Newsletter 123 Spring 2009 01

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Marlow Canoe Club Newsletter - 2 - Spring 2009/01

EDITORS PIECE

Rushed downstairs Christmas morning andeven through flu induced hazy eyes I could

see there was NO new Rockpool orTiderace kayak (on stands) in the garden. Ithought they might be a little big for thesleigh and that SC might have sub-contracted DHL, but when nothing arrivedby my birthday it looked like Id have tosettle for a copy of Gordon Browns (thereal Gordon Brown) book on sea kayaking.And a VHF radio course. Maybe we willsee others out in new equipment soon, thecurrent cold spell has seen of all but the

most hardy!Regular readers will have noted features onAndy Cooks DW adventures. A certainlady at Banbury Canoe Club has beenpromising to write for a while and finallycompleted a piece. Julie Woods item is ourstarter for ten.Moving on, its back to the briny whenRichard Williams and I were stooges for a4* sea assessment. The only downside tothis is the travelling involved, everything

else was just great. A word or two aboutour new touring / sea kayaks retains aslightly briny flavour.

Tim Twitchen has been organising some day touring trips recently and these have beenattended by a no. of members. Michael Day tells us all about one such trip along theBasingstoke Canal.

This issues A GOOD BIT OF KIT item is all about flasks. If you want a good flask ratherthan a just so flask this piece might just point you in the right direction.

January means AGM. Recent years have seen the attendance fall off, a trend I hope we

can reverse next year. A new award THE PETER LEE CUP requires some explanation,the SWIMMER OF THE YEAR (awarded to yours truly) doesnt, except to the newermembers who might not appreciate its significance.

Some news about retailers (dont forget out locals) is on page 13 followed by details of anice little boat for sale (one advantage of being the editor).

Next is a short piece on this years DW. Andy Cook needs a back up team and volunteersare required. Click on the links to see whats involved and see if you are able to assist.Finally; A few of us have got together with the idea of doing a little more sea paddling, and

some preparation towards it. Read it, and If you are interested get in touch.

CONTENTS

MORE ON ANDY COOK 3

4* SEA ASSESSMENT 6NEW EASKYS 7

BASINSTOKE CANAL 8

A GOOD BIT OF KIT 9

AGM REPORT 10

R. THAMES USER INFO 12

RETAILER NEWS 13FOR SALE 13

DW 2009 14

SEA / TOURINGPADDLING

14

WHATS ON, WHEN &

WHERE15

COMMITTEE & USEFUL

NOS

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ANDY COOK AND BANBURY & DISTRICT CC2008 AN EXCELLENT YEAR

Having finished the year of 2008, and reading the last issue of the Marlow CC newsletter, Ithought it rather apt to give you a round up of the year by an "outsider"!As you will have seen from the quote in the issue 122, I paddle for Banbury & DistrictCanoe Club and have done so for just over 5 years. This last year for us as a family hasbeen our best ever. My eldest, Katie, who is 19, completed the 4 day DW event at Easterwith her partner. It was at this event we met Andy Cook, as they were both raising moneyfor Myeloma UK. Myeloma UK were particularly excited to get two people raising moneyfor them at the very same event - very little is known about Myeloma and obviously everypenny that can be raised willhelp them no end.

Over the year, we have becomevery good friends with Andy,emailing and meeting him atnumerous events. At Oxford, on14th June, Andy was somewhatshocked to find another 32paddlers joining him in division 9 he said that the last time thathe had raced in a Hasler event;there would have been about 5others in this division! How the

sport has progressed. Andy infact came 2nd in this very firstrace and instantly got promotedto division 8, much to his delight. I have been fortunate to be racing against him onseveral occasions, including the very murky start at Windsor - I followed him literally rightoff the start until about halfway, where I had the energy and determination to pass him andfinish several places ahead of him (This was even a better result as I had been up until2am that morning, helping to organise a ball in aid of Myeloma, with my friend Hilary, whohas not been as fortunate as Andy has. Hilary had her stem implants two years ago andis now not too well). The following week at Longridge however, Andy got his own back asI had a disastrous race, including nearly being taken out by a rowing boat!!! He once

again had a consistently good race.

Unfortunately, due to family commitments, Andy was unable to attend our Banbury &District Canoe Club marathon at the end of October, but wished us all good luck for theevent.

