York canoe race wins boost from international competitor

Nick, who is currently at the University of York and has competed in two World Championships for the British team, is helping to organise the race as well as taking part.

The race, sponsored by the university, takes place on the River Ouse on Saturday June 13.

It will start at the Millennium Bridge at 1pm and will be held over three different distances. Beginners will paddle to Skeldergate Bridge and return, recreational paddlers will go on to turn at the Railway Bridge and competitive canoeists will continue to Clifton Bridge before turning back.

Race co-ordinator Phil Puckrin said it was primarily an opportunity for anyone with a canoe to experience a mass paddle through the centre of York, when bridges and riverside paths would be lined with spectators.

"We want to show that canoeing in York is a sport for all ages and abilities," he said. "The race is always popular with families, youth organisations and disability groups. Quite a few families take pre-school age children in their canoes and there will be many paddlers aged over 70 years.

“Everyone gets timed and it is a competitive paddle within each ability group. We have forty trophies to present, including team prizes."

Nick, whose world championship K1 marathon races were at Copenhagen in 2013 and Oklahoma last year, said: “Helping to organise the canoe race is something I am really keen about.

"I train on my own on the River Ouse almost every day. It would be great if I could encourage other university canoeists to get out on the river."

Phil said the university's sponsorship meant entry fees could be kept low to encourage participation and income could be used to support Humbledon Outdoor Association, a charity which allowed people with severe learning disabilities to go away on activity weekends.

*Entries will be taken on the day from 10.30am – 12.15pm at the Millennium Bridge. For further information, phone Phil on 01904 654 302 or email: philpuckrin@tiscali.co.uk