It's all happening in the next few weeks. White water paddling I'm talking about. With slalom, wildwater and marathon white water events coming up and of course the Avon Descent. 
Have you registered yet? 
If you think you don't have the fitness why not make up a team.

Ascot is running Avon Descent Safety & Competency Assessments in July, for those new to the Avon Descent. Dates below.

The Avon Descent is looking for old footage or photos of the early days of the Avon Descent. They are also looking for experienced white water paddlers to be sweep paddlers on the second day down the valley section of the race.

If you find this newsletter valuable - tell your paddling friends about it.
Go here to enrol:-
Canoeing Down Under (wordpress.com)

• Avon River Guide
• Who's Out There
• Upper Swan Marathon
• Kayak Cross
• Paddling Stoppers
• King of the River
• Birds Along The Way
• AKC Avon Descent Safety & Competency Assessment
• Slalom Race #1
• Wild Water Race #3
• Northam to Toodyay Race

Avon River Guide

Back in 1992-3 I spent months sketching all the rapids on the Avon River which I included in my book 'Canoeing Down Under'.

In 2011 those sketches and photos were included in my book the Avon River Guide.

A digital copy of the Avon River Guide can now be found free on my blog.

Go here:-

Avon River Guide – Canoeing, Kayaking & Other Adventures (wordpress.com)

The Shredder.

The Shredder on Avon Descent day.

Photo John O'Sullivan.

Who's Out There

Julie McDonald back in a kayak after a holiday and a race in Cairns.

Clive Dawkins and David Tupling on a morning training session.

WAs Brodie Crawford at the Prague Slalom Course.

WAs George Pankhurst and Brodie Crawford.

Nathalie Long

Around 2010 Nathalie lived in WA and took part in all paddling events including the CDU Saturday morning training, marathons and the Avon Descent.
She moved back to Canada and became a Multi Sport Athlete and she has been all around the world taking part in those crazy long, physical and mentally challenging events. And she is still competing in them. 

At Lake Louise, Canada.

Photo Nathalie Long 

Athabasca Falls. Near Jasper, Canada.

Photo Nathalie Long

In 2006 Tony Chounding and I paddled 4000kms from below Athabasca Falls, in the Canadian Rocky Mountains, upstream of Jasper, down the Athabasca River, the Slave River and the MacKenzie River to Tuktoyaktuk on the shores of the Arctic Ocean.
We met up with Alaine Davin and Leonie Cockman after 2000kms at the half way mark. 

Read all about that journey here:-

Three Rivers to Tuktoyaktuk – Stage 1 – Rocky Mountains to the Arctic Ocean – Canoeing, Kayaking & Other Adventures (wordpress.com)

Packing food in day packs for the expedition.

Upper Swan Marathon

Josh, Coran & Brendan rounding the turn buoy.

Photo Rob Riggir.

The K2s having fun at the turn.

Photo Rob Riggir.

Ooopps.

Michael and Jaime rounding the buoy!! Or did they!!

Photo Rob Riggir.

It's hard enough to turn in a K1 and much harder in a C1 but Gary makes it look easy.

Photo Rob Riggir.

Upper Swan Marathon

Well this was a big one, about 26kms with a 5km section upstream against a fast current. Doug had all the volunteers in place and when it was time to take off it was the fastest first, the K2s, then Div 1, Div 2 and Div 3 & 4 together. 

There were many paddlers doing a 13km short course that went downstream to Ascot. There were also 6 SUP paddlers taking part in the 13km race.

The weather was mixed. Although the rain had stopped the wind was active. 

When we were off a frenzied line of paddlers splashed their way down the river. I was amongst the first 5 or 6 in div 3. The sprinters like young Lily Farrell, Sara Major, Simon O’Sullivan, Stephen Coward managing to get a boat lengths ahead of me for a while but by 800 metres, just before the first right hand bend and when the others were tiring I made my move and took the lead. Just around the corner there were branches of a fallen tree spread across the river to mid-stream. At the briefing we were advised to go around them, but I had other thoughts as there was a gap in the branches which was more of a direct line, so I took it.

The water was running fast due to the Avon River being pretty high so I moved over to cut the corners and kept close to the banks to avoid the faster currents. My rudder wasn’t that long and it was tough and I knew that if I did hit a branch it was strong enough to take a big hit as for some of the other paddlers paddling skis their rudders were generally longer and more fragile, so they had to be a lot more careful. This gave me an advantage allowing me to keep so close to the bank that I had a slower current to fight against, which helped me get away from the pack.

I glanced behind occasionally and although I did see a figure several metres behind I didn’t see it as a threat heading upstream. The 5km section against the current was always a drag, but today it was quite fun, although I was dying to meet the faster paddlers heading back from the turn-around-buoy at Maali Bridge, so I knew the turn point was close. The top paddlers eventually came into view, Josh Kippin and Brendan Rice riding Coran Longwood’s wash. A little later Ramon Andersson & Nicky Taylor shouted out, go Terry, go Lily. That told me who was now on my tail. 

