Christmas Gifts for the Paddler in your life!

Good to see kayaking is taking over the world in the form of subliminal Christmas gifts. Try Diego's Rainforest Rescue, which includes Diego figure in a kayak. Mini-Kayak is a mobile phone application for PocketPC and Smartphones. It's all whitewater.

Board games include Canoe Game - a "world-class strategy game. Simple to learn, yet difficult to master." And Niagara - where you battle the river and each other to find gems along the shore.

Happy Christmas.

Have you ever wanted to kick start the New Year by doing something amazing? Well here’s your chance. Come and join the Richmond Canoe Club float in the London Parade on New Years Day and find yourself being apart of one of the most exhilarating parades in Europe.

There’s still plenty of space for volunteers, whether you’re a budding float maker or just fancy a fun fuelled walk through the historic city of London, what better way to help you through that hangover and start the New Year with a bang.

If you can make it, your help and support would be very much appreciated. Contact Kath Roose for more details.

Membership Renewals

Club members should have received renewal notices in the post. These were sent out in October / early November. If you have received your renewal notice, please forward payment as soon as possible. It is overdue.

If you have not yet recieved a reminder, please drop Mike Pigott (Membership Secretary) an email with your correct postal address and he will forward the renewal notice to you. His email is mikepigott(at)yahoo.co.uk.

Thanks.

Alexis’s funeral will be held at Mortlake Crematorium, Kew Meadow Path, Townmead Road, Mortlake Road, North Sheen TW9 4EN n Saturday the 6th December at 12.00, followed by a gathering of friends and family at Richmond Canoe Club, 81-83 Petersham Road, Richmond, TW10 6UT.

A Mesage from Ramsey Gohar - Alexis's Father

Donations to St George’s hospital

For the last 13 years of his life Alexis suffered from a serious medical problem that necessitated continuous treatment and tests by medical staff, mainly at St Georges Hospital, Tooting. It involved several major operations and frequent visits as an outpatient.

It was thanks to the wonderful care St George’s gave him there that he was able to carry on living almost as a normal person, or rather an exceptional one, because he was additionally a canoeist. For this reason he would have loved to repay the hospital in some way.

Therefore instead of flowers we ask you to offer donations to the Hospital Endocrine Unit.

Cheques can be made out to: St Georges Charitable Foundation account AFMS

The address is: Endocrine investigation Unit, Thomas Addison Unit, Ground floor, Lanesborough Wing, St George’s Hospital, Blackshaw Road, Tooting, London SW7 OQT

Many thanks

Ramsey Gohar

Donations can also be made to an Alexis Gohar Fund c/o Richmond Canoe Club

This fund will be used for a lasting memorial to Alex yet to be decided. Ideas include a bench dedicated to him situated on the new balcony and/or a floating trophy for the most improved junior paddler each year.

Cheques made out to Richmond Canoe Club and handed to Trevor Wetherall

Friday 21st November

Sadly our much loved member and friend, Alexis Gohar, died this morning.

We offer our deep felt condolences to his family at this time.

Saturday 13:30 Group Closed to Newcomers for Draw Off

The beginners 13:30 group on Saturdays will be closed for new people from now until Saturday 6th December due to the annual Draw Off that takes place on the Richmond to Teddington stretch of the River Thames. The Draw Off is complete on Sunday 7th and new beginners will be welcome from Saturday 13 December.

New Club Kit - Message from Trevor

Following the delivery of our new K2 s, and in discussion with our senior members, I have had a change around with the boat racks to enable easier boat usage.

The Plastix/Zasteria/Vajha K2 are now stored at the FRONT of the boathouse (on the left hand side facing the river) by the ‘small’ door.

All the boats from those racks are now stored by the K4 / K2 racks on the opposite side of the boathouse.

A comment on the new K2s. We have brought them to be used by all competent club members, for training and racing. They will, during use, pick up scratches and nicks - this is normal wear and tear. Please use them, taking care to treat them with the same respect that you would your own equipment.

You will also be aware that the DRAW OFF is now on for the next four weeks (8 Nov to 7 Dec). Please DO NOT use these boats when the river is low and there is a danger of running aground. When the river is on Draw off the half lock is left up and the river is allowed to drain away to a VERY low level. Therefore, the ‘inside’ of the bend which was the best line to take, is now mudflats, with a huge amount of rubbish waiting to rip the hull out of the boats!!!!!!!!!

If you are not sure, please ask the coaches for help.

Good paddling. Trevor.

Richmond in the Hood

Trevor's taken delivery of some new club hoodies. Very popular with the yoof, apparently, and a bargain at just £22. Selling fast, so track down Trevor who's down the club most days if you're looking for that extra special Christmas gift.

More Promotions...

The BCU have awarded more promotions following performances in recent races. These include our second promotion to the elite level of Division 1.

Congratulations to all........and a reminder that you can be promoted by racing K2.

Membership Renewals

The Club's membership year comes to an end on 31 October and I will be sending out renewal forms in early November.

I will send the forms to the address I have for you on the database, so if you have moved recently please can you let me know your new address.

For those of you who joined this year you still need to renew your membership at the end of October, but you do so at a reduced rate to reflect the number of months left. You will then be fully paid up to the end of the next membership year (October 2009). A (somewhat old) worked example is on the club website here: http://www.richmondcanoeclub.com/version2.0/newMembers/newMembers.html

As agreed at this years AGM, the new fees are as below.

Thanks

Mike (mikepigott @ yahoo.co.uk)

Winter's Coming - Don't Hibernate Like the Bears - Winter Racing Schedule

The Hasler marathon season now takes a break until Easter... but there are plenty of racing options for the winter, from the 10k races at Wey’s Hare & Hounds series to the 125 miles of Easter’s epic DW. We've put together a handy Winter Racing Schedule which is also on the club noticeboards. Wrap up warm and paddle faster.

Richmond Marathon Club Results

A great turnout for our own Marathon races with 93 Richmond paddlers competing; that’s 50% more than last year and really shows the momentum we now have for racing.

The club were winners in 10 different classes including every division from U-10’s up to Division 6 and each of the K2 classes. There were a total of 19 podium positions and nine paddlers won promotions:

Further good news is the 10 Hasler points we won for being the most successful club in our region on the day. These count towards qualification for next year’s Hasler finals and leave us in a strong position in the region as marathon racing takes a winter break.

Special thanks to Trevor and his team of 18 volunteers for arranging a successful day’s racing.

Richmond Results

After a great race, here are the Richmond Marathon Results, and the C2 Development Race results as well.

Christmas Party

This year's Members Christmas Party is going to be on 13 December. We are looking for someone to organise the party, and a few others to make up the team of people to help out. If you fancy turning the gym into Santa's Grotto, drop Peter Hutchison an email.

