Despite being plagued by strong north-easterly winds for the early part of the season, paddling has continued on with only one night having to be completely abandoned. Increasing numbers have been getting out on the water on both Monday and Tuesday nights with many of the novice paddlers now being as far afield as Cove, Rhu and the Captyannis.
Monday nights have been more focussed on novice paddlers and developing their range of skills. The Tuesday nights, although not set in stone, have seen the more experienced paddlers concentrating on more extended paddles in a variety of conditions.
A series of informal stroke-work sessions and ‘rolling clinics’ are being planned for Thursday nights. These will be held in the bay and are on a drop-in basis for whoever wants to try new skills or brush up on their technique. It is also proposed that various rescue techniques can be practiced during these sessions.
There have been a number of extended trips this year including, Bute, Lismore and Tiree. Future trips are being planned throughout the season include Luing and Seil, Sound of Mull and Knoydart to name but a few. In August, paddlers are also invited on a combined Club weekend trip to Lochgoilhead with the rowers and sailors.
A date for the diary is also the Clyde Swim on the 18th August where the assistance from paddlers is always appreciated and is crucial in helping the swimmers stay both safe and on course throughout the swim. If you can help out with this please let Ewen Chisholm or any member of the Committee know as soon as possible.