There’s this chap in Scotland (Douglas Wilcox) who started of in WW, maybe

during his university days, but the salt air got to him and now he is a
confirmed sea kayaker. This picture shows a Quest LV being paddled in the
crystal clear waters off LEWIS, part of the Outer Hebrides archipelago. His
blog, http://seakayakphoto.blogspot.com/ is one that I find particularly
interesting and I’d recommend a read. Well written, excellent photography, a
bit of humour, notes on wildlife and history – it’s all there. This photo taken
(with permission) from a boat test published January 2007.

Marlow Canoe Club Newsletter COVER Spring 2009/01

 CONTENTS EDITORS PIECE
MORE ON ANDY COOK 3 Rushed downstairs Christmas morning and
even through flu induced hazy eyes I could
4* SEA ASSESSMENT 6 see there was NO new Rockpool or
Tiderace kayak (on stands) in the garden. I
NEW EASKY’S 7 thought they might be a little big for the
sleigh and that SC might have sub-
BASINSTOKE CANAL 8 contracted DHL, but when nothing arrived
A GOOD BIT OF KIT 9 by my birthday it looked like I’d have to
settle for a copy of Gordon Brown’s (the
AGM REPORT 10 real Gordon Brown) book on sea kayaking.
And a VHF radio course. Maybe we will
R. THAMES USER INFO 12 see others out in new equipment soon, the
current cold spell has seen of all but the
RETAILER NEWS 13 most hardy!
Regular readers will have noted features on
FOR SALE 13
Andy Cooks’ DW adventures. A certain
DW 2009 14 lady at Banbury Canoe Club has been
promising to write for a while and finally
SEA / TOURING completed a piece. Julie Woods item is our
14
PADDLING starter for ten.
WHAT’S ON, WHEN & Moving on, it’s back to the briny when
15 Richard Williams and I were stooges for a
WHERE
4* sea assessment. The only downside to
COMMITTEE & USEFUL
16 this is the travelling involved, everything
NO’S else was just great. A word or two about
our new touring / sea kayaks retains a
slightly briny flavour.
Tim Twitchen has been organising some day touring trips recently and these have been
attended by a no. of members. Michael Day tells us all about one such trip along the
Basingstoke Canal.

This issues’ ‘A GOOD BIT OF KIT’ item is all about flasks. If you want a good flask rather
than 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) doesn’t, except to the newer
members who might not appreciate it’s significance.

Some news about retailers (don’t forget out locals) is on page 13 followed by details of a
nice little boat for sale (one advantage of being the editor).

Next is a short piece on this year’s DW. Andy Cook needs a back up team and volunteers
are required. Click on the links to see what’s 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.

Marlow Canoe Club Newsletter -2- Spring 2009/01

ANDY COOK AND BANBURY & DISTRICT CC
2008 – AN EXCELLENT YEAR
Having finished the year of 2008, and reading the last issue of the Marlow CC newsletter, I
thought 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 & District
Canoe Club and have done so for just over 5 years. This last year for us as a family has
been our best ever. My eldest, Katie, who is 19, completed the 4 day DW event at Easter
with her partner. It was at this event we met Andy Cook, as they were both raising money
for Myeloma UK. Myeloma UK were particularly excited to get two people raising money
for them at the very same event - very little is known about Myeloma and obviously every
penny that can be raised will
help them no end.

Over the year, we have become

very good friends with Andy,
emailing and meeting him at
numerous events. At Oxford, on
14th June, Andy was somewhat
shocked to find another 32
paddlers joining him in division 9
– he said that the last time that
he had raced in a Hasler event;
there would have been about 5
others in this division! How the
sport has progressed. Andy in
fact came 2nd in this very first
race and instantly got promoted
to division 8, much to his delight. I have been fortunate to be racing against him on
several occasions, including the very murky start at Windsor - I followed him literally right
off the start until about halfway, where I had the energy and determination to pass him and
finish several places ahead of him (This was even a better result as I had been up until
2am that morning, helping to organise a ball in aid of Myeloma, with my friend Hilary, who
has not been as fortunate as Andy has. Hilary had her stem implants two years ago and
is now not too well). The following week at Longridge however, Andy got his own back as
I 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 the
event.

