Meridian Canoe Club
Newsletters
November 2009 (.pdf)
August 2009 (.pdf)
April 2009 (.pdf)
November 2008 (.pdf)
August 2008 (.pdf)
November 2007 (.pdf)
March 2007 (.pdf)
Danson Lake - CLOSED to kayaking
Hi all,
Due to the recent heavy rainfall, the council's weekly water sample tests have picked up that there has been an increase in some of the levels of micro-organisms within the lake. As such, they have taken the decision to suspend all immersion activities on the lake for the time being. The watersports centre will still be running activities, but no kayaking or canoeing will be allowed. A fresh water sample will be carried out tommorrow morning, and we expect the levels to be back to normal by the end of the week. However we will notify you all when it is all clear to use the lake again.
Posted: 23 Aug 2010 15:15
The slalom session with a difference
On the 29th of July it was organised that some club members would go to Shepperton and to practice their slalom skills. After picking up the boats from Danson boathouse we left for Shepperton and arrived at about 6:45pm. We all got on by the lock at 7:00pm and practiced a couple of turns before a little warm up paddle. We then paddled round to the gates and started to practice breaking in and out of the flow for about 15mins, due to the lack of rain the water level was low which made this activity more difficult. After the flow exercise, Mark devised a course which we all followed. Every so often Mark would change the course so that we could practice turns in different places. I liked this as it enabled us to practice on different levels of flow and kept us on our toes at all times. We did this until about 9:00pm which was when we got off. We loaded on the boats and we were off back home (Danson boathouse). We got to the boathouse at about 10:30pm; we dropped the boats off and went home.
This was one of the best slalom sessions that I have ever done and I would most certainly do it again. It may have been late but it was worth it, and if you ever get the chance you should definitely give it a go.
I give it a rating of
The only problem was that it was a bit late and if it wasn’t in the school holidays it would be quite hard to do.
By Marcus Davenport
Posted: 06 Aug 2010 08:44
New Paddlers Course
Folks ,
Over the next 3 weeks I am running a course aimed at new paddlers, or those who would like to gain a 1Star award.
The attached file gives the details.
Obviously this is targeted at those who came to our Danson Festival sessions but please pass on to anyone else who you think might be interested.
Andy Garlick
PS Sam I tried to post this in News but could not find any way of doing this. If you could switch it I think that is a more appropriate part of the forum. Thanks
Posted: 08 Jul 2010 08:16
Southmere - Blue Green Algae
Blue Green Algae has been identifeid at the southmere venue
Anyone who has recently paddled at southmere please insure you wash your kayak out thoroughly before using it at any other venue
Posted: 25 Jun 2010 10:23
AGM Reminder - 14th June @ 19:15
Hi All,
Just a reminder that it is the Club's AGM on Monday 14th June.
Venue: Lord Kitchener (21, Wrotham Rd, Welling, Kent, DA16 1LS)
Time: 19:15 for a 19:30 start
Further information:
The club's AGM will be held on the 14th June 2010. All members should see that the AGM offers all members the opportunity, not only to hear about how the club has been run over the previous year, but also to influence how the club should be run in the future. You may feel that this won’t affect you but if you are interested in paddling with the club in the next year then you should consider attending the clubs AGM.
At last year's AGM the club agreed to trial, for one year, reducing the size of the management committee from 12 members to 5. The smaller committee would then be freed up to efficiently deal with the management of the club. As well as the reduction the intention was that the management committee would then be assisted by sub committees made up of non elected interest groups.
This change has proved to be beneficial in the management of the club as far as non canoeing related matters are concerned.
However the sub committees have proved difficult to start. This could be because members don’t want to be tied to one area of the clubs activity or that not enough time has been invested in starting these groups formally. The club has still managed to run many trips and events successfully over the year. The committee all feel that this area should be reviewed at this years meeting along with agreeing whether or not to continue with the reduced committee size.
The committee currently is proposing that the sub committee’s idea could be substituted by instead running every 2 months a meeting focused on club development/paddling opportunities where members of the committee will work with a cross section of the membership in the form of a steering group. This is also hoped to facilitate members contributing to the clubs program and helping organise events for the benefit of the club. These will be chaired by a committee member who can subsequently report back to the management committee. This will be a new venture for the club and initially would need a minimum of 8-10 volunteers to represent different parts of the club to start the ball rolling. If you think you may be interested please express your interest to the Chairman prior to the AGM. This is however only a proposal and it maybe that the membership may have other ideas as to how the club can be managed in the future. If you have any suggestions on this issue or there are any other areas that you wish to have raised the AGM, please communicate these to the current Chairman in advance of the meeting.
Posted: 07 Jun 2010 11:12
Slalom promotions
Aimmee and Lewis both achieved promotion at the Bala Mill Slalom. Aimme will now be competing in Div1 Ladies and Lewis in Div 2 Mens
Posted: 02 Jun 2010 08:52
GB Squads are training at the lake this weekend
13th and 14th February 2010
Posted: 05 Feb 2010 23:58
Re: Nathan Hammond wins Christmas card competition ... again!!
