Club Programme 2008

YOUR CLUB NEEDS YOU.....

This year we would like to produce a full programme that caters for everyone's needs BUT we need your help. We hope to run a selection of river trips to suit a range of skills and abilities, a number of recreational trips in kayaks and canoes, pool sessions, surfing events, competitions, coaching and skills awards, and hopefully some workshops covering leading a trip, repairs and rescue etc. ... and not to forget the camping trips and other social events, and a regular gathering at te barrage. Unfortunately, the organisation rests with the usual suspects, and I would maake a special plea for more club members put themself forward to run an event. There's nothing to it, and any of the Club coaches and experienced paddlers would be prepared to assist you and help build your confidence. We hope to publish the new programme for 2008 in February, so any suggestions and contributions would be greatly appreciated. Give me a call on 07702966921 before the end of January. Thanks, Des

Summer Camp 2008

Calling all campers.....
The Club's summer camp is usually held at either the start or end of the school summer holidays for a long weekend at a venue in the Lakes. Whilst the past few events have been great fun (with the exception of last year, which was spoiled by strange phenomenon called non-stop rain!!), the Committee feel it is time for a change, and we would like your views?? We have had a number of suggestions ranging from keeping it as it is, going somewhere else, somewhere further such as Scotland, somewhere more local such as West Tanfield with its river access, shop, cafe and pub... involving less travel and hassle, to going abroad as a group for longer such as a campsite next to a river n France... guaranteed sun... and so on. We want your ideas... so go on, comment on the blog and we will make a decision in March..... cheers, Des

Boxing Day Paddle 2007

This year's festive gathering was blessed with the usual arctic conditions...... cccccold, and hurricane force winds, which understandably was met with the same reluctance to get out of warm cars as every year by the same paddle die-hards, repeating the same old words while on the water... "what on earth am I doing here??" But for most of us it's in the blood and that's that! Any excuse to get on the water and burn off the xmas pudding! With a little persuasion we eventually took to the water in four open canoes, two in tandem (me and Alex.. and Fe and Julie), and two in solo (Iain and Scott) and a few kayaks (James, Steen...... and "better late than never" Daniel, who had the good sense to stay in bed a bit longer than the rest!). We had a great laugh with the usual daft games, but nothing was more funny than watching Iain and Scott getting bushwhacked by the wind in the tree lined part of the lake! It was character building stuff! lol After a couple of hours it was time to get warm again, and thanks to Judith and Carol for their supply of coffee and mince pies.... where would the boxing day paddle be without these lifesavers! Thanks to all who took part, and roll-on Boxing Day 2008. Thanks also to the Millward family for returning the kit. Happy new year to one and all. Des

River Trip - Saturday 12th Jan. "Wharf"

Hi All,

I am hoping to run a river trip this coming weekend. Open to all those who have previously been on River Trips with me.

I hope to paddle the Wharf, from Burnsall to Barden Bridge, however this has yet to be confirmed.

Either way, it will be a 9.30 start at the get on point

Please ring me (07971 141579) or email me (Richard.Clapham@Senstronics.com ; Richard.Clapham@btinternet.com ) this week to confirm numbers.

This is gd 1-3 water, and we get out a long way before the "Strid"!

I would expect to be on our way home by 3.30pm

Cheers

Richard