Lily and I at the turn.

Photo Rob Riggir.

The red buoy hanging from Maali Footbridge came into view. With no one in front of me I was able to do an easy turn, but I could imagine others behind, who were in a pack would have more difficulty as the current was running fast.

As I turned I could see the main pack of about six or more paddlers heading towards the buoy. I was hoping the turn would slow them down to allow me to get further ahead. Within a few minutes young Lily drew up beside me and then started taking the lead so I sat on her wash as she was paddling at a strong pace. For the next 5kms it was settle in as we headed back to the start trying to make sure that none of the paddlers behind us, could catch up. 

We passed the Middle Swan Bridge which meant we only had 16 kms left. We could see a few paddlers ahead in the distance, which must have been some of the div two paddlers. The first paddler we passed however was Bryony McCrudden who wasn’t racing. 

As we passed Woodbridge Riverside Park I could see a paddler behind and getting closer. I started doing a lot more of the leading to try to quicken the pace, although Lily was still strong, but at 15 kms mark she faded a little. After paddling under Barkers Bridge, West Swan Road Lily slowed considerably. I thought she might be getting a drink. I slowed right down to allow her to get back on my wash, she did for a few minutes, but slowed again. In the last long race she got so uncomfortable in her boat that she dropped back and I had thoughts that she was having seating trouble again. I slowed again, but I could see she wasn’t fighting to get back to me, so I put the power on as that figure behind was getting closer. I had no idea who it was.

As I pushed around Fishmarket Reserve I could see Rob Jarred & Chris Watson and partners Andrew Hewlett & Sue Stott in doubles. Rob & Chris didn’t look too good and apparently Chris had just spent 3 weeks in New Zealand and done no paddling. He also had a shoulder injury. I managed to pass both boats just after Guildford Bridge and by now that figure behind me had caught up and was on my rear wash.

It wasn’t until we were 700 metres from Sandy Beach that Tim Cornish showed himself and drew beside me. I was relieved it was Tim as he is a much faster paddler than me so I didn't feel as bad. The wind had been howling and on this section it was much worse. I allowed him to take the lead and a kilometre or so later I took the lead back. When we rounded Ron Courtney Island the wind really picked up making the 1.7km paddle to the downstream turn the most energy sapping part of the race. It was really bad under Tonkin Highway Bridge with the wind extreme and the waves rebounding off the bridge pylons.

Tim was first to the spit post turn which was the most difficult turn as fairly big waves moved up the river. We were both careful but turned without mishap and I took the lead back as we headed towards Ascot Kayak Club. Other years this last 1.9 km section of river is usually the hardest as the wind is usually in our face. This year, although the current was against us, the waves were with us giving us a much better paddle to the finish line.

Soon after the bridge I started to move away from Tim and within 500 metres of the finish he was well behind which was a mystery. I was expecting a duel to the end with Tim taking first place, but I was happy to cross the finish line without a fight and be the first div 3 paddler. Tim said later he had hand/fingers issues. 
Paddling 26 kilometres at a full pace can take it out of you especially the younger paddlers who are not used to such distance. I was feeling good. I sipped water most of the way and I made sure I am fully fuelled before the race.  

 (In a Marathon Championships the open paddlers have to paddle 29.5kms.)

This was the last marathon race that the Marathon Committee organises this season. It has been a great season and I thank all those volunteers who help to run the races.

The Marathon committee is made up of Doug Hodson Chairman. Joe Dowse, Warren Southwell, John Hilton, Martin Watson, Paul P and Terry Bolland. 

Race results here:-

Overall | 2023 Upper Swan Main | Resources.ws.RaceResults | Webscorer 

Some of the other paddlers in my division at the turn.

Photo Rob Riggir.

Lily Farell near the finish line.

Rob Jarret  & Chris Watson looking much happier at the finish line.

Warren Southwell explaining his race tactics.

Beau Jacob. Looks as if he could do it all again.

I think 26kms was tough for 16 year old Claudia Ketteringham.

Hat's off to Beau's dad Lafe who paddled a plastic.

Behind Sarah, Luke and Simon.

Kayak Cross

I'm not quite sure why this became an Olympic event.

I suppose it's fun for the spectators.

PADDLING STOPPERS

Small 'stoppers' do not usually present problems for proficient paddlers. However, larger and more powerful 'stoppers' can cause difficulties. The force of the recirculating wave on the boat and paddler can stop and hold the boat. It is then difficult to prevent the boat turning sideways in the wave and capsizing. If you can not skirt them, here are a few simple rules which may help you:

• Accelerate several metres before the drop.
• Maintain power during your descent into the turbulence.
• Ensure that the kayak points directly downstream.
• As the boat drops into the slot, reach over the top of the wave, drive the blade deep into the water and pull hard.
• Maintain power.

