Rutland Canoe Club

Barrow Winter Series

2012-01-14T17:47:00.001Z

News and photos from the ongoing Winter Race Series!

Over 40 paddlers turned up for each of the first two races with Rutland fielding Charlotte, Judith, Christine, Lynette, Richard, Michael and Trevor. The series attracts everyone from experienced WWR racers to families with young children and even a dog!

A sunny, but frosty, start!

Michael warming up!

Lynette and Judith clinging to a more stable paddler before start !

Trevor at start.

Richard ready to go.

A photo finish!

We collected six medals in different classes over the two events.

We look forward to seeing you at the next race on 4th February – it’s great fun!

Newark Kayak Trip

2011-10-31T10:57:00.009Z

12 club members arrived at the River Trent in Newark bright and early to kayak along the river and gain white water experience on the weir. Peter joining us after launching from the Marina. Many of the participants were using this experience towards achieving their 2* award.

Trevor instructed us all in launching off the bank – the river was a long drop from here. Jools, with Christine in his open canoe, and 10 small kayaks made their way up the River Trent meeting rowing 4’s and 8’s and single sculls as well as narrow boats and large cruisers on the way. Turning back at the weir just before the power station, manoeuvres were practised on the return– moving in and out of a narrow space, turning and edging. After a lunch break, we limboed under the wooden railings in our craft to the weir.

Richard set the example and took the weir confidently, followed by the rest of the pack – for some: Charlotte, Rosalyn and Ed –a first experience of shooting a weir – and for Jools, his first experience of shooting a weir in an open canoe.

Trevor then coached us all in ferry gliding across moving water, using bow rudder, remembering to lean downstream!!, low brace turns and breaking into eddies. After a lot of practice and a couple of capsizes (Ron and Martin performed these to make sure rescue techniques were practised as well), we finished the session with another shot at flying down the weir and instruction on using a throwline.

A thoroughly enjoyable day, a lot learned, with good weather too. Many thanks to Trevor for organizing the trip and coaching on the day..

Nene WWR October 2011 by Judi Sheehan

2011-10-10T20:36:00.001+01:00

Lynette, Mike, Richard and Judi spent Saturday at the Northampton WhiteWater Course.

Lynette led the way on the practice runs, negotiating the drops easily, with Mike also expertly steering his boat down the white water.

Richard and Judi as beginners, kayaked half a course before trying the full length of it.

Richard flew over the longer drop, capsized, but was soon up and finishing.

The practice runs over, the two timed runs brought mixed fortunes. However, the final results showed Rutland coming away with 3 medals: one gold, and two silvers.

The purpose built circular course is a great experience of white water for all levels- there were kayakers from 9 years upwards.

As beginners, we felt safe, - the pumped water was clean and being a circular course meant there was no long haul back to the start. Also, you could easily watch others as they paddled the course.

An eventful and thoroughly enjoyable day, many thanks to Mike and Lynette for their coaching and encouragement.

A short snippet of video on the back straight:

More photos can be found at the club gallery site.

Sarah Outen paddles to Japan

2011-10-07T16:51:00.009+01:00

With over 10,000 miles already under her belt Sarah Outen has just completed the biggest challenge yet on her loop of the globe.

In the last six months Sarah Outen, 26, from Rutland Canoe Club, has kayaked and cycled from London to Russia; crossing the formidable Gobi desert, camping in bear-inhabited forests and coming closer than she’d liked to poisonous snakes, but these challenges are nothing compared to the one that she has just faced – a cold kayaking marathon from the remote Russian island of Sakhalin to Japan - 24 nautical miles in freezing cold seas, huge waves and strong currents. The crossing took 11.5 hours. To Sarah’s knowledge, the crossing had only been achieved once before in a kayak.

The crossing was over La Perouse Strait - dividing the Russian island of Sakhalin in the north from the Japanese island of Hokkaido, and connecting the Sea of Japan on the west with the Sea of Okhotsk on the east.

You can read the story on her blog and, as she is carrying a GPS tracking device you can follow her progress.

A big welcome from the people of Japan especially Mr Sato from Wakkanai Town Hall who surprised them with a banner and flowers.

Where to next?

