Press Release

23rd November 2008
Another Medal for Hemel Hempstead Canoe Club at HYMB Essex Winter Series Race

Snow, sleet, rain and wind during breakfast and the prospect of a hellish day out.
BUT
Once there and changed we found there was unbelieveably a gap in the weather and the start of the race had blue sky. So whilst we were all dressed in hats and several layers it was a very pleasant affair.

From the last trip out the top three in the Vet K1 category was Tim Middlehurst, Mark Adams and me. As we were all on the start line a re-run was expected to happen. On this occasion they all expected me to sprint off the line and try to drop them. So for a change I eased off a little and sat on Mark Adams's wash for the first section. Then after the portage he simply stopped and waited for someone else to take it on. That was me - possibly an overly keen choice but then I was keen to clear the rest of the field. Then on up to the turn at best possible speed and it felt good, breathing hard.

Then round the turn there was one of those defining moments- Tim and I got around the bouy fast and put clear water between us and Mark. Races happen like this and had we put on the speed at that point we could have left him behind. As it was I took the easy option and sat on Tim's wash. A mile or so later the race fell back into script and the three of us ended up in the same order as last time, Tim, Mark and me. On a more positive note the other paddlers are in a higher division and to close the gap on then is encouraging.

Next Essex Winter Series Race Dec 7 Sudbury. Next event Banbury for the 20mile Ross Warland Challenge. See Races page.

Slasher Preston