Taster Sessions
All of our taster sessions for 2011 have now been completed. We will run more sessions in spring or summmer of 2012.
If you would like us to contact you when we run taster sessions next year please email web@regentscanoeclub.co.uk.
You can still visit the club at a New Members evening but you will not be able to paddle unless you first join the club. Our links page also lists many other local clubs who may run similar sessions or courses.
About the sessions
Regents Canoe Club's Taster evenings are two hour sessions which are aimed at those who have no previous experience of canoeing or kayaking, but who want to have a go at paddling on the canal under the guidance of experienced volunteers, in a safe, fun and friendly environment.
Instruction is given (e.g. how to hold the paddle, forward and backward strokes, turning). There are 12 places available on each session. The cost in 2011 was £12 per session. Should you wish to come again, you will need to join the club.
Please note that no refunds can be given unless the Taster evening is cancelled by Regents Canoe Club.
If you enjoy the taster session you are welcome to join the club on the same evening. Membership forms are available at the club or you can bring one with you (see joining the club).
If you wish to join the club at a later date you will need to attend a New Members evening.
What you need to wear
Please arrive at the club wearing clothes that you do not mind getting wet, such as an old tracksuit or woolly jumper. Jeans and other heavy cotton clothes are not suitable. Footwear, such as old trainers or plimsolls, is a must and, if it is cold, a woolly hat and a lightweight nylon jacket or cagoule would also be useful.
Changing rooms (and showers) are available if you need to change your clothes.
You will need to bring a towel, a change of dry clothing for after paddling and a plastic bag (for your wet gear).
Bookings
To make a booking, please read the Participation Statement below. You can then select and pay for a taster session using PayPal (you do not need a PayPal account to use this service - you can pay using your credit or debit card). You must then complete the application form, using the link at the bottom of this page.
Regents Canoe Club Participation Statement
DECLARATIONS:
1. I can swim 50 meters in light clothing.
2. I understand that I use the club's facilities and equipment, and participate in club activities, at my own risk.
3. I agree to abide by the rules of the club that are in place to minimise risks to myself and other clubs members.
4. I understand that I am responsible for the safekeeping of my personal property and that the club will not accept liability for any damage or loss of personal property.
5. I have read the information on Leptospirosis (Weil's disease) below and accept the risks.
WEILS'S DISEASE (Leptospirosis icterohaemorrhagiae)
Weil's Disease is a bacterial infection carried in rat's urine which contaminates water and wet river banks. The bacterium does not survive for long in dry conditions. It can occur in any water, although the risk of infection isgreater in stagnant or slow moving water.
Weil's Disease is rare, but it can be a serious illness requiring hospital treatment. It is caught by absorbing the bacteria through the skin and mucous membranes of the mouth and eyes, or any cuts in the skin. If within 3 -19 days after canoeing you feel ill with a temperature, influenza-like illness and/or joint and muscle pain and possibly jaundice, you should see your doctor immediately and tell him/her you have been taking part in watersports and where you have been paddling.
PRECAUTIONS
All paddlers should:
1. Use footwear to avoid cutting feet.
2. Cover all scratches or cuts on exposed parts of the body with waterproof plasters.
3. Avoid immersion in stagnant or slow moving water.
4. Wash or shower after immersion or paddling generally.
Taster Sessions for 2012
Dates will be published in spring 2012
Application form
After you have made your payment, please take a minute to complete the application form below. You will not be able to attend the course if you have have not filled in an application form.
Click here to open the application form
If you have any problems submitting the form, or if you have any questions, contact us at web@regentscanoeclub.co.uk
