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St.ALOM Magazine 1

l- CONTENTS

sfjfom 11 Special Features I I t- I EDITOR: G.D.NEVIN Starter Slaloms 5 TYPESETTING: Slalom Magazine Inc (Hastings) I The official magazine of the B.C.U Slalom Seven Slalom Sessions 6 Executive, Adbolton Lane, Holme Pierrepont, Nottingham,NG12 2LU Team News 8 Disclaimer: The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the Editor Royal Purple 10 nor of the Slalom Executive. Pan Celtic Cup 11 SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions may be obtained at £7.50 for 5 Enlightenment of Man 14 issues post paid from :- Slalom Magazine. Hertwood Hill Farm. 117 Preston Road. Sort 16 Chorley. Lanes PR6 7 AX I Special Rates for overseas readers. Tryweryn 22 ADVERTISING Slalom Course Design 24 I'. Rates for the next issue are available from Joe Mulholland Tele: 0332 558 263. Coaching Parents 26 COPY Please send contributions to the Editor at Slalom International Calender 29 Magazine, 23 Manor Road, Hastings, East Sussex, TN34 3LL Fax: 0424-718572 l I Copy date for the next Issue I• :- ~ 22nd April 1991 Regular But please send earlier if possiblel ( l COVER PHOTO: Richard Fox. Augsberg I; World Cup{l'hoto: GDNJ Features INSIDE COVER: JoanJayca. Winter Training l_ {Photo: Joe MullhollandJ Opinion 2 •• Current Affairs 4 t- I Next Issue:- : : Regional Roundup 12 Coaching I I Junior Journalism 13 Conference • • Event Reports 28 Rising Costs Call Yourself a Coach?

Unfortunately rising costs have caught up with us - If the answer to that is yes and you weren't at the in fact overtaken us - and after three years of National Coaching Conference at HHP without a keeping the price of Slalom Magazine the same we darned good reason there is considerable doubt as can no longer manage it. to the validity of your answer. Some of the planned changes in format have been Some of the country's top experts were there and introduced in this issue and the change in type face much of the information was the results of the and layout have resulted in an increase of 20% in latest research. Your competitive paddlers will text area per page. suffer from your absence and, sadly, the success or failure of this country's slalom future rests in Unfortunately the change which we would really your hands. !llom have liked - colour - will have to wait until we can find an advertising sponsor to cover the cost.

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Mark Ratcliffe Bala Mill Pram Photo: Chris WorraU SLALOM Magazine 3

Treena Warman Prem K1 Lady Photo: Joe Mullholland 4 SLALOM Magazine Current Affairs

including Fatima Whitbread, Sally John Gregory (West Midlands) Gunnell, Tracy Edwards and the former Olympic gold medalist Mary as well as others. So please check Peters. Claire's day was complete your new yearbook for details of AU paddlers who wish to be consid• these and other changes. ered for the England Slalom when she learnt that she was runner-up in the schoolgirl class Team for 1991 should register their and she received her prize from top interest in taking part in the t------Selection Event by either showing lady jockey Gee Armitage. their valid B.C.U. Card to the staff .,_ -a of the England slalom Canoe Te~'!1 •.~ !~~.ll*l%½}11 stand No.402 at the Canoe Exh1b!- fflk~Jl°\li;t:i:l¼:fltl!i:,:i~:;1#J::8~ tion or sending a co~y of ~h~ir Anyone wishing to enter class C B.C:U· card to the team s Admmis- events is reminded that they need tranon Officer:- to send a £5 registration fee to Sue L'ecole Mrs A. Daniels, Wharton with entries for competi- Internationale de tion (list of events inside back The Dan, Fowbridga Gardens, cover). This is a change of procee• Canoe- Walford, Ross-on-Wye HR9 5RZ dure from the last two years when This should be received before 16 registration fees were part of March 1991. selection entry. Apprendre la technique de haut ------1 niveau. The Selection Event to be the Premier Division event at Holme Apprendre a se depasser, Pierrepont on 16/17 March 1991. Apprendre a preparer la competi• The Team this year will consist of tion. only 3 boats per class with g reserve boat in each class. The Dans un cadre exceptional: ·England Slalom Canoe Team • will BOURG ST MAURICE tske part in the 3 International Events to be run in the United LE BASSIN DES CHAMPIONNATS Kingdom during 1991 and other DU MONDE de 1987 continental events which are at r------1 De la COUPE DU MONDE 88 89 90 present being considered. Un des plus beaux sites d'entainement dans le monde

