Tonbridge Hasler Marathon
March 2008
A
period of rain had raised the levels on the Medway so that the organisers
had been in doubt whether to run the race.
On the day the sun shone, but the river was still running hard, and
rising. Will Richards, paddling Div
9 K1 and Josh Chidwick with his
Other Maidstone
paddlers were Aaron Jordan, Paul Elston, Mick Wibrew, Terry Tompkins, Louise
Linnell, Peter Bannister, Mick Bannister and Tom Kingston also in K2, Matt
Catchlove, Paul Newman and the inimitable Maggie Taylor in her outrigger.
The course was
modified to allow for the faster flow, but there were still numerous mishaps and
capsizes, particularly at the top end of the course with a low bridge.
Boats and blades and swimmers were everywhere.
Our three novice
racers were superb. Taking everything in their stride and finishing in great
style. Unfortunately not all
The notable result,
apart from the neophytes, was Aaron Jordan winning the highest Division, Div 4,
by one second from an Elmbridge paddler.
Maggie finished without hooking up too many other paddlers, in a great
time.
Results from the race
were held up for short time when it was realised that the lower turn, introduced
for safety reasons was not followed by the early starters, needing an adjustment
to times.
After a medal
ceremony for our winners, Aaron Jordan in Div 4 K1 and Josh and Sam in Div 9 K2,
we left a wet Tonbridge with a good start to the racing season for Hasler.
Hasler Races
These were named
after Colonel Blondie Hasler, who led the raid on
They are organised
Regionally so that travel is kept in check, with the top four clubs in each
Region being eligible to enter the Hasler Final marathon race, held at different
venues around the country. This
year, Burton Canoe Club on the River Trent.
Come and take part in a race
against other paddlers of a similar standard.
See Mick Bannister or
Dean Jordan for further information.