ThePADDLER 116
options available . Once Hurley is fully drawn with all side spills and lashers open , the eddies disappear , and the weir is very difficult to paddle up to . The Thames Valley then provides us with a treasure trove of other options and arenas to play . Boulters Weir and Marsh Weir , just a short drive upstream , provide the goods when Hurley is at its limit . These are not beginnerfriendly features , though , each with its hazards and challenges . You ’ d want to go with an experienced paddler to introduce you to the Thames ’ s larger features before tackling them yourselves .
DUNCAN WILLIAMSON Frequent Hurley user , the legendary Duncan Williamson , posts his daily updates on TVF ’ s Facebook live whenever he is there , always a friendly , welcoming face . Hurley local and perennial GB freestyle member Alan Ward can often be seen throwing move after move throughout the season , and when Nottingham ’ s Holme Pierrepont is closed due to high water levels and Trent Lock isn ’ t running , many of Nottingham ’ s , and by default , the UK ’ s , top paddlers migrate south for their freestyle fix . It is very rare indeed that a weekend goes by without several paddlers filling Hurley ’ s eddy . You are just as likely to find yourself bumping into local club paddlers , eager kids grinning from ear to ear as are the top freestyle athletes of the day , current and former British freestyle and world champions , and legendary coaches .
A world-class wave , friendly , welcoming paddlers , free parking , a short walk to the weir , great countryside walks for family and friends who inexplicably aren ’ t interested in paddling , and several superb pubs to choose from for an after-paddle hot chocolate . What isn ’ t to like ?
The Thames Valley Freestylers Facebook community page is a great place to see what features are currently in and get any advice ; the website Thames Valley Freestylers has a breakdown , description and location details of the majority of waves the Thames valley has to offer .
See you at Hurley !
TEAM GB ’ S SELECTION EVENT
This year ’ s Hurley season is particularly special as Team GB is selecting their team for the 2023 ICF Canoe Freestyle World Championships , taking place from 9-14 October in Columbus , Georgia , USA . Team GB ’ s selection event is scheduled to occur at Hurley from 11-12th February , with backup dates in March if water conditions are unfavourable .
Stay updated with the GB Freestyle kayaking team through their website and social media channels .