Midlifekayak

So a couple of months before I started my sabbatical, I got an email from Andrew, a friend and colleague, with the simple text “Any interest?” – and a link.  The longest non-stop canoe race in the world it said. Starting in Devizes and finishing just downstream of Westminster Bridge – 125 miles long and 77 portages.  It went on to say that the race is a severe test of skill and stamina……

Of course I was interested, after all, how hard can it be?

So my email response was a simple “Looks fun”.  The commitment made, I thought it wise to do some research into just what we had let ourselves in for.  I found three friends who had completed the race some years ago.  Now these are all very serious tri athletes and ex military types.  Their faces looked concerned almost panicky when I explained what Andrew and I were planning on doing next Easter.

“Which club are you paddling with currently?”

“Assume you know how to paddle a K2?”

“Have you started training yet?”

Pretty tough questions as the answers were all negative.  I was painfully aware I was probably sounding a little naive (or perhaps just stupid) particularly given that the average age of the crew will be 47.5 next year.

But the quote that scared me the most – “A mate of mine who came second in his SAS selection tests, said the DW was the toughest thing he has ever done”.

Bugger, what have I let myself in for?

Well first step was to get Andrew and his daughter, Beth out on the water with Simon Osborne from Sea Kayaking Cornwall .  This was the first time out in any form of kayak for both of them and they took to it brilliantly.  Simon had them surfing on day 2.  Beth will be preparing for the race with her school.  Andrew and I are meanwhile looking for a boat and some serious coaching. Any offers?

I’ll keep you posted on our progress over the coming months…..