International Training Weekend

Sponsored by the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company, the Isle of Man annual International Training Weekend again enjoyed stunning weather. 

The format of delivering structured training courses for paddlers during full days (on the water), then the familiar symposium social during the evenings is proving very successful.

Meeting on the Saturday at the Isle of Man Yacht Club (port St Mary), giving a protected location to get on the water. Given the idyllic sea conditions on the day, Post St Mary was a millpond.

 Our line-up of Guest Coaches included Nigel Dennis, Pete Jones, Eila Wilkinson, Jukka Linnonmaa, delivering training alongside our local coaching team.

 Over 40 paddlers experienced Intermediate to Advanced conditions over the weekend.

12 of these completed their BCU 4* Sea Leader Training.

3 completed their BCU 5* Sea Leadership Training.

 I managed a group photo with a fair few of the paddlers on the same beach at any one time : )

 Sunday used the iconic Port Erin Beach to run from, giving easy access to the Calf of Man.

 Catching the guys coming off the water, smiles all round, another unforgettable day on the water.

 The Isle of Man Symposium is a sister event to the Anglesey Symposium and has been supported by Nigel Dennis and Sea Kayaking UK since its inception. 

 The 5* Sea Leadership Training group were the last off the water...

Plenty of learning! : )

Next year's International Training Weekend runs 28th & 29th September 2013

Keirron

Well what a great weekend.

Two days of paddling with friends, both new and old, from around the world (and the Isle of Man!).   Pushing your limits and testing your skills.  Learning.

Now I know what I have to work on for the next 12 months!!!!

Thanks a lot for setting it up, organising it and bringing us all together. 

Tony 

It went well and I think there was something for everyone. I was very impressed how Nigel arranged for those tsunami waves to arrive on cue – it made the training very realistic.
Gerry