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

Marlow Canoe Club Newsletter -3- Spring 2009/01

day! I had been in touch with Andy the week before a number of times and my husband
Graham, had agreed to carry a dry bag of clothes for Andy, just in case he needed it along
the 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. I
really 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 of
our club at 76! I am a mere 45 years old! We had both done this before, but had never
paddled together! I have never done this without shaking from head to foot from the start
to the main bridge in the centre of Stratford, but for some strange reason I didn't this time
and we went through the whole event without a single problem, except for hitting the main
bridge in Stratford a mile from the start! Oh for my slap support at the right moment! Each
of the portages were somewhat strange as there was no drop, the water level was so
high. We in fact managed to shoot two of the weirs (the second one, we didn't know we
were shooting it as it was so tame! At the other weir we were told all paddlers had shot
it!). Anyway, as a K2 with an under stern rudder, we had decided not to shoot any of the
weirs (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 different
speeds, although kept encouraging him along when we did see him. It was at about the
5th portage that we had a bit of a problem as when we got the boat back into the water, we
got caught up with weed and had to reverse back, in order to remove it and get going
again. At this point, there were no sides to the river - just very steep banks. As we were
re-entering our boat and paddling off, we saw an upside down kayak coming along in front
of us, followed by Andy! We called over to him to make sure that he was OK and that
there was help around – it would have been difficult to help at the time as we would
probably have ended up in the water too! Anyway, Andy spent about 10 minutes in the
water before he managed to get back in and finish the event. Again, Andy showed such
courage and determination - amazing being able to do what he does, knowing full well that
he has Myeloma. This event is for all paddlers (experience is required though). There are
white water paddlers as well as marathon paddlers – this year I reckon it was the best race
I 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 into
my calendar last night, I noticed that the event in 2009 clashes with Longridge Marathon –
a hard decision as to which
one to do!
At the end of November, it
was our own Ross Warland
Memorial Race. Andy had
got to know our club
members from the events
that he had attended with us
this year and he had got
talking to Graham Warland,
who organises the event.
Andy contacted me to say
that he and a couple of
friends would be coming to
the event and that he was
planning to do the whole 20
miles in a K1 once again.
This event is on the canal

Marlow Canoe Club Newsletter -4- Spring 2009/01

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 already
got on the water, by the time he was ready to start. I didn't actually see him until about half
way through the event and cheered him when I did so. The day was bitterly cold and
drizzled 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 mine
though, Andy!).

I think I had better watch out next season when we are racing in the Hasler series - we are
both in division 8 and I have my suspicions that with Andy's heavy training schedule during
the winter he will be well and truly fit by the spring! Knowing how hard and lonely the
training can be, particularly in a K1, I would encourage every one of you to try and join
Andy in at least one training session on the river this winter – get to know him and see for
yourself what a gutsy, brave and determined person he is. It would give him a chance to
get to know more people and you never know – it may even encourage you to join him and
have 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 with
Andy; what an amazing man he is. Words cannot describe how I feel at the moment. I am
so pleased that Andy is not only very fit and well and long may it last, but he also has a
brilliant hobby that not only keeps him fit and active, but gets him out and about to meet
people from all over the county.

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

Our family and also the members of Banbury & District Canoe Club would like to wish
Andy 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 2009
Avon Descent & Longridge Marathon: 8th November 2009
Ross Warland Canal Challenge: 29th November 2009

Julie Wood
Banbury & District Canoe Club

At the recent AGM I and others present were saddened to hear that Hilary had passed
away the previous Saturday. Only having 'met' Hilary via. Julie’s e-mails and Andy talking
I had the misguided impression that her treatment was not as successful as Andy's and
that as such she was perhaps a 'weaker' version of Andy. That I was so wrong can only
be from impressions gained from others - whose own impressions would have been
coloured by her indominatable spirit.
A link to the myeloma internet site is provided below for those that might wish to know
more.