Well done Nathan! It's now up on the canoe england website for all to see...
http://www.canoe-england.co.uk/news/christmas-card-competition-winner-announced
Posted: 25 Nov 2009 17:08
Website back up & running
Hi All,
The website is now with the new hosts. There are a few things I haven't been able to copy over yet, namely the photo gallery, the calendar and some documents (minutes, events documents etc).
I'll try and get these sorted as soon as I can. It also looks like the menu bar at the top of this page has disappeared.
If anything else doesn't work please let me know, as I can't check everything!
Thanks,
Sam
Posted: 12 Nov 2009 09:12
Lost spraydeck
Nooki neoprene spraydeck left at Crook Log Thursday 29th. Oct. If found please contact June Al- Malah or leave a message on this board.
Thank You.
Posted: 05 Nov 2009 23:07
Website Downtime
It's looking like there'll be some website down time over the next couple of weeks as we're looking to change hosting company.
I'll try to keep this to a minimum but there I have very little control over the handover at the minute.
I imagine the website will go down tomorrow and it may take up to 2 weeks to get it back again. I really hope it won't be this long but please bear with us.
Thanks,
Sam
Posted: 04 Nov 2009 18:59
Re: Yalding Slalom
The results from the weekend Slalom at Yalding are available on the Canoe Slalom Website, http://www.canoeslalom.co.uk or they are here as well.
Thankyou to everyone who took part, who observed, supported and transported kayaks to and from the event.
Posted: 27 Oct 2009 22:11
Xmas Party - 18th December
The Meridian Canoe Club Christmas Party will be held on 18 December and all members, family and friends are welcome. It will be in the same venue as last time, with a buffet, disco and raffle. Full details and information on how to buy tickets will be available shortly, but please put it in your diaries now.
June
Posted: 26 Oct 2009 09:05
World Master Games Canoe Polo
Monday, 12 October 2009
Powerhouse British canoe polo team (including Meridian's Curly barker) continues to dominate
Great Britain's 45+ Canoe Polo team continues to dominate their opposition, scoring an impressive 19-0 victory over Aussie team, the Masterfuls in their first match of the day on Sunday.
Team GBR45+ took possession of the game in the first half, scoring 10 goals, with strong defence keeping the Masterfuls scoreless.
The Masterfuls had little chance to score in the second half, with GBR45+ netting 9 impressive goals. The Mastersfuls had an opening with one minute to go, but the attempt was skilfully blocked by GB’s goalkeeper Dave Brown.
"We have trained hard and have come half way around the world to be here, GBR45+ team member Gregor Smale said. "So our intention is to win some medals.
"We have come here to win, not to be second!"
Smale, a police officer from Bedford in England, uses canoeing to keep fit for his job.
A few members of the GBR45+ squad were part of Great Britain's national team, so they're able to demonstrate their confidence with accurate passing and shooting, and strong defence.
Masterfuls goalkeeper Frank Fielder was impressed.
"It was a tough game," he said. "But we also expected it, going by their previous games. We try to do the best we can, live life and enjoy."
GBR45+ is sitting comfortably on top of their group of 45+ men's canoe polo with six points and a big advantage on goal difference.
They are expected to ease their way into the semi-final on Monday.
taken from http://www.canoe.org.au/?Page=17928
Posted: 12 Oct 2009 13:57
Kayaking Ergos
The club will have two Kayaking Ergos for members to try as of this weekend for approx 1 week more info can be found by following this link http://www.meridiancanoeclub.com/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=10&t=369
Posted: 09 Oct 2009 13:58
New Equipment
Hi all
Just a quick heads up on equipment. we are currently adding boats to the clubs fleet on a daily basis. This week we have put a Fun 2 (playboat), a 2nd hand Slingshot (Slalom K1) and a New Lightening in to use.
We are close to adding the 6 new Nomad slalom boats & paddles, the Hody (racing) K2's just waiting for storage bags and rearranging the racks at Danson lake before we add these. They also need some padding to make them a bit more comfortable.
Please can you make sure you return all equipment used back to where you you borrowed it from, and in the same rack position, this will help us with organising getting the new boats in.
If you wish to borrow equipment please book it out with me and look after it whilst it is in your care. If you remove footplates please ensure these are bolted back after your session. Any damage to boats or fittings please let me know.
We have also bulk purchased some boats to sell on to anyone interested details and prices to follow when we have picked up. We are always open to offers on any of the clubs fleet, so if you really like a boat or paddle talk to me. We still have a number of rotabats for sale if you know anyone interested.
Ada
Posted: 09 Oct 2009 08:49
Club Boat/Car Stickers
Club Boat/Car Sticker – 4inch round fablon type external stickers are available for £1 from the Membership Officer, Nigel Abel at the pool or lake sessions.
Posted: 08 Oct 2009 15:48
October 1 and 2 star Courses
for details please contact enquiries@meridiancanoeclub.com
Posted: 28 Sep 2009 09:38
Yalding
Seven mile lane shut from Wrotham end. Diversion via West Malling (or M25 Tonbridge / Hadlow) Projected finish is 9th. November.
Nigel A.
Posted: 25 Sep 2009 13:35
Lost Deck
Lost spray deck on wed eve (23-09-09) has anyone seen it / picked it up? It is XS in size, black with the blue and white diamond on the front. Believe dropped in the car park at Crook log. If you know where it is please leave message on website or contact Adam/Ann Williams.
