By James Hinves

The weekend saw the return of Woodmill-based Southampton Canoe Club to the National Water Sports Centre in Nottingham, where over 200 athletes from 42 clubs competed at the June Sprint Regatta.

For some of the club athletes it was their first taste of competitive sprint racing for nearly two years, with the regatta operating under new measures put in place to ensure a Covid safe event.

The day was gloriously hot which made for fast racing conditions on a glass-like lake, where athletes competed to see who was the fastest over 200, 500 and 1000 meters in single and double kayaks and canoes.

A small but successful Southampton group came home with three first places, eight personal bests and nine appearances in the major finals - which hopefully will translate into success in next month's International Selections and National Championships.

Xavier Hinves, pictured, won the U18 500m K1 and the K2 with his doubles partner Zac Tarver from Elmbridge CC, while Richard Kent won the Masters O55 200m event.

The club is currently running taster sessions for those who wish to get involved in Paddling a Kayak: you can sign up here

 
Photo: British Canoeing / Antony Edmonds