Sarah is in the middle of undertaking a human-powered loop of the planet "London2London:Via the World". On 1 April 2011, she set off from Tower Bridge in her kayak along the Thames and over to France. Then 10,000 cycling miles across Europe and Asia to Russia from where she kayaked to Japan. She still has to cycle down this North island of Japan before making a 10 mile kayak crossing to the South Island - Honshu. Thence a 650 mile bike ride down to Tokyo. Sarah will overwinter in Japan, while waiting for the right weather window before rowing solo across the Pacific Ocean to Canada, cycling across America and then rowing solo across the Atlantic Ocean back to the UK. A quick cycle and kayak will take her back to Tower Bridge in London in the autumn of 2013. A journey of over 20,000 miles which will take her two and a half years. Nobody has ever rowed this combination of oceans in a single journey around the globe, solo or otherwise. Only 2 men have ever rowed the North Pacific solo. Sarah will be the first woman to row solo across the North Pacific.

GOOD LUCK SARAH. ENJOY A REST IN JAPAN OVER THE WINTER.

Mary Queen of Scots paddle - Sept 2011

2011-09-12T20:48:00.001+01:00

What do a bellyflop, a pole dance and a sideways lunge have in common?

The answer – different ways that some paddlers found to overcome the 8 portages and 16 miles of the Club’s trip on the Nene from Oundle to Fotheringhay. This is where Mary Queen of Scots was held and beheaded in 1587) We found the area much more tranquil today!

Richard, Lynette and Graham were our seal launch specialists! Helen, Judi, Mike and Trevor preferred the more ‘controlled’ style of portage.

Quite a tiring day, but a great paddle! With lovely scenery!

More photos can be found at the club gallery site.

River Wye canoe trip - June 2011

2011-07-07T15:14:00.016+01:00

Eight members of the club enjoyed a sunny canoe trip down the River Wye. Over 4 days we paddled roughly 20 miles a day to cover the stretch between Glasbury to Monmouth.

On the Friday evening Neil and Martin, Trevor and Christine, Richard and Judith and Graham and Ben met at the Boat Inn, Whitney-on-Wye and enjoyed a great meal in the pub. Overnight rain and a group of lads who arrived at 01:00 and drank and talked until 05:00 disturbed the first night. We met up with a Duke of Edinburgh Gold expedition group and their assessors from Ellesmere College who happened to be staying at the same campsites along the way.Day 1: Glasbury to Bycross Heavy rain had lifted the water levels so we were able to get on the river at Glasbury after shuttling the cars down to the next campsite at Bycross Farm. Many sand martins seen skimming the river and nesting in the river banks. The speed of the flow throughout the trip helped us cover the distance before mid-afternoon. We arrived at the campsite at Bycross Farm hoping to get a better night's sleep in the orchard. This time it was a far more civilised 40th birthday party singing songs around a campfire which lulled us to sleep!
Day 2: Bycross to Lucksall As the river was high and flowing both sides of the island, Monnington Falls, just below Bycross, was paddled with no problems. Early cloud cleared and the day was hot and humid. By the time we got to Hereford for lunch, a snooze and an ice-cream were necessary. We camped Sunday night at Lucksall luxury campsite and walked into Mordiford for a meal and an excellent pint at the Moon Inn.
Day 3: Lucksall to Ross-on-Wye Martin and Neil were having problems with leaks in the Coleman resulting in it being nicknamed 'the paddling pool'! Some tape on the keel reduced the problem for the rest of the trip. The higher water levels had encouraged a run of salmon up the river and from here we saw more and more fish jumping. The fishermen were generally hospitable as we tried to avoid their lines and seemed to be pulling out some good sized chub and barbel. We had to split up between two campsites near Ross-on-Wye as the White Lion did not have room for all of us. After some searching half of us stayed in the field behind the Bridge-at-Wilton. Having grown used to the peace of the river, Ross was relatively noisy with traffic on the A40 throughout the night.

Day 4: Ross-on-Wye to Monmouth The river became more dramatic as we paddled into the narrowing gorge. Talk of the rapids at Symonds Yat probably made them sound mountainous but with the river levels still 3 feet above recent levels the advice from a local guide was positive, just stay right and avoid a submerged rock on the left. After scoping out the aforementioned rock we all made it through with only the odd unintentional breakout into an eddy! Not bad for a bunch of sea kayakers! We got off the river just below the rowing club on river right in Monmouth and the drivers travelled back to Bycross by local bus and taxi to pick up the cars.
We camped that night at the Mono Bridge campsite and enjoyed dinner and a few beers at the Kings Head in Monmouth.

Everyone enjoyed the trip and thanks go to the organiser, Graham for a much sunnier and drier paddle than previously. More photos can be found on the club gallery site.

An edited video of everyone's clips of the rapids at Symonds Yat:
A

Bourne outdoor pool session

2011-07-05T09:47:00.008+01:00

On Saturday evening the club hired Bourne Outdoor Pool for a couple of hours for some warm water skills practice. There was much rolling and general thrashing about! Followed by bangers and burgers.