Posted: 24 Sep 2009 17:50
Canoe Polo European Championships
Any members wanting to follow the Canoe Polo European Championships this weekend - this link take you to the championship website. http://www.canoepolo-euro.eu/?id=71d050 ... 84999e310d - More info, a full list of club Members playing in the GB Men’s, Ladies, and U21 teams, and the current results are being posted on the polo forum.
Provisional Results
Women : Gold medal : beat Netherlands 2 - 1 in final having beaten Italy 4 - 0 in semi final
U21 Women : Silver Medal : Lost to France in final 3 - 4 , having beaten Poland 5 - 1 in semi final
Men : Bronze medal : Lost to Italy 1 - 2 in semi final and beat Netherlands 8 - 4 in 3rd/4th playoff
U21 Men : 5th place having beaten Netherland 3 - 1 in playoff for 5th/6th place.
Congratulations to all GB guys.
Posted: 22 Aug 2009 17:38
Theft of boats
Thieves have broke into Southmere Boating Centre in Thamesmead SE London 2 blue and stole the following -
blue and white Pyranha Karnalis (large)
4 blue and white Pyranha G3s
1 blue and white Pyranha H3 245
A full list is in the trips and events section – Please make a note.
Contact Giles, Southmere or the police
Posted: 14 Aug 2009 08:36
Guest Membership / pool users
Guest Membership is only available for prospective new members, for a short consecutive period, and not for on-going pool usage. Any other guest membership requires prior agreement with the committee. Free Pool access for coaching is only available to current club members, and by arrangement with the duty lifeguard.
If the coach needs to personally use a boat for any reason this should be explained to the duty lifeguard 1st, otherwise the coach will be asked to pay for the session at the normal rate.
Posted: 12 Aug 2009 12:46
Coaches Help needed for sessions this week 01 Aug - 07 Aug
Clive is off on Holiday, so can any availible coaches volunterr to help provide cover for the sessions listed below
Saturday - 1000 to 1200 Lake
Sunday - 0830 - 1000 Lake
Monday - 1830 - 2000 Lake
Tuesday - 1830 - 2000 Lake
Wednesday 1900 - 2015 pool
Thursday - 1830 - 2000 Lake
Posted: 31 Jul 2009 13:59
Thursday Pool Session ON (23rd July)
All,
The Thursday night pool session should be happening as usual this
week. The Pool has reopened.
Thanks,
Sam
Posted: 21 Jul 2009 21:01
Thanks to all who helped over the last 3 weeks
The club has run 3 major events over the last 3 weeks, and when the call for help was sounded Club members responded.
The club has run Come and Try IT kayaking at the Danson Festival, The London International Canoe Polo Competition and The Ergo experience at the Dartford Festival.
Posted: 24 Jul 2009 08:10
Kayaking Ergos at the Dartford Festival This Weekend
Meridian Canoe club will have a stand at this weekends Dartford festival where will have on loan from the BCU, Kayaking Ergos. Club members are welcome to come down and have a go on these machines along with the public. If anyone is interested in helping on the stand please let Mark Preddy know.
Posted: 15 Jul 2009 10:05
GB Mens and U21s Training at Danson Park
All please be aware that the GB squads will be training at Danson Park over the weekend of the 25th and 26th of July.
The squad will be on site at the following times
Saturday 25th
Arrive 9.30am, start 10am – finish 6pm (ish)
Sunday 26th
Start 9 am. Finish 4pm
The issue of parking will of course be an area of some contention this will be discussed with the clubs management committee, Danson park watersports and The national squads.
This clubs Forum will be updated only on this issue
Posted: 20 Jul 2009 16:08
Saturday 11th July 2009 and Sunday 12th July 2009
There will be no structured club sessions this weekend provided by Clive.
The polo Pitches will be unavailable for training due to the London International
Club members should note that the club will not be able to guarantee an instructor will be available over the weekend to provide cover for beginners. Paddlers with 2Star paddlesport or old 3 star can still paddle in self supporting casual groups.
Of Course Club members may like to watch some high level canoepolo and support the club teams or help out for an hour or two.
Posted: 09 Jul 2009 11:41
Hull International 2009
The first weekend in July was the Hull international canoe polo challenge. Meridian B won the competition overall with Curly Barker, Alan Barry, Sandy Quick, Jamie Thomson, Liam and Sam Kavanagh. Class 2 was won by the Great Britain Under 21 women after beating greenstar in the final. Aimee Robson, Sam Barry, Grace Galvin and Emily Martin who are all from meridian were part of the winning team.
Posted: 06 Jul 2009 11:02
Thankyou All for the Danson Festival
Thanks to all the Club members, Friends and Parents who helped make the Free canoeing sessions run so well this weekend.
Saturday we had 297 taster sessions
Sunday we had 380+ taster sessions
Thanks to everyone
Mark
Posted: 06 Jul 2009 11:29
Adult Beginners Course: Summer 2009
The course will give coaching and instruction to take total novices up to BCU 1 Star standard over a 4 week period. Coaching will be focused on developing key early skills, but will be flexible to allow for more rapid development should the group progress. Cost is £35
Posted: 01 Jul 2009 13:00
Meridians U21's GB Ladies take Gold at Mechelen
Congratulations to Aimme Robson, Grace Galvin, Emily Martin and Sam Barry who played for Great Britain U21s Ladies in Mechelen this weekend and provided the crowd with one of the most exciting ladies games of polo I have ever had the pleasure of watching.