For further details ,;ontat:t Su• Wharton SLALOM Magazine 5 Starter Slaloms

Changes, Recommendations, and 6. Starter Slaloms. benef1't• to the lower divi.;ons These slaloms are non-ranking and can 1. There will no longer be a Novice be run by anyone; Slalom Division - this will become regions, clubs, Division Five. All entrants who are individuals, groups not promoted by the end of the and centres. There 1991 season will have their names are no hard and fast and clubs in the 1992 Year Book. rules - these slaloms AND CAMPING Hopefully this change will make are aimed at the both the older and the young very beginner CAMBRIDGE'S SPECIALIST paddlers who have not gained (maybe with a little promotion feel part of the ranking coaching), with 10 CANOESHOP system and not alienated from it. very easy gates on a SUPPLIERS OF SLALOM AND O11-IER placid or slow 2. A high volume boat prize class moving water and CANOE EQUIPMENT has been introduced in the new run for one day or CAMPING & BACKPACKING Division Five and extended to Div an evening in the EQUIPMENT 4. PROMOTION and RU LES have summer months. SKI-ING & LEISURE WEAR not changed in any way. * * It is thought that high volume Certificates can be MAIL ORDER SERVICE boats cannot compete against the supplied to organis• low volume boats. Boat specifica• ers, or a complete * LOOK OUT FOR OUR * tion for the HV class:- package on how to MOBILE TRADE ST AND Length 335 ems. Width 60 ems. run a Starter Slalom. * ATEVENTS * Weight 15 Kg. Cockpit height 30 Send a large, ems. stamped address SHOP OPENING HOURS envelope (12x8 9.30-6.00 TUES WED FRI These specifications should cover inches stamped 80p) 10.00-8.00 THURSDAY z most of the large plastic boats to:- 9.00-5.00 SATURDAY excluding the Ml Slalom Sport, Ml 171 High SL Chesterton Cambridge CB41NL Pro Sprint, the Reflex and boats of P. Hanover, I !f (0223) 311411 I this type. 10 Crowland Road, 1. . ___._ Hartlepool, 3. With the increase in numbers of Cleveland TS25 2JJ. Junior 14 paddlers in 1990 it was felt that the younger paddler A fee is set by the organiser and no should have a better opportunity levies are paid. When the BCU of gaining a prize, hence the 'taster' is used, which covers the intro_duction of a Junior 12 prize. entrants for some insurance cover, This now means that no-one is then £1 per competitor goes to the competing with other competitors Region. This means that the over two years older. The junior organisers who are willing to put in prizes are now J12, J14, J16 J18. the hard work will reap the rewards. These medals will be given by the executive. 7. Page 5 in the Slalom Magazine has been promised for all 4. You do not have to be a BCU comments and articles about member to enter Div 5 as entry can Divisions 5 and 4 - so lets have your be via the BCU taster supplement views and, more importantly, your (£2 above the entry fee). You can ideas on the development of the take this option as many times as sportl you wish although after a few slaloms it becomes cheaper to join Pete Hanover the BCU and gain its benefits. Slalom Development Officer

5. A £1 voucher will be given with all new full memberships in 1991, to be redeemed at their first slalom. ,

6 SLALOM Magazine

Variety la The Spice Of Life - try . Frequency - aim for 3/4 times in not to get stuck in the same old the period February/April. routine - experiment with new session designs. Try mixing Things to look out for:- Penalties • energy systems within a session - Where and Why? Were they vary the amounts whenever you repeated? Watch out for dramatic can - so long as you stick with the time differences between 1st and principles you'll be OK and it will 3rd runs - you're aiming to get it help avoid the grind . right firsttime 1111

To make this type of session realistic you need some outside help. Enlist some parent power - it SEVEN SAMPLES helps clue them in for the day . OF SLALOM SESSIONS ... al Design a full course as in session 1, approx. 180-200 secs. Alan Edge Select points for 3 lap splits. (approx. 1 minute in length) a) Design a course 180-200 secs in length. (This may have to be bl Prepare it as in session 1. several laps of your training gates. If so, try to make each lap a cl Full competition warm up. different course.) Don't make it too tight - 5/6 breakouts with 2/3 di 1 full run timed and scored with hese are aimed at Premier difficult downstream moves. To lap splits taken. Tdown to divisions 2/3 but get the required length you may may wall be of ganerai Interest have to incorporate 2/3 sprints el Have 3 runs on each split to most divisions. away from the gates to a marker section trying to beat your full run and back. split. Have at least twice rest to REMEMBER - always do your work. preplanned warm up before you b) Get out of your boat and start any type of training. It helps prepare the course from the ban. f) Add up your best split on section you get the most out of the Think before getting on, mentally and compare with your full run session, helps prevent injury and rehearse the course from start to time. The closer they are to each gives you a good idea of whether it finish. Time this thin rehearsal and other, the better. will be adequate on race day. see how it compares with your There is a very fine dividing line actual finish time. g) Finish with 1 more fult· run, between being nearly warmed up trying to beat your best 'possible' and doing too much. It needs ·c) Go through your full competi• time. If you succeed, you have working on in training until you tion warm up. This may have some work to dol know exactly what your body included what you intend to eat requires. and drink on race day. n) Frequency :- Jan/Mar - once a week on . RECOVERY Be as accurate as d) 3 full runs on the course. Time possible in timing the rest and score the practice run to see Be meticulous on penalties internals.they are important Also how effective your preparation especially on the 'section' work keep moving at 40% maximum was. leave at least 15 minutes throughout the recovery. Do not between runs so get out of your stop moving ..••••••••..•• boat and change into dry gear. BE PREPARED to reduce some of Don't forget to mentally 'review' the amounts for Junior paddlers your run before getting out and (U16 especially) they have a then go through each sequence smaller anmrobic capacity than from the bank. Go through any a) Full competition warm up. adults so be careful with session 3, changes to your 'mental plan' 6 and 7. before getting on again b) 6 x 30 secs, same rest, no gates. SLALOM Magazine 7

