Christmas Paddle

This was my first trip since joining the club in the Summer. For me it was an opportunity for father & son to practice the skills we learnt over the summer.

30 paddlers turned up in Newbury with canoes of all shapes and sizes. There were families with young children and adults of mixed abilities. As a group we paddled to Woolhampton and experienced the “fun” of portaging the numerous locks on the route. It was a pity that the Rowbarge Inn at the finish point was closed as we were all in need of refreshment.

As a newcomer to canoeing I was impressed with the help and advice given by coaches and experienced paddlers throughout the day. From securing the canoe on my car roof, being guided to the start point, receiving pointers on improving technique and help with portage of the canoe. Everyone was willing to give a helping hand.

Highlights

• Earl getting pulled over by the police as he was racing to the front of the convoy to prevent us from getting lost.

• Marion magicing up a picnic of hot mince pies and warm mulled wine half way into the trip.

• Lindsay’s quick reactions saving me from capsizing.

• Pirates stealing Lindsay’s canoe when he was on a bridge taking pictures.

• A Fisherman being brave enough to tell Marion that we could not use his stretch of water – he was a safe distance from her at the time !

Comment of the Day
“I don’t know where my clothes are !” from Liz– she had forgotten where her dry change of clothes was stored.

Summary
It was a great day out on the water that helped build confidence. If you come on a club trip with the attitude of “where is my canoe” then you’ll get little out of it. However, if you are willing to join in then everyone is willing to reciprocate and pass on their enthusiasm for this water sport.
I’d recommend attending a trip as it is great fun for all the family.

Gary Thompson
Sunday 17th Dec 2006