A mate of mine was asked to ‘look after’ an open canoe ‘for a while’ and the ‘while’ became months, then years, by which time this mate wished the canoe would go away as it was taking up valuable storage space. I decided to help, so I took it home - and kept it - for good. Well that was about ten years ago. The canoe is a 2 person ‘Pyranha’ about 4.5 metres long (with paddles). 

For the first few years I took it out several times on sunny days and on flat water. Gradually my interest grew and I found myself wanting to do more, go further and, for my fellow paddler, to ‘work harder’.   I had obviously got the bug…….time to join a club.

So, about a year ago, I joined the Adur Canoe Club at Shoreham and immediately found kayaking was more for me. The A.C.C. has many instructors who really enjoy teaching, so I soon learnt the basics up to 2 star level, with a roll that has plenty of room for improvement.

Last spring I bought my first kayak, a Dagger ‘Approach’. Well suited to touring - which I enjoy - it will also handle grade 2/3 white water. Over the summer I got to know my boat better and began to feel more confident on moving water. I also found myself paddling on the sea more. So……..

In late August I joined MKC and was quite taken by the friendly and easy-going feel to the club. There seems to be a good mix that lets new members like myself learn new skills, whilst simply enjoying the recreational side to the sport. I look forward to next season and any activities between now and then. So thank you to all those that made me welcome and to those who give their time keeping the club going, both on and off the water.

Clive Edwards