3 minutes steady paddling - 50% out of hand II technical 60-90 sec in length. NB Th is is a total ATP-CP session. Pace - Race Pace. e) 5 x 40 secs; - same rest, open Consider incorporating a part of course, 1 breakout this into other types of session - cl Take 3 times-active (40%) usually at the start - to keep your recovery. 3 minutes steady paddling - 50% work varied. di Repeat the course 6-8 times. d) 6 x 30 secs, 10 secs rest, no Proportion of ATP-CP work Aim for 2-4 times a onth Nov/Dec; gates through the year :- 4-8 times a month Jan/March. Keep this session ticking over during the Nov/Dec 10-15% season - once a week approx. 3 minutes steady -50% Jan/Feb 25-30% Mar/Competition season up to 50% Typical Feelings: you should be el 10 x 30 secs, 50 secs rest, depending on individual. open staggers, 2 breakouts tight and tired at the end of each run; Ready to go again after 5 minutes warm down. recovery; Gradual build up of lactic fatigue over the session. Typical feelings: Lactate Build up through the session (see session 71 - active recovery essential The aim here is to work at a sub• - Competition the best motivator maximal pace - just short of where for this session. - lactic acid starts to build up fl -Frequency:• quickly. It is important that you can The aim here is to with high Nov/Dec 2-4 a month recognise when you are working at levels of lactate for prolonged Jan/Mar 6-8 a month this pace. Heart Rate can be a good periods. This stimulates the body's The 'no gates' intervals are better indicator once you know your own ability to tolerate lactate build up. as mass starts for motivation. body. Usual range is 150-170/beats (Coaches beware of having too but it can vary. Aim to avoid:• al Very thorough competition many paddlers on the water for this burning and tightness in your warm up. session). muscles/nausea and sick feelings/ losing control of your breathing. bl 30-45 sec course / 4-6 runs per course/ 2-4 courses. Typical Feelings: Gradual build up of anaerobic fatigue through the cl Recovery: Same or slightly less, session. you should-feel in control active paddling at 40% (very important to help clear the lactate a) Full warm-up for the majority of this session. Incorporate other aims like:• build up. bl 5 x 12-20 secs course with at consistency of repeating moves on least 3 times rest (maybe up to 5 whitewater/ gate accuracy/ penalty di Some upstream paddling (back times) between each run. Intensity - elimination. to the start for instance) is good for Flat out, On moving water gates if increasing the pressure. possible with each course involving a) Warm up maybe a 2-4 gate sequence. el Typical feelings: Muscle tightness, burning sensation, cl Take at least 3 mins rest and bl Design a course 2 - 4 minutes - no desperate moves - repeat up to nauseous - sick feeling. Careful repeat on a different course (if what you eat before this session I possible on a different piece of 6 times with 1/2 to the same rest. water) Typical Feelings:- Maximal - cl 2-4 sessions a week November f) 2-4 a month - Nov/Dec High Quality effort with a 'totally 4-8 a month --Jan/Mar recovered feeling' before you go to February. 1 per fortnight through the season. Once a fortnight in the season - again. Avoid doing this session in the 4 Aim for 5 repeats maximum hence days before an event ..... the nickname '5 on 5'. - This session can also have the As I said at the start - use your dual purpose of 'grooving' a partic• imagination to get the best out of ular move. The aim here is for absolute your training time and your - Vary the difficulty by putting the maximal work over 60-90 secs to training site. Try tobecome more occasional tough move 1 n - Don% reach and work at your peak lactate aware of howoyour body is overdo itl - Some well-matched level. reacting to the work. Slalom is a company can make this v. competi• complex event and involves all the tive and enjoyable. a) Vary thorough competition type energy systems - try mixing and be - Keep a check on penalties - be warm-up. constantly on the lookout for new realistic about pace - and be severe ideas • The moment you think that with yourself if they start getting b) Design a course - not too you know It all - you"re dead . 8 SLALOM Magazine Team News

Winter Squads GB Teams Abroad Intermediates are planning on a few days at Seu followed by a All three National Squads and the There is a lot of International competition at a favourite site for Counties' squads have been paddlinq to be done this year. many paddlers, Bourg St Maurice working well though the Winter. Starting with a training week in With the Olympic cycle that applies Juniors started off with measure• Seu - water permitting - in March to the ages of this Team the limit is ment and testing enthusiastically and a Squad training week in U26, dropping to U23 next year. completed by the staff at Millers in Tacen in May. The selected Team Llandyssul. On being tested for are then to spend a few days at In CSFR, at Spindleruv Mlyn during guilty consciences they passed nith Augsburg on the way to the World May, a new addition to the GB flying colours only to be (very) Championships in Tacen. nhe norld Team competing calender is the relieved on realisinq they had been Cup circuit of 3 races, Mezzana, U21 Team. The U17 Team compete set up by the Management! Augsburg and Reals Herault, leads in Prague in August, also in CSFR . up to a multi-nation training camp A set of edited results from these Intermediates have been pacticular• in Seu culminating in the Pre• ly successful in putting together a events are available in broadsheet Olympic competition. The two form at the beginning of squad identity which is clearly World Cup races in America offer a encouraging all to keep quality in September, provided that you have final opportunity to compete at a sent the Olympic Team Manager £5 training. Seniors have had two full World ranking level. squad weekends and each class in advance. Profits go towards has had several opportunities to There is an exciting time in Team funds. There must be lots of work out in Class groups. The skill Sweden /Norway at the Pre-Worlds you who would like to look at the factor demonstrated at these for the Junior Team. Most of the form of both our own and other weekends has been hiqh and we Team selected will be U17, nations' paddlers - here is your are in for an extra exciting year's preparing for the 1992 event but opportunity. competition. there are a few places for U18 's.

