Frequently Asked Questions
DO
I NEED MY OWN CANOE?
No. The club has a large selection of canoes ranging from stable
introductory boats up to full racing boats where stability has
been sacrificed to give maximum speed. We also have a range
of paddles and buoyancy aids, and helmets for wild water paddling.
When members have decided that they enjoy the sport and want
to purchase their own equipment there are plenty of members
to helpthem decide what to buy, and put them in touch with manufacturers
and people selling second hand canoes and paddles etc.
DO YOU PADDLE IN THE WINTER?
Yes. As long as enough people want to go out, the Tuesday evening
sessions continue all year. In the dark, for safety reasons
we paddle in doubles and all wear a small led cycling rear light
so that we can be seen by other estuary users. Although it doesn't
sound very nice to be out in the dark in winter, on a still
moonlit winter evening the estuary is a magic place to be. The
races and weekend paddling takes place all year round.
WILL I HAVE TO DO CAPSIZE DRILL?
No. Most of the boats that we paddle are 'open cockpit' boats
which means that they have large cockpits so only your lower
leg and ankles are actually under the deck. If you are unfortunate
enough to do your own unrehearsed capsize drill you will find
that you just slide out of the boat, often without even getting
your hair wet.
DO I NEED TO BE SUPER FIT?
No. Anyone can enjoy paddling a canoe or kayak regardless of
how fit or unfit you are. Obviously if you want to get into
the Welsh or British team you will need to train very hard and
frequently. What you will find is that your upper body rapidly
gets a lot fitter and more toned without having to consciously
train it, as canoeing is one of only a few activities where
you propel yourself with the upper body.
ARE YOU A RECOGNISED CLUB?
Yes. We are affiliated to the Welsh
canoeing association, and there are possible plans to make
Conwy a Welsh national centre of excellence for canoe racing.
IS IT AN EXPENSIVE SPORT
Like any sport, how much it costs depends on what level you
pursue it to. One advantage of starting with a club such as
DCP is that all the equipment can be provided, so you dont need
to buy anything to get started. If you enjoy it and want to
continue, the only cost need be the annual membership of around
£30 and the evening equipment use fees of about £3
per time.
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