Kingston kayakers
Complete Vohandu Marathon
Dave Rawding and Andy Davies have made history by becoming the first all-British crew to compete in the 100-km Vohandu Ultra Marathon in Estonia .
The marathon , regarded as the toughest in Europe , starts at Lake Tamula before entering the Vohandu River with four portages and six white water sections Whitby to Whitby negotiate and reach the final destination of Voopsu Boat Harbour .
Dave and Andy are experienced canoeists , competitors , and white water coaches . They actively lead numerous sessions at Kingston Kayak Club , based in Hull .
With white water backgrounds , the duo had to change their training routines in preparation for the event , including adapting to using wing paddles and mastering different stroke dynamics , rhythm , and body movement .
Speaking about the Vohandu Marathon , Dave Rawding said , “ The Vohandu was a challenging , physically and emotionally draining experience but hugely rewarding . Andy and I are delighted to have become the first British crew to complete the Vohandu ! Our supporters have helped raise thousands for Dove House Hospice . We would strongly recommend this event to others . It ’ s a real test , but there is a brilliant and welcoming atmosphere amongst all involved .”
The 19th running of the race saw 2,700 participants competing in over 1,300 craft , with 24 hours to complete the challenge .
Despite poor weather conditions , including belowfreezing temperatures , Andy and Dave completed the marathon in 80th place , achieving their target time of under 10 hours .
Racing in their Epic 18x FSK double sea kayak , the Kingston duo placed 35th in the men ’ s K2 category , recording a time of 9 hrs , 59 mins , and 15 secs .
Looking back at the achievement of completing the marathon , Dave added , “ The start was amazing , we
have never seen so many boats in one place . We knew getting a good start was important to keep us out of trouble . That said , even the top crews had steering issues on the rapids , which did compromise our lines .
“ The thousands cheering on the participants was amazing . They lined the banks at all the most interesting sections . The teams with supporters helping them at the portages had a huge advantage . å
“ They could replenish and refuel whilst their boat was being carried , sometimes up to 500 metres . We found these sections hard-going . There was limited space to exit or enter again , and it was so cold that you felt fatigue drain you . I think years of paddling and leading groups , particularly young people , meant we were acutely aware of how to stay warm .
“ The motivation of doing it for a hospice that already this year has cared for two of our personal friends ’ fathers ’ last days made our efforts even more poignant . We could not have done this without the support of our colleagues at Kingston Kayak Club , Peak PS , Tailored Branding , and P & O Ferries .”
Travelling across Europe in a motorhome to Estonia also allowed the team to take in more countries and paddling activities , with Dave adding , “ On the way , we also managed to attend a local canoe slalom event in Berlin and meet former Slalom World Champion Lynn Simpson and one of her sons . It has been great to compete in two entirely different disciplines in one week .”
You can find out more information about Dave and Andy ’ s Vohandu Challenge here : https :// linktr . ee / dave _ andy _ vohandu , including a link to their Just Giving page , which has so far raised over £ 3,000 for the Dove House Hospice . paddleuk . org . uk
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