Kirsty Sutcliffe took Silver with GB senior Ladies
Daniel Robson, Jack Robson, Oliver Thomson and William Borrett took the bronze in the Mens U21s competition.
Danny Bowles finished 5th with the Mens Senior team
Jamie Thomson also represented Great Britain in the U21s B team
Posted: 29 Jun 2009 11:02
Committee Meeting 29 june 2009
Please see the committee section on the forum for details
Posted: 29 Jun 2009 10:50
Junior Members (And Parents)
Please note that parents, or an adult accepting responsibility, must be present on site (Lake pool or other venue) at all times when a junior member is participating in club activities. The club coach or life guard cannot accept responsibility for your child.
Nigel Abel
Posted: 01 Jul 2009 12:59
Bexley Festival on the 4th and 5th of July 2009
Meridian Canoe Club will once again be running Come and Try it sessions at the Bexley Festival on the 4th and 5th of July 2009
Posted: 21 Jun 2009 16:32
News from this weeks AGM
For those of you unable to make it, a quick update.
Changes to Constituition accepted.
Proposal to reshape Committee accepted.
New Committee Mark Chairman
Sam gen Secretary
Nigel mem secretary
Paul treasurer
Ada equipment.
membership fees Stay the same. pools are paying for themselves.
club has money in bank & Grants for new equipment.
Looking for volunteers to support sub comittee groups to organise Events, trips, Courses & Socials.
Ada
Posted: 16 Jun 2009 09:39
AGM - Monday 15th June
The Meridian Canoe Club AGM will take place in the Lord Kitchener pub at 8pm on Monday 15th June.
Posted: 08 Jun 2009 05:13
Danson lake 30 May
I have just heard that Erith rowing club have a regatta on this Saturday “DANSON INVITATION DAY,PRIVATE MATCH 30th May” - From ERC website.
Nigel A.
Posted: 27 May 2009 21:21
Meridian Newsletter
The April 2009 issue is now available online.
Posted: 28 Apr 2009 20:39
Time Trial and Perception Wavehopper Challenge.
Details and entry form for the Time Trial and the Perception Wavehopper Challenge can now be downloaded from the Events section of the club website.
Posted: 28 Apr 2009 20:34
After School Sessions
The club will soon be running after school sessions - click here for more info...
Posted: 24 Apr 2009 07:46
First Aid at work course
Hi all,
I'm trying to put together a first aid at work course.
I need to get 12 people to get a course to run.
I have got a instructor that will run a course for roughly £80pp. This would include manuals, certificates and external assessment.
That is a good price, the usual cost of that course is over £100.
The course would not have to run over consecutive days. Provided the training is completed within 3 months we can negotiate the training days, ie 2 x weekends or 4 x Saturdays / 4 x Sundays etc or a mix and match finishing with an external assessment on the last day. The course has to come to 24 hours.
If you would like to go on the course or know of anyone who would like to go on the course please let me know a.s.a.p
Many thanks
Jake Lewis
jake@meridiancanoeclub.com
Posted: 14 Apr 2009 21:40
BCU 2 Star & FSRT Course
I will be running a Paddlesport 2 star and Foundation safety & rescue training at Danson lake next Wednesday (9.30-3.30) for DWSC, any club member who wants to do the UKCC level 1 Coach course in the Summer these are the qualifications you will need in advance of the course. Therefore if you are available, have not already got both awards contact me and we will include you in the training and assessment.
Ada
07917 020517
Posted: 08 Apr 2009 11:43
Website
The site seems to be running again now, let me know if anyone notices anything not working (links etc.) as I haven't been able to check everything.
Posted: 02 Apr 2009 20:19
Doug Ammons talk being held at Imperial this Friday the 20th
Doug Ammons talk being held at Imperial this Friday the 20th, more info at: http://www.union.ic.ac.uk/rcc/canoe/ci/dougammons
Posted: 18 Mar 2009 10:24
Yalding
The Medway has been drained above Yalding weir. Normal levels below weir and constant but low(ish) flow through bridge. Work still continuing on lock and no water at new canoe get on.
NB Giles informs me that the Sluice to Yalding section is being refilled today, Friday 13th. March
Nigel A.
Posted: 10 Mar 2009 17:14
Bexley First Aid & Child Protection Courses
Please see courses offered by Bexley Council below:-
I'm still looking for extra people to participate in an in house BCU Aquatic First Aid Course towards the end of March 09. It will run 2 evenings at Boathouse.
Ada
Posted: 27 Feb 2009 09:33
COACH UPDATE FORUMS
There will be 2 Coach update forum's in March 09, these will revalidate your BCU qualifications for 3 years and come highly recommended.
Bewl Water 14th March http://canoesouth.org/uploads/south%20e ... h%2009.pdf
Wimbledon Park 15th March http://canoesouth.org/uploads/Coach%20U ... 202009.pdf
Ada
Posted: 16 Feb 2009 09:34
Lake open again
Danson Lake is currently open, should it freeze over again, check with the boathouse staff to see if the lake is open.