Can we have your nominations please?

The BCU 2008 Volunteer and Recognition Awards 2008 have been announced and we'd like your nominations. Open up the nomination form and have a look at the categories. Then drop me an email and we'll assemble the club nominations. Deadline for club nominations will be 20 November.

Richmond Refurb Wins Top Award

Richmond Canoe Club were given the top award in The Richmond Society Awards ceremony this week.

The 2008 Award is in recognition of the keeping the character, style, balcony and use of the building to create a vibrant river front.

The Richmond Society make several commendations, but only one award, and they don't give an award if there isn't a project that merits recognition.

There were about 100+ people attending and the decision was unanimous. Quite a few architects and developers in attendance who would have been very happy to win the award, so definitely something to be pleased about and proud of.

Great to know that others recognise, appreciate and reward the hard work and detailing that have gone into the refurbishment. Congratulations to EVERYONE involved. We are great on and off the water!

Promotions following on from Longridge

Some more promotions following the Windsor and Longridge marathons.

The Club has now had over 20 promotions since the new Marathon season started. And Brendan's marks the Clubs first top level paddler for at least ten years.

In the three Hasler marathons to date, 52 different Richmond paddlers have competed and we have entered 88 seats. Seven members have already completed the three Hasler races required to qualify for next September’s Hasler Final.

Next race....RICHMOND MARATHON this Sunday 26 October.

Wey Triathlon - a C1 report

Matt and Marcus were the sole Richmond entries in the Wey triathlon, (paddle/bike/run). Unfortunately a change in the marathon timetable meant it clashed with Longridge, but there was still a good turnout, not least from the Nottingham Canoe Academy providing plenty of C1 competition for Matt and Marcus.

Unfortunately things did not entirely to plan. After the 5.5k paddle Matt and Marcus were both well placed. Marcus overtook Matt on the changeover and quickly pulled away. By the run Marcus looked well placed and despite a sluggish start finished well up the field. Meanwhile Matt was lost on the run. Back at the finish Marcus thought he’d won the C1 and cursed Matt’s lack of navigation skills, blissfully unaware that he himself had turned early and that his blinder was not what it seemed!

All in all it was a thoroughly enjoyable event with around 100 competitors, long enough to be challenging, but not too hard. Full results here.

Longridge Results

Two good wins for Richmond at the Longridge Marathon on Sunday 19. Attilla Horvath stormed home 2 1/2 minutes ahead of his Division 5 rivals whilst Adam Mahmoud was over a minute ahead in Division 6. Each has been awarded automatic promotion.

There were also podium places in K2; for Roger Crawford & Kevin Marsh [3rd in Div 7] and Helen Taylor & Jesus Duque [2nd in Div 9].

There were 26 Richmond paddlers at the Marlow course – venue for next year’s National Championships – competing across nine different classes. It is encouraging that ten of these racers were juniors. Full results.

Longridge was the third of the autumn Hasler Series marathons. The Club has now had 88 seats on the starting line this season, featuring 52 different paddlers, with seven members now holding the three starts required to qualify for next year’s Hasler Finals....should the club itself qualify. Another seven could join them after this week’s home race at Richmond.

Help the club get to the Finals by racing at Richmond this weekend. And make sure you get the three races you need to qualify under your belt when the races start again in the spring. Full calendar to follow.

Longridge Preps

It's the Longridge Marathon out at Marlow this Sunday....there are K1 races at all levels and K2 for divisions 4/5/6 combined and, 7, 8 and 9 separately.

Long course is 20k with two portages, medium distance is 11.2k with one portage and the short course is 8k with no portages.

There's an 11.45am briefing for the Hasler races with 12.15 starts so you can even be back in Richmond by 3pm. Lightning, U10 and U12 races and Hody K2 have a 10am briefing and early starts.

By the way, it's the course that will be used at next year's National Marathon Championships....and your last chance to practice before our own race on Sunday 26th.

Richmond CC to represent Richmond Borough at New Year's Day Parade

Richmond Canoe Club are, once again, to be representing the London Borough of Richmond Upon Thames at the New Year's Day London Parade in Central London. It's a huge occasion, with dozens of marching troops and bands coming over from the United States in addition to entries from most London Boroughs. Details of the parade.

Kath Roose will be organising for the club, so if you want go get involved in preparations or the day itself, please track her down at the Club or drop her an email. It's a great day out, and we're hoping the Mayor of Richmond will be taking part as well.

Windsor Marathon Report

An even bigger turn-out at Windsor than we had at Elmbridge with 35 Richmond paddlers across 9 different classes in K1, K2 and C1.

There were wins for Brendan Stead in Division 3 - with a time that would have seen him lead the Division above - Andrew Griffin in Div 8 and, taking the club's new Zastera racing K2 to its first victory, Sean & Alison Martin in Div 7 K2.

Following the successes of recent weeks, there were five more promotions: Joshua Henman to Division 6, Kevin Marsh and Jonny Powell to Div 7, and Andrew Griffin and Dennis Sepp both leaping from Div 8 to 6.

So, another great weekend's racing for Richmond.

Pictures from Windsor Marathon.

Next up is Longridge on Sunday 19 October; details are here and on the club notice boards. Lift shares can be discussed at the club on Saturday morning.

If you want to check your marathon division before our own Richmond Marathon on Sunday 26 October there is a list on the Racing Notice Board or you can ask your coach for advice.

Wanted - Lead Organiser for Richmond Canoe Club New Year's Day Parade

The London New Year's Day Parade on 1 January is an increasingly popular occasion. We've been asked by the Mayor of the London Borough of Richmond to put together a float. It can be super sophisticated, or beautifully simple - it's the taking part that matters.

Would you like to organise Richmond's entry? Have you been hiding a secret desire to design a float. It's good fun, and with a bunch of people it can raise a whole load of money for the club. If so, please drop me an email as soon as possible and let me know your thoughts.

Thanks. Peter

Club Celebration - Sat 1 Nov

Tickets for the Club Celebration on Saturday 1 November are selling fast. If you want some, track down Kim Wetherall who is down the club most nights and on Saturday mornings.

The Trevor and Randall Show

Hey kids, why You Tube, Facebook or Bebo, when you can watch the Trevor and Randall Show.

More seriously, it's a useful bit on technique as the winter months approach.

Richmond Storm Reading K4s

Depsite the wind and rain, a great time at Reading on Saturday afternoon racing K4s over their 10k course.

Two Richmond crews took part, both racing in the senior A class. Our top crew of Brett Irvine, Brendan Stead, Oli Isobell and Paul Stromsoe lead from the start to win the race by nearly a minute.