-· Advertise your 1991 Slalom here and give newcomers to the sport some idea of what YOU have to offer, attract judges with prize information etc ..

Tell everyone about the great food served from 7am 'tll 8pm, the free video show, the B-B-Q, the showers, the friendly help from control. Don't let your talents and efforts go to waste!

We can Increase your entries just by putting your event on the map. £10 nominal charge for quarter page including artwork (or supply your own).

No charge U we don't publish by our stated deadline!

., !' SLALOM Magazine 9 Pearls of Wisdom

Nottingham Watching This brings up a major point in and have dry kit available spare your winter training preparations:• pogies too, if necessary, so that the Just as bird watchers net excited after any session in cold weather paddler isn't putting on a cold wet when they come across the how are you going to get your layer to start with. unexpected so it was at Notting• paddlers warm again. Its often ham Slalom Course this winter. overlooked in the need to have the Following the session, more hot session planned, but after-session drinks and dry clothes to change Gareth Marriott is often seen care should be planned as well, into. pounding his way down the course especially for younger paddlers. time after time. hut what about the This may all seem simple and following stranger in red - he Have plenty of hot drinks available obvious but can easily be looked useful in a Cl and Gareth and warm dry clothing. It is better overlooked. Off water preparation was showing signs of talking to to wear several thinner layers than in cold weather is as important as a him - a rare sight indeed. one thick one. well planned water session,

Closer inspection revealed the If you are out for the day and you Not everyone can be invited to a "useful" stranger to be none other plan to do more than one water G.B. organised training weekend, than the great John Lugbill. session, a really wholesome HOT but everyone can be organised for Champion of everything he has meal is essential to put back the training - a warm, happy paddler tackled in a C1 and over here energy used in just keeping warm, should be everyone's aim.(/) winter training - the jetstream never mind paddling as well! really had done wellll Actually Pearl Mullholland John's wife is English and has For the second water session, try relatives in Derby to so it was a nice Christmas break for him. The other "rare bird" who flew in on the jetstream was Jed Prentiss another of the great American C1 paddlers.

Nice change to see them both here - is it the start of a new winter migration or is it to keep tabs on Gareth's progress as he steps up his challenge to the American C1 supremacy?

Winter Training or Training for Winter?

Some of the winter training weekends attended by groups of our top paddlers have seen near arctic conditions, far removed from the record high temperatures and drought during last summer.

John Macleod, G.B.Olympic Team Manager, has been out and about this winter checking on the form of both Senior and Intermediate Squad members. At one of the Senior weekends held on the Serpents Tail section of the River Dee near Llangollen paddlers had a particularly cold weekend with biting winds, high river levels and snow to contend with. Jon Lugbill - The World"s Greatest C1 Paddler. ••.. so farl Photo: J Mullh. 10 SLALOM Magazine Old Soldiers Never Die

·01d Soldiers never die, they only result so that even if there are no Harwood, Tony Shenton, Peter fade away• • or so the saying goes. other vets at the slalom they will Hart, Alan Cleall and Danny Daniels In the world of slalom the opposite still get a result. to mention but a few. The first is the case. Far from fading away 4- There is a large, impressive mentioned Alan Harwood, sadly the vets in the Div. 2 to 4 sector are trophy presented annually at the died on the Conwy early in 1990 taking on a new lease of life and Crystal Palace Canoe Exhibition. just before he was due to receive discovering talents that were never Bei'lg able to compete in any the Trophy at the Exhibition. In really tapped when they were division between 2 and 4 is a tribute I will say that his competi• divisional paddlers- There seems to considerable attraction to anyone tive spirit was inspiring. He was be a trend of thought that who has the joy of taking offspring never going to be beaten by any considers the veteran division as a or younger club-members to effort less than 100% from the rest staging post between the end of slaloms. It makes the weekend of us. one's competitive career and falling more interesting than spending it off the proverbial 'perch'. In a entirely on dry land; by competing Effort for the vet is often harder to recent edition of 'Slalom make than in years gone by- It Magazine', Colin Thompson h takes longer to get fit; muscles wrote an excellent article take longer to recover from extolling the virtues of C2 hard training and racing. paddling. He particularly Recurring injuries heal tantal• stressed the camaraderie isingly slowly and the last ten that is evident at all levels gates of courses are often of C2 competition and also sheer agony, but the success the extended challenge of that sometimes arrives is that class ie.,the need to sweet and fulfilling even communicate with and though it goes largely work with your partner; the unnoticed by everyone else. added problem of getting a bigger boat through gates Some of the slalom sites are made for skinny . Having popular, especially Holme paddled C2 from Novice to with them you also become their Pierrepont Div. 3, where there Premier, I can support all of Colin's first target which is good motiva• are usually about nine to ten vets in views. The added challenge, the tion for them! close competition. There are also comradeship and the heightened fair competitions at Symonds Vat, sense of achievement form the Other paddlers conceptions of the Tryweryn and sometimes even at basis of my experience as a veteran are probably very mixed Cardington. What is needed is competitive veteran. and judging by the reluctance of more people to declare veteran ; numerous eligible people to more experienced slalomists to Having competed as a veteran declare veteran I can only conclude think again before retiring- It is since 1985, I have consistantly that there must be problems- One possible to move on from the improved the standard of my kayak of them could be the inappropriate divisional system where motivation paddling and see the competitions rabel of 'Veteran', a term which has and progress have long since as offering realistic, achievable connotations with the old crocks disappeared. Come on then you targets which continue to motivate that chug their way annually down 'guys and gals' join the vets and me throughout each season. The to Brighton. Maybe a solution enter lots of events; make more advantages of being a veteran are easy to outline: might be to refer to the age group slaloms worthwhile for all of us. I as we do With juniors eg: J16, but I 1. Competition against people of look forward to the 1991 season think that attitudes need to change and the forthcoming head-to-head similar age and ability can motivate first- If you look at the majority of the paddler to do well against battles with those mentioned veterans who compete regularly in above and with anyone else who them. division 2 to 4, you will see well 2· Veterans are friendly towards wants to get out of the divisional motivated, competitive paddlers rut and join a circuit of meaningful each other, they encourage each who will give the bulk of paddlers other and commiserate with each competition. My first race will be in those areas a good run for their on the first weekend at Yalding other when the run fails to go to money. plan. and, yes, I am throwing down the 3- The Vet against the 'gauntlet' to all 'vets' in the South Past winners of the Careward and others ifthey can make it· divisional paddlers as well as other Trophy all typify this fighting spirit. veterans and scores an equivalent My game has improved markedly points total which contributes in response to the challenges towards his/her end of season thrown out by people such as Alan SLALOM Magazine 11 Pan-Celtic Cup Reborn 7