Next session 23rd July.

Doggy Paddle – May 2011

2011-05-27T20:26:00.001+01:00

Some club members took part in the 19 mile annual Doggy Paddle from Leamington Spa to Stratford-upon-Avon last Sunday. This event, which attracted around 100 paddlers, raises money for guide dogs for the blind.

Soon after starting we portaged the first weir with the imposing backdrop of Warwick Castle towering above us.

This is a lovely river, sometimes narrow and quite fast, sometimes wide and serene, although on Sunday there was a stiff wind against us for most of the way.

There are then three further weirs which can be shot. Lunch was taken overlooking one of these. Shortly afterwards we passed another couple of club members who were enjoying the day in open canoes.

This really was a lovely paddle…

RCC Matters - Spring 2011

2011-05-02T18:49:00.004+01:00

Winter has come and gone and the signs of spring are definitely with us. I do love the sounds and sights of this time of year particularly the new lambs!

We have had two exciting trips away so far this year and further afield club members have been making a splash too.

Read more in the latest edition of the club newsletter.

Flamborough Head – Sunday 3rd April 2011

2011-04-04T21:05:00.001+01:00

Billed as a paddle to experience sea birds your intrepid paddlers were not disappointed! Although a few days earlier it had looked as if the wind might prevent the trip from going ahead, Sunday dawned dry and sunny with a gentle WSW breeze.

The plan was to leave South Landing with the last of the ebb, round Flamborough Head and then paddle on towards Bempton Cliffs one of the few mainland gannet colonies. Lunch was to be taken at North Landing by which time the flooding tide should have provided enough water to visit most of the caves and arches which riddle the area underneath the lighthouse.

As we paddled around the headland we became aware of thousands upon thousands of guillemots and razorbills nesting precariously on the cliffs. As we paddled past we were sometimes exposed to a blizzard of birds flying down from the cliffs across the sea all around us and often at head height! The sky was sometimes almost obscured by the number of birds flying around – fantastic!

An endearing feature of guillemots is their choice of options when disturbed floating on the water – they might just suddenly dive, or take off only to land/crash a few hundred yards away, or more usually use their wings to carry out a very clumsy, but fast, ‘butterfly stroke’ half flying, half swimming on their bellies!

Richard saw his first puffin shortly afterwards and soon we had seen several with one particular individual keen to show him (her?) self off to us by standing up on the water and stretching and folding its wings before resuming its gentle paddle.

As we paddled nearer to Bempton we saw our first gannets – huge gliders with beautiful white plumage catching the sun contrasting with their dark black wing tips. At the colony itself there were thousands of nesting gannets, it was fascinating watching one of these large birds coming back to its nest improbably stuck to the cliff and occasionally missing its footing and having to go round again!

After lunch we explored some of the caves and passages with a very gentle swell occasionally testing our stability!

Thanks to the paddlers – Chris, Judi, Lynette, Mike, Richard and Trevor.

River Dove Trip – Sunday 20th March 2011

2011-03-25T14:52:00.001Z

A rather large gathering of kayakers and canoeing enthusiasts took to the Dove River, after a short briefing on a lovely Spring Day. The Rutland contingent of craft comprising of a Red Rocket (Lynette), a Blue Bullet (Mike), three Yellow Perils (Richard, Judy and Trevor) the bright Green Kermit kayak (Pete), Ray and Yvonne followed up with the tree hugging Wenohah Canadian, we all waited with trepidation and anticipation for the forthcoming adventure.

We set off with nervous energy, exchanging banter, for a 12 mile objective, Six miles of Grade 1 (Maybe 2) water, was just enough to provide stimulation to head for the V’s to avoid shallows and steering a course to avoid all the trees.

Avoiding all the trees !!

The scenery as we approached the first weir was post industrial buildings, gun emplacements and remnants of old railways and a beautiful ruined castle (We believe Tutbury) on a prominent hill in the distance. The majority of the group launched themselves off the precipice of the weir (For many it was a first) down the 4ft abyss into the foaming river, Ray and Yvonne opted to portage and Mike supervised us!!!!

Judy shooting weir just ahead of Pete !!

We all sat on the bank shared with many others, to enjoy a light hearted lunch break in brilliant sunshine. The trip continued into more rural surroundings, by this time we were perfecting our white water skills, ferry gliding, tree avoidance and pebble hopping, prepared and ready for the second weir. It was very exhilarating with large standing waves at the base and a good drop to the water below, this time we all enjoyed the experience.