Richmond’s second boat – with Randall Watson, Charles Wilson, Chris Haynes and Lawrence Princeloos – raced up a division and were pipped into 4th place on the line by Reading’s Senior boat, but recorded a time that would have won the B race by several lengths.

Thanks to Henry Hendron for encouraging all to race and putting in the entry. Full results are on the Reading website.

Elmbridge Successes kick off Hasler Season

A number of successes at Elmbridge in the first marathon of the Hasler season.

It was a great turnout from Richmond with 27 paddlers across nine different classes and there were promotions for three paddlers. In the overall standings the club came a narrow second to the hosts, with 228 points to their 230, collecting valuable points in the race to Qualify for next year's Hasler Finals.

Special mentions to; Paul Hayes and Klaudia Galucka, 1st and 3rd in Div 8 and both promoted to 7; Sean Martin [the only Canoe in any race] who won promotion to Division 8; the Div 9 K2s of Rebecca Killip & Alison Martin and Helen Taylor & Georgina Dabourne who took 1st and 2nd in Div 9 K2; and Jesus Duque who won the Fun Race by over a minute.

Full results. Nxt race is at Windsor this weekend (12 Oct).

Night Lights Compulsory

In case you haven't got the message yet, it is a requirement to have a light if you are paddling at night. No Lights, No Paddle. Ideally you should have a white light at the front that can be seen from all sides.

Tour de Force

If anyone still doubted the Touring Group's Up For It mentality (after the Great Chichester Harbour drama of 2008), there's an October Tour of the River Wey planned for 19 October. More flasks and cags, than Pimms and picnics. Sure to be fun though. Full details. And what a great bit of training for the Richmond Marathon the following week!

Draw Off

The annual "Hey, where's the river gone?", more technically known as the Draw Off is from 8th November to 7th December. For newer members, a brief explanation. Richmond Lock is left open for essential maintenance works on the lock, weirs and sluices and to carry out a riverbed inspection. This allows the river between Richmond Lock and Teddington Lock to drain down at low water on each tide. The Draw-Off period will commence at approximately 2000 on Saturday 8th November 2008 and will complete at approximately 0640 on Sunday 7th December 2008. Full details from the Port of London Authority.

A small team will be needed to set the Pontoon into the steep "rock climbing position" on 8th November. If you're keen to help, ask one of the coaches as the date approaches.

Fish Fever

Not sure if any RCC members are doing the Fish this year, but it starts tomorrow. Last year's race.

We need more people to put their names up to volunteer for the Galley - simple job requiring a couple of hours from mid-Saturday morning - and Trevor needs a few more volunteers for the Club Marathon on Sunday 26th October - please drop him an email if you can help. (If you're not volunteering to help, you should be paddling - and it is possible to do both!)

Richmond 14th in Hasler Finals

Some success to report from the Hasler Final at Burton-on-Trent.

There were promotions for Rob Stainsby in K1 [to Division 5] and Matt Duck in C1 [to Division 7] and Coralie Vial & Ian Clark were winners of Division 8 K2 in their first Hasler Final.

Coralie and Ian battled their way through a field of 26 boats after an early collision to finish nearly a minute ahead of their closest rivals.

There were two Richmond crews in Division 4/5/6 K2, a race that saw 37 boats on the start line; an astonishing 74 paddlers on a stretch of water less than half the width of our stretch of The Thames. Gert and Marna Van Deventer were highest placed in 11th with Kim Wetherall and Klaudia Galucka finishing 32nd.

In the singles, Division 6 had 35 boats at the start with Rob Stainsby finishing 5th, Mike Piggott 21st and Jack Killip forced to retire. Neil Camp had the toughest start of the day as one of 46 boats in Division 7 though he, too, was to later retire.

In the final standings, the club was placed 14th of the 32 clubs across the country who qualified for the Final.

Thanks to all who went to Burton-on-Trent and to everyone who raced last season to get us into the Final. Qualification for next year’s Final – for the club and individual paddlers – starts this weekend at Elmbridge. Full details on this site and on the noticeboards.

Night Paddling - Lights Please

With the nights drawing in, a gentle reminder that members are required to have a forward facing white light visible at all times when paddling at night. Not only is it a club rule, it is also a Port of London Authority rule (the organisation in charge of river use on our stretch). Please don't put the Club in an awkward situation.

Bridge Maintenance - Navigation Closures

We've had notice from the Port of London Authority (PLA) that "On or about 20 October 2008, for a period of approximately four weeks, a structural inspection will be carried out on all the arches of Chiswick, Kew and Twickenham Bridges. The work will be conducted from an under-bridge access unit parked on the bridge deck." Full details.

Dates for Your Racing Diary

We have 13 paddlers at the Hasler Finals this week – not great, but twice as many as last year. There are 4 K2s, 4 K1s and a C1. We'll post details of how we get on after the weekend.

Then qualification for next year’s Final starts in earnest. There are Hasler races every Sunday in October. Put the dates in your diary:

Chris Haynes - Marathon Secretary

A Great Great River Race

A long overdue congratulations to the Smurf Team that turned out in full colour for the Great River Race. Here's the story.

We did well in the GRR by actually finishing! I was told later that the last time the bell boat went into the GRR it sank at Tower Bridge. Our picture made it into the Telegraph and the Times newspaper so I think we captured the imagination and fun of the GRR! Last minute preparations with ad-hoc floatation devices and temporary spray decks were made by the team that potentially averted disaster once we hit Westminster Bridge where the waves became an entity on there own, in some cases hitting standing waves of around 5ft. A few boats didn't make it through the area but we held the course and kept steady for the finish line crossing in 2hrs 55 mins and ranking 147 out of 298, where we promptly ate burgers and got merry at the subsidised bar till midnight, dressed as smurfs!

Richmond Marathon

Richmond Canoe Club Marathon is on Sunday 26 October - details - entry form.

Liffey Descent - Dublin

Another fine showing from Richmond at this year's Liffey Descent, Bret Irvine and Julian Callebaut took third place in the fiercely competitive 'Blue Ribband' K2 class. Shane O'Quinn and Henry Hendron finished in 12th place while Kimberly Wetherall and Claire Pople were the fastest ladies pair. In the Singles, Richard Hendron just missed a podium finish with a 4th place in the Wild Water Racers. Kelvin Byres put in a faultless performance to finish 10th in Senior Singles while on his 28th Liffey, Sean Martin took second place in the Masters Singles.

In all about 15 Richmond boats made it over to Dublin for the race. Full details at www.liffeydescent.com. Congratulations to those that made it.

Pictures from www.actionshots.ie

HENLEY MARATHON – Sunday 14 September

After this weekend’s Nottingham sprints the domestic racing calendar turns to marathons.