It is proposed that in 1991 the Five Nation Slalom Competition should take the form of the Pan-Celtic Cup. This is a competition which has not taken place, as such, for a few years. The rules of the Five Nations competition state that there should be three events during the year in Wales, England or Scotland and Ireland or northern Ireland . For 1991 it is being considered that the Scottish event should be the A BCU APPROVED COURSE ADJACENT TO TH Grandtully International in March and the Welsh event SLALOM COURSE AT HOLME PIERRREPONT the Llangollen International in October. Unfortunately the Irish are not able to stage a suitable event at any time that is not already likely to conflict with a major • SLALOM SCHOOL & event in the UK, therefore they will be foregoing their event this year and a substitute event will now be the SLALOM CLINIC Holme Pierrepont International in July. This will bring the total number of events back to the original total of three and on this basis it should be possible to • COMPLETE TRAINING reinstate the Pan-Celtic Cup. PACKAGES& Scoring INDIVIDUAL TUITION The scores from the revised form of the Pan-Celtic Cup will be based on a minimum points tally over the three events to produce the winning team. At each event • RUN & COACHED by and in each class in the individual event the points will be awarded as; 1 point to the winner, 2 points to the second place, 3 points to the third place etc with an Leading Slalom additional 2 points added to the final points awarded in that class to any non-competing entry. If there 4 Coaches teams taking part and 2 of those teams have only 2 paddlers the lowest place competitor would net 10 points and any noncompeting place would therefore • COURSES FOR get 12 points. If 11 paddlers took part the single PADDLERS FROM noncompeting place would take 11+2=13 points. In the team event the scoring is to be based on the same NOVICE TO DIV 1 system but with the points for each position halved• Thus the first team in each event will take 1/2 a point, the second placed team 1 point, the third 11/2 points or any noncompeting team an additional 2 points on ALSO the final score of the last placed team in that event.

The Future • CAFETERIA FREE CAR PARK It is anticipated that "The Pan-Celtic Cup" would be run as part of each of the International events and the • FREE SHOWERS & CHANGING ROOMS scoring derived form the results within that event It is • FACILITIES FOR MEETINGS hoped therefore to run The Pan-Celtic Cup in this form for 1991 and produce a workable basis on which the AND ORGANISED COURSES Cup can be run in future years. For 1992 and beyond the possibilities are already being discussed for a new and enlarged "National" competition. Send S.A.E. for details or phone:• CURRENT TRENDS For Sale ADBOLTONLANE,WESTBRIDGEFORD tJ;r., •nny• Slalom Kayak NOTTINGHAM NG2 SAS Suitable for young Paddler up to 91'a atone £150 Telephone: 0602-818844 Tele: 0234 720511 •••

