The weekend just past brought about the second Colligan Gorge Games which had a huge number of Irish paddlers travel to the unlikely white water Mecca that is Co. Waterford. This year had the one thing that last years event was missing which was near perfect water levels.

The event had both team and individual categories which were divided into sport & expert classes. The racing was tight among everyone and it was shown that even the slightest nudge from your competitors could send you to the back of the pack in an instant. It was a long day with the racing getting off from not long after 9am and continuing right through until almost dark, it was a testament to all those that travelled that the crowds never stopped cheering not once all day long.

The finial “Salmon Leap” rapid was the location for some very interesting lines and some carnage from both the expert and sport classes and the dash to the finish line was littered with abandoned boats & bruised egos.

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Hi all,

Later this month(29th Nov 09) I will be running an Irish Canoe Union Level 3 Kayak Skills Assessment, the assessment will be take place on either the rivers Kings,Nore or Barrow with a final decision being made in the days previous to the assessment pending on water levels.

The Level 3 Kayaking Skills Award aims to enable participants to;

• Kayak safely and competently on river up to and including Grade 2 rivers as a member of a group.
• Be capable of negotiating obstacles likely to be encountered on Grade 2 rivers.
• Assist in rescues.
• Foster further participation in canoeing.

This assessment to open to anyone but it is suggested that you have completed the ICU Level 2 kayak skills previously.

I realise that very few people enjoy the pressure of assessments so I run these assessments as just another day on the river without making it feel like an exam. This non-interventions method helps you relax so you can enjoy the day and perform at your best.

A PDF copy of the ICU Level 3 kayak skills syllabus can be found..

The cost of this one day assessment is €40 (ask about student/un-employed discount) which includes the certificate administration fee from the ICU who will post certs directly to successful candidates. Spaces are extremely limited so If you would like to book on to this assessment or have any questions please drop me an email info@adrianshanahan.com .

Cheers,

Adrian