Starting with the HenleyMarathon on Sunday 14 September there is a race every weekend until the end of October. The races at Elmbridge, Windsor and Richmond are all in our London and South East [LSE] marathon region, so it is possible to get your qualification for next year’s Hasler Final sorted before November.

If you want to put all the dates in the diary, they are:

At Henley the Division 7, 8 and 9 races start at 11:30 am, divisions 1 to 6 start from 1:30 pm, and Lightning races start at 1:25 pm with all pre-race briefings 30 minutes before the start time.  Full details at the Henley website.

Richmond Second in National Interclub Regatta

Trevor's report on the weekend - no need to edit the words of a proud man. Ed.

It was one of the best team efforts for many years, the commitment,effort and passion that we all put into the competition was tremendous.

We took 44 club paddlers to race for the honour of the club (53 if you include juniors), of which a third had never been to a regatta before.

The ‘new’ paddlers performed with raw effort and a will to ’have a go ’the established racers carried the team to some fine wins with outstanding commitment to achieve the best results for the club.

There were a few stars that won races and took the ‘big ‘ points but without the TEAM effort all would have been losted. Individuals are part of the team. THERE IS NO ‘I’ IN TEAM!!!!!!!

As the first day progressed and the ‘new’ paddlers started to find their feet a positive feeling started to drift through the team,with points updates coming every 2/3 hours the team started to realise that a top three position might be possibly.

At the end of the first long day, we were leading by 8 points,everybody was tired but ready to carrying on the campaign to achieve the goal.

Sunday dawned damp and cold and as I crawled out of my wet tent and arrived at the regatta course I realised that we were a serious contender for the title of National Interclub Champions. The team attitude was strong and positive, everybody was rooting for each other,and we were in a good postion to take the title.

We soon warmed up cold muscles and bodies to carry on with the battle.

Many fine results were achieved on the last day and when the smoke had settled and the battle had finished, we looked to the results and found the we had won the whole regatta over the full weekend but had lost the tilte by THREE[3] points.

The deciding factor was promotions over the years National regatta’s.

Wey Kayak Club had eleven promotions and we had only five.

Another year of sprint racing done and I hope the club is inspired with their achievements over the year.

As for me ,I shall be setting plans in motion with the club coaches to avenged this result and move forward to greater things.

I must thank all the paddlers/parents for their hard work, enthusiasm and passion and hope they are also inspired to be better.

Trevor Wetherall - Head Coach

Full National Interclub Regatta Results

On the way up - Marathon Promotions.

Congratulations to Jack Killip, Sean Martin and Balazs Soregi who have all won promotions in Marathon racing.  Jack and Balazs move up to Division 5 and Sean takes his C1 into Division 6 after their performances at the National marathon Championships in August. The promotions are effective for the new Hasler marathon season and there are plenty of chances to test themselves in their new divisions with a race every week from now ‘til November!

Galley Duty - Please volunteer

There's a new rota up on the Galley that needs to be filled. It's essential that everyone plays a part in staffing the Galley, sharing out the very useful and welcome job. It's very easy, good fun, and a good way to meet everyone at the club. Stick your name down and ask Karen Q or someone on duty what it involves. It's a piece of cake - literally sometimes.

National Marathon Championships

Congratulations to Alison Martin, National K1 Marathon Champion for under-12 girls.

Alison came first in her class at this weekend’s National Marathon Champions in Worcester, with Rebecca Killip just behind to complete a Richmond one-two. Together, they followed this up with 2nd place in Sunday’s K2 race to complete an excellent weekend for the girls.

The weekend also brought medals for Ben & Jack Killip [3rd in under-14 K2], Balazs Soregi [2nd in Division 6], Tim Middlehurst [2nd in over-44 men’s K2], and Sean Martin [2nd in Senior Men’s C1].

Richmond had just ten padddlers at the Nationals – Charles Wilson, Mike Pigott and Chris Haynes completing the team – and came 15th out of 40 clubs, ahead of our neighbours Royal but way behind the big guns of Elmbridge, Reading and Wey.

Full results at the Worcester Canoe Club website. Well done to everyone who took part.

Hasler Final - Sunday 28 September

The Club has qualified for the 2008 Hasler Finals by coming third in our racing region, behind Elmbridge and Wey. It's good to be going and shows we're gettng more people to more races.

To qualify, the Club collects points for the performance of its paddlers across all eight marathon races in our region over the racing season.

To represent the Club at the Finals individual paddlers need to have raced at least three marathons in 2007-08, though these can be out of region; eg if you raced at Pangbourne, Thames Valley or Banbury these would count in your personal tally.

To race K1 or C1 you need to have raced singles at least three times in the last year. Thameside, Watersides, DW, Hare & Hounds do not count...only marathons.

Looking at the regional races alone the following have definitely qualified to represent the club:

Others may have qualified but will have to check their own records to see if they have the necessary three races.

So we could have a squad of 20 paddlers - or more - off to another National Final. Full details here.

Tim Brabants K1 1000m Olympic Champion

Congratulations to Tim Brabants, Olympic Champion K1 1000 metres. And also bronze in the 500 metres.

Richmond's Sella Show

Richmond saw a team of eight Richmond paddlers attend the international descent of northern Spain's River Sella on the 9th August this year.

Racing K2 senior, Chris Haynes and Henry Hendron finished 92nd in the time of 1:43:09. Racing senior ladies, Kim Weatherall and Claire Pople acheived a respectable 6th in their class in a time of 1:45:26, and racing mixed (which is a 5k shorter course) the Richmond crew of Gert and Marna Van Deventer came in 5th in a time of 1:17:28. The other Richmond crew of Oli Isabel and Nick Fay fell victim to the River Sella who, with boat issues, were forced to make an early retirement. But all in all a good showing from Richmond.

National Marathon Championships - 23/24 August - Worcester CC

The National Marathon Championships will be staged at Worcester Canoe Club on Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 August. Closing date for pre-entries is THIS FRIDAY, 15 August, though late entries are available on the day - up to an hour before your race - for a £3.00 surcharge.

So far four Richmond boats have entered across K1 and K2 but many more people have talked about going: please follow this link to the Nationals for full details and to pre-enter.

Racing is in Canoe and Kayak, in singles and doubles. The races are staged in age categories from under 10 to over 54 as well as in the familiar divisional system used in the Hasler series.

Worcester is about 2 1/2 hours from Richmond by road; if you want to stay overnight at Worcester, camping is available on site.

Notice for Saturday Afternoon Beginners

There will be no beginners group on Saturday 9th, 16th and 23rd August as the coaches are away. The improvers group (normally coached by Sarah) will run as normal with Peter Barnes at 1.30pm. Beginners group will re-commence on Saturday 30th August with Sarah and Ulrik.