I think the best race of the year must have been the Avon Descent at the beginning ofNovember, which Andy travelled up to. I have done this race several times as a K2 andam renowned for "swimming" at some point along the way! Imagine our amazement whenwe saw the height and speed of the river when we arrived at the event. I am not sure thatI would have done it if it had not been for the encouragement of fellow paddlers. My 16year old daughter was also taking part in a K2 with a friend and luckily for us all we haddone quite a bit of white water paddling, a skill that was very necessary on this particular


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day! I had been in touch with Andy the week before a number of times and my husbandGraham, had agreed to carry a dry bag of clothes for Andy, just in case he needed it alongthe way! We all got on the water at the start and I have never known a river like it -paddling upstream and riding on the waves in a racing K2 was an amazing experience. Ireally hand it to people like Andy who tackle this sort of race all on their own in a (racing)

K1, which is not very stable at all! I was paddling with Neville, who is the oldest member ofour club at 76! I am a mere 45 years old! We had both done this before, but had neverpaddled together! I have never done this without shaking from head to foot from the startto the main bridge in the centre of Stratford, but for some strange reason I didn't this timeand we went through the whole event without a single problem, except for hitting the mainbridge in Stratford a mile from the start! Oh for my slap support at the right moment! Eachof the portages were somewhat strange as there was no drop, the water level was sohigh. We in fact managed to shoot two of the weirs (the second one, we didn't know wewere shooting it as it was so tame! At the other weir we were told all paddlers had shotit!). Anyway, as a K2 with an under stern rudder, we had decided not to shoot any of theweirs (except we did do just the two!); Andy on the other hand had decided to shoot most

of them! I am unable to tell you much about Andy's event as of course we were at differentspeeds, although kept encouraging him along when we did see him. It was at about the5th portage that we had a bit of a problem as when we got the boat back into the water, wegot caught up with weed and had to reverse back, in order to remove it and get goingagain. At this point, there were no sides to the river - just very steep banks. As we werere-entering our boat and paddling off, we saw an upside down kayak coming along in frontof us, followed by Andy! We called over to him to make sure that he was OK and thatthere was help around it would have been difficult to help at the time as we wouldprobably have ended up in the water too! Anyway, Andy spent about 10 minutes in thewater before he managed to get back in and finish the event. Again, Andy showed suchcourage and determination - amazing being able to do what he does, knowing full well thathe has Myeloma. This event is for all paddlers (experience is required though). There arewhite water paddlers as well as marathon paddlers this year I reckon it was the best raceI had ever done certainly the most interesting and exciting that I have taken part in really fast times by all paddlers. A great shame that as I was putting the 2009 dates intomy calendar last night, I noticed that the event in 2009 clashes with Longridge Marathon

a hard decision as to whichone to do!At the end of November, itwas our own Ross WarlandMemorial Race. Andy had

got to know our clubmembers from the eventsthat he had attended with usthis year and he had gottalking to Graham Warland,who organises the event.Andy contacted me to saythat he and a couple offriends would be coming tothe event and that he wasplanning to do the whole 20

miles in a K1 once again.This event is on the canal


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and can be quite choppy at times, very lonely, but can also be done as a relay (K1 or K2).Andy and his friends had got held up and arrived later than planned and so I had alreadygot on the water, by the time he was ready to start. I didn't actually see him until about halfway through the event and cheered him when I did so. The day was bitterly cold anddrizzled just towards the end. It is a really gruelling event with a good number of portages

along the way. Once again, Andy finished in a very good time (not quite as good as minethough, Andy!).

I think I had better watch out next season when we are racing in the Hasler series - we areboth in division 8 and I have my suspicions that with Andy's heavy training schedule duringthe winter he will be well and truly fit by the spring! Knowing how hard and lonely thetraining can be, particularly in a K1, I would encourage every one of you to try and joinAndy in at least one training session on the river this winter get to know him and see foryourself what a gutsy, brave and determined person he is. It would give him a chance toget to know more people and you never know it may even encourage you to join him andhave a go at the marathon racing, which is incredibly addictive and fun to take part in!

We have really enjoyed the canoeing this year, especially when we have met up withAndy; what an amazing man he is. Words cannot describe how I feel at the moment. I amso pleased that Andy is not only very fit and well and long may it last, but he also has abrilliant hobby that not only keeps him fit and active, but gets him out and about to meetpeople from all over the county.

I genuinely am very pleased that he was mentioned after the DW for the GlukensteinTrophy as that event is the most gruelling event you could ever do and the fact that he isconsidering another attempt this year is just incredible.

Our family and also the members of Banbury & District Canoe Club would like to wishAndy Cook all the best in the paddling that he takes on over this next year and beyond.

