​This Sunday saw the first of Duddon Canoe Clubs introduction to moving water skills sessions, the course is aimed at beginners who wish to learn moving water skills so they could start attending wild water races or river trips. 6 people had their name down for the course, some of which were complete beginners never having been on moving water before and some had been on moving water but wished to improve their skills. 4 coaches turned up on the day to help assisting with skills and rescues so the paddlers had plenty of input from 1 coach or another. The session was held under the bridge on the river Crake at Greenodd and it started with ferry gliding from 1 side of the river to the other across the flow of the river then progressed to breaking into the flow and breaking out under the bridge. All participants did really well and by the end of the session most could do everything they were asked and be successful more often than not, everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. There will be another session in February so keep an eye out for an email

​On Saturday the open canoe training group had a trip up the Leven estuary from Greenodd to Haverthwaite bridge and back. The tide was slower than expected so we spent time practicing our river skills at the bottom of the river Crake while waiting for more water.

​Sunday saw 3 of the open boat training group out on their first OC river trip- the Middle Derwent. Conditions were ideal with river levels low enough for play opportunities on the weir and just below the first foot bridge. Plenty of overhanging trees and logs tested skills as we gently floated our way down stream. Any remaining energy seemed to be lost on the portage out to the cars - that's part of the joy of open boating - you always feel like a good night's sleep at the end of the day!!
John

​On Sunday the open canoe training group had 4 hrs on Coniston Water paddling, sailing, polling and rafting in conditions that were ‘changeable’.

​Some club members, old and new, took advantage of the calm conditions for a peer group paddle round the South End of Walney from Roe Island while 3 others visited the islands of South America. Thanks to Ray for organising this.

This Saturdays paddle at the docks was misty but what you missed above water was more then made up by what was under as the water in parts was very clear. 

​The family paddle saw 11 members launching from Tewitfield and heading up towards Carnforth. It was a cold but dry day and thankfully the wind had died down. A few members turned back half way but all had a leisurely paddle with both parties stopping for a well earned lunch break. Carols group were escorted back towards Tewitfield by a beautiful kingfisher that was swooping and diving in to the canal for its meal. Thanks go to John for leading the paddle and to Sarah for organising it.

Michelle and Trevor held a polo training session at the docks today. It was well attended.