Trish up from Devon

Richmond Canoe Club's very own organic livestock farmer is up at the club on the morning of Sat 9th August, so if you need some joints of meat, head down the club. Price list. Advance orders welcome - email trish@trishdavey.co.uk or call 07946 353614.

Chichester Harbour Tour - Our Very Own Cockleshell Heroes

If you thought the touring group was just aquatic picnicing think again. Read the report of last Sunday's epic circumnavigation of Hayling Island. Watch the website and listen out for details of the next trip.

Richmond Canoe Club's - Week of Coaching

Our region’s last Marathon races of the 2008 season were held on Sunday 20th July.

There were 242 entrants but a low turn-out of Richmond’s red vests with four K1’s, one C1 and half a K2 on the start line and Charles Wilson cheering from the bank.

Best result of the day was a victory for Tim Middlehurst, racing with Michael Walsh of Wey, in Div 4/5/6 K2. Rob Stainsby followed his 3rd place at Pangbourne two weeks ago with another impressive 3rd in Division 6, followed in by Mike Pigott [14th] and C1 paddler Matt Duck [19th] in the 26-strong field. In Division 5 Chris Haynes came 7th out of 18 starters whilst Mark Wilkes placed 5th in Divsion 4.

Racing is hard work but rewarding. And it’s fun....more so when there are friendly faces from our club cheering us on, racing alongside us and sharing the ride to the events. If you don’t believe us, give it a go and if you haven’t raced before ask your coach for some advice. There are at least six races within an hour’s drive of Richmond this autumn.

So, some dates for the diary:
August 23/24, National Marathon Championships, Worcester
September 14, Marathon – 2009 Hasler Series, Henley
September 21, Marathon – 2009 Hasler Series, Marlow
September 28, Hasler Finals, Burton-on-Trent
October 5, Marathon – 2009 Hasler Series, Elmbridge
October 12, Marathon – 2009 Hasler Series, Windsor
October 19, Marathon – 2009 Hasler Series, Longridge
October 26, Marathon – 2009 Hasler Series, Richmond (ESSENTIAL DIARY DATE FOR ALL)

More details on each to follow shortly.

Chris Haynes - Marathon Secretary

Richmond Canoe Club's - Week of Coaching

Note from Trevor that there will be coaching sessions every day this week (28 July to 1 August) for those wanting to improve technique.

And a strong reminder about the National Inter-Club Championships, at Nottingham, on the weekend of 6/7 September - the premier club event of the year. Entries need to be completed the entries by the 16 August. Contact Trevor by email.

And now for something completely different... Slalom Anyone?

Harefield Slalom 2008 is taking place next weekend (26 & 27 July). Makes a change from going in a straight line I suppose. Details for the event at Harefield Slalom 2008. Sean Martin is going so if you haven't a clue what it's about and would like to know, drop him a line.

In Memory Of...

It is with sadness that we heard that Chris Baker passed away last week. He represented Richmond Canoe Club and Team GB at the Munich Olympics in 1972. Our thoughts go to his family and friends.

Tour Group - Chichester Trip - 31 August

Details about the Touring Group to Chichester Harbour starting to flood out. Full details here.

Diary Date - 23/24 August - Olympic Finals Breakfast

Early notice of an Olympic Finals Breakfast on Sat 23 August and / or Sun 24 August. Time difference between London and Beijing means that breakfast is peak viewing time over here. Smashing.

Diary Date - 6/7 September - Interclub Championships - Nottingham

Head Coach Trevor Wetherall has a mission - for Richmond to make a really big, club-wide effort to attend the Interclub Championships in Nottingham on the weekend of 6/7 September this year.

As the INTERCLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS it is very important for Richmond to have a strong turnout. With a team size of 60/70 paddlers [all classes!!!!] we could win this prestigious event as we have in the pastl.

The format is simple. Every paddler that starts a race gains a point , the club with the most points wins the overall TEAM trophy. As a full weekend event with class races every 3mins in K1-C1/K2-C2/K4-C4 200-500-1000 meters there are lots of opportunities for points. So for a good TEAM result the slowest/new”st paddler is as important as the accomplished international racer.

Paddlers must be registered to compete at Nottingham in advance and Trevor can do this quite easily and at no charge. You must be a BCU member and supply their personal details for registration, the sooner this is done the better

If any help is need to create crews, develop K4s or anyother assistance to help you get to Nottingham, Trevor is available for help.

In Trevor's words, "I am confident, that with a big team effort from all of us - paddlers/ parents/coaches - we can have a fantastic result."

See you in Nottingham.

Adult Beginners & Improvers - No Session Sat 12 July 2008

There will be no session on Saturday 12th July on Saturday afternoon for beginners or improvers due to lack of coaches. Coaching will resume as normal on Saturday 19th July.

Parents Group - Sat 26 July 2008

Club coach Sarah Nosworthy will be running a session for parents of our juniors who would like to try kayaking. This will start on Saturday 26th July at 11.45am while the juniors are on the water.

BBQ Meat Fresh to your Door

Enjoyed the meat at the Summer Club BBQ? Well it came from Trish and Steve's organic farm in Devon. They are selling their meat direct (chicken, beef, pork and lamb, subject to availability), and are planning to be at the club on a Saturday morning every few weeks. Next visit is on Saturday 19th July. Prior orders are particularly welcome, but a selection will be available for purchase on the day. Please contact Trish on 07946 353614, or email her on trish@trishdavey.co.uk for more details, and check the Club notice boards for delivery dates. Farm visitors are very welcome, so pop in if you heading to the West Country this summer!

Boat Transport for BP2 Required

We are nearing the BIG PADDLE 2 and need help to transport boats up to Lechlade for the start.

The main problem is that we cannot leave cars at Lechlade for six days so we have to transport the boats up on the weekend before the main paddle.

So, if you fancy a paddle on Sunday 6th July and can transport some boats please let me (Gary Coulton) know as soon as you can. The Big Paddle 2 Committee will cover the cost of your fuel. This would be a fantastic help and the paddle from Lechlade to Cricklade is wonderful. The local pubs are also very good for an evening meal together.

So, if you can help and want to paddle, the plan would be to meet at 08.00 on Sunday 6th July at the Club, collect people and boats - drive to Lechlade (approx. 1.5 hours) - and paddle for the day. We then leave two of the BP2 paddlers to camp overnight and look after all the boats, ready for the arrival of the main paddle party on Monday.

We are also looking for one car at present to help move two doubles to Lechlade on the Saturday afternoon. If you want the chance to paddle over the weekend please let me know also as soon as you can. There are three in the party so far.