Dates of interest for 2009 Calendar:Banbury Marathon: 25th October 2009Avon Descent & Longridge Marathon: 8th November 2009Ross Warland Canal Challenge: 29th November 2009

Julie WoodBanbury & District Canoe ClubAt the recent AGM I and others present were saddened to hear that Hilaryhad passedaway the previous Saturday. Only having 'met'Hilaryvia. Julies e-mails and Andy talkingI had the misguided impression that her treatment was not as successful as Andy's andthat as such she was perhaps a 'weaker' version of Andy. That I was so wrong can onlybe from impressions gained from others - whose own impressions would have beencoloured by her indominatable spirit.A link to the myeloma internet site is provided below for those that might wish to knowmore.

http://www.myelomaonline.org.uk/NetCommunity/Page.aspx?&pid=820&srcid=444
http://www.myelomaonline.org.uk/NetCommunity/Page.aspx?&pid=820&srcid=444http://www.myelomaonline.org.uk/NetCommunity/Page.aspx?&pid=820&srcid=444http://www.myelomaonline.org.uk/NetCommunity/Page.aspx?&pid=820&srcid=444


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4* SEA ASSESSMENT GUINEA PIG.

Im a bit miffed I didnt go for my 4* sea award the other week. It turns out there were onlytwo on the course, one of whom worked at the centre and the other whom the assessor

had recently seen fit to pass as L3 coach. Had I been on the course Im thinking nearly allthe training time could have been directed to me? Still I got the chance to see whats itsall about by joining our own Richard Williams and a few others (one from my recent 3*course) as guinea pigs for the assessment.Im driving along the seafront at Weymouth and a glassy sea with possibly a 3 wavecrashing on the beach does not look like itll provide the conditions required for the test.But once the boats are loaded we are told the plan is to do a section around Portland Isle.The journey over reveals a far more menacing sea, greyer and considerably rougher. Toorough in fact, because after the assessor and assesses had looked at the water it wasdecided to go elsewhere. It was explained that getting on was O.K. but getting off was notso easy and deemed beyond the remit called for at this level.

Back to Portland Harbour where we launched off the beach, crashing through a vicious sixincher before hitting calmer water a little further out. A little pep talk from our leadersadvised that we were midway between Springs and Neaps so tidal effects certainly had tobe considered, but more importantly so did the offshore wind. An ebbing tide combinedwith an offshore wind can easily take you out to sea and make the return difficult. Acourse was set for the harbour entrance with instruction to head toward a building someway in from our final destination to allow for the effects of wind and tide, whose forcebecame more apparent as we headed out. On arrival near the entrance our leadersdiscussed options and offered a choice, the more competent opting for outside the harbourwhile those less so could stay inside the harbour, all meeting up at the next entrance.Richard and I went outside and our group arrived quite a way in front of the others as even

relative beginners can use the waves to surf a little. You cant land on the harbour wall solunch was taken afloat in a small sheltered bay.The return journey was to be inside the wall and along the edge of the harbour back to theget in. As we approached the first entrance I could see a large tanker being nudged bytugs but I was not aware that it was already moving out. They saw us and a blast on thehorn let us know theyd seen us. Several more suggested that theyd rather we were alittle further away from them. As it happened we got to the other side with plenty of time,even the local lady who was by now, visibly tiring. The ship passed at a relatively slowspeed, around 8mph Id guess, but the size hides how fast they can creep up on youhence the captains concern. A thank-you toot and we continued on our way but notbefore the assessor and one of our leaders rigged up a double tow for our tiring local.Back at the beach we had a little race out to a buoy and then zigzagging through somemarkers before a turn and sprint finish. I was holding 2nd but failed to nail a good bowrudder allowing the assessor to take the inside line. He had a much slower boat but Istruggled to close him down and finished 3rd or maybe 4th. Time was made available to tryout each others boats. I had a go in all the glass boats that were on show that day, 2xP&Hs (a Quest LV and a Sirius) + a newer Romany.This Romany had knee bumps to give a sort of a whitewater feel to the boat and from theoff I was able to edge much better than in my Capella. The Quest I found to be veryresponsive and zigzagging through the markers was more of a flat out paddle with a welltimed flick, whilst the Sirius is a narrow boat with a more twitchy feel to it that seemed to

edge well but my confidence was not up to pushing it, especially as most others were


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putting boats back on the trailer. I also got to try some 300.00 plus Werner paddles very light and easy going but a tad over the top for spares.Showered and changed, boats loaded on our own cars, we bade our farewells. I went topay my dues and stayed for a coffee whilst I listened to the coaches summing up. Myearlier impression of Paul Hurrell, that of being so laid back hes almost horizontal whilst

not missing a trick, was not unfounded as the assesses were finding out both of whompassed. Generally, he found their presentation to be favourable, but noted the tankerincident. Whilst we were all safe and clear with room to spare one of the assesses saidthat he was aware of the situation but that no bow wave was present on the ship so adecision was made to go. A few comments on keeping the group a little closer togetherpretty much summed up a successful assessment for them I just wished Id gone anddone it now. The next course is in February 2009 and its already looking cold. But thenagain???

