged.
Venue Merseysport Centre, Queens Dock Liverpool - with great view points for spectators. State of the Art facilities and equipment.
The date for the event is Saturday the 18th June 10.00am - 5.00pm 2005
Details & Information Contact
Friends of Allonby CC Contact 07952 406158 or 07952 824030
website@foacc www.foa.com
Come and join us for a day of fun and excitement!
The BCU Young People's Programme are pleased to take Youthfest to the North East this year as part of the 2005 Alive Festival. Supported by British Waterways, Teeside Whitewater Centre and the Newcastle Gateshead Initiative - it promises to be a cracker! So don't miss out and read on for more information of how to enter.
There are lots of Paddlepower events to take part in alongside the Bellboat National Championships (if you read the report from the 2004 event you'll get an idea of how much fun it is and what you can have a got at!). But let's start with the BELLBOATS!
Teams - 8 paddlers per team. Helms will be provided if necessary. All abilities welcome and mixed teams encouraged.
Age groups - Teams can be entered for U11, U114, or U16 category. (age by 1st September 2004). We will also be running a VIP race for adults and helpers.
Schools and Uniformed Groups - There will be a prize in each age category for the fastest team from each of these groups.
Entry Fee - £64 per team (£8.00 per individual).
*(this includes free entry to all YouthFest events - see YouthFest Activities)
Each team will race a minimum of 2 times against other teams over a distance of 200 metres. All teams will be timed and the fastest teams will qualify for the finals. Races will be completed in age categories to enable paddlers to participate in other YouthFest activities.
Buoyancy Aids - all teams should bring buoyancy aids ( we can arrange buoyancy aids for teams who do not have their own but please let us know in advance).
An information pack will be sent out to entrants prior to the event with details of all the activities.
Team Leaders Briefing - there will be a meeting to brief all leaders prior to the start of the event - please check the information pack for timings.
Drawing Competition While you are practising for the event, why not have a go at drawing your own picture representing your Paddlesport experiences - or the 2005 Alive Festival! There will be prizes for the best entries.
Newcomers - if you haven't done Bellboating before - you can still participate - but why not contact us and we can tell you where you can have a go prior the YouthFest.
Please note that for some of these events entries are restricted - so make sure you enter early to avoid disappointment.
SLALOM - Diamond Slalom Challenge - try for one of the Blue, Bronze, Silver or GOLD certificates - plus coaching from GB paddlers
Xstream Slalom - try your boat skills this great new challenge
RACING - Lightning and Open Canoe Sprint Regatta and mini marathon - GB coach support
FUN CHALLENGE - Ergo Paddling Machine Challenge - 100mts timed runs - go for bust and beat your mates!
TRY A BOAT - lots of different boats to experience with coaching
POLO "Golden Shot" challenge your shooting and ball handling skills.
FREESTYLE - coaching and demos - flat water and on the Tees White Water course!
ENTRIES - are restricted so get your entry in early! Entry Form http://www.bcu.org.uk/pdfdocs/Youthfest%20Entry%20Form%202005.pdf
Youthfest Camping - Why not make a week of it http://www.bcu.org.uk/pdfdocs/youth%20Camping%20Form.doc
CLOSING DATE 6th July 2005
October Sun 23rd Another NATIONAL EVENT! This year the final of the Perception Wavehopper Series will be held at Sleningford on the River Ure.
For further details Contact your local Paddlesport Development Officer
http://www.bcu.org.uk/youth/pdos.html
WELCOME to our first (of many, I hope), but well overdue, contribution to the BCU Northwest forum!
A little about us....
Despite the name, The Mike Jones School of Sailing (MJSS), based at New Brighton marina, has always maintained paddle sport as its main activity (we do sail also, but kayaking & canoeing numbers outweigh those for sailing). In 2003/04, we delivered more Paddle Power and Star Test Awards to young people than any other provider in the northwest.
ELEMENTAL Outdoors is responsible for all activity staffing and the overall management at MJSS, and has been for over two years now. Elemental also offer all land based adventurous activities, including residential work. We both hold our own A.A.L.A. licenses and are currently registered for the Sport England Top Club Scheme.