Posted: 13 Feb 2009 11:00
Thursday pool session
A reminder to all that the Thursday pool session is now 9.15 to 10.15 in the large pool. Pool staff are supposed to arrange how we change over (!) So take care as the public swim and the aerobics will be getting out as we go in
Nigel Abel
Posted: 05 Feb 2009 17:52
Sad news Dave Higson "BF"
Sad news Dave "BF Higson passed away on Friday 2nd January. More details and stories of his paddling on UKRGB website.
Ada
Posted: 04 Jan 2009 15:31
Membership
FROM YOUR NEW MEMBERSHIP OFFICER – NIGEL ABEL
Would everyone please note that I have taken over as membership officer. All membership, renewals and new, after 14th. December must come to me complete with forms and all fees. If you chose to pay into a pool envelope or to pay Tom Dick or Fred down the pub, please ensure you get an authorised receipt. All new forms have my address on them and I am usually at 2 to 3 club sessions per week. Should you choose to pay your membership by any other means (Fred down the pub etc.) then I will endeavourer to get you a letter thanking you for your kind donations. YOU WILL NOT BE A MEMBER. And I will not chase up your payments. If you have joined or renewed in the last year and not had a membership card please let me know ASAP and I will check your status.
Remember- If you’re not a paid up member you should not be paddling on the lake or any club sessions as you will have no 3rd party insurance cover nor should you attempt to borrow club equipment. The equipment officer is in possession of an up to date membership list
Please contact – Nigel Abel.. 020.8301.4212 or e-mail .. nigel.a08@tiscali.co.uk
Any new or prospective members should ignore the threats and contact me on the above!!
Posted: 23 Dec 2008 08:11
Nathan Hammond wins BCU Christmas card competition!!
Congratulations to Nathan Hammond who has won this year's competition to design the 'Canoe England' Christmas card!
Follow this link to the BCU's website to see Nathan's winning entry:
http://www.bcu.org.uk/news/christmas-ca ... ion-winner
Posted: 02 Dec 2008 00:20
NEW SCHEME LEVEL 1 COACH COURSE
Meridian will be in the position to run a course sometime next summer at a reduced cost (less than £80 
normally course cost between £200-£300 
) for anyone who lives in Bexley and between 16-19yrs of age. Spare places will be available to other club members.
Please post here or let me know if you are interested and meet critiria or wished to be considered for spare spaces.
Ada
Posted: 26 Nov 2008 14:35
Latest Development Event calendar
All please find the clubs latest Development Event calendar at
http://www.meridiancanoeclub.com/events ... p?page=475
The events on here have been picked as they good introductory events and are relative at least to similar events held elswhere in the uk quite close.
Posted: 17 Nov 2008 15:41
Saturday Thanks No.1 and No.2
The 4th Open day at the lake was wonderfully run with Julia Wickham (aka Charlotte Wickham's mum) runing the booking in and June, Andy G and Tim H looking after the newbies on the lake.
Ada as always ensured the newbies were suitably kited out....
So a big thanks to all you guys for making sure that ran smoothly.
Meanwhile at lakeside the annual task of taking those Jetties had to be removed from that lake, so the local herbets aren't tempted to walk accross the ice to play on them. This year saw some new faces join the old hands and the difference they made was more than noticable. so a Big thanks to everyone who helped young and old.
Thanks once more to all who helped
Mark
Posted: 16 Nov 2008 22:05
Xmas Disco
The Meridian Canoe Club Christmas Disco
Will be held on Friday 19 December 2008 from 7.30pm to 11.30pm
at Dartford Working Men's Club,Essex Road, Dartford, DA1 2AU
Licensed Bar & Free Buffet
Under 18s £5
Adults £10
Family tickets £20
http://www.streetmap.co.uk/newmap.srf?x ... search.srf
Tickets are available from June Al Malah, Di Wade or Jane Borrett at the Pool and the Boat House or by calling June on 07813 769195.
Posted: 04 Nov 2008 12:04
Help needed at Wednesday pool sessions
We currently have many newcomers to the Wednesday evening general sessions. All could do with some quality water time and some one to one coaching, if anyone wants to come along and do some teaching or just meet other paddlers your help will be welcomed. Lifeguarding is normally covered on the session by polo players on the side and by Mark P and myself.
Ada
PS I'm not going to be there on the 29th October so if someone else could start collecting the money this would be great. Malc is normally there once the session starts. 
Posted: 23 Oct 2008 14:44
This weekend 18th and 19th October
Saturday Morning
The clubs weekly casual paddle on the lake will be happening as usual from about 10.
The club will also be running an Open morning for non members to come and paddle and see what the club has to offer.
24 members will be off to southmere to do a 1 and 2 star course on Saturday and Sunday
Clive will be running sessions as usual 3 on saturday and 3 on sunday
Sunday morning there will also be Polo training at the lake.
Is there any other paddling going on this weekend?
Posted: 16 Oct 2008 10:37
How time fly's
I was sorting out my old documents on our computer and came across this piece of memorabillia (about 8 years old), reading through it brought back loads of great memories not just of this event but events associated with it.