12 SLALOM Magazine REGIONAL ROUNDUP

Region Cub and Individual Champion- eligible for,or able to attend any of Eastern Region 1hipa were held in July at Cardington: the above events then selection the event waa very well attended and shall be at the Selection Slalom Hemel Hempstead won the Slalom Committee's discretion. After a very aucceuful mini slalom Sport.a Shield with Viking Kayak Club aeries the slalom season got underway and Cambridge Canoe Club finishing 2. In all cases selection to the team is with two division 4/N event.a being run 2nd and 3rd respectively. Thanks to dependeht on those eligible being at Duclc:mill and Batchworth followed Viking for the loan of their equipment of sufficient standard,in the opinion by a division 3 event at Cardington, and caravan. of the Selection Committee for the (although under the Viking Kayak Club event. banner this event was organiaed and Many promotions took place during 3. All paddlers wishing to be consid• run by the Eastern Region Slalom the season with most premier and ered must inform J.Croft by postn Team.) During the 1990 season seven Division 1 paddlers improving their with age, club, full address & division 4/Nov, three division 3, one positions, with names Croft at 18th in telephone number divisional status division 2 ranking events and three premier the highest placed under 16 and enclosing 2xS.A.E.(if not non-ranking event.a, two of them being since Richard Fox in the late seventies. already sent) National Championships including the Justin Barnes moved up to 26th, and Under 14 and the new Under 16 Janet Johnson to 10th in premier 4. If you are intending to go for Championships, and the National Inter• ladies. Selection for any of the Home Club Finals both at Cardington. Thanks to all who helped the team Nations you must inform the during 1990, with special thanks to Selection Committee at time of On the International scene the Eastern Mike Carter, Eastern Region Sports applying for consideration. Region Slalom Team attended two Council, Renault UK, Stopsley Motor Event.a in Holland and Belgium During Co, Kodak ltd, P c O European Ferries, May. With a Team of 16 induding for Slalom Sports and the Paddlers. Zwickau Selection the first time under-16 paddlers. In the past with have tanen a team representing the Eastern Region to an Although we did not take top honours, Jim Croft, Eastern Region Team all did very well and were a credit to Manager International over the May day Bank the sport and the Region. In late May at holiday this has normally been Efteling Cardington 18 Regional Paddlers and Eupen, Efteling is not being hald competed for 8 places to take part in Eastern Selection Policy for until September this Year, so we will be the Troja Horse International being Llangollen October 26/27 taking a team to Zwickau in the Eastern held in Prague, Czechoslovakia - a 1991 side of Germany. double International. 15 nations took Selection Committee Jim Croft.Ray part, many with National teams. Croft & Mike Carter. Selection Policy: Although we did not come away with The Selection Event will be Cardnngton any medals all finished in the top half Mens Kl Snr: Tryweryn (P) 1/2 June Div 3 March 16117 this will also be a beating many national champions. Cardington (0) 20/21 fundraiser for the trip.If you are in Notable performance• came from July Regional Champs Division One you must attended all Justin Barnes finishing 11th Janet Trvweryn - (1) 21/22Sept weekend.if you are in Premier you Johnson and Allison Runnegar 10th must attend on the Sunday; all will be and 11th overall. Also in August James Competing in the Officials Event. You Croft went to Scandinavia under his Mens K1 Jnr: Tryweryn (1) 6/7 July will also be expected to HELP run tha own steam and won the junior slalom Cardington 10) 20/21 Event. in Norway and the senior slalom sprint July Regional Champs in Sweden. Tryweryn (1) 21/22 SeDt We also hope to gc to Czechoslovakia again this year taking part in two In October the International scene ladies, Cl, C2. Tryweryn IP) 1/2 June Internationals during August. (It !s moved to Llangollen. In thi1 event the Cardington (0) 20/21 unlikely we will take any juniors on this region were represented by Allison July Regional Champs trip.) Runegar and James Croft competing Tryweryn (1) 21/22 Sept for England with Nonie Coulthard, The Selection Committee, whose i Steve Bodie and Alex nope competing ·winner" (ie,highest placed Eastern decision shall be final, is Jim Croft for Scotland. In the Inter Regional event Region paddler) at each of the Team Manager, Ray Croft and Mike the region did not do as well as 1989 nominated event.a. In the event that the Carter. but the Senior Men's Team were in the same person ·Wins" more than one medals, and Alan Heume won a Gold event then other places will be on a If you wish to be considered, you Medal • In the C2 event we had to bring ranking basis drawn up from the best should be in Premier or Division one a division 3 crew because of the aad of2from3. although, depending on your ability, 1081 of Tony Ambridge'• Mother, and (All paddlere not in Div I or premier Division two might be considerd. atthough this crew swam on their run wishing to be considered should enter (one of many ) the team were plea-.d the Officials events at the above.Their Yon should send 2 stamped addressed with them: they were Neil Cowen and result.a will be compared with the main envelopes to Jim Croft NO LATER than Ken McGregor from Proteus Canoe event.) March 1st 1991. Club. Many thanb for turning up at Llangollen with only two days notice. 1. In the event that, in any category Jim Croft. 12 Holmacroft Road, Back to local eventl, the Eastern no competitore from the Region are Luton,Beda LU3 2TJ SLALOM Magazine 13

Supporting Slalom Britain's E friendliest en mail order I am a 13 year old Division 5 company paddler and Newbury Canoe Club ·- member. On December 20th 1990 I had a display stand at my We can supply you school's annual hobbies day, I set up my kay!!k on ropes, with slalom with the right poles either side to give the impres• sion of canoeing through gates and I had display boards showing canoeing product photographs of myself training, competing etc. Included was a at the right price display I made of Shaun Pearce (a former pupil at the school) and played canoe videos with lots of posters, magazines and books on display. The stand attracted a great deal of interest from teachers, parents and pupils and I was really pleased to win second prize in the • competition for the best stand. This would be a good time to thank all the companies, the BCU and other individuals for all their help and advice to me on this project.