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

Marlow Canoe Club Newsletter -5- Spring 2009/01

4* SEA ASSESSMENT GUINEA PIG.
I’m a bit miffed I didn’t go for my 4* sea award the other week. It turns out there were only
two 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 I’m thinking nearly all
the training time could have been directed to me? Still I got the chance to see what’s it’s
all about by joining our own Richard Williams and a few others (one from my recent 3*
course) as guinea pigs for the assessment.
I’m driving along the seafront at Weymouth and a glassy sea with possibly a 3” wave
crashing on the beach does not look like it’ll 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. Too
rough in fact, because after the assessor and assesses had looked at the water it was
decided to go elsewhere. It was explained that getting on was O.K. but getting off was not
so 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 six
incher before hitting calmer water a little further out. A little pep talk from our leaders
advised that we were midway between Springs and Neaps so tidal effects certainly had to
be considered, but more importantly so did the offshore wind. An ebbing tide combined
with an offshore wind can easily take you out to sea and make the return difficult. A
course was set for the harbour entrance with instruction to head toward a building some
way in from our final destination to allow for the effects of wind and tide, whose force
became more apparent as we headed out. On arrival near the entrance our ‘leaders’
discussed options and offered a choice, the more competent opting for outside the harbour
while 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 can’t land on the harbour wall so
lunch 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 the
get in. As we approached the first entrance I could see a large tanker being ‘nudged’ by
tugs – but I was not aware that it was already moving out. They saw us and a blast on the
horn let us know they’d seen us. Several more suggested that they’d rather we were a
little 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 slow
speed, around 8mph I’d guess, but the size hides how fast they can creep up on you
hence the captain’s concern. A thank-you toot and we continued on our way but not
before 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 some
markers before a turn and sprint finish. I was holding 2 nd but failed to nail a good bow
rudder allowing the assessor to take the inside line. He had a much slower boat but I
struggled to close him down and finished 3rd or maybe 4th. Time was made available to try
out each others boats. I had a go in all the glass boats that were on show that day, 2x
P&H’s (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 the
off I was able to edge much better than in my Capella. The Quest I found to be very
responsive and zigzagging through the markers was more of a flat out paddle with a well
timed 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

Marlow Canoe Club Newsletter -6- Spring 2009/01

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 to
pay my dues and stayed for a coffee whilst I listened to the coaches summing up. My
earlier impression of Paul Hurrell, that of being so laid back he’s almost horizontal whilst
not missing a trick, was not unfounded as the assesses were finding out – both of whom
passed. Generally, he found their presentation to be favourable, but noted the tanker
‘incident’. Whilst we were all safe and clear with room to spare one of the assesses said
that he was aware of the situation but that no bow wave was present on the ship so a
decision was made to go. A few comments on keeping the group a little closer together
pretty much summed up a successful assessment for them – I just wished I’d gone and
done it now. The next course is in February 2009 and it’s already looking cold. But then
again???

John Norris Nov.2008

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

NEW EASKY’S
We are now in possession of 3 new Easky’s – 15’ sea type boats that are equally at home
on the river (or lakes, lochs, broads etc). I am slowly putting together a series of trips to
introduce people to open water paddling (a sizeable no. of our members have yet to
paddle 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 suitable
as an alternative boat for the up and coming 1* programme this year. Despite being a
plastic boat, with all the advantages that offers for a club boat, some additional care needs
to be taken with these boats. As for all club boats they should be placed away in their
assigned rack having been dried out first. They are heavier than the club’s GP boats and
water will make moving them a lot harder. Note that at 15’ long it’s all to easy to knock
something in the club so why not ask for assistance when getting them out / putting them
away. Should you take these boats away, a little thought has to go in placing them on roof
racks etc. You can’t just strap them down on the rack and rely on tightening the straps till
they scream. Ideally a ‘J’ bar should be used or failing that an upright so that the boat is
either supported by a cradle or on it’s side. The rack should be placed (where possible) a
lot further apart than normal and the boat should be positioned so that the foam bulkheads
are as near to the supports as possible – this will help maintain the bulkhead seal. Secure
with 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 boat
becomes affected by the wind. To turn these boats on the river requires a little outside
edge and a good sweep. If you can do a figure of eight across the lock cut you’ve cracked
it. Any members who have paddled a sea boat previously will be able to advise.