So it got me thinking there must be loads of old stories and photos of meridian members weather it be polo, white water ,wavehopper,playboating ,open boating ,road trips,pub tales or whatever that have been doomed to the hard drive forever.
So "please" read the following and then dig out some "oldies but goldies"
To do or die at Doncaster
As I have just past the grand old age of 40 I thought that my days of trying out new sports were finished, however after taking my son William to several canoe polo sessions I (with a little encouragement from a certain Mr. M Preddy) found myself in the Meridian X team for the nationals at Doncaster.
So it was with certain trepidation that I loaded canoe’s, Tents, sleeping bags, cooking equipment, fridge and several packs of beer in the car and headed North up the A1 (M).
Thankfully after going to Mark Preddy cap in hand we were allowed to sleep in the visitors center on the Friday night. After arriving at about 1.30 A M Saturday morning We settled ourselves in the reception room to down a few of the by now very warm beers and then retired to our beds at about 3.00 AM.
The night did not pass as peacefully as hoped due to the fact that the only thing noisier than the bunk beds were the hinges on all the doors to and adjacent to our sleeping quarters. At about 5. 30 I woke with the desire to try out the toilet facilities but not wishing to disturb the more serious polo players I laid cross-legged until about 6.30 by which time my desire had become a necessity. So I donned as small amount of clothes as possible and headed for the menacingly noisy door, by now I was in a state of total indecision should I open the door as slow as possible and endure several seconds of groans and creaks or should I yank the door open and make a dash for it in the hope that no one would recognize the figure fleeing from the public school like dormitory, I finally decided on the later only to find that after a few steps through the door I trod on a discarded Beer bottle top (probably one I had discarded a few hours earlier). I managed to restrain myself from yelling with just enough time to get though the two remaining unforgivably noisy doors. I have decided that the reason for the lack of oil on all the door hinges can only be for some form of alarm system the motto being ”open any door and you will be detected.”
Saturday morning was dedicated to finding a pitch large enough to cater for our two tents, which turned out much harder than I had though possible. The area taped off for the participants of the polo event was only slightly larger than a scouts camp site, maybe the restrictions on open spaces due to the foot and mouth problem made it necessary to turn rural Doncaster into a mobile Peabody housing estate. The next trial of the day was to erect the tents, which of course were missing several poles and ropes; the annoyance of these losses was only surpassed by the greater annoyance of trying to drive the well-used and bent tent pegs into the terra firma (firma being the operative word).
And so at last to our first venture onto the lake. Our first match now seems to me just a blur as does the second and third matches of the day, however to the teams rescue came Chuck and chass the two lady members of The Meridian x team. After several strong, some would say course words the team was knocked into some sort of shape and I was kicked into touch the sensors of opinion being that as I am over 40 over weight with small hands and unable to roll I would probably serve the team best as the team mascot (later to be named stealth by Mr. Preddy). I found that the duty of mascot suited me fine as I was allowed to play in the match for short periods of time (normally after we were one or two goals up) and scuttle of to catch my breath as the need arouse.
Our day on the lake ended with the team in good spirit and a couple of wins under our belts.
The evening for four adults and four juniors consisted of a trip to the local pub for a meal which seemed the easiest option, until we came across the pub manager who obviously had a grievance against the younger members of our society and an inbred desire to dominate his domain. It was only after several minutes of discussion and personal assurances that Mr. "I am" allowed us to take our seats with the promise that if the pub was raided by the local constabulary that we would take full responsibility for bringing under fourteens into the pub. Only after we had eaten did we realize what a wasted effort it had all been as the food was medioca to say the least.
We returned to the camp site only to find that all the mosquitoes in England had decided to dine at our table and any attempt to play cards drink and be merry was forever being interrupted by the clapping of hands in the vain hope of killing one of the several million mossies, the spraying of fly repellant (in our case lynx deodorant) or the words “no one on the next pitch to us seems to be scratching”.And Not even a move to the middle of the playing field gave us any rest bite from the mossies as they followed as locusts will follow any source of food. To add to the evenings irritations the children’s play area become full of noisy uncontrolled and foul mouthed individuals, 90% of which were over 18 and had just left the beer tent a tad worse for wear to say the least. A retreat to the tent was finally called at about 1.30 thankfully neither mossie or drunk followed us.
The next day the team with mascot in tow returned to the lake and again with the woman as our driving force. Several matches later the feeling that the team had improved was felt by each team member, to the point that the mascot, yours truly, was allowed in the line up for the start of our last match of the day. 32 seconds later yours truly was recalled as sub as the opposing team were allowed a clear run to the goal, the attacker being feebly chased by an out of breath mascot who invariably ended up in the wrong place at the wrong time. And so ended our second day on the lake a much improved team but still a long way to go.
I will now pass on some advice to any single man no matter what age he may be, in fact the same advice can also be used by any married man who may feel the need of some company of the fairer sex (fairer being used in the most lax of terminology). The same group of eight that had ventured into the most inhospitable pub in England Friday traveled to the center of Doncaster to the Pizza hut. This restaurant turned out to placed on a pedestrian walkway and perfectly placed to enjoy the view of the local talent as they flitted from one club to another, all the clubs seemed to be within one hundred yards of the Pizza hut. It soon became evident that Doncaster has a massive shortage of men therefore any woman no matter what age was out on the pull, there was a no holds barred on the dress code (or lack of) As the woman tried to entice any man brave enough to venture onto the streets to be there date. After enduring the spectacle for about an hour I managed to prise my eyes from the window only to find that the woman of our group were enjoying the free show as much if not more than the men.