If you can help with either of these requests, please let me know as soon as possible. PLEASE REPLY TO thebigbirthdaypaddle@hotmail.com

Royal Paddling Challenge

The Royal Paddling Challenge is believed to be the first formal canoeing event and has run every year since 1874. It's this Saturday, with booking from 1pm. Entry form and details.

Summer Party at The Balcony

RCC is THE place to be on Saturday 21st June (that's this weekend) at 7pm at the clubhouse. Tickets are available from Sarah Nosworthy Tuesday and Wednesday nights at the Club from 6 - 6.30pm. Tickets will NOT be available on Saturday unless pre-booked via email as we need to know numbers for catering. Dress code is smart casual with a touch of Summer. Buffet dinner and 1 free drink!!!

See you there.

Team Richmond win London Youth Games Canoeing

Team Richmond paddlers won the canoeing event at the London Regatta Centre over the weekend. Congratulations to everyone who took part and Coach Martin. Apparently drinks are on the Mayor of Richmond. Good job.

BP2 - Update

Latest update on the Big Paddle - BP2 Update. Need to get your money and book your place if you're still undecided.

Paddle Right of the River

We have been asked by the Port of London Authority (PLA), who are responsible for upholding rules of navigation on our section of the river, to remind you that river users should be on the right of the river at all times. Also, if another vessel is coming towards you or approaching from behind, that you should move to the right of the river.

Please bear this in mind at all times.

Touring Group - Cambridge - June 22

Just back Pulborough (big success) the RCC Touring Group is going all academic on us with a trip down the River Cam. If you fancy having a go, you'll find the details here. Got to be worth a punt I'd say.

Paddle Gone Missing

At some time between Sunday evening 4th May and Tuesday evening, 6th May, someone removed Marcus Gohar's Brasca Canoe 20 C1 paddle from his blue / yellow sprint C1.

This is an expensive and highly specialised piece of equipment. If you have moved it, used it, or know who has can you either return it to it's original place, or inform one of the Club coaches.

Thanks.

Touring Group in Pulborough on Sunday 1 June

Touring group trip to Pulborough on Sunday 1 June. Want to go? Full details about the tour here, including who to contact and stuff.

BP2 - Weekend Paddles

We're in the final run up to BP2 and the BP2 team need to get a clear idea of who wishes to paddle at the Weekends.

First Weekend - If you would like to paddle the upper Thames on Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th July please let them know as soon as you can via thebigbirthdaypaddle@hotmail.com address. Also, they need to know who can transport boats up to Lechlade on either day. Transport is required for 8 doubles. Finally, a couple of people are needed to help organise this part of the paddle.

Second Weekend - If you want to paddle the Second weekend (13th & 14th) from Cookham Lock to Richmond please confirm. Isobelle is organising this trip and needs one more person to help. Again please contact the same e-mail address.

Kevin Marsh and Gary are doing most of the organisation for the main trip and so will have to concentrate on this. If we cannot get two teams to organise the weekenders they will not happen. A guide cost is £30.

So, clear your diaries, gird your loins and let the team know if you you're going!!!!!!

Wetherall's Moonwalk - Job Done

Frances, Sam & Kim have done their Moonwalk for breast cancer and would a) like to thank everyone that sponsored them and b) like to say they're happy to accept any more money - either in their hands or at www.justgiving.com/thewetheralls

RCC Summer Party

Hey, it's Summer so it's time to party. Come and enjoy a drink or two on our lovely new balcony!Saturday 21st June 2008 at 7pm. Dress - Smart casual with a touch of Summer. Tickets £10 (includes a free drink and buffet dinner). Available at the club on Saturday mornings or from Sarah Nosworthy (sarahnosworthy@hotmail.com)

See you there.

DW 60th Anniversary Celebration & Party

Devizes Westminster is celebrating its 60th Anniversary. Following on from the DW2008 Awards Ceremony at 4pm on the 24th May at the Corn Exchange in Devizes, there is a Celebratory Party. Food, drink, music and a guest speaker. A great opportunity to talk about 125 miles, 77 portages and anything else that the world's longest flat water canoe marathon brings up for you. Tickets required (£15 each) and they're available from Kim Wetherall (kimbowet@hotmail.com)

See you there.

BP 2 Update

We need to hold two important Paddler Briefing Meetings Prior to BP2. We need all those people confirmed as paddling and those considering paddling BP2. That includes those paddling either or both weekends about the main event.The first of these essential meetings will be on Sat May 31st immediately after paddling, showers and food (ie. around 12.30-13.00hrs and depending on when Peter's Group finishes).The second and last meeting will be on Saturday 28th June again after paddling.It will be at these meetings that we can sort out all of your questions about organisation/accommodation/transport etc. Thanks to those of you who have offered help with organisation, I will contact you separately for scheduling some planning meetings.Please put these in your diaries!!!!!!!!!

Chief Big Paddler Gary

PLEASE NOTE: Change of day for Junior Weekday Training Session

As from the week beginning 12 May 2008, the Junior's Tuesday session will move to Thursdays. The time remains the same - time 5.45 to 7pm.

Canoe (as opposed to kayak) classes are available on Tuesdays and Thursdays. There is an additional class on Wednesday at 5pm, before the Club 10K. Monday classes can be arranged for 4.30 if there is sufficient demand.

Birthday Paddle 2

Latest news and update about this year's Thames tour from the source down to Richmond CC. Click here for more.

Cleaners Have Holidays Too!

Our cleaner is on leave from Friday 2 May for a week until Friday 9 May. Over this time, please try to be tidy, and encourages others to do likewise. And please do your best to keep the Clubhouse clean. Yes, look in the kitchen, explore the cupboards and make friends with some marigolds. You never know, it could be the start of something beautiful. Thanks.

Regatta's on the Richmond stretch of the Thames

For coaches and paddlers a like... a few dates for your diary when the river is going to be busy with rowers. Please resepect these events and stick to navigation changes requested.Twickenham Regatta 25th May 2008 08:00 - 17:30 Twickenham Festival 14th June 2008 10:00 - 16:00 Richmond Regatta 28th June 2008 09:00 - 18:30

Maidstone Marathon Results

Congratulations to the 13 paddlers that made it to Maidstone last weekend to represent the club. Five of them came back with podium finishes. Julian Grouteau won the Div 8 Senior Mens, gaining promotion at the same time. Matt Duck and Marcus Gohar took 1st in Div 8 K2/C2. Coralie Vial and Ian Clark came 3rd in Div 8 K2/C2. Full results here.
Essential Diary Dates
11 May - Basingstoke Canal Race (Southern Region race and a good chance to get a Hasler qualification point as it is quite close and straight down the M3)
18 May - Tonbridge (LSE Hasler race and we have to be there in numbers to help the club qualify for the Hasler Final)

Balcony Open - Cake for All

The Balcony will be opening tomorrow. A huge round of applause to Graham and Paul (& Alison) for this final part of the club renovation. In celebration of this occasion, tea and coffee cake will be served from the Galley.

