 | Training and Equipment
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Training:
- If possible join a club and learn good paddling technique.
- The more training you do the easier the race.
- So, get in a boat and paddle.
- Get in a boat and paddle further!
- Get in a boat and paddle faster!!
- Get in a boat and paddle further, faster!!!
- Build up distance, then distance with speed, over a period of time
- It is not usually necessary to do more than 35 miles in a session.
- Intersperse longer paddles with short sessions working on speed and technique.
- Practise getting in and out of the boat quickly and smoothly.
- Practise running whilst carrying the boat.
- Now put the last two points together and practise 'portaging'
- Incorporate some, if not all, of the pre-Easter races into your training schedule
- Remember senior doubles paddle through the night, so night training is an idea!
- Organise your support crew so that they know their bankside route and also understand your schedule and anticipated speed.
- Involve them in the longer training sessions.
- Get them to keep records of distance over time.
- Paddle the course.
- If you haven't got the opportunity to paddle then run
- If you can't run then ride a bike.
- Talk to past competitors and gain as much information as you can. Brian Greenaway's book 'The Devizes to Westminster Canoe Race' is a valuable source of information written by a man who has paddled the race many times between 1965 and 2000 (See shop)
- First timers might like to attend one of the DW seminars run by Paul and Cherry from Marsport Ltd. Contact 0118 966 5912 for more information.
- There is NO substitute for training in a boat.
Equipment:
- Boat - one or two man kayak or canoe.
- Paddles - plus at least one spare per paddler.
- Buoyancy aid to British Canoe Union regulations.
- Spraydeck(s)
- Headgear, for protection against the elements.
- Paddling cagoule - must be windproof.
- At least one full layer of thermal wear.
- Nylon trousers eg. Ron Hills.
- Footwear with a studded sole eg. hockey boots.
- Spares for the boat including repair tape. (Learn how to use them.)
- Drinks system.
- First aid kit.
- Change of paddling wear.
- Extra layers for cold weather.
- Food and drink
- Torch / Lightstick for Senior Doubles
- Clothes to change into at the 'finish'
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