Devizes to Westminster International
Canoe Race
Advice
Photo: Guy Dresser
Photo: Guy Dresser
Tip #1
If not a regular paddler with a club, get in touch with the nearest racing club to you, check on the British Canoeing website to find out more.
Photo: Jill Priday
Tip #2
Most paddlers do a minimum of 6 months training for the DW.
Photo: Guy Dresser
Tip #3
Find a boat that you can paddle comfortably for long periods, particularly when you are tired.
Photo: Guy Dresser
Tip #4
Senior doubles crews should do some training sessions at night
Photo: Guy Dresser
Tip #5
Get to know as much of the course as possible, ideally by paddling it.
Photo: Jack Prosser
Tip #6
Plan your nutrition for the race and test it out over several training sesions.
Photo: Guy Dresser
Tip #7
Practice portaging
Photo: Jack Prosser
Tip #9
Training should include general fitness as well as paddling
Photo: Guy Dresser
Tip #10
Paddling technique training is as important as endurance training. There are videos on YouTube and racing canoe clubs will have coaches who can help and advise.
Photo: Guy Dresser
Tip #11
Support crews play a vital role for paddlers during the race so it is worth identifying team members early and training with them on multiple occasions before Easter. They not only need to know the route to drive, but where to park for the locks and the best way to manage the paddlers’ health and wellbeing throughout the race.
Join The DW community
There is a vibrant and very active DW community on Facebook with many members always willing to offer advice
DW would always recommend that you wear a buoyancy aid, carry emergency equipment and a mobile phone when training. You must ensure that you have the relevant license for the water you are paddling on.