Flatwater Newsletter - April 2008

You didn't know it existed, and now you know it does, you can snuggle up with a nice cup of tea and dive into your very own copy of the April 2008 Flatwater Newsletter.

Like most things to do with water and canoe sport, there's a Richmond reference in there!

Dates for your Diary - 2008 Race Calender

An update on events for the 2008 season.

I hope this will help you to plan for this year and encourage our club members to try flat water canoe sport racing.

Trevor

Regatta Report

The commentator had a sense of smugness on Saturday morning when she said 'Good morning and welcome to the April regatta'. An icy north wind was cutting across the course at about 90 degrees - no waves but very awkward to paddle in and bitterly cold. Situation normal for the April regatta, but unusually the Richmond team was exclusively canoe; there wasn't a single kayak paddler. Matt Duck was the most successful, winning both his C4 events and putting in two very fine performances with Joe Seaman of Wey in the C2 500 and 1000 metre events. New member Karl Yurkwich, the British course record holder for 200 metres showed he still had a bit of a kick, with a second and a third in the men's B C1 500 and 200 meters. Marcus finished somewhere in the middle of the field in the senior C2 1000 metres with Andy Bonham of Wey.

Marcus

BP2 - First Meeting

First meeting of the Big Paddle 2008 on Wednesday 23rd April, after the Club 10K. If you're interested in getting involved, be there by 8pm.

Maidstone Marathon (Sunday 20 April) and the Hasler Finals

With most of the DW trophies in the Richmond CC cabinet and the weather warming up, it is time to start focussing on Hasler Qualification.

How does the Hasler series work (in brief):

The country is divided into a number of region with us falling under London and the South East (LSE). Each club in every region then host a race and clubs in the region earn points in order to qualify for the finals. In each region 4 clubs qualify for the final held in September which we achieved in the last 2 seasons with our neighbouring club Royal CC missing out on both occasions. For every race you do in the LSE region you earn valuable points for the club to qualify. If you want to take part in the finals, you need to do 3 qualifying races which you can do in any region. You have to do 3 K1 or 3 K2 races, but the National Marathon Champs in August does also count so there are enough races left to qualify if you start now. More info on the Hasler series here if needed.

The only way that we can win the Hasler Final in September is to qualify firstly, but then go there with about 30-40 racers. It is all divisional racing, so you can help the club to win whether you race in Division 2 or Division 9. We are also planning on having a club away weekend to the Finals, so please make sure that you qualify not to miss out on the fun!

So start this Sunday with the Maidstone Marathon

Happy Racing!
Daan

Raising Money with Bikes and Bras

As some member of the club has almost certainly done the London Marathon, well done. To prove we can do more than paddle and run here's a couple more worthy causes. Sonia Marquardt is taking part in the London to Brighton Bike Race. The names fairly self-explanatory. The cause is the British Heart Foundation and you can sponsor Sonia here.

The Wetheralls (that's Frances, Sam and Kim - not Trevor on this occasion) are taking part in the 26.2 mile moonwalk. If you haven't got a clue what that's about it involves covering the distance walking in a bra. More details here. And you can sponsor them here. No requests for photographers for this event so far. Bet you're glad Trevor's not taking part.

Maidstone Hasler Marathon- 20 April 2008

We need those Hasler points so whatever your ability, your age, your aptitude, grab your paddle and get down to the Maidstone Marathon. Full details at www.maidstonecanoeclub.net

Looking for a relaxing Sunday outing? The Richmond CC Touring Group schedule is out - see details. So dust off the hamper, get the Pimms in the flask and head out.

Big Paddle 2008 - Thames Source to Richmond - 6-13 July

Dates out. Details available here. Organising Team up and running. Book your place and help with the organisation.

Bag Missing (and wanted back) at Richmond Sprints

A WEY CC paddler who attended the Richmond Sprints at Littleton Lake at Easter left his bag behind. It was a black Fila kit bag with a Wey vest and black thermals inside. There was nothing left when we checked at the end of day but if you coud ask anyone if they picked it up for the guy that would be great.

If you have or happen to know where the bag is could you let Kim W at the club know so we can get the bag back to its owner. Thanks.

There are protozoa living on the bottom of the Arctic Ocean who are more photographed than the Lesser Spotted Hendron-Harding. Below is the only known photographic record of the machine that won this year's Devizes to Westminster 125 mile non-stop race. You only need a one second advantage to win this race so one has to wonder why these boys indulged themselves with a whole 45 of them! They are captured here by Neil Thomas fifteen and a half hours in, just downstream of Kingston, as they wound it up for the final two hour sprint into London.

Richmond Sprints 2008 - Results

Better late than never, here are the results of the Richmond Sprints held on Good Friday. Click and read.

With DW out the way, it's time to get Richmond CC some much needed Hasler qualification points. Club members of ALL levels can get one of their 3 qualification races under their belts this Sunday at Tonbridge Canoe Club on Sunday (details here). For those unfamiliar with the Hasler series, you need to do 3 qualification races in either K1 or K2 to partake in the Final held in September. Please keep an eye on the notice board in the coming weeks for more details on the series. We need to get Richmond to the finals.

Summer's Coming - Mid Week 10K Starting Soon

The Club 10K will start next Wednesday 2 April 6.30pm. For those who laboured through DW, it's a fine time to shrug off the drag of DW and approach this weekly challenge, with a new spring in your heart and strength in your arms. Trying to achieve a personal time over 10K, will be a mere trifle, against the mighty DW. And for everyone else, it's time to get down to some serious distance work.

Trevor

Richmond Strong in DW2008
A phenomenal effort from Richmond's entrants to this year's Devizes to Westminster International Canoe Marathon.
Richard Hendron and Ollie Harding came in first place for the non-stop race in what can only be called painful conditions. Sub-zero temperatures were made bearable by the falling away of the biting winds of the previous day. Henry Hendron and Graham Stonehouse took fifth place having showed a complete lack of respect for the event creating their team a week before the race and training just three times. That's tongue in cheek as both are well established DW paddlers and the years of experience clearly show.
Nettie and Piran came in 9th place, and with the Van Deventer's in 14th it looks like Richmond are in a good position to take the team prize.
In the senior singles, Paul Wells came in second place with a phenomenal performance, with Daan du Toit making 4th, and Sean Martin taking his C1 under Westminster Bridge in 21 hours and 3 minutes.