We had completed about 9 miles and Trevor (Obviously tiring) attempted to hitch a ride on the Canadian, Pete performed a shallow capsize drill and amazed us all by the length of time he could hold his breath before surfacing, Lynette by now having fired on full turbo in her red rocket was finding the pace too warm and began shedding her clothes on the bank unabashed by onlookers.

The last weir was encountered with no incident and we all gathered together for the final leg. It was amazing how few people we saw on the whole trip considering the number at the start…we put it down to our speed, efficiency, tight discipline, superior paddling skills and the much improved “Bow Rudder”. Thanks to Mike for organising a great day, do join us next year.!!!!!

Raymond and Yvonne

RCC Matters - Winter 2010

2011-01-24T10:58:00.007Z

The summer turned into autumn and now we are mid-way through winter. Once again the snow and cold has returned with a vengence to Rutland but true to our reputation, none of this has stopped the members of Rutland Canoe Club having fun.

Check out tales of Mull, fireworks, ice and medals in the latest newsletter. And the Limpopo ALLIGATOR!!!

Team Rutland at Soar Valley Barrow Race

2011-01-15T15:51:00.001Z

Richard, Judi, Trevor, Lynette and Mike enjoyed a windy, swirly exciting race alon g the River Soar on Saturday. After a warm up paddle along the canal we started the race just below the maelstrom that had formed after the weir and soon had to limbo under a low bridge.

The river looked completely different to the last race a month before with water honking under the bridges and totally obscuring the picturesque reed beds we had to negotiate last time. The strong head wind made it difficult to get into a smooth rhythm whilst the fast current made some of the bends quite interesting!

Main body paddling is great stamina training and gives us a real edge in these races! We all came away with medals in our respective classes and would recommend these sort of events to other club members.

Barrow Loop Race – 11th December 2010

2010-12-15T20:40:00.001Z

Judi really enjoyed the day and recommends the race to anybody who would like to try racing but has never done it before.

Great venue,a perfect distance of 3km for beginners - a worthwhile distance, but not totally exhausting! A variety of river scenery, bends, reed beds, wide stretches of water, a range of craft - even a coracle (made on a weekend course at the Boathouse Inn), and the friendliness of all involved.

The one minute interval between starters made you feel that you were not trailing behind the others, and then the thrill of actually catching up and overtaking another paddler.

The post race drink at The Boathouse (the finish of the race) when the section winners and times were announced was a real surprise – with Rutland winning 3 of the categories! (Judi – senior short boats, Lynette – senior wavehoppers, Mike – senior long boats)

As an onlooker and supporter, Richard, (feeling under the weather on the day!) hopes to be on the water for the next race on January 15th.

Medal at Nene Wild-water Race !

2010-10-11T18:03:00.001+01:00

Congratulations to Lynette who took the Gold Medal in her class at the Nene Wild-water Race on Sunday.

Entering a club wavehopper on a beautiful October day, Lynette made two racing runs with her cumulative time winning the day. It was a fun day and we’d recommend it to other club members next time around.

The winning run -

Under starter’s orders:

Taking the big drop:

Working through the back straight:

Crossing the finish line:

Medal ceremony:

The wavehopper was reported to handle well and to feel much more stable on moving water and was a delight to paddle – a very fun race and much easier than slalom!!

Rutland Day 2010

2010-09-18T21:18:00.005+01:00

Photo : Anglian Water

The club had a display stand at the show today which was really well attended. As well as photos and leaflets about the club and a rather magnificent banner, there were a number of boats available for people to try out...and didn't they just.

A wide variety of people of all ages wriggled into buoyancy aids and had a go on the water - coming off, eyes sparkling, grinning from one side of their faces to the other and full of excitement for paddling.

Trevor, Jools and Richard were in their element and you were more likely to get a bone off a gnawing dog than prise Trevor from the double. Judith, Christine and Martin went more calmly about ensuring that everyone had a good time. Thank you to everyone who helped out and in particular to Martin for making it happen.

RCC Matters - Autumn 2010

2010-09-16T22:39:00.006+01:00

What a busy summer we've had - club trips, individual trips, barbecues and camping, raft races and trying out different boats. Much of what we got up to is revealed in this newsletter. . . .

Orton Mere Slalom Practice

2010-08-01T16:42:00.001+01:00

Many thanks to Graham for leading a keen group of slalom novices at Orton Mere on Sunday. Starting with basic moves we progressed to paddling down the course doing our best to negotiate funny coloured poles that kept getting in the way.

Although opens were welcome, Jools tried his hand in a kayak.

Our leader showing how it should be done!

Judi swaps crutches for paddle!

Lynette battles her way through the white stuff.

Richard in the big stuff!