John Norris Nov.2008

P.S. How come the tanker captain could see us from a mile and a half (in a roughishsea) whilst some rowers struggle to see us from a yard and a half on the flat?

NEW EASKYS

We are now in possession of 3 new Easkys 15 sea type boats that are equally at homeon the river (or lakes, lochs, broads etc). I am slowly putting together a series of trips tointroduce people to open water paddling (a sizeable no. of our members have yet topaddle away from the confines of a river) hopefully getting a sea trip or two together later

in the year. In the meantime the boats are there for members use, but will also be suitableas an alternative boat for the up and coming 1* programme this year. Despite being aplastic boat, with all the advantages that offers for a club boat, some additional care needsto be taken with these boats. As for all club boats they should be placed away in theirassigned rack having been dried out first. They are heavier than the clubs GP boats andwater will make moving them a lot harder. Note that at 15 long its all to easy to knocksomething in the club so why not ask for assistance when getting them out / putting themaway. Should you take these boats away, a little thought has to go in placing them on roofracks etc. You cant just strap them down on the rack and rely on tightening the straps tillthey scream. Ideally a J bar should be used or failing that an upright so that the boat iseither supported by a cradle or on its side. The rack should be placed (where possible) alot further apart than normal and the boat should be positioned so that the foam bulkheadsare as near to the supports as possible this will help maintain the bulkhead seal. Securewith straps and ensure boat does not move. Happy (and easier) paddling.

FOR EASE OF MAINTENANCE THESE BOATS ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH RUDDERS.

They do have skegs to assist directional stability when on open water and the boatbecomes affected by the wind. To turn these boats on the river requires a little outsideedge and a good sweep. If you can do a figure of eight across the lock cut youve crackedit. Any members who have paddled a sea boat previously will be able to advise.


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A GOOD BIT OF KIT STANLEY FLASKS.

Theres been a bit of chat on the UKSGB forum concerning flasks. Are some better thanothers? The price differential would suggest so and Id certainly expect a lot more for my

squids when paying 10x as much. But lets be fair Wilko are knocking out a stainlessvacuum flask for under 3.00. True; Ive seen more metal wrapping the Christmas turkeybut for the money its not bad.I wanted something a bit better, larger capacity, take a knock or two, and keep stuff hotterfor longer. In answering theUKSGBquery I remembered a very unscientific test (but thesort of test your average Joe can relate too) onthe song of the paddle website, well knowntoo many open boat aficionados. The conclusion of the test was that not all flasks areequal, and that larger flasks often but not always retain heat for longer. Named brandswere usually a better performer. Manufacturing standards can be a little suspect as onemans favourite was anothers dog.Two favourites began to emerge from the tests / comments on both sites. THERMOSis a

well known and respected brand, andSTANLEY(not of Stanley tools) an American brandthat appears to be the manufacturer of those classic US worker steel lunchboxes andflasks. A little homepage research shows that Thermos invented the vacuum flask andthat Stanley perfected stainless steel construction, so both have a claim to fame inflaskworld.I took a look at the Thermos THERMAX range andthe Stanley OUTDOOR range. Neither of themcheap, you can expect to pay 25.00 for these. Iplumped for the Stanleydont know if its the betterof the two yet, but there was something reassuringabout a flask manufacturer that had a spares list.

Im planning on doing a test sometime, just out ofcuriosity, but heres what MIKEB on the UKSGB hadto say about his recent acquisition

Not having a thermometer, I can't do a temp test- but the Stanley Outdoor was filled with boilingwater at 18.00 on Friday and left over night in acold, but sheltered, place and opened at 11.00this morning. The water was still too hot todrink. That's good going! Similar to the resultsfrom the Stanley Classic.

Now Ive got the flask I just need to find out whats best to put in it. I like a nice coffee(sometimes with a little dash of something livelier) and when Im coaching 1* I usually takeRibena or similar as the kids will never refuse that if its needed. Can anybody elserecommend a favourite drink for trips / coaching etc? Replies to the editor for publicationnext issue.