So my advice is to any man who feels the need to walk the streets of Doncaster alone either go dressed as a woman or enjoy what fate may await you.
We returned to the camp site to find that thankfully the mossies had left for pastures or should I say ankles new, after a pleasant evening of beer, cards and tales of the unexpected we retired to our sleeping bags both mentally and physically battered.
Sunday found us consoling the Meridian A team as they unfortunately had not managed to play to their full potential. The X team played and won their last two matches, which was a great way to end a very enjoyable and enlightening weekend.
My thanks go out to all those who help organize the weekend to all the team members and all those whose company I enjoyed over the weekend.
Yours truly,
Brian Borrett.
Posted: 10 Oct 2008 22:10
Man paddles pumpkin!
News story about a canoeist who swaps his kayak for a .... pumpkin at
http://www.keyc.com/node/11807
Posted: 10 Oct 2008 08:56
1 and 2 Star Paddlesport Awards course
Subject: 1 and 2 Star Paddlesport Awards course
Course dates Saturday 18th October, Sunday 19th October and Sunday 2nd November
Dear All,
As part of the clubs current initiative of working closely with our partners, Meridian Canoe club is pleased to be able to offer in conjunction with Southmere Boating Centre three days of kayak and canoe related skills development.
The course will be run at Southmere Boating Centre in Thamesmead and is aimed at developing the skills of the club’s new paddlers.
The course will start at 10 am and finish at 4 pm on the 18th and 19th. The times for the 2nd of November will be agreed during the course.
The objective is to cover all the skills included in the BCU’s One and Two Star awards:
One Star covers foundation skills, encourages safe practice, regard for equipment and most importantly, having fun.
Two Star is a logical continuation, introducing an alternative form of paddlesport and further developing flat water skills, including rescue technique and trip planning.
Gaining these skills would benefit all paddlers, regardless of their chosen discipline.
The third day of the course will be a day trip paddling the River Medway in Kent.
For more infomation please call Mark Preddy on 07828512402
Meridian CC Committee
Posted: 09 Oct 2008 11:52
Level 3 coaches take note.....
Just spotted a "funny" hole in the new star scheme:
We have a couple of level 3 kayak coaches kicking around who could obviously coach and assess 1, 2 and 3 star kayak in the old scheme.
We also have a level 3 OC coach who could similarly coach and assess 1, 2 and 3 star OC in the old scheme.
All of the above without having to travel further from here (SE London) than an hour or so.
Each also has old 2 star in the alternative discipline so they can all coach new 1 and 2 star again without travelling far. Marvelous.
Its here where their trouble begins:
The OC L3 can coach and assess new 3 star OC still without much travelling -- plenty of open water around here and enough simple moving water to fit the bill, but.......
The kayak L3s can't assess any kayak-based 3 star award without either travelling to somewhere with some G2 water for 3 star WW (no G2 within many many miles of here) or by running a 3 star touring course -- which they could run locally but would need 4 star OC to run (and don't have).
Why oh why is it possible for an old school OC L3 with 2 star kayak to train and assess 1, 2 and their chosen 3 star locally but not possible for their mirror image counterpart (kayak L3 with 2 star OC) to do the same thing?
I asked the BCU about it and they "couldn't see the problem".
Apparently the logical continuation for an OC paddler from 2 star paddlesport is 3 star which can be done virtually anywhere in the country but the logical continuation for a kayaker from 2 star paddlesport is 3 star WW, for which they have to travel to somewhere with some G2.
Why isn’t there a counterpart 3 star award in kayak to the 3 star OC award?
What the hell???
Posted: 08 Oct 2008 16:09
Kent Slalom
I received this in an email the other day.
There is a double Div 3/4 slalom competition being run by Hastings canoe club.
Brief Overview:
YALDING WEIR DIVISION 3 / 4
25th/26th October Yalding , Kent
First Race Saturday
Second Race Sunday
Kent & Sussex Open Sunday Only
See flyer for more info.
Posted: 07 Oct 2008 07:51
courses being run by bexley council
we need people to go on these courses for the clubs top club status with BCU please mark these dates in your diaries they are only provisional I will confirm more when I know.
27/11 Club for All
02/12 Funding for your club
10/12 Valueing your volunteer
11/11 Equity in coaching
19/11 First Aid
24/11 Safeguarding children
Times and cost to be confirmed
Posted: 29 Sep 2008 14:25
Wednesday Night General pool session's
Resonately numbers at this session have been dropping (down to 5 last night). This is a shout to those who wish the session to continue to use it before we lose it!!! The club cannot subsidize sessions continually when better use of pool time could be made.
In October we are promised a review both financial and usage by the club committee and also the long awaited Bexley Council review of pool usage by user clubs. This should confirm status of Thursday night sessions (Training pool/ Main pool split) or back to Sidcup or ???
Ada
Posted: 25 Sep 2008 07:10
Open Morning This Saturday 20th September
All,
PLease be aware the club will be running an open morning this Saturday at the lake.
