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to have world-class support – hopefully all the way to the Olympics. “We celebrated our 40th anniversary last
year and currently have 120 members, of which approximately 100 are active rowers, including 50 juniors. We have different pathways into the sport for different abilities, from courses for complete beginners, one- to-one integration for those returning to the sport after time away and, for youngsters with real potential, the possibility to be a future national squad member.” But how easy is it to get involved in
rowing? Rob says BBRC is committed to newcomers as well as seasoned rowers. “We run courses for both juniors and seniors providing an introduction to rowing as well as double sessions on Saturdays and Sundays,” he says. “Our co-ordinators, whose email addresses you’ll find on our website, are always happy to have a chat and offer advice. And if you’re
Wild water
WE HAVE TO INCREASE THE DIVERSITY AND INCLUSIVITY OF THE SPORT IN ORDER FOR IT TO GROW
not local then the British Rowing website has a ‘find a club’ search facility. “It’s a cliche but anyone can row. It’s a low impact, weight supported sport so even people with conditions that stop them doing other activities or forms of exercise often find they can go rowing. The setting at Bewl Water is beautiful and making a boat go fast through the water under your own effort is a very cool way to spend some leisure time.
“It can also be an addictive thrill within what is a collegiate, supportive and nurturing environment.”
Set-up five years ago by Andrew and Fiona Mangnall, Canterbury’s Canoe Wild last year launched more than 11,000 people onto the water as well as picking up prizes and plaudits from Luxury Travel Guide Awards (Water Sports Company of the Year 2018) and Travel and Hospitality Awards (Adventure Experience of the Year 2018 for Kent) as well as a nod from BBC Countryfile Magazine. Andrew says: “We offer fun family water sports on the River Stour just outside Canterbury, from Fordwich – Britain’s smallest town – paddling five miles downstream to Grove Ferry. We have canoes, kayaks and paddleboards for hourly or half-day hire as well as sea kayaking guided trips to visit the local seal colony, and paddle sport coaching and tuition, including taster sessions.
“Our canoes are perfect for the family and complete beginners and we provide all you need to go out safely, kitting you with a buoyancy aid, paddles and dry-bag, and a run through of safety and paddling techniques before you go on the water. A half- day paddle takes a leisurely two to three hours on the water and we then include a free lift back to the start. “And if you want to come as part
of a group we have a programme including wildlife watching tours, school activities, corporate days
out, birthday parties and raft building.” Adds Fiona: “We want to encourage people to enjoy the river and the beautiful outdoors and introduce them to the animals and plants found here whilst working with partners to promote rural and ecological tourism and, most importantly, helping to conserve and enhance the environment for future generations.”
• Canoe Wild is open all year round, taking the kayaks into a local swimming pool during winter. The outdoor season runs until the end of October and is open every day from 9am-6pm. Visit
www.canoewild.co.uk or call 01227 469219.
Get Involved For more information, visit: •
www.britishrowing.org •
www.kentsport.org •
www.medwaytownsrowingclub.co.uk •
www.maidstoneinvicta.co.uk •
www.bewlrowingclub.co.uk •
www.canoewild.co.uk •
www.boughbeechsc.org.uk •
www.gravesendrc.co.uk •
www.folkestonerowingclub.com
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