P.S. Im sure many of us are aware of just how a vacuum flask works but in case you area little rusty in the physics dept. click on the link for an explanation.http://home.howstuffworks.com/thermos.htm

John Norris Feb 2009
http://www.ukriversguidebook.co.uk/forum/index.php?sid=7ce6f9bbb1dbab4dbe28779089f38668http://www.ukriversguidebook.co.uk/forum/index.php?sid=7ce6f9bbb1dbab4dbe28779089f38668http://www.ukriversguidebook.co.uk/forum/index.php?sid=7ce6f9bbb1dbab4dbe28779089f38668http://www.songofthepaddle.co.uk/http://www.songofthepaddle.co.uk/http://www.songofthepaddle.co.uk/http://storage.fantasticmedia.co.uk/Thermos_section.pdfhttp://storage.fantasticmedia.co.uk/Thermos_section.pdfhttp://www.stanley-pmi.com/http://www.stanley-pmi.com/http://www.stanley-pmi.com/http://home.howstuffworks.com/thermos.htmhttp://home.howstuffworks.com/thermos.htmhttp://www.stanley-pmi.com/http://storage.fantasticmedia.co.uk/Thermos_section.pdfhttp://www.songofthepaddle.co.uk/http://www.ukriversguidebook.co.uk/forum/index.php?sid=7ce6f9bbb1dbab4dbe28779089f38668


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AGM 2009

Its the end of January so it must be time for the AGM. I can remember when you had to jostle for a seat at the AGM, but attendance seems to have waned in recent years. The

good folk at The Kings Head allowed us use of The Pavilion free of charge so long as webought some food.

We (thats me, Mrs. Ed. And Rob) got down there early only to find Big Dave had arrivedearlier. No matter, a quick visit to the bar for beer (Timothy Taylor Landlord & St. AustellTribute are two very good reasons to visit this establishment) and food. Me and Mrs. Ed.enjoyed a full plate meal while Rob had a Panini. As more arrived and ordered food /drink, it got quite cosy. Nobody had a bad word to say about food or service. Rezaoffered to buy me a drink but the Botty Burp was off.

Into the pavilion and Chris had set up a collection of photos / videos showing some of the

clubs activities during the past year and a bit. The 2nd Alps trip, some WW action, a bit ofearly days sea kayaking and some general shots taken during club sessions.

8.00pm and officialdom takes over with the Chairman thanking all who had contributed tothe successful running of the club over the past few years. A quick visit to all of thecommittee members gave them time to elucidate on items pertaining to their particular rolein the club. It was a bad year for introductory courses or maybe it was an O.K. year andprevious years had been exceptional. Alex Sheill got a mention for becoming the clubsfirst UKCC L1 coach. Membership had steadied around 160, down a little on previousyears, probably due to less people coming through the introductory courses. TheTreasurer showed the club was in a healthy position but noted that a hefty sum needs to

be kept in reserve for shed maintenance. The club Secretary scribbled away furiously butfound a moment to tell us a little about the UKCC scheme and other points considered tobe of direct interest to the club. For myself, I indicated that this could well be my last yearas Newsletter Editor, but I do not want to stand for the committee after the next AGM. Itstime for a break, time for others to play their part in shaping the club for the future.A quick break for coffee (Im driving so no more Landlord) and then its time for theawards.

This years award winners (in no particular order) each received a helmet and a tee shirt,courtesy of James Farquarson, a local paddler who has assisted the club on a no. ofoccasions in the past.

JOHN ADAMS, for continued WW and general progress throughout the year.

ALEX SHEILL, for continued progress and passing his UKCC L1 coaching award

CHRIS PORTEOUS, for his newsletter item WHITEWATERA LEARNING ROADMAP.

TIM TWITCHEN, the PETER LEE cup.

JOHN NORRIS, swimmer of the year.


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The committees view was that the years coaching had paid all round dividends and allthose that had coached or assisted were thanked for their efforts. But none of this wouldhave been possible without leadership, and that leadership has been provided by TIMTWITCHEN. Youll have seen him on more than his fair share of courses coaching,guiding, reassuring, and sometimes just watching others coach but always there.

The committee (excepting Tim) had no hesitation in nominating Tim for a new award thePETER LEE cup. The more established membership will remember Peter Lee as afounding member of the club and as a past president. Peter sponsored a cup when theclub hosted one of the Hasler series of races, but this now falls to our close neighbours,LONGRIDGE. When the cup resurfaced a new position was required for it. Thecommittee, in consultation with Peter decided on a Volunteer based award. Not just anyvolunteer for we occasionally recognise those people with a Volunteer of the year award.The PETER LEE cup is for an outstanding contribution to the clubs well being and will beretained by the current holder until taken off him / her by the next recipient. It could be afew months or many years. Its my opinion that the well deserved first and current holderhas set the bar very high indeed.