Marlow Canoe Club Newsletter -7- Spring 2009/01

BASINGTOKE CANAL – JANUARY 2009
I arrived at the club at about 8:50 and was soon joined by Kelvin and Tim. Soon after we
had got into the club house Julie arrived. Having established that it was just the four of us
going on the trip and that we were all still up for it, given the forecast for rain and yet more
rain, we got the boats loaded. We travelled in convoy with Kelvin and I following Tim and
soon arrived at the Basingstoke Canal centre at Mytchett. One last comfort stop and we
all got our boats on the canal. The plan was to go south to Ash Lock for lunch and back.
The Basingstoke Canal was built between 1788 and 1794 but by 1964 the canal was
almost completely derelict. In 1974 it was compulsory purchased and the restoration
began. The canal was officially re-opened on the 10th May 1991. Our paddle south
through this lovely tree covered canal was joy despite a bit of rain. There are a number of
areas where the canal opens out, some are very large like Mytchett Lake and some by just
two or three times the width of the canal. We did not encounter any other boats and the
reason became clear when we got to Ash lock because the bottom gates of the lock had
failed and they now lay on the grass at the side on the lock. We already knew that the lock
to the north of our start point was closed for maintenance so this section was cut off from
other boats for the time being. We stopped here for a picnic lunch as there was a picnic
table. After lunch as the rain started again we set off but soon decided to turn around and
head back to the start. As we returned we met the ever present fishermen who did not
move their tackle one bit to help us pass. As a first time paddler on the canals there lack of
co-operation came as a surprise to me. I am more used to being in a Canal boat where the
fishermen have to get their tackle out of my way and fast, and if I can get a good wash
going behind the boat I can also drag their keep nets in to the cut too. At one wider place
where an old wooden canal boat lay rotting a fisherman had three lines out and we had to
pick our way around the far side of his three floats. We pushed on and were soon back at
the Canal Centre where we got the boats back on the cars. Setting off in convoy we got
back to the club about 4 PM. I for one had enjoyed the day and I hope the others did too.
My thanks to Tim for arranging the trip and I hope that next time more members will come
too.

Michael Day JAN 2009

35 MILES OF THE BASINGSTOKE CANAL;

WOKING TO GREYWELL TUNNEL (BLOCKED).

Marlow Canoe Club Newsletter -8- Spring 2009/01

A GOOD BIT OF KIT – STANLEY FLASKS.
There’s been a bit of chat on the UKSGB forum concerning flasks. Are some better than
others? The price differential would suggest so and I’d certainly expect a lot more for my
squids when paying 10x as much. But let’s be fair – Wilko are knocking out a stainless
vacuum flask for under £3.00. True; I’ve seen more metal wrapping the Christmas turkey
but for the money it’s not bad.
I wanted something a bit better, larger capacity, take a knock or two, and keep stuff hotter
for longer. In answering the UKSGB query I remembered a very unscientific test (but the
sort of test your average Joe can relate too) on the song of the paddle website, well known
too many open boat aficionados’. The conclusion of the test was that not all flasks are
equal, and that larger flasks often but not always retain heat for longer. Named brands
were usually a better performer. Manufacturing standards can be a little suspect as one
man’s favourite was another’s dog.
Two favourites began to emerge from the tests / comments on both sites. THERMOS is a
well known and respected brand, and STANLEY (not of Stanley tools) an American brand
that appears to be the manufacturer of those classic US worker steel lunchboxes and
flasks. A little homepage research shows that Thermos invented the vacuum flask and
that Stanley perfected stainless steel construction, so both have a claim to fame in
flaskworld.
I took a look at the Thermos THERMAX range and
the Stanley OUTDOOR range. Neither of them
cheap, you can expect to pay £25.00 for these. I
plumped for the Stanley – don’t know if it’s the better
of the two yet, but there was something reassuring
about a flask manufacturer that had a spares list.
I’m planning on doing a test sometime, just out of
curiosity, but here’s what MIKEB on the UKSGB had
to say about his recent acquisition

Not having a thermometer, I can't do a temp test

- but the Stanley Outdoor was filled with boiling
water at 18.00 on Friday and left over night in a
cold, but sheltered, place and opened at 11.00
this morning. The water was still too hot to
drink. That's good going! Similar to the results
from the Stanley Classic.

