PADDLER 40
Words : Andrew Whiting Photos : Peter Astles & David Leathborough
PADDLER 40
PADDLE PEAK
ADVENTURE WEEKEND
Words : Andrew Whiting Photos : Peter Astles & David Leathborough
Each August Bank Holiday weekend , for several years now , local charity Paddle Peak have run ‘ come and try ’ kayaking sessions free to local youngsters keen to get on the water as part of the Cromford Mills Adventure Weekend . This superb event based around the historic Cromford Mills gives opportunities to try all sorts of activities , including kayaking .
A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY
The canal at Cromford offers a brilliant and safe space to try kayaking for the first time , and the weekend is staffed by such well-experienced and qualified paddlers ; it is a unique opportunity .
This year was no different , and around 275 kids took part in the sessions over three days alongside the opportunities to meet GB Olympic paddlers fresh from the Paris Games . Adam Burgess , Kimberly Woods and Mallory Franklin , as well as newly crowned U23 European Champion Ben Haylett , were all on hand to talk about their experiences , show off medals and sign posters , hats and t-shirts – some lucky kids even got to paddle with them and get tips from the superstars !
Huge thanks to all the volunteers who make these sessions possible , Cromford Mills for their continued support , Peak UK for supplying the best equipment , and Pyranha Kayaks for bringing their demo fleet . This wouldn ’ t be possible without all of you .