The swimmer of the year award needs a little explaining as newer members may not beaware of why this award is made. There are a lot of people who do a lot of swimming intheir early days but this award is not for them. Its an award for those that should knowbetter; those who have swum but immediately afterwards can recognise their own folly.And this year I got it. If its any consolation I join a list of paddlers whose skills I admireand from whose coaching I have benefitted considerably. Theyve all done the same asme. First they swam; secondly they did it when someone else was watching.

Let me tell you a story. It was the New Years Day paddle and 6 of us were out. Me andRob, Julie, Adrian, and Andy M with an acquaintance from the states. The plan was to justamble downstream a little, park up on one of the little beaches just past Wootten Island fora coffee and a snack and paddle back slowly. Alighting at the beach I took great pains toget out with dry feet as it was cold and I only had thin socks and tevas instead of daisyroots. Coffee and a whisky were enjoyed by all, along with Mrs. Ms mince pies. And sowe set about returning. Keeping my feet dry had already been established in principle butI didnt want to get my hands wet either so I decided to seal launch the capella off perhapsa 1m bank into the river. A doddle. What possessed me to think that I could balance asea kayak with the razor thin bits in the water and on the land whilst the fat stable middlebit hung in mid air Ill never know. Thats the beauty of this award, its a recognition of thatmillisecond in time when the red mist descends and you know you can do this but

immediately its all gone Pete Tong you know it just wasnt worth it. I tried to keep my feetdry and if theres a positive to be found in this story I can honestly say my feet were nowetter than the rest of me!

I look forward to passing on the award to the next;

One who should have known better.

John Norris Jan 2009


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RIVER THAMES USERS INFORMATION

An update, comment and note on information available to users from the navigationauthorities

LECHLADE TO TEDDINGTON (THE NON TIDAL RIVER)

An Environment Agency navigation, the Agency now posts the river flow status displayedat locks by stream warning boards at

www.visitthames.co.uk/riverconditions The information includes a likely forecast summaryand explains the yellow and red boards system. There is also a link from the navigationpages of the Environment Agency websitewww.environment-agency.gov.ukUpdates will be made twice daily during changing river states, or more often if conditionsdictate. Users can also sign up for e-mailed updates. The frequency for periods ofstronger flows has noticeably increased and this service is welcomed.

TEDDINGTON TO THE SEA (THE TIDEWAY)

The Port of London Authority is responsible for navigation and issues a recreational usersguide, a rowing code, and notices to mariners all as posted on the PLA websitewww.pla.co.uk

The Recreational Users Guide provides general information on navigation plus details ofsecurity zones on the river, sound signals and passage through the Thames Barrier.

The Rowing Code. Rowing activity can be intense between Teddington and Putney.Regular paddlers on this section of the river will be familiar with the local navigation rulesthat also apply to kayaks and canoes as vessels under oars. Notice to mariners U15 of2006 refers;http://www.pla.co.uk/notice2mariners/index.cfm/flag/2/id/2656/site/navigation

Notices to Mariners give notification of river closures, operations, navigation changes andevents. The listing of permanent notices should also be noted.

Canoe England is keen for all paddlers to be suitably equipped, able and familiar with this

information before using the tidal Thames that is carrying increasing levels of commercialtraffic. The tide varies in different places running up to 6 knots and conditions can bedemanding especially in exposed reaches. Central London is particularly busy with fastpassenger launch movements to require a sharp lookout and an understanding of soundsignals made by power driven vessels to indicate their intended actions to other vesselsThe Local River Advisor for Putney to Erith is Westminster boating base email:[email protected]

For further information [email protected]

Canoe England (club mailing) January 2009
http://www.visitthames.co.uk/riverconditionshttp://www.visitthames.co.uk/riverconditionshttp://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/http://www.pla.co.uk/http://www.pla.co.uk/http://www.pla.co.uk/notice2mariners/index.cfm/flag/2/id/2656/site/navigationmailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]://www.pla.co.uk/notice2mariners/index.cfm/flag/2/id/2656/site/navigationhttp://www.pla.co.uk/http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/http://www.visitthames.co.uk/riverconditions