Now I’ve got the flask I just need to find out what’s best to put in it. I like a nice coffee
(sometimes with a little dash of something livelier) and when I’m coaching 1* I usually take
Ribena or similar as the kids will never refuse that if it’s needed. Can anybody else
recommend a favourite drink for trips / coaching etc? Replies to the editor for publication
next issue.

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

John Norris Feb 2009

Marlow Canoe Club Newsletter -9- Spring 2009/01

AGM 2009
It’s 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 we
bought some food.

We (that’s me, Mrs. Ed. And Rob) got down there early only to find Big Dave had arrived
earlier. No matter, a quick visit to the bar for beer (Timothy Taylor ‘Landlord’ & St. Austell
‘Tribute’ 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. Reza
offered to buy me a drink but the ‘Botty Burp’ was off.

Into the pavilion and Chris had set up a collection of photo’s / videos showing some of the
clubs’ activities during the past year and a bit. The 2nd Alps trip, some WW action, a bit of
early 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 to
the successful running of the club over the past few years. A quick visit to all of the
committee members gave them time to elucidate on items pertaining to their particular role
in the club. It was a bad year for introductory courses – or maybe it was an O.K. year and
previous years had been exceptional. Alex Sheill got a mention for becoming the club’s
first UKCC L1 coach. Membership had steadied around 160, down a little on previous
years, probably due to less people coming through the introductory courses. The
Treasurer 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 but
found a moment to tell us a little about the UKCC scheme and other points considered to
be of direct interest to the club. For myself, I indicated that this could well be my last year
as Newsletter Editor, but I do not want to stand for the committee after the next AGM. It’s
time for a break, time for others to play their part in shaping the club for the future.
A quick break for coffee (I’m driving so no more Landlord) and then it’s time for the
awards.

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. of
occasions 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 ‘WHITEWATER – A LEARNING ROADMAP.’

TIM TWITCHEN, the PETER LEE cup.

JOHN NORRIS, swimmer of the year.

Marlow Canoe Club Newsletter - 10 - Spring 2009/01

The committee’s view was that the year’s coaching had paid all round dividends and all
those that had coached or assisted were thanked for their efforts. But none of this would
have been possible without leadership, and that leadership has been provided by TIM
TWITCHEN. You’ll 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 the
PETER LEE cup. The more established membership will remember Peter Lee as a
founding member of the club and as a past president. Peter sponsored a cup when the
club 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. The
committee, in consultation with Peter decided on a Volunteer based award. Not just any
volunteer for we occasionally recognise those people with a ‘Volunteer of the year award’.
The PETER LEE cup is for an outstanding contribution to the club’s well being and will be
retained by the current holder until taken off him / her by the next recipient. It could be a
few months or many years. It’s my opinion that the well deserved first and current holder
has set the bar very high indeed.

The swimmer of the year award needs a little explaining as newer members may not be
aware of why this award is made. There are a lot of people who do a lot of swimming in
their early days but this award is not for them. It’s an award for those that should know
better; those who have swum but immediately afterwards can recognise their own folly.
And this year I got it. If it’s any consolation I join a list of paddlers whose skills I admire
and from whose coaching I have benefitted considerably. They’ve all done the same as
me. First they swam; secondly they did it when someone else was watching.