Very enjoyable morning with everyone gaining in confidence and experience on moving water.

Menorca Sea Kayaking Trip

2010-06-19T17:57:00.010+01:00

You may have read the short extract in Rutland Matters, but if you want to read the full uncensored version then click here.

Woodmill Sea Symposium

2010-06-13T20:05:00.001+01:00

Two intrepid Club Members attended the Woodmill Sea Symposium near the Isle of Wight. This was the first sea-kayaking event held there and they hope to make it an annual feature.

It was very thoroughly organised with lots of different activities available from a VHF Radio Course through First Aid and Foundation Safety and Rescue to actual paddling !

Needless to say your reporters chose actual paddling and finished up leading one of the groups to the Needles.

This is a classic sea trip and we were blessed with excellent weather.

This was a good get together with BBQ and fire and is an ideal way of experiencing different aspects of sea kayaking - it is well worth considering for your diary next year.

RCC Matters - Summer 2010

2010-06-01T10:04:00.006+01:00

The first issue of the new club newsletter has been distributed by e-mail today. For those who don't use e-mail copies are available in the club hut.

It includes a diary of forthcoming events, trip reports from the Nene River and Doggy Paddle trips and the Menorca luxury expedition! RCC Matters - Summer 2010 is also available on this link.

River Nene

2010-05-18T14:57:00.002+01:00

The first of the regular club paddles away from Rutland was well supported with seven members braving the forecast as we set off from Wansford downstream.

We made our way to Water Newton where Howard developed an interesting technique for getting out of his kayak. Not to be outdone Lynette showed us all how to 'wedge' a boat while seal launching after the break! Needless to say Rod, Barry and Pau all made it look very easy.

By now the sun was out and a fresh breeze made it 'interesting' for Jools in the open as we headed back upstream. The 'Wansford Flyer' made a perfect appearance as we came back under the railway bridge.

Tales of Tutbury weir

2010-03-29T09:24:00.017+01:00

Viv, Stewart, Matt, Ben (in open canoes), Mike, Lynette ( in a double kayak), Trevor and Christine (in single kayaks) took the opportunity to paddle 11 miles of the River Dove normally closed to kayakers. The event, expertly organised by Burton Canoe Club, takes place only once a year when landowners and anglers allow access. A minibus and club members cars were on hand to make the car shuttle easy.

After a briefing we launched just above Aston Bridge near Sudbury. The river meanders through open fields until we reached the first weir near Tutbury. Watching others take the weir there were different ways to tackle the drop. Kayakers could take the weir almost anywhere but canoes had to either find a narrow concrete channel in the featureless lip or take the fish ladder to river-left. Lining up using a tree trunk lodged upstream Ben and Matt took the channel (video above, please note it's not me wearing the pink helmet!). Trev and Christine dropped over the middle while Viv took the fish ladder. Mike and Lynette portaged around not wishing to damage their glassfibre.

Although it rained for much of the remaining miles and two furthur weirs a good time was had by all. The get out was just north of Burton after the Dove passes under the A38. Thanks to Trevor and Viv for organising.

Merry Christmas to all

2009-12-25T12:38:00.001Z

Another Juggins masterpiece used on this years Christmas card! Any resemblence between Pau and the man in the water is entirely accidental!!

Water levels - Rutland Water

2009-12-11T17:36:00.002Z

Where has all the water gone? Our raw material is becoming more scarce. The above picture shows the Limnological tower south east of Whitwell Creek in February 2008 and today, mid December 2009. The platform on the right of the tower shows the water level after the wettest November in years.

Rumour is that to enable the construction of the wildlife reserves at the end of the south arm the water level is being kept low. The result is the exposure of tree stumps and banks of freshwater mussels around the lake shore. Getting in and out of the boats can get muddy. Increasing demand for water could mean that this becomes the norm.

Sarah Outen talks about her row across the Indian Ocean

2009-11-07T10:23:00.018Z

On 21st November at 7:30pm Sarah Outen will give a presentation about her row across the Indian Ocean at Exton Village Hall, which is just off the Green in the centre of the village. Entrance will be £5 per person and all proceeds will go to the Arthritis Care charity. Refreshments provided by the members of the club.

'Twenty-six club members and guests enjoyed an enthralling presentation of video and pictures on a rainy Saturday evening at Exton Village Hall. Trevor performed the introduction and reminded Sarah of previous club trips to Mull when exam revision was forgotten and early challenges met.