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RETAILER NEWS

Spring is in the air (or anyways not far off) and that means some of those who paddledwith us last year (but not through the winter) might be coming back to do a little more with

us. I know of at least a couple of course enquiries so far. For others, Tim Twitchen hasprovided a proposed schedule of courses that can be found on the noticeboard, thewebsite and our 'What's on, When and Where' page in this newsletter.Some members, including the more established paddlers might well be looking to get a bitof new kit, or possibly even a boat. All I'm asking is that if this is the case please considerour local dealers first. These are the people we often turn to before approaching the largerdealers / consortiums. In recent months MARSPORT have done us a good deal on theclub purchase of some sea / touring kayaks and RIVERSIDE did us a good deal onpaddles. Please note that as I work very close to Riverside I'm happy to pick up stock thatyou may order from them. Details of all our local retailers can be found on the back page.Also worth noting is that PADDLESPORT have re-located. Same phone no., a little further

away but not much difference in time, details can be found on the BROOKBANK -WARWICKSHIREwebsite. A new 5000 sq. ft. unit means more stuff available in store andon display. I'll let you know what it's like when I've paid a visit.

FOR SALE

DAGGER RPM, Once upon a time this was the bees knees. Two owners (inc. ourselves)that we know of (possibly more). This boat is in good overall condition and would suit avariety of people from big kid to medium adult. Comes with bump stops at both ends and

a pair of air bags ready to go just needs a new paddler. Offers around 150.00

Please note that this photo shows the boat just after it was completely taken apart andcleaned (sterilised) / reassembled, and in good light. Available to view in the club, and totry with prior permission from owners (John / Rob / Paul Norris) or the D.O.
http://www.paddlesport.co.uk/homehttp://www.paddlesport.co.uk/homehttp://www.paddlesport.co.uk/homehttp://www.paddlesport.co.uk/homehttp://www.paddlesport.co.uk/home


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DEVIZES TO WESTMINSTER RACE 2009

This year club members are making up 4 entries for this prestigious event. There areother longer paddle races / events but this is the daddy. Especially if you undertake to

complete the race in one hit. 126 miles nonstop think about that next time you whingeabout a short trip to Hurley.

We have 3 teams doing the marathon and when training is completed and a better idea ofstart times is known we will be able to estimate when they might expect to come throughMarlow. One team currently estimates around 9:00pm. Details of where to get the latestupdates will be placed on YAHOO and the club noticeboard. Why not come down andgive them a cheer, they will be easily spotted, even in the encroaching gloom as Im

hoping to get them some orange MYELOMA bibs.Andy Cook is doing the endeavour event. This event is run over the 4 days of the Easterbank holiday but Andy needs some help. As I understand it he will not be able to enterunless he gets a support team so look upon this as a call for volunteers. Basically youhave to see him through the portages, check that he is O.K., well watered and fed etc. andensure all his gear is available at the overnight stop. You dont need to do all 4 days, butId hope we could all pitch in and maybe do a day / part of a day. Me and Rob will set theball rolling and cover Good Friday; just 3 more support teams required.Full details on the race, and what is required from a support team can be found at;http://www.dwrace.org.uk

SEA KAYAKING (TOURING) SUB SECTION

With the arrival of the new easkys a few of us have got together to try and get our ownsea kayaking section going. Big Dave has put up a container marked sea in thedocuments section of the club website and information will be added to this as weprogress. We have no sea coach or qualified leader so initially trips might appear on thetame side. Trips will also have to be under peer group rules until we get a coach. Aformative meeting was held just last month in which a few of us decided on a proposal for

a way forward including swimming pool exercises, river work, and maybe some openwater work on a reservoir or two. Just look out for the notices if you want to be included.

KENNET & AVON CANAL

RIVER THAMES
http://www.dwrace.org.uk/http://www.dwrace.org.uk/http://www.dwrace.org.uk/


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WHAT'S ON, WHEN AND WHERE

The complete and authoritive guide to all that the club hopes to do in the forthcomingmonths. Please note that at the time of going to press dates cannot be guaranteed and

that the programme can be subject to changes.

