Trip Reports

When the club runs a trip we try to get somebody to do a write up of their experience.

So if you are thinking of coming along on one of our trips, or your memory just needs a little prod, then they are all archived away.

Trip Report – Dart, January 15/16 2012

Lead Coach: Steve Finch

Group: Frankie Goatham, Sara Evans, Dave Fry (land crew)

We set off early on Saturday morning having picked up our boats on the Friday evening.  Frankie had his own Z1, Steve took the Sonic and I had my Axiom. It was with glee we realised it was probably the coldest weekend of the year we had chosen to do this, and all packed a few extra sweaters. We decided to do the shopping for Saturday dinner and Sunday breakfast when we were there (no pizza delivery apparently!!).

I can’t report much of the drive down as I slept until Taunton services when I awoke with coffee and muffins. The last bit was good though, going through gorgeous countryside. It proved to be a rally sunny day as well, so even though the wind was cold, it wasn’t too bad (honest!!) (more…)

As we assembled in the car park at the end of Godstow Road in Oxford we overheard phrases like ‘we must be certifiable’ and ‘we could go to the pub instead’.  We had noticed that the canal we had just passed was frozen solid and the public conveniences were padlocked shut – both bad omens.  Nonetheless we launched ourselves onto the Thames, all seventeen of us, including Dude the Dog.

After a little warm up just below the bridge we set off in a sprightly fashion – and came to an abrupt halt.  The river was frozen. Solid.  For about an inch deep.  We had to chip our way forward – taking it in turns to be the ‘ice-breaker’ at the front of the party.  Working our way forward in single file through the channel we made.  I did ask Marion what would happen if we were to fall in, “You die” she replied, cheerfully.  Oh dear. (more…)