Sarah's talk was inspirational, woven with the romance of the open ocean, the heroism of being capsized five times, the hunger for the next chocolate bar, an obvious deep respect and love for her craft, 'Dippers', a large amount of skill and courage and much more. She brought along examples of the vacuum-packed porridge and rancid dehydrated food, a carbon fibre oar broken by a huge wave that flipped her, rescue flares and drowned satellite phones used in the final drama when she was thrown onto the reefs of Mauritius. I would recommended anyone who can to enjoy her presentation at other venues. See her website for details.

As a small token of our admiration Sarah was presented with a life membership of the club and we hope to see her down at Whitwell Creek whenever she is home from her adventures.

Thanks go to all who provided a great spread of food and wine plus raffle prizes. £200 was raised for Sarah and Arthritis Care plus several club members will be modelling Outen team polo shirts.'

Firework display paddle

2009-11-01T19:20:00.004Z

On the night of Halloween 11 paddlers set off from just downstream of Ferry Bridge on the River Nene. We paddled downstream and then up into Overton Mere where we rafted up to enjoy the Peterborough Firework Fiesta.

River Nile, Uganda

2009-10-09T20:31:00.002+01:00

Philip Wilson and a group of other students from Bath University spent two weeks in September white water paddling on the White Nile in Uganda. They took their own kayaks and paddling gear out from the UK on Emirates Airlines and camped at two sites on the river - Nile River Explorers at Bujagali Falls (pictured above showing Phil "nailing the line") and The Hairy Lemon on a small island in the river. This report gives you an idea of some of the places they paddled and things they did. As well as a lot of paddling they also found time to take a three day camping safari in Murchison Falls National Park where they saw lots of giraffe, antelope, hippos and crocodiles (fortunately none while paddling), and some elephant and water buffalo.

Rescue skills session

2009-09-21T21:06:00.010+01:00

Photo by Pau

Yesterday, while some paddlers went out on the main-body of Rutland Water, Viv, Pau, Rebecca and Ben practised a variety of rescues at Whitwell Creek.

The session started with a wet exit and swim back to the beach. So we started off pretty wet! Luckily the water isn't too cold at this time of year. This was followed by conventional X-rescues, roll-in/leg-over X-rescues, ladder rescues and scoop rescues.

Getting chilly by now we warmed up with a bit of exercise. Using an in-line tow we simulated the rescue of a pair of kayaks rafted together.

At the end of the session we had time to attempt a few rolls.

The weather was good for learning new techniques but not representative of the type of conditions in which someone is likely to get into trouble. Maybe next time we will have more wind to make things more challenging. Thinking of having another session in a months time. The water will definitely be colder!

Sarah Outen rows the Indian Ocean

2009-08-09T16:13:00.009+01:00

During today's Sunday morning paddle the topic of conversation was ex Rutland Canoe Club member Sarah Outen. She has just completed her solo row across the Indian Ocean from Australia to Mauritius, the first woman to do so. Read about her adventure on her blog; wildlife, capsizes and crash landings!

CONGRATULATIONS FROM EVERYONE AT RUTLAND CANOE CLUB!

The photo above was taken on a club sea kayak trip to Mull in June 2002. Club members remember her joy and enthusiam of being at sea.

Sarah is raising money for Arthritis Care and we urge anyone to support her by making a donation at her site at JustGiving.com. We hope soon to be helping to raise some money when Sarah returns to Rutland.

Kayak racing at the Special Olympics Leicester

2009-08-05T11:02:00.015+01:00

Club members were involved in supporting the kayaking event of the Special Olympics Leicester 2009 held at Whitwell creek between 25th and 30th July.

Kitted out with baseball caps, polo shirt and cagoules we helped out by following the competitors down the course just in case they needed our support, in the worst case getting to a capsize until the safety boat was able to cross the lanes. Some competitors needed a short tow or to be able to hang onto another boat after the exertions of the race.

At the start of some races we had to hold the competitor's kayaks in line for a fair start. Most of the races were in tippy racing boats and some looked more comfortable than others. Certainly better than I would be! We couldn't keep up with the faster boats and stationed other boats half way down the course in case there was a problem.

Wednesday and Thursday saw no capsizes in the 500m races though wind made the finish line at the mouth of the creek a bit rough. Lunch was spent sheltering in the club hut from the heavy showers accompanied by a brood of hungry ducklings.

After the races on Thursday there was a medal ceremony with some exuberant celebrations and the odd acceptance speech! The volunteers all received a medal to say 'Thank you' for their efforts.

Thanks to Trev and Chris S. for organising the club volunteers; Paul, Ian, Yvonne, Chris B, Ben and Martin.

More photos on the club gallery and the SOL2009 photo gallery.