AS a BCU Approved centre, we feel it's about time we began to take a more active part in the BCU activities in the region. All our staff are BCU coaches at various levels and we all have a very wide range of involvement in paddle sport, both as full time outdoor educators and at club, voluntary and personal interest levels.
THE Rockets Canoe Club is based here at the lake and has been in existence for 3 years, running one night a week (2000-2003) from April to October. For reasons which will become clear later, we have not run the club in 2004, but we expect to greatly expand this part of our work in the next year or two.
What we do now....
As a commercial business, we rely on our ability to procure regular work at competitive rates. We're not going to break any records (not yet!), but we do count ourselves successful after 5 years in business. Our main ethic is to be as inclusive as possible; we therefore have many customers from the sector of youth inclusion -those young people excluded from formal educational provision, for one reason or another - youth justice, referral units, alternative education providers, social services, youth services, homeless, Connexions and looked after children. But, we also work with charities who provide such services to youth, such as Fairbridge.
We are an access organisation for the Duke of Edinburgh's Award Scheme and run expeditions for all the above, as well as for schools and some colleges. Additionally, we have service level agreements with Wirral Education Authority (primary and secondary), Hope University College, and public sector and government funded bodies such as Positive Futures, E2E and Reed Employment.
The future....
Well now, some of you may be aware of the developments proposed for the New Brighton waterfront, some not. As it stands, we re set to have a brand new lake provided by the developers as part of their contribution to the council. Most exciting are our plans to add some £3.2m worth of value to the scheme by constructing a moving white water course (approx 300m in length), plus an indoor adventure facility (climbing, caving, high ropes courses). We are really want to begin building links with existing BCU Clubs in the region, and to revitalise the Rockets Club, and are particularly keen to offer the free use of our facilities (by arrangement), especially for joint initiatives and events, such as taster days, fundraising, competition or fun events, or coach updates/ training, or assessments- we are keen also, as an Approved centre, to host BCU approved courses. We do not, however, have much physical space to accommodate lots of people, at the moment!
Finally, as a commercial operator, we have strong links with school Compact and JMU/ IM Marsh student placement co-ordinators. If you know of a secondary school age, or older student (or even someone on a training course) within your club, or peer group, who is seeking some experience of the wider outdoor education industry, we would be happy to receive formal requests from them or their representative.
In response to some requests for beginners paddle sport venues, we run some sessions of a Saturday, at a cost of £10.00 per person for two hours, from 11.00 am to 1.00 pm, most weekends. Good technique is coached from the start, and many adults and young people are involved in Star test courses. We have just run a Canoe Safety Test (revalidation) day, and can refer on to an indoor pool session for those wanting to practice the wet moves in a more comfortable environment! We can also organise trips.
Please do get in touch! If you think we may be of any help.
P.S. Planned for early 2005, Level 2 Kayak Coach Training - places available, cost price to BCU Club members - Dates to follow.
Good Luck and Happy Paddling!
Contacts: 0151 691 0941 (office)
07710 613 864 (mobile)
email: elementaloutdoor@btconnect.com
COST PER CANDIDATE £45 + COST OF CERTIFICATE
COST PER CANDIDATE £110 TRAINING
COST PER CANDIDATE 130 ASSESSMENT
LOCATION WIRRAL
CONTACT IAN BELL 0151-638-1834
LEN HARTLEY 0151-605-1834
FOR DETAILS
The club is laying on a Coach Update Day on Sunday 8th May at Winsford Marina. Although the day is aimed at coaches within the club, coaches from other clubs are very welcome to take up any spare places.
We will be providing 2 half-day sessions in each of the following:
There should be spare places available on the Child Protection course and we would then try and fit people in on one of the other two sessions.
If anyone is urgently in need of re-validating their coaching qualifications, then this might be an ideal opportunity.
Venue: Winsford Marina
Time: 09.00 - 16.00
Cost: £ 10
To check if places are still available and to get a booking form
contact Peter Cook at:
For any coaching courses or requirements contact
NW REGION RCO Ian Bell 0151 638 1555
Email: ian.alison.bell@bcuinternet.com
All articles/reports/competition results/club news/event details etc to be sent to Karen Davies NW Chairperson
Email karen.davies@bcunw.freeserve.co.uk
British Canoe Union NORTH WEST Regional News Letter April 2005