Plenty of water was flowing over the 6 weirs that the 10 strong Richmond team had to negotiate down the River Avon last Sunday for the annual 10.5 mile Avon Decent Kayak race. The constant rain and muddy car park only added to the atmosphere!
Freddy Purcell’s recent acquisition of a vaguely structured and disciplined training program proved itself. Dropping everyone one of the start, Freddy dominated the race from the outset comfortable taking 1st place in the Men’s K1. Also in the singles race, Nick Romain finished 7 minutes behind Freddy despite a valiant effort being his first single decent race. Further down the field Fred Scheske finished in 13th place and Isaac Blackman in 15th successfully completing their 1st singles decent race too.
In the River Racer class Mike Piggott took 7th position out of 12, thus justifying him spending the last year in a river racer!
In the Senior K2 field, Team Hendron was back, though with Henry not being in a boat since July it was always going to be a struggle, luckily Richard had done 3 weeks of training! That said they finished a respectable 3rd, just over a minute behind 1st place.
The double touring class saw Sean Martin and partner Malik take 1st position. No honest write up would fail to mention the swim that they took going down one of the weirs. Prove that even the experts make mistakes, and hopefully comfort to us all!
In all a good turnout at this small but quirky race within the heart of Shakespeare Country. A race recommended to all wishing to improve their boat skills, whatever level or just seeking some unadulterated pleasure!