Jonathan Newman It is good that not only are youngsters doing things to promote Slalom they are also telling us about it. We will publish as many of this as we can - and we • will correct the spelling too {most of the time!}. -ED

Photo:Jonathan at Redlocks 14 SLALOM Magazine The Enlightenment of Man

Long, long ago, lost in the mists of ambition. Finally he left home and they paddled in unison and their time, there lived a boy called journeyed to the S/alomist Shrine thoughts channelled toward the Canoeist. From an early age in the city called White Water. Here same objectives. Their craft moved Canoeist had been interested in the he was accepted by an institution swiftly across the river as they way of life of the Slalomist Tribe. called College and was surrounded relied on each other's skills and The members of this tribe always by many people who shared his abilities. Canoeist and partner appeared to be fit and healthy, they ambitions. intuitively knew that they had to followed a natural outdoor life and leave their respective sects and join appreciated the power of the rivers Canoeist quickly settled into his the Canadian Doubles. This was the and seas. The Slalomists had a new life; but soon he began to feel true way forward. special relationship with the most that something was missing. The fearsome rivers in the land and excitement seemed to be Both Canoeist and Partner knew performed many strange yet disappearing from his life and this that what they intended to do intriguing rituals which usually worried him greatly. He talked to would be difficult with many more involved getting wet. The many people and eventually a wise new and larger difficulties in their Slalomists had a language of their Elder, Old One Stick, advised him path. Both of them had felt the own and talked in strange tongues to leave the kayak sect and join the anguish of starting at the beginning about awe inspiring feats of skill C7 sect before; it would be a long and and bravery. Their camaraderie arduous road and it would be was evident, especially during their Canoeist followed this advice, but difficult to hone their joint skills in frequent travels about the land and on doing so found that he had to this new and mysterious art. They their pilgrimages to distant lands learn many more difficult rituals. knew that if they stayed in their far to the North and South. His relationship with The River own disciplines they would always changed and he looked at things in have a feeling of missing Canoeist's parents were supportive a new way. He fought with The something and to achieve true of their son's aspirations for they River on many occasions and The fulfilment they had to join the saw that the Slalomists, despite the River seemed to win many of those highest sect strange and frequently changing battles. Canoeist did find renewed dress, provided a healthy purpose excitement though and he was Unbeknown to Canoeist and in life for their young offspring. determined to overcome the many Partner people looked on from afar Canoeist joined the large sect of obstacles in his way. He adapted and approved of their decisions as Kayaks and spent many happy hours in their company. The Kayakists encouraged Canoeist and taught him to communicate as one with the river and he learnt their many rituals.

Being young, strong and intelligent Canoeist learnt quickly and passed upwards through the . Kayak hierarchy. Indeed he came to the notice of the tribal Elders who had - a special interest in the develop- For several moons Canoeist ment of young Slalomists. They exhibited exceptional flair formed a band of young people and promise and he knew who travelled to far off lands and that he had found a tested their skills against the young discipline that pleased him. of other Kingdoms. Canoeist Then one summer's day enjoyed this greatly and on one . Partner, a friend of similar occasion was found to exhibit ability from the Kayak sect and superior skills to the others. He was Canoeist paddled together r awarded a memento of the in the same craft. A occasion and enjoyed the praise curious sense of and adulation of those around him. destiny overcame As Canoeist grew up his ambition them and to get to the top of the SIB/omist they saw hierarchy became stronger. He The Light. made many plans to achieve this Instinctively ,I . I I SLALOM Magazine 15

r l

Andy Smith and Tony Brown PramiarC2 Photo: Andy Neave 16 SLALOM Magazine SORT CANOE FESTIVAL

Look out of the window. Walk presentation of trophiua down the street. Stand on the followed by a great feast, a sort river bank (especially with a of barbecue with loads of food stopwatch in each hand); its and drink. The trophies have to cold, its windy, its wet and be seen to be believed both in generally pretty unpleasant, size and quantity, there's a prize definitely time to think about the for just about everything. We summer holidays. came home with so much hardware that it was amazing I had been receiving information we didn't have trouble with the on the Sort Festival for the last customs, my contribution being twenty five years and I'd always a veteran bronze medal for one fancied going; last year we of the slaloms, I think there may finally made it. It turned out to have been four in the event. be one of the best holidays we •I have ever had, fantastic weather, out of this world I fully recommend this rally to scenery, wonderful water, good anyone as a great holiday; its competition, and the most fun, its friendly and its a bit friendly welcoming people more of what a slalom used to we've ever met. be in my day. Sort is a small town set high in the beautiful Spanish Chris Masters Pyranees on the banks of the Rio Noguera Pallaresa. The rivers is dam released, there usually being two releases per day, certainly during the festival. The water ranges from grade II to V although the grade V stretches are not used in the rally. Sort is not far from Seu d' Urgel where the 1992 Olympic slalom will be held, and very close to Andorra. The weather here is wonderful with hot sunshine and the occasional thunder storm to cool you down. while we were there the temperature was usually in the '30s. The opening ceremony of the festival in the Main Square in Sort is a magnificent affair, flags flying, music blaring, speeches and hundreds of people everywhere - it seems as if the whole town has joined in the celebrations. The rally consists of two interna• • Models to carry tional slaloms, one at Sort the other at Llavorsi, about up to 21 ten miles upstream. There is an lnternanonel decent, a cross kayak event and a rolling competition. Every day • Choice of Stowage as well as the competitive events there are touristic Boxes descents organised on different stretches of the river, on some of which the scenery is absolutely breath• • All models include lights taking while passing through incredible gorges. At the and jockey wheels end of all the descents large quantities of San Miguel beer, (San Miguel sponsor the rally) wine witti fruit in e Built to latest EEC it (very nice) and soft drinks are laid on for the Regulations Paddlers. One thing to remember is that the Spanish attitude to time is somewhat different from ours, five • Standard Trailers Ex Stock • Made to measure service minutes late starting an event is not a disaster its a •f bloody miracle an hour late is pretty good too. No one seems to know exactly when the river is coming up, on asking, •soonr• is the usual reply but don't worry HAYllnG TRAllERj it will come up and when it does it will be great. THE HAYLING TRAILER COMPANY LTD 254.\ Havant Road Hayling Island ~e P011 OLW The coming up of the river causes great activity, the Tel: 0705 464176 sun worshippers make way for boats being quickly Fax: 0705 463069 fixed to roof racks and loads ·of canoe laden cars belting up the narrow roads. The rally closes with the SLALOM Magazine 17

