The Paddler Magazine issue 74 Autumn/Fall 2023 | Page 34

PADDLER 34
PADDLER 34
much activity . We had a longer lunch break to give everyone a bit more rest , and then we were back on for another afternoon of fun . Dinner at camp was followed by a mass volleyball game , with everyone heading off to bed by about 21:00 . Much to my delight , the juniors led this , as they were as keen for sleep as the adults !
DAY 5 :
Friday was our last official day of camp . Despite being exhausted after four days of paddling , our juniors found some hidden energy and threw themselves into their last day of paddling . The morning was spent in groups for their final coaching session before a competition-style afternoon session . All the groups gathered for this final session to showcase their progress over the week . It was wonderful on Friday to see so many happy teenagers , each having made progress against their personal goals . I had so many “ Del , did you see my * insert awesome white water move *?” It was great to share their excitement !
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT ?
After five days of camp and most paddlers staying to compete in the Euro Open , the next steps are lots of
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sleep and rest ! However , once the tiredness has eased , we hope everyone involved in the camp will use the week ’ s excitement to motivate them to get back on it and out in their playboats .
If you ’ ve been inspired by the juniors of this year ’ s GB freestyle academy camp and are interested in trying some freestyle , do check out the GB Freestyle Instagram page and get in contact if you need some advice about the next steps .
Happy freestyle paddling , everyone !