If you want to gain entry into an eddy directly below a 'stopper', it may be necessary to angle your kayak slightly in the same direction, then apply the power stroke (which is dug in over the wave) on the side of the boat that is furthest away from the eddy. A power stroke can also be used for support.

Maintaining speed and power throughout the manoeuvre is crucial for avoiding the powerful towback, which may suck you back into the stopper.

Set up to Reach Over The Wave

As the boat drops into the slot, reach over the top of the wave, drive the blade deep into the water and pull hard to clear the stopper.

A Stopper.

'Stoppers'are caused by water gushing steeply over a ledge, weir or large rocks. The fast moving water which tumbles over the obstruction, starts to recirculate once it hits the bottom. As the foaming water rolls back upstream, it forms a 'stopper' which can trap a canoeist within a continuous washing machine action. Big 'stoppers' must be classed as potentially dangerous and should always be checked and in many cases, portaged. When racing, experienced paddlers will avoid stoppers where possible, as they reduce the boat's forward speed. However, manageable 'stoppers' are a source of great fun for the white water enthusiast with well developed skills.

A Stopper on the Frankland River.

Extreme Race, Victoria

The King of the River Extreme Race will be held August 6, 2023

This will be our 3^rd annual event, and it has proven very popular with a huge variety of people

Holding the race on the King River, Enables everyone to try extreme racing, get a taste of the action and join the fun.

The race also proves a valuable stepping stone and warm up to everyone wanting to compete in the Lea Race or the Snowy Extreme Race. The past 2 years, have seen 70+ people competing in both junior and senior classes.  We are hoping to include even more competitors this year, especially in the junior classes.  Plastic classes and packraft classes are offered.

We are looking for sponsors for the race, as we hold a lucky dip/ raffle at the end of the event at the BBQ. All are eligible for prizes.

This is a great time to get some exposure for your brand and get some gear out there.  Our preferred form of sponsorship are items to use as prizes, and all contributions would be most appreciated.

In return we can offer 2 free race entries, and billing on the website and all promotional material.

If you like, you would also be able to have a small stand at the rally point ( car park / BBQ area).

VENUE: King River Vic, meet at William Hovell Parking lot.

More info here:

https://www.learntokayak.net/contents/en-us/d2045761087.html

Birds Along The Way

Black-winged Stilt.

I haven't seen these birds for a few months but they were flying through this morning.

A Darter and Pelican waiting for the Swan Cafe to open.

The Swan Cafe is open 7 days from 7am to about 1.00/1.30pm.

Food cooked by the chef happens Wednesday to Sunday. 
Snacks and coffee Monday and Tuesday.

On really wet days it's best to give them a call.

Look at the strange feet the Coot has.

Little Corella twins on Ron Courtney Island.

About 50 black cockatoos landed in the marri tree opposite home on Wednesday.

Talk about noise and the amount of honky nuts that they were dropping on the road.

A black cockatoo enjoying a snack.

Jenny arriving back from shopping. The road was littered with hundreds of honky nuts by the time they were finished.

Five Spoonbills are now back on Ron Courtney Island although this picture only featured three across from the island.
They have been away for a few months.

I'm hoping they will nest on the island like in the last two years. 

Ascot Kayak Club Avon Descent 
Safety & Competency Assessment

Saturday 15th July 9.00am - 12.00 noon

Saturday 22nd July 9.00am - 12.00 noon

Sunday 23rd July 9.00am - 12 noon

Saturday 5th August 9.00am - 12.00 noon

Sunday 6th August 9.00am - 12 noon

Cost: $60.00 AKC club members / $120.00 non club members

Location: Walyunga National Park (subject to water levels) 
What to Bring: Your own kayak and gear
Please note the sessions are subject to water levels. If there are any changes we will advise 24 hours prior.

Walyunga Park Fees apply https://exploreparks.dbca.wa.gov.au/park/walyunga-national-park
Book Here:- https://www.ascotkayakclub.asn.au/for-sale/
Any queries email akcadministration@gmail.com

2023 WWR #3 Amiens Race

The 3rd of 6 races for the 2023 Wild Water Season - 
Sunday, June 25, 2023.

Location:  Bells Rapid Park, Brigadoon

Registration:  09:00am-09:30am

Briefing:  09:45am

Race start:  10:00am

Enter here:- https://bit.ly/2023WWR3

Course:  Starting in the pool below Dog's Breakfast, racing dowstream to Amiens Crescent.

Transport:  A car shuffle is required prior to Race Check In.

Due to the popularity of Bells Rapids Park in recent times, it is recommended that the majority of vehicles are moved to Amiens prior to race start.

Safety:  Due to the course being held in wild water conditions, it is necessary for all paddlers to wear helmets and PFD’s. Each competitor should also have a whistle attached to their PFD for emergency situations.

Event details here: https://www.facebook.com/events/609060961271935?ref=newsfeed