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Wild Water Racing is a competitive sport. Canoeing is using a paddle in a canoe for sport, recreation or transport.
Popularity
There are over 300 registered clubs within the UK with 1000's of members. Canoeing is almost as old as mankind. It was the primary mode of transport across water but has been replaced by modern transportation. It remains popular for recreation.
Location
There are a wide variety of places to canoe throughout the UK - canals, lakes, rivers and the sea. Although not all inland areas are open to the public and you will need to contact The British Canoe Union in your region for advice.
Age
Canoeing is a sport for young and old. Age ranges from under 11's to adult.
Ability
Most clubs require you to be able to swim 50 meters to join. A licence is also required to canoe on canals and rivers. A licence can be obtained by becoming a member of The British Canoe Union.
Description
Wild Water Racing is the equivalent of downhill skiing. The object is to get from start to finish on a rough river as fast as possible. It can be fast paced, requires technical ability to read the river and a level of stamina. It is also called white water or down river racing. Classic races are 10 to 15 minutes long while sprints have a run of 2 to 3 minutes long.
Dedication
There are a large range of competitive events in the various disciplines. It is up to the individual to choose the level to suit. Canoeing can be a relaxing trip on a canal to an all consuming hobby.
Potential
There are a large variety of events that take place throughout the year. There are two divisions, new competitors enter at division B and can progress to division A. Division A is where National Champions are ranked.
Closely
Related Activities
Wild Water Racing is sport which requires high stamina. As such when unable to race, canoeists either lift weights or swim to keep their stamina and strength levels up.
Further
Reading
Canoe Focus is free to members of Canoe England and ?2.00 to non-members. It is brought out every two months. The Canoe and Kayak Handbook covers technique, teaching, canoeing for disability, history and safety.
Cost
To become a member of Canoe England costs between £14.75 for under 18s and £35.75 for an adult. This price also includes insurance and a licence for Thames Water and British Waterways. You can join a local club and hire the equipment needed. If buying outright canoes range from £1,000 to £200 for a second hand canoe. Paddles average at £70.00 and buoyancy vests at £50.00. You will also need a helmet, clothing and a roof rack.
Level of Demand
The table below shows the maximum levels of demand that this activity requires. NOTE: These are not entry levels or levels of requirement and has nothing to do with ability.
Energy |
Arms
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Legs
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Sight
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Hearing
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Speech |
Learning |
Please be advised that this record has not necessarily been reviewed by people with the expertise required to provide you with complete, accurate or reliable information. The information and images for this activity are supplied by the general public, Please contact us if there is a breach of copyright or you wish to improve the data.