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The whitewater season is upon us!!
Unfortunately, we also need some rain – so get started on the rain-dances!This trip is planned to be at ‘introductory’ level – easy water and coaching of basic skills.
For those of you that are new to this pastime, the trips are announced here, on the forum with any details you need to know.
If planning to go, you need to reply to this forum to say who you are (not just your ‘handle’), or failing that, text message the trip leader.
Do not use Facebook or Messenger to make replies. I for one do not use it.White water is a bit of a misnomer, most of it is not white, but it is moving.
Moving water presents new and novel ways to assist a capsize, and thereby lies the skill to learn. It is rather like learning to ride a 2-wheeled bike after having always ridden a tricycle. Plenty of wobbles, I am sure, but then a big grin when mastering going round corners!
A a general rule, we don’t stop mid-trip for lunch, as is it often too cold. However, on these first few trips we might have a lunch-stop, but only if it is warm enough. Either way, bring something to eat, and some munchie bars to keep you going. The finish time varies quite a bit, but often back in Plymouth between 2pm and 3pm (but not always).Unless stated otherwise, we leave at 9am from the designated meeting spot. Please arrange to arrive at least 10 minutes before to avoid being left behind.
We share cars so any non-drivers (and their boats) can usually get a lift with others from the meeting spot.There is no planned provision of boats, paddles etc – if you need to borrow kit, then get it organised beforehand, but please don’t ask the trip leader to provide any. Speak to the club equipment officer if you need a boat. You will also need a buoyancy aid (obviously) and a safety helmet. A paddle is a good idea and lots of clothes to keep you warm. Boots are needed too.
Usually the trip is announced here sometime mid-week. There is then a period watching the weather forecast, and the rain we get to see what river levels are expected. If you are planning on coming along, then you must make that known to the trip leader. Do not leave this to Saturday evening – that is too late!
Then, towards the end of the week, there will be a final announcement of the proposed plan (which may have changed by then), and meeting point & time.I have written a lot – hopefully much is correct – and hope I haven’t missed out too much!
Currently the rivers are VERY LOW. There is no rain forecast for this week. Unless this situation changes, then that leaves two options only:
1) A very low paddle down the Tamar.
2) To Cancel.If interested in either of these options, then let me know.
Any beginners keen to learn moving water skills, then let me know.I will post an update later in the week.
Doug 😀
07966740025Happy to come along whatever is going on. Low Tamar would be acceptable but will hope for rain between now and then 🙂
Kimberly will be coming too although will grumble if it is the Tamar
The weather forecast now shows some rain on Saturday… 🙂
If there is enough rain the plan may switch to the Lower Dart.
It might even be a ‘decide on the day’ event.
I will keep you updated…
Doug
07966740025Some rain still forecast for Saturday but not sure it will be enough to change plans.
Currently still sticking on the Tamar.
Currently 7 on trip plus me. Hey guys. Get your Forum login sorted!
Outline plan involves meeting in Towerfield Drive, Roborough next to Lidl (behind Tesco) at 8:50am on Sunday.
A quick shuffle of boats, kit & people to share cars and leaving at 9am.
Anyone who finds Roborough well off their ideal route can meet us at Gunnislake at 9:30am, but please let me know….
Next to the river at Gunnislake, going North up a small lane (river should be on the left of you) to a clearing in the woods.
Doug
07966740025Doug,
Will probably meet you at Gunnislake take out. If you change your plans then please let me know by tomorrow (Saturday)
PatrickHi everyone.
The plan stands – as wot I wrote the other day.
See you Sunday!
DougPS> Make sure you have a boat, paddle, helmet & ba!
PS. Has anyone seen my green & black (Gorilla’s) splits?
I suspect I put them in someone’s boat on a trip last season, and failed to get them back….
Doug 🙂my e mail is
patrick.bradley@zen.co.ukHi Doug,
I am hoping to go but currently trying to sort roof bars for my car.
I also have what I suspect is a cough/cold coming on and if anything like what my wife has had I will have to see how I am on Saturday evening.Looking forward to the first river trip come what may.
AlAny newbies, remember a changing mat/sheet of polythene etc. Unfortunately at this car park watch where you put your feet. Dogs get let off the leads and the owners aren’t always too considerate if you get my meaning!!! Squelch, phewwww.
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