Tuesday, June 11, 2013

Gobbag Vooar

Gobbag Vooar is the Manx Gaelic name for the mighty basking shark (literal translation Big mouth!). They can grow up to 10 metres in length and come to the Isle of Man in the summer months to feed on the large patches of plankton that can be found here.

Sunday's paddles from Niarbyl were dominated by these mighty creatures as we spotted a number throughout the day, from the moment we arrived in the morning to when we left late that afternoon sharks could be seen swimming just offshore from the beach next to the tail of the rocks... 
 
Always being sure to paddle a safe distance away the sharks are often inquisitive in nature and once stopped paddling often swim towards the kayak providing some great underwater photo opportunities:
 Both of the day's paddles were very relaxed in nature heading southwards with plenty of time to take in the stunning scenery in between shark spotting. Great to see a few of the group out experiencing sea kayaking for the first time as well as regular members of the club.
              

 The incredible weather we have seen recently has also led to some great personal achievements by some members of the Adventure club. Congratulations to:

Tony Smith & Gerry McGarvey on a successful circumnavigation of the Isle of Arran on Scotland's west coast in 2 and a half days.

Michael Carine on fulfilling his goal of circumnavigating the Isle of Man solo, leaving Port Erin last Sunday he paddled clockwise round the island finishing on Tuesday with a total paddling time of around 22 hours.
And last but not least our Senior coach George Shaw on a record breaking solo crossing to Northern Ireland. George left Peel at 7.45am on Monday 3rd June and arrived at Kearney point near Strangford Lough, six hours and 35 minutes later. George returned to the island the next day against a slight head wind which meant the crossing took a little longer at 7 hours 53 minutes. You can read more on his trip here.

               
Well done to all and a great days paddling on Sunday.
John

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