7th Annual York Canoe O 25: report by Phil
Fionn is very busy making his mark as an event organiser and course planner. Following his Richmond Castle orienteering event for HOAA in July he took on the running of this year’s Canoe-O event. It turned out a big hit on the land as well as for those on water. The riverside paths around Bishopthorpe are popular with walkers and joggers and on Saturday afternoon the sights and sounds of happy activity on the river made everyone notice there was something exciting going on.
20 canoes, many crowded with whole families, including young children, kept crossing the river looking for yellow flags hidden amongst the overhanging trees and among the long line of moored boats. As well as paddlers, our Sunderland group brought 15 walkers who provided lots of vocal support from the riverside.
Art and Ian held on to their winner’s trophy and achieved the fastest ever Canoe-O course time. Fionn is now planning courses for the Ebor sprint event at York University in just two weeks. If it is as good as his first two events everyone will enjoy it whatever their ability. Don’t miss it, especially our juniors.
