Docks paddle – Saturday 16th August by John Fay

So I arrived at the compound just after Julie Brookes to find Marty already there, the first of the 31 members who attended today’s leisurely docks paddle.

Those 31 included 8 leaders, numerous assistant leaders and lots of very experienced members, along with some brand new members to the club.

Equipment sorted, and we were off. The decision was made to break with tradition and go to the top end first (probably due to the wind direction, actually). The large group, reminiscent of the old Sunday paddles, continued on its tour of the docks with leaders positioned at the front, middle and rear, which allowed paddlers the freedom to move about and mix with others, which is so important on these social paddles.

Along the way, our new members Rod, Helen, Emma, Robert and Ali were given some skills coaching by Alex Peacock and Aaron Jackson, and Liz Shelbourne led the group to play some fun games.

Marty and Roger were rolling. Adya was doing step back turns on her paddleboard. Dawn Romero practised some self-rescues on her paddleboard whilst others just chatted, enjoying the sun.

Back at the compound, the group enjoyed coffee, tea and biscuits and more chatting. As Roger pointed out, this was just as important to many as is the actual paddle then and added that it was:- “equally important to the club. A sign of the club’s inclusive nature, which greatly supports the ethos of the club.”

John Fay