This will mean an increased demand on Club boats and any help to look after the potential new members will always be welcomed.
Mark
Posted: 18 Sep 2008 09:32
Saturday 9th August
Hi All,
Please be aware that we are running the third of the come and try the club sessions on Saturday morning for people from the Bexly festival.
Mark
Posted: 07 Aug 2008 09:40
Thankyou
A big thankyou to June, Ada, Grace, Sam B, Sam K, Oli, Jaime, Ryan, Andy and Fran who all helped out lastnight with the boat safety session lastnight.
Congratulations to all who took part!
Posted: 24 Jul 2008 11:13
Teaching Rolling
Folks
If we are teaching rolling in the pool to the newbies then there are some videos which are certainly very helpful about the modern techniques of teaching. This is no endorsement and I am sure that many of the more experienced among us will have their own ideas, but it is a resource for those who have not gone down this path before.
http://www.exchile.com/KayakSchoolRollIdentifier.htm
Regards
Andy
Posted: 22 Jul 2008 06:59
WCA press release -- Tryweryn now free to paddlers!!
Has anyone else seen this press release from the WCA?
http://www.ukriversguidebook.co.uk/forum/viewtopic.php?t=38877
Looks like fantastic news!
Giles
Posted: 17 Jul 2008 14:57
Crooklog pool is unaffected by the council strikes
So the pool sessions will carry on as normal!
Posted: 16 Jul 2008 09:50
Danson festival-thanks
Hi all just a little message to say thank you to all that helped at danson festival this year. We had a lot of people this year to come and try kayaking/canoeing and we had about 500 people over the weekend so as you can imagine we was kept busy. We hope we have pulled a few people to join the club.
Many thanks to all that helped again.
Jake lewis
Youth Officer
Posted: 14 Jul 2008 12:51
Danosn Park This saturday 12th July
A few events on that may or may not impact on us.
GB Mens A team Training Day Saturday only
GB U21's Training Weekend
Skip in the park 3000+ people will try and break a world record. and they are meeting near the boathouse.
Meridian Canoe club will also be entertaining a few extra newbies from the danson festival
Posted: 11 Jul 2008 12:59
Equipment
As we enter the busy summer period please DO NOT REMOVE any kit from the Boathouse or Pool without permission. Further to the Danson Show several introduction days are being set up and we will be needing all our resources.
Ada
07917 020517
Posted: 07 Jul 2008 10:10
Safegaurding Children and Vulnerable Adults Course
Attention all Coaches
Attendance on the above course is likely to become mandatory for all coaches in the future.
There is a course being run under Bexley sponsorship on July 24th at the council offices in Welling. Normally a course like this would cost around £15 to £25 and may involve some distance to travel.
Because we are in the midst of applying for Top Club status, we have the opportunity to send MCC members on this course for the highly discounted price of £3! A bargain indeed.
Paul W, Teresa, and I are already scheduled to attend , does anyone else wish to join us and take advantage of this rate. Who knows when you might get this kind of offer again?
Please let me know either here or OG
Regards
Andy 
Posted: 29 Jun 2008 20:28
New Committee 08/09
The new committee is as follows.
Chairman Mark Preddy
Treasurer Paul Winslow
Secretary Sam Kavanagh
Membership Secretary Will Flanagan
Equipment Adrian Boyce
Communications Malcolm Blowers
Volunteers June Al-Malah
Top Club Andy Garlick
London International Jane Borrett
Youth Jake Lewis
Thanks finally to all of the committee members from last year for your time and hard work. And welcome to the new committee members for this year.
Mark
Posted: 10 Jun 2008 11:19
Bexley festival help needed! 05th 06th July
All club members please check the members area for more info
Posted: 26 May 2008 14:42
Parking at the lake Saturday 17th May
Please can you park on the road this Saturday unless you have Multiple Boats and Equipment to bring in to the park as it will be very busy due to the Wavehopper Challange and Other events taking place.
Ada
Posted: 15 May 2008 10:35
AGM - 9th June
Hi All,
This is to inform you that the Club's Annual General Meeting will be taking place on the 9th June 2008 from 8pm-10pm.
The venue is almost sorted but I wanted to let everyone know the date as soon as possible. I will update this post with the venue as soon as it has been decided.
*Edit - venue now Crook Log Leisure Centre Bar Area*
If you could post a reply here to say that you are aware of the date we will be able to save money/paper etc by not sending you this message in writing.
Many thanks,
Sam - Club Secretary.
Posted: 13 May 2008 07:27
Pontoons
The pontoons are going onto the lake this Sunday (27th April). If you can help please come down even if it's only for a while.
Posted: 24 Apr 2008 07:34
Thursday Night Pool Session
All,
Please be aware that pool session will be at the crook log facility between 9pm and 10pm until further notice.
THE 1ST HALF HOUR OF THIS SESSION WILL BE IN THE SMALLER POOL WITH THE SECOND HALF HOUR BEING IN THE MAIN POOL
All are of course welcome to come to this session and there is currently no plan to change the charges for this session.
Members please see the members only part of the forum for further infomation. Please do not reply back to this thread here for discussion use the members only area.
Mark
Posted: 01 Apr 2008 17:46