By James Hinves
Four hundred paddlers from all over the country met in Nottingham for the National Canoe Sprint Championships over the weekend of July 3/4, on a warm but stormy weekend – and with some very fast times.
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Woodmill-based Southampton Canoe Club sent a team of 12 juniors and vets to race in singles, Doubles and Fours over 200, 500 and 1000m and they came home successful!
Xavier Hinves competed in under 18 singles, and doubles with Partner Zac Tarver from Elmbridge CC. These races were over 500m & 1000m. He also took part in the 500m in a four and came home as National Champion in each race and now stands a good chance of being selected for international racing at the World Championships in September.
Richard Kent & Ade Butt raced in the Over 54 class and came home with a gold in 500m and 1000m Doubles, plus a range of other medals in the single events.
Andre Hinves, Nathaniel Lamb, Fletcher Cramer, Damon Grimsey, and James Hinves also came home with at least one medal. With most of the Southampton team scoring either personal or season bests.
To celebrate national Go Paddling Month, Southampton Canoe Clubs is currently running taster sessions for those who wish to get involved in Paddling a Kayak. More information at https://www.southamptoncc.co.uk/start-up-sessions/