A NEW initiative united slalom enthusiasts from the region last month.
Paddlers from across Northumberland tried canoe slalom at Tyne Green, Hexham as part of a new scheme to encourage participation in the sport on March 24.
Hexham Canoe Club and other canoe clubs from across the North are working on an initiative called Slalom North, which brings together slalom enthusiasts to build skill and confidence in their paddling.
Slalom North is staging development days, training sessions and hosting competitive events to encourage participation in the sport of canoe slalom.
These events will attract paddlers from across the country, plus local participants, as part of the national circuit of competitions.
Mike Brennan, convener of Canoe Slalom at Hexham Canoe Club, said: “It was a perfect day for some slalom fun; the sun and the spring bulbs made for a beautiful setting. It was great to see a wide range of ages trying it out and enjoying themselves.
"It has been amazing to see the support and enthusiasm from so many across the North. It’s an Olympic sport after all and lots of people are keen to give it a go.
"People are volunteering their time and experience to help build the skills and confidence of paddlers of all ages and holding development days allows people to safely challenge themselves and have some fun on the water.”
Hexham Canoe Club regularly hosts sessions at Tyne Green to help people learn essential skills for the sport.
For more information, email slalom@hexhamcanoeclub.co.uk.
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