western isles challenge
canoeists

 

 

 

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The Western Isles is a sea-canoeist's paradise, with some of the best kayaking in Europe.  There's a mix of open sea, rocky shores and bays and sea loch paddling - and not just the paddling but also the excitement of a Challenge that attracts some of the best paddlers in the UK and abroad.

The kayak legs total around 50 miles, including (weather permitting!) the Sounds of Barra and Harris (see maps). There is generally one shortish (sprint) paddle and one long paddle per day

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Mass start A quick dip after a squall in the Sound of Barra

To compete in the event, you will need to have recent experience of sea paddling and hold a BCU 4 Star Certificate (formerly the BCU Sea Certificate, which will also be acceptable) or the Forces or international equivalent.

For the rules on the sea sections of the event, including the types of boat that are acceptable and equipment required see the Rules here.  .

Canoeists Register
 Starting in the lead.jpg (38208 bytes)Nick Dallimore, fastest kayak winner 1996 and 1998

We have a register of qualified sea canoeists and have often been able to help teams unable to find such canoeists themselves. If you are looking for a kayaker, or if you know of one who would like to join the register, please contact Stephanie Sargent with his/her details. Similarly if you are a sea-canoeist who doesn't have a team, but would like to enter the event as part of one, please let us have your details here.

Stephanie can also arrange hire of canoes and other equipment for the event, especially for solo contestants and/or those travelling from abroad.

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Sea Safety Officer for the Challenge is Gordon Brown, one of Scotland's top canoe coaches

Contact Gordon with any questions about the event here