Full Richmond Results:

Devizes to Westminster Update:

Full report on it's way, but news in brief - savage conditions, lots of retirements but... the Blue Riband Senior K2 was won by that man Hendron-R, Brett led the K1 till the brutal conditions knocked him out, Paul Wells picked up the Richmond standard and powered home in second place. Richmond won the Senior Singles Team Trophy because we were only club to have three singles actually finish!

It is DW Weekend! It is going to be grim but it could be fast if the wind holds off. The usual Richmond army will be out there;Non-Stop K2s - Peter's Posse; Jelf/Baxter, North and North (going east I hope), Wilson/Dutton, Keeble/Farleigh, Adams/Sheppard and Went/Hinton. Joined this year by the recidivists who frankly should know better by now; Hendron R with Ollie Harding, Hendron H with Graham Stonehouse, webmeister Peter H and Rob Stainsby, while Nettie and Piran do battle with Mr. and Mrs.VanDeventer in the mixed race. Lightweight four-day-ers - this year's comeback kid, Paul Wells may be pushed by Saffers Brett and Daan while Sean will be eschewing those laughable double ended paddles in pursuit of single bladed purity.

FORMAT CHANGES ARE HAPPENING: WATCH THE DW WEBSITE - See below latest info (20/3/08)Non-Stop K2s are now being compelled to hit the second tide on Sunday (16.04 at Teddington) which is going to mean a start on Saturday night and paddling the canal in the dark, the river in the light, not the ideal format for the very experienced crews, but the river is on Red Flood Boards so stay safe out there.

Devizes to Westminster Canoe Race.

Press Release - 19/3/2008

IMPORTANT – major modification to Senior K2 race

Based on the latest information on projected river levels and weather conditions, the DW Organisation has decided that for this year’s race there shall be no paddling on the non-tidal section of the Thames during the hours of darkness. For the bulk of Senior K2 crews, this means paddling the Kennet and Avon Canal in the dark during Saturday night so as to arrive on the Thames during daylight.

This change will have the following implications:-

1. The start window in Devizes will be open from 1600 on Saturday through to 0400 on Sunday morning. PLEASE NOTE, KIT CHECK WILL OPERATE FROM 12 NOON UNTIL 12 MIDNIGHT ONLY.

Any crews who believe they need to start outside these times should contact the Entry Secretary by 6 pm on Thursday 20th of March.

Any crews intending to start after midnight on Saturday are asked to advise the Entry Secretary prior to 9 pm on Saturday so that we know whom to expect.

2. Crews arriving at Dreadnought Reach prior to 0530 on Sunday morning will be held there until that time. There will be no time allowance given for any holding period.

3. Crews must finish on the second Sunday tide. Crews will only be allowed through Teddington between 1500 and 1830.

4. Crews will need to be fully lit on the Kennet and Avon Canal during the hours of darkness ie have activated light sticks and a battery powered forward facing white light.

5. Crews will be required to wear activated white light sticks, have a battery powered forward facing white light and a torch ready to be shown in any direction from Teddington onwards, regardless of the time at which they pass through Teddington Lock.

6. There will be a compulsory portage, river right, round Eton Bridge in Windsor.

7. Paddling the Thames in daylight is safer than doing so in darkness but paddlers are advised that conditions are still materially more challenging than in recent years. Paddlers should consider seriously their ability to handle them. It is the paddler’s responsibility to assess whether he or she will be safe in swift moving water.

8. There is likely to be more activity on the tidal section of the Thames, with large pleasure cruisers creating significant washes over the final few miles of the course.

9. Paddlers are reminded that race officials, acting under the authority of the Chief Umpire, may oblige crews to withdraw if they are deemed unfit to continue.

At this time there are no mandatory changes to the Stages Races.

Certain portages will be altered owing to current water levels. These will be advised at Devizes.

Please continue to monitor the DW website for further announcements.

Devizes Westminster Organisation Limited
www.dwrace.org.uk

Have you paid your rack fees?

Dear All,Over the next few weeks I'm going to be going through the boathouse and checking that all the boats stored there have had rack fees paid for them.If I don't recognise the boat I will put a note on it asking the owner to contact me so I can double check that the rack fees have been paid.If I do recognise the boat, and know that rack fees have been paid, then I'll put a sticker on it confirming that the rack fees have been paid for this membership year (October 07 - October 08).If you don't come down to the club very often but store a boat (e.g. you are an out of port member) could you send me an email with as much detail about your boat and where it is so I can ensure that you are ticked off the list. (I appreciate many of you will have done this on your membership renewal form - but I need the location of the boat now as there are some members who have the same boat).For those people who still haven't renewed their membership and rack fees ... in the short term your boat(s) will be removed from the main boathouse and stored in the, normally locked, boathouse just upstream from the club. The Committee will then decide on next steps. I'm not proposing to allocate specific boats to racks quite yet - we'll do this once all the racks have been built as there are a few more to go up at some point during the balcony construction.Get in touch if you have any questions.Regards

Mike Pigott - Membership Sec - mikepigott @ yahoo.co.uk

Waterside C

Looking for a race this weekend. Try the Royal Canoe Club K1/K2 marathon this Sunday (2 March). More details at www.royalcanoeclub.com.

Waterside C

On Sunday at the Waterside C race, we had another good Richmond turnout and a lovely mild day for racing. We had 28 club members racing and with the help of the Wetheralls along the way we all made it down to Newbury safely.A very good performance by Piran & Netty (2nd K2 Mix) and Brett (2nd K1 Senior), but I am sure it is fair to say that the day belonged to Paul Wells. In 1989 Paul and his brother Mike set the record for the Waterside C Senior K2 at 02:44:05, a record that is still standing 19 years later. On Sunday Paul won the K1 Veterans and came within 1 minute 40 seconds to setting another record. He also beat all the K1 seniors as well as all but 1 of the K2s. Well done Paul, that was an outstanding performance!

Full results at www.reading-canoe.org.uk

Big Birthday Paddle 2

It's here, "Big Birthday Paddle 2" or BP2 as it will be known from now on!BP1 was such a success we are going to do it all over again!The proposal for BP2 is to do the Thames again from Lechlade to Richmond over a five day period. Hopefully we will get much better weather than last year and we can actually see some of the scenery!The first step is to identify who is interested in coming with us and to home in on the week.If you are interested please reply with a yes to thebigbirthdaypaddle@hotmail.comThen have a look at the attached 2008 calendar and list in your e-mail reply which week numbers you can make from the beginning of June to the end of September. We will collate everyone's availability and come up with a consensus.

Once we know how many can join us and when we go, we can begin the logistic planning in earnest. Anyone interested in helping the Organisers Gary, Karen, Neil and Jim let us know and jobs will be assigned according to skills!

1 January 2007