Paddle Log

Since buying a canoe in November I have been itching to get the entire family out in it but it has stayed in the shed most of the winter as I didn't want to put them off for life.

Despite all the good weather lately, yesterday was the first time we got around to a family trip.

Both boys, aged 4 1/2 and 9 months, found ways to get comfy and we had a delightful paddle on the Arun from Greatham Bridge towards Pulborough and back.

Although we did not cover much distance it was a successful experiment in getting the family on the water and I hope we'll do a lot more over the summer.

Posted by Luke on 22 April 2007 | Permalink

That word again. Following our open canoeing course over the last few weeks tonight was the date set to run an assessment. We were a mixed group and had hoped to do the BCU's Two and Three Star tests. In the event our coach was only qualified to sign us off for Two Star but hopefully there will be a chance to upgrade this in a few weeks.

Posted by Luke on 17 April 2007 | Permalink

Tonight was due to be the conclusion of our open boating course but unfortunately it was cancelled at the last minute. Instead of getting qualified tuition we simply spent the evening teaching each other and practising our strokes on Shadwell basin.

Posted by Luke on 12 April 2007 | Permalink

Taking advantage of the long weekend and the beautiful weather, three of us from THCC met up in Guildford for a paddle on the River Wey/Godalming Navigation in an open boat.

We had a lovely day out covering about ten miles in a there and back trip with lunch at Farncombe Boat House.

Posted by Luke on 6 April 2007 | Permalink

Tonight I tried out a new boat. A couple of months ago I picked up a bargain basement sea kayak, a Valley Nordkapp. It is the boat I have always fancied but it was by accident that I came across this particular one at 20+ years old and in need of some TLC. It was going cheap so I took a punt on it.

After a little tidiyng up, including new hatches and decklines, I took it for a test paddle on Shadwell Basin. I still have some work to do on it but I was pleased with both the handling and the lack of any major leaks.

The evening had been set aside by the regular sea kayakers in the club for rescue practices and I was happy to join in but , boy, is the water cold.

Posted by Luke on 3 April 2007 | Permalink