. . . . Ben

Northumberland – June 2009

2009-07-07T21:21:00.008+01:00

Ben, Mike and Lynette visited the Northumberland coast and enjoyed a great camping trip staying at Proctor's Stead near Craster reminding themselves just what a beautiful location the Northumberland coast really is. On Saturday we set off for the Farne Islands and enjoyed a few choppy bits as we rounded the islands.

We were then escorted into the lighthouse stop by some very photogenic and people friendly seals who enjoyed strutting their stuff in a clear water pool and posing for photographs.

We were soon joined by various roaming packs of sea kayakers who were up for the Coquet island race the following day.

Later we paid a visit to the seabird colony and saw thousands of birds at close quarters and enjoyed the comic absurdity of puffins.

We also compared the number of pecks to the head by ferocious terns.

Ben maintained there was a positive correlation between height and number of pecks sustained, but Mike thought he came off the worse by virtue of the state of his hat!

After a damp pub crawl around Seahouses in the evening in search of the well publicised Music Festival we discovered that it had packed up and gone home at 4.30, so we had to make do with listening to a drunken rendition of tunes from the Lion King instead - perhaps we wouldn't have been able to tell the difference anyway!

Next day we launched from the delightfully named "Sugar Beach" in perfect weather and Ben paddled off south to Amble to take part in the Coquet Island Race in the afternoon while Mike and Lynette headed north for Dunstanburgh Castle rock hopping around some interesting clear bathing pools and cliffs. Ben achieved a good placing (25th!? 6th in my age group and one second ahead of my mate Gill!! . . . Ben) despite "not taking the race seriously" and being hindered by using a well loved plank of wood as a paddle!

A great trip.

More photos on the club photo gallery here.

New photos added to Gallery

2009-07-06T22:51:00.003+01:00

A number of new photographs taken by Richard Creese have been added to the Gallery.

Sunday morning paddle

2009-07-06T12:12:00.010+01:00

Yesterday 15 paddlers set out from Whitwell creek soon after 10:00am. Neil was the Main Body Leader assisted by Graeme bringing up the rear. Under the new rules a list of all the paddlers was left with the Watersports Centre.
We headed out to the Limnological Tower in the middle of the lake then across towards the Normanton Church before turning down the north shore of the south arm of the reservoir. The group keeps together moving at the speed of the slowest member.
All the group were in kayaks of differing shapes and sizes; one double, the rest divided between long sea kayaks and short whitewater kayaks. Most of the club kayaks were in use and some members had brought their own craft. The Sunday paddle is a good opportunity to try different boats and paddles and to get advise on different pieces of kit. Most were wearing tee-shirts and shorts as the weather and water were so warm.
The previous week when conditions were very still most of the craft were canadian style open canoes. Often there are seperate groups for open canoes and kayaks.

Paddling along there was the usual chat amongst the different groups. A light south-westerly wind hardly ruffled the surface of the lake but meant there were a good number of sailing craft of all shapes and sizes. One job of the Main Body Leader is to steer the group out of the way of other waterborne craft; dinghys, yachts, wind-surfers, fishing rowboats and the Rutland Belle.
The south arm was quite busy it being a summer Sunday but usually there are ducks, geese, swans and cormorants around the lake. The nature reserves at the end of each arm of the reservoir are off-limits but this still gives us enough room for a good paddle. Before we reached the row of bouys that mark the start of the reserve we cut across the lake to the southern shore for the usual coffee stop and a chat.
After a break we headed back via the Tower to Whitwell Creek. The water being so warm Pau decided to have a go at some rolling as we approached the orange bouy at the mouth of the creek loosing a pair of sunglasses in the process.

15 paddlers set out and 15 paddlers returned (minus one pair of sunglasses). We were off the water by 12:30pm. A typical Sunday morning paddle.

Bourne pool sessions - rolling and rescue practice

2009-07-06T11:53:00.004+01:00

The third evening session took place last Saturday and much rolling and rescue practice was enjoyed. This was followed by a session of kayak polo and a barbecue as the sun set.

Rebecca practices layback roll recovery

Thanks to Barry for organising these sessions at the Bourne Outdoor Pool. Don't miss the next one in a fortnight.

