On the river

Our first time on the river. Firstly I would like to say two big thank you's, the first to Elvington Scouts for the loan of some Canadian canoes and secondly to Andrew who stepped in at the last minute to replace Jason who couldn't make it this time.
This was the first time we had experienced a current, starting with an upriver canoe from Elvington before turning back to go downriver from near Low Catton, a total of 12 miles (we think) in about four hours including breaks. Our paddling technique seemed to work fine with no mishaps. Though we did find landing on a mudbank wasn't the easiest of things and we all braced ourselves for some sore muscles in the morning...

The fourth training session...

Simon refining his Grattan catalogue pose.
Our training session on the lake wasn't good - it was flippin marvelous! We lapped the lake in perfect convoy - ok the water was as flat as a pancake and the sun was making an unusual appearance but we were pleased with ourselves none the less. So much so we decided to go back to the Grey Horse for a wee celebration...

We make the Sun newspaper!

The article under the heading 'The dosh's flooding in' says 'And Shaun Bristowe, 47, of Elvington, York, is leading five pals on a 62-mile canoe voyage from Fort William to Loch Ness, Scotland.'

Shaun was overjoyed with the article saying they've actually got his age wrong by 5 years, he's actually 52. Andrew was heard to say 'it's interesting they say Shaun is leading us as he couldn't lead his way out of a paper bag...' Well done Shaun.