Let me tell you a story. It was the New Year’s Day paddle and 6 of us were out. Me and
Rob, Julie, Adrian, and Andy M with an acquaintance from the states. The plan was to just
amble downstream a little, park up on one of the little beaches just past Wootten Island for
a coffee and a snack and paddle back slowly. Alighting at the beach I took great pains to
get out with dry feet as it was cold and I only had thin socks and teva’s instead of daisy
roots. Coffee and a whisky were enjoyed by all, along with Mrs. M’s mince pies. And so
we set about returning. Keeping my feet dry had already been established in principle but
I didn’t want to get my hands wet either so I decided to seal launch the capella off perhaps
a 1m bank into the river. A doddle. What possessed me to think that I could balance a
sea kayak with the razor thin bits in the water and on the land whilst the fat stable middle
bit hung in mid air I’ll never know. That’s the beauty of this award, it’s a recognition of that
millisecond in time when the red mist descends and you know you can do this – but
immediately it’s all gone Pete Tong you know it just wasn’t worth it. I tried to keep my feet
dry and if there’s a positive to be found in this story I can honestly say my feet were no
wetter 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

Marlow Canoe Club Newsletter - 11 - Spring 2009/01

RIVER THAMES USERS INFORMATION
An update, comment and note on information available to users from the navigation
authorities

LECHLADE TO TEDDINGTON (THE NON TIDAL RIVER)

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

www.visitthames.co.uk/riverconditions The information includes a likely forecast summary

and explains the yellow and red boards system. There is also a link from the navigation
pages of the Environment Agency website www.environment-agency.gov.uk
Updates will be made twice daily during changing river states, or more often if conditions
dictate. Users can also sign up for e-mailed updates. The frequency for periods of
stronger 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 users
guide, a rowing code, and notices to mariners – all as posted on the PLA website
www.pla.co.uk

The Recreational Users Guide provides general information on navigation plus details of
security 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 rules
that also apply to kayaks and canoes as ‘vessels under oars’. Notice to mariners U15 of
2006 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 and
events. 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 commercial
traffic. The tide varies in different places running up to 6 knots and conditions can be
demanding especially in exposed reaches. Central London is particularly busy with fast
passenger launch movements to require a sharp lookout and an understanding of sound
signals made by power driven vessels to indicate their intended actions to other vessels
The Local River Advisor for Putney to Erith is Westminster boating base email:
enquiries@wesboat.com

For further information contact andy.green@bcu.org.uk

Canoe England (club mailing) January 2009

Marlow Canoe Club Newsletter - 12 - Spring 2009/01

RETAILER NEWS
Spring is in the air (or anyways not far off) and that means some of those who paddled
with 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 has
provided a proposed schedule of courses that can be found on the noticeboard, the
website 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 bit
of new kit, or possibly even a boat. All I'm asking is that if this is the case please consider
our local dealers first. These are the people we often turn to before approaching the larger
dealers / consortiums. In recent months MARSPORT have done us a good deal on the
club purchase of some sea / touring kayaks and RIVERSIDE did us a good deal on
paddles. Please note that as I work very close to Riverside I'm happy to pick up stock that
you 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 -
WARWICKSHIRE website. A new 5000 sq. ft. unit means more stuff available in store and
on 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 bee’s knees. Two owners (inc. ourselves)
that we know of (possibly more). This boat is in good overall condition and would suit a
variety 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 and
cleaned (sterilised) / reassembled, and in good light. Available to view in the club, and to
try with prior permission from owners (John / Rob / Paul Norris) or the D.O.

Marlow Canoe Club Newsletter - 13 - Spring 2009/01

DEVIZES TO WESTMINSTER RACE 2009
This year club members are making up 4 entries for this prestigious event. There are
other 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 whinge
about a short trip to Hurley.

