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GB Freestyle Selections Weekend 23rd and 24th October 2021

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GB Freestyle Selections Weekend 23rd and 24th October 2021

What a weekend that was. Two days of competition for a chance to represent Great Britain at the 2021 Freestle Canoeing World Championships in Nottingham 2022.

A person in a kayak in a riverDescription automatically generated with low confidence Harvey and I were competing in OC1. We had watched the World Championships in Sort 2019 and thought that we could do that. I sold my big yellow Canoe and bought two freestyle OC1s.

Our first competition was the British Freestyle Championship 2021 held in Nottingham this year. Harvey came 4th place. I came in 5th. It was a really great experience, and I enjoyed the competition format a lot.

We entered for GB Selections held this weekend for a chance to represent Great Britain and try and promote the niche sport of OC1.

A picture containing outdoor, water, river, watercraftDescription automatically generated Selections was over two days. Two separate completions both held on Twin Wave, with points and percentages, that we don’t really understand, deciding the selection position. As I understand, the result on the day isn’t the final decision. I look forward to the mystery that unfolds with the OC1 category.

6 people going for the team. Adam Ramadam, Connor Proud, Christopher Noble, Jolyon Evans Jo Buddha , Harvey Harwood and myself.

Day one was a nightmare. A tricky Twin Wave produced No points for Harvey, Adam or me. 20 points for Jo and Connor, A group of people in a raft on a riverDescription automatically generated with low confidence with Chris winning the day scoring 90 points for a big loop.

Day two for me was a better wave. I won the day with 35 points. Connor and Jo scored 20 points, Harvey scored 10, with Chris and Adam on zero.

So, the winners of day one and day two scored zero on the other day. This means we can’t qualify, so Connor and Jo who scored points on both days are top of the leaderboard. However, neither reached the percentage score of Chris to qualify. So, it’s down to the Selection panel to make a decision as to who represents Great Britain. I wish Everyone good luck and keep my fingers crossed for them.

I really loved this weekend, and I’ve loved paddling oc1. Now that winter is coming, it’s time to put the open boat away and try and keep warm. Paddling an OC1 with water up to the gunwales in winter isn’t that pleasant! Next completion is Hurley Classic in March. Can’t wait!

Paul Harwood and Harvey Harwood (Freestyle Representative)

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