International Canoe Training at Grafham Water Sailing Club

Alister James practising Asymmetric handling at the Grafham International Canoe training © Int. Canoe Class Association

Colin Newman trying to fly at the Grafham International Canoe training © Int. Canoe Class Association

Despite the unfavorable weather forecast, there was a good turnout of International Canoes at Grafham for their first training event with sailors taking the journey from as far afield as the Isle of Wight. Two ribs on the water, two coaches (both equipped with video) and excellent onshore facilities enabled mistakes to be made (the easy bit), verified (the embarrassing bit), and then ‘fine tuned’ (the hard bit)! A strengthening wind made for some enjoyable footage to be viewed in the bar after sailing. Slow motion replays were utilized to the full!

The coaching team of Colin Brown, Simon Hotchin and Andy Biden provided a well organized, enjoyable and thought provoking day, which the sailors were able to drink to and confirm with consumption of food and alcohol later that night.

Many thanks to GWSC who provided access to all the facilities needed, and the two rib drivers who never ceased to stop smiling!