Trip report - Cornwall sea kayaking

2009-04-20T20:00:00.008+01:00

Over the Easter holiday five of the Friday Bunch stayed at the luxury campsite at Carnon Downs; Ray (organiser), Yvonne, Martin, Ben and Richard (plus non-paddler, Judith, Richard's wife). We managed to paddle 5 days out of 6.
Day 1/Good Friday - Swanpool Beach, Falmouth to Truro. We got involved with the Truro River Race run by Devoran Gig Racing Club, who made us very welcome. Before the race we visited St. Mawes for a pasty and had a sculk around Falmouth Harbour before registering for the race at Church Mylor. Kayaks have won the race for the last few years so the handicapper gave us little chance. Most of the gigs overtook us within the first mile. Martin and Richard dodged the King Harry chain ferry. Ray came first amongst us but we were beaten by 20 minutes by a local paddler! We managed to beat 2 girls on a sit-on-top at least!! Refreshments enjoyed afterwards at the Truro Cricket Club. (17 miles)
Day 2 - Pendower Beach to Port Holland rtn - Pendower beach, Nares head, Portloe, Shag rock, Port Holland back to Gull island (choppy uncomfortable sea) round the rocks and return to Pendower beach. (12 miles)
Day 3 - Gorran Haven to Charlestown rtn - Watched seals around the Gwinges, Chapel point, Black Head, Porthpeau, Charleston, Black head, Pentawen Beach, Magvagissey, Chapel point, Goram Haven (18 miles)
Day 4 - wet and windy, day off
Day 5 - Swanpool Beach to Helford River rtn - Sunny lunch outside the pub at Helford Passage. (13 miles)
Day 6 - Readymoney Beach, Fowey to Golant rtn - Strong winds forecast so we bimbled around the Fowey River. Readymoney beach, past Penpoll Creek, Great Wood, back to Washing Rocks, Blackbottle Rock, Lantic Bay, Readymoney beach. Winds didn't increase but it did pour with rain so wandered out towards Gribbin Head. (12 miles approx)

The occasional heavy rain didn't dampen the fun, fine food and drink enjoyed each evening at the campsite. Thanks to Ray and Yvonne for organising the week, researching and planning the trips.
. . . Ben

Sara comes 2nd in Ladies K2 at the Devizes-Westminster race

2009-04-18T05:09:00.007+01:00

"Flew the flag for Rutland Canoe Club at the Devizes to Westminster Canoe Race last weekend. My partner, Linda Clark, and I completed it in 25 hours, 41 minutes, coming second in the K2 Ladies class. Mind you, only 4 Ladies teams had entered as compared to the 86 Men's teams! And so here's the Race Report.

My, this was tough. 125 miles, 77 portages. We started just after 8.15 on Saturday morning. The first part on the Kennet and Avon canal was much more weedy than when we had paddled it two weeks before so a fair amount of concentration was required to navigate through this and we had Numb Bum after the 2.5 hour portage-free stretch. But the atmosphere was very friendly and we shared washes with another crew. . . "

. . . . Read full report here.

AGM 2009 - Empingham Village Hall

2009-03-14T23:32:00.004Z

The AGM was held at Empingham Village Hall. Views and opinions where exchanged on issues involving the club. The major topic was the significant changes made by Anglian Water in our relationship and the increase in the fees for access to the lake and facilities (ie. the membership fee is going up!)

Also there was discussion about how much BCU training the club will offer in the future, how much time the existing coaches were able to commit to.

Barry has taken over the position of Treasurer. New committee members include Martin, Sara and Jules.

The new website was demonstrated and approval gained to put it live, something I will have to do sometime soon!

Red Nose Day paddle

2009-03-13T19:03:00.004Z

Sara was doing something funny for Red Nose Day this Friday!

Limnology - "the study of inland waters"

2009-03-03T19:42:00.007Z

Rutland Water has two towers in the middle of the lake. One of them is a limnological tower, the other is an overflow tower. Commonly used as waypoints on our paddles they are 2.7 km or 1.7 miles apart.

Paddle a 'Wild One'

2009-03-03T18:53:00.012Z

As a new member the first club boat you will probably try is a 'Wild One'. Supplied by Wild Things in Cornwall they are a stable fun kayak to try out your first paddle strokes in safety. You don't have to use a spray deck if you feel too enclosed initially. The club has a variety of paddles and bouyancy aids in all sizes.

You can try out different sitting positions!

And of course you can fall out of them!

But with a bit of cooperation you can stand up in them.

Welcome!

2009-03-01T19:24:00.001Z

Welcome to the blog of Rutland Canoe Club. This blog allows club members to post random writings about stuff involving the club. Trip reports, course reports, committee minutes (hopefully abbreviated!).

This may be an old photo but we look pretty similar today. Most Sundays throughout the year we paddle out of Whitwell creek onto the Main Body of Rutland Water for a couple of hours paddling. Half way we'll probably stop somewhere for a cup of coffee and a chat. As a member you can try short whitewater boats, long sleek sea kayaks or open canoes.