Canoeing
Bradford-on-Avon Kayak Club is one of the top kayak clubs in the country catering for paddlers of all levels from beginners to international level canoeists representing not only the Club at National level but also Great Britain at European and World Championships. Our members mainly paddle in flat-water conditions but are also successful in White Water Racing and Sea Kayaking.
Based on the banks of the River Avon the Club is ideally placed to make the most out of both the river and the Kennet and Avon Canal for kayaking.
The Club has a long tradition of success at all levels in Marathon and Sprint racing. The Club’s success also includes producing winners of the Devizes to Westminster Race over the years as well as a strong field presence in the Waterside and Thameside series. The Club has a number of BCU qualified coaches, who cover a great range of abilities and are able to take paddlers from a beginner level all the way to the top as successful national and international athletes. Whilst being a strong racing club, we pay equal attention to beginner coaching and paddler development.
The Club aims to provide sessions throughout the year that will allow people to experience the sport. These include the use of boats, paddles and buoyancy aids. Once people decide they wish to continue they are encouraged to participate in the regular Club sessions. The Club actively participates in the regional and national circuit races and new paddlers are encouraged to race to allow them to improve their fitness and experience paddling on different rivers.
Bradford-on-Avon runs one of the few remaining Ascent Races in the Marathon Racing Calendar, “The Bath to Bradford”. This race usually takes place on the first Saturday in August and is renowned for both it’s physical challenge and picturesque course, taking in the Roman Baths and Poultney Weir in the centre of the historic city of Bath.
The Club is run on a voluntary basis with coaches giving up their own time on a regular basis to create a structured and supportive environment.
Bradford-on-Avon Kayak Club supports the governing body and the sport.