ALLSUNDAYS

CLUB SESSIONS; ON THE WATER FOR 10:00am. SEE D.O.FOR FINISH. CHECK NOTICEBOARDS FOR SPECIAL EVENTS

D.O

ALLTUESDAYS

TUESDAY SESSIONS WILL RESUME APRIL 21st 2009 D.O

14+15 / MAR. BCU 4* CANOE LEADER TRAINING SOUTH DEVON BCU 3* OPEN AM

22 MARCH ABBEY STREAM & R. THAMES LALEHAM FLAT WATER TT

05 APRIL RIVER WEY, GODALMING FLAT WATER TT

16-19 APRIL WOEC SEA SYMPOSIUM WEYMOUTH, DORSET SEA JN

2-4, MAY THAMES TOUR; CRICKLADE TO OXFORD TOURING LN

09+10 MAY BCU INTRODUCTORY 1* TRAINING & ASSESSMENT COACHING TT

17 MAY RIVER THAMES, ABINGDON FLAT WATER TT

24-25 MAY THAMES TOUR; OXFORD TO THAMES BARRIER TOURING LN

6-7 JUNE RIVER WYE; GLASBURY TO HOLME LACY TOURING LN

13-14 JUNE BCU INTRODUCTORY 1* TRAINING & ASSESSMENT COACHING TT

20-21 JUNE RIVER WYE; HOLME LACY TO MONMOUTH TOURING LN

28 JUNE GRAND UNION CANAL, RICKMANSWORTH FLATWATER TT

26 JULY 1ST

TOUR RIVER THAMES AND OXFORD CANAL FLATWATER TT

KEEP A LOOKOUT ON NOTICEBOARDS AND THE YAHOO GROUP -SOME TRIPS JUST SUDDENLY 'APPEAR' IF CONDITIONS ARE RIGHT.

EVERYTHURSDAYEVENING

9.00 - 10.30

SWIMMING POOL SESSIONS AT GURNELL POOL, WEST LONDONGET TUITION IN ROLLING, PRACTISE 3* SKILLS OR ANYTHINGYOU'VE GOT A BIT RUSTY ON. SEE WEBSITE FOR MAP AND

DETAILS

ORGANISER / MCC CONTACT FOR ABOVE EVENTS

AC ADRIAN COOPER 01844 344580 [email protected]

AM ANDY MAXTED 07730 852760 [email protected]

TW TOM WESTWATER [email protected]

JN JOHN NORRIS 01494 483833 [email protected]

CP CHRIS PORTEOUS 01628 485049 [email protected]

PC PAUL CRICHTON 08708 806962 [email protected]

TB TERRY BELCHER 01628 851001 [email protected]
http://[email protected]/http://[email protected]/http://[email protected]/http://[email protected]/http://[email protected]/http://[email protected]/


16/16


THE COMMITTEE & OTHER USEFUL NUMBERS

A list of those members who serve on the club's committee, their role, a contact no. and ane-mail address should you need to get in touch.

POSITION NAME TELEPHONE E-MAIL (all hyperlinked)

PRESIDENT TIM WARD 01494 482959 [email protected]

CHAIRMAN ADRIAN COOPER 01844 344580 [email protected]

SECRETARY ANDY MAXTED 07730 852760 [email protected]

TREASURER PAUL CRICHTON 08708 806962 [email protected]

MEMBERSHIP ROD EDMONDS 01753 671389 [email protected]

COACHING TIM TWITCHEN 07833 995289 [email protected]

EQUIPMENT CHRIS PORTEOUS 01628 485049 [email protected]

NEWSLETTER JOHN NORRIS 01494 483833 [email protected]

WOMENS REP. TOR EDWARDS 01494 [email protected]

YOUTH REP. ALEX SHEILL [email protected]

SOCIAL SEC MELINDA LIVETT [email protected]

MARATHON THIS EVENT WILL IN FUTURE BE HOSTED BY LONGRIDGE C.C.

WHITEWATER CHRIS PORTEOUS 01628 485049 [email protected]

TOURING VACANT

SEA JOHN NORRIS 01494 483833 [email protected]

OUR NEAREST RETAILERS / SUPPLIERS

RIVERSIDE OXFORD 01865 248673 http://www.riversideoxford.co.uk

MARSPORT READING 01189 665912 http://www.marsport.co.uk

BERKSHIRECANOES

READING 01189 425640 http://www.berkshire-canoes.co.uk

WWC SHEPPERTON 01932 247978 http://www.whitewaterthecanoecentre.co.uk

PADDLESPORT WARWICK 01926 640573 http://www.paddlesport.co.uk

Please advise the editor if any contact details are incorrect or if you wish to add an alternative no. / e-mail address to the list.
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]://www.riversideoxford.co.uk/http://www.marsport.co.uk/http://www.berkshire-canoes.co.uk/http://www.whitewaterthecanoecentre.co.uk/http://www.paddlesport.co.uk/http://www.paddlesport.co.uk/http://www.whitewaterthecanoecentre.co.uk/http://www.berkshire-canoes.co.uk/http://www.marsport.co.uk/http://www.riversideoxford.co.uk/mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]

Documents

Newsletter 123 Spring 2009 01