KENNET & AVON CANAL

RIVER THAMES

We have 3 teams doing the marathon and when training is completed and a better idea of
start times is known we will be able to estimate when they might expect to come through
Marlow. One team currently estimates around 9:00pm. Details of where to get the latest
updates will be placed on YAHOO and the club noticeboard. Why not come down and
give them a cheer, they will be easily spotted, even in the encroaching gloom as I’m
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 Easter
bank holiday – but Andy needs some help. As I understand it he will not be able to enter
unless he gets a support team – so look upon this as a call for volunteers. Basically you
have to see him through the portages, check that he is O.K., well watered and fed etc. and
ensure all his gear is available at the overnight stop. You don’t need to do all 4 days, but
I’d hope we could all pitch in and maybe do a day / part of a day. Me and Rob will set the
ball 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 easky’s a few of us have got together to try and get our own
sea kayaking section going. Big Dave has put up a ‘container’ marked sea in the
documents section of the club website and information will be added to this as we
progress. We have no sea coach or qualified leader so initially trips might appear on the
tame side. Trips will also have to be under peer group rules until we get a coach. A
formative 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 open
water work on a reservoir or two. Just look out for the notices if you want to be included.

Marlow Canoe Club Newsletter - 14 - Spring 2009/01

 WHAT'S ON, WHEN AND WHERE
The complete and authoritive guide to all that the club hopes to do in the forthcoming
months. Please note that at the time of going to press dates cannot be guaranteed and
that the programme can be subject to changes.

ALL CLUB SESSIONS; ON THE WATER FOR 10:00am. SEE D.O.

D.O
SUNDAYS FOR FINISH. CHECK NOTICEBOARDS FOR SPECIAL EVENTS
ALL
TUESDAY SESSIONS WILL RESUME APRIL 21st 2009 D.O
TUESDAYS

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
ST
26 JULY 1 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.

EVERY SWIMMING POOL SESSIONS AT GURNELL POOL, WEST LONDON

THURSDAY GET TUITION IN ROLLING, PRACTISE 3* SKILLS OR ANYTHING
EVENING YOU'VE GOT A BIT RUSTY ON. SEE WEBSITE FOR MAP AND
9.00 - 10.30 DETAILS

ORGANISER / MCC CONTACT FOR ABOVE EVENTS

AC ADRIAN COOPER 01844 344580 adrian@familycooper.fsnet.co.uk

AM ANDY MAXTED 07730 852760 morven@ukonline.co.uk
TW TOM WESTWATER tamwestwater@googlemail.com
JN JOHN NORRIS 01494 483833 j.k.norris@btinternet.com
CP CHRIS PORTEOUS 01628 485049 chrisps@gmail.com
PC PAUL CRICHTON 08708 806962 p.crichton@blueyonder.co.uk
TB TERRY BELCHER 01628 851001 terry@amoffice.co.uk

Marlow Canoe Club Newsletter - 15 - Spring 2009/01

THE COMMITTEE & OTHER USEFUL NUMBERS
A list of those members who serve on the club's committee, their role, a contact no. and an
e-mail address should you need to get in touch.

POSITION NAME TELEPHONE E-MAIL (all hyperlinked)

PRESIDENT TIM WARD 01494 482959 dianne.ward@tesco.net

CHAIRMAN ADRIAN COOPER 01844 344580 adriancooper@googlemail.com

SECRETARY ANDY MAXTED 07730 852760 morven@ukonline.co.uk

TREASURER PAUL CRICHTON 08708 806962 p.crichton@blueyonder.co.uk

MEMBERSHIP ROD EDMONDS 01753 671389 r.edmonds@etoncollege.org.uk

COACHING TIM TWITCHEN 07833 995289 timothy.twitchen@btinternet.co.uk

EQUIPMENT CHRIS PORTEOUS 01628 485049 chrisps@gmail.com

NEWSLETTER JOHN NORRIS 01494 483833 j.k.norris@btinternet.com

WOMENS REP. TOR EDWARDS 01494 vk220@hotmail.co.uk

YOUTH REP. ALEX SHEILL alex.shiell@gmail.com

SOCIAL SEC MELINDA LIVETT Melinda.livett@yahoo.com

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

WHITEWATER CHRIS PORTEOUS 01628 485049 chrisps@gmail.com

TOURING VACANT

SEA JOHN NORRIS 01494 483833 j.k.norris@btinternet.com

OUR NEAREST RETAILERS / SUPPLIERS

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

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

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

Marlow Canoe Club Newsletter - 16 - Spring 2009/01