For slalom information including craft from Perception - Reflex, Nomad, Pyranha and Arrowcraft together with accessories from Wild-Water, Freeblades, Propulsion, MI, Diamond, Bushsport etc. Please contact Melvyn Jones

Information on all other requirements, Personal and Contract, including Ace, Prijon, Pyranha, Perception, Ml, Coleman, Arrowcraft (new Aquabat) and accessories from Chang, Tornado, Helly-Hansen, Javlin, Lendal, Schlegal, Kober, New Wave etc. Please contact Tim Houghton I

MID. I. AN.--·· D'. S·. '\ ·•-

;\Vest IYJ.i(Upds 'J~oe.~~~e~ .· '·· .·. :·;, :··:·' . · · J 12 ··New.hall Street~ Wjlletjhal,l, W~ $.t Midlaiids WV13 lLO. ;, • .· :.;l-', - . ' . . . . - . 18 SLALOM Magazine England Canoe SlalomTeam

This year it has been necessary to make The England Slalom Canoe Team a smaller unit than in 1990. This will make the team more acceptable to our other competitors in events like The Pan·Celtic Cup and gill mean that The Enland Team in some peoples eyes will be poaching fewer paddlers from potential regional teams. By the mix of paddlers selected for The Enland Team we will also be able to consider in greater detail which continental events would be most advantageous for The Juniors or Seniors to visit or to make a combined team for some continenal series of events. The Team will consist of 3 paddlers in each class of ; Kl Men Seniors Kl Ladies Seniors K1 Men Juniors Kl Ladies Juniors Cl&C2 The team will also have 1 named and nominated reserve per class.

The events which the England Team will compete in will be the 3 International events in the United BeA Kingdom;

The Grandtullylnternational on 30/31 march , Prudent The Holme Pierrepont International on July 13/14 and Thellangollen International on 26/27 October. Paddler For 1991 it is hoped that these events will in each case be combined with the Scottish, English and Welsh legs of the 5 nations Cup. This, it is hoped, will form Insure your Canoe the re-emersence of the Pan-Celtic Cup which has not been competed for in recent years. The Management & Equipment Team for the Team will consist of; • New for old cover Team Manager Ian Janes • .. Full all risks:.. on and off the water Assistant Manager Bill Simpson • Personal accident cover THm Administrayor. Annette Daniels Treasurer Cliff Barnes • £1000 000 liability cover Coaching Advisor Liz Sharman • Cover for all grades of white water and Competition • Discount for clubs Contact Samantha for further details.

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20 SLALOM Magazine

Jonathon Parkes Div 1 KiM at Nottinham Photo: Joe Mullholland

.. ,_ !-" '·.'o-:·._.?t.f/::f:. :,i·· . ,, •.•-. .1•-·-.---: .:.-:·- .,.:.:,.,,,, ,..•; ~_.. : .a;,-;~;: :-_L. • 4~-.-M'!!.! • •l il"'. ~-:- . .Peter Francis up to his neck in it Photo:Chris warral SLALOM Magazine 21

.-.~~'":l;!::\._

Laura Blakeman Photo: A N Other 22 SLALOM Magazine Canolfan Tryweryn, The National White Water Centre

one of the most attractive parts of is also an Hydro Electric the river which offers exciting dam and again this also has an paddling for the canoeist. The effect on release times and white water and the rugged volumes. surroundings all add to the excite• rashing white water and ment of this part of the river. Cfantastic foaming fun, this is In a typical year, there would be at Canolfan Tryweryn, the National least 180 days when some kind of Slalom competitors in the past White Water Centre is based on release is made for operational have generally criticised the gate , Bala in North purposes. However, this figure is system here at the Tryweryn and it Wales. The site of the 1981 World dependent on the weather during seemed poor in comparison to the and Wild Water the year. system at Holme Pierrepont. But Racing Championships. It is one of from January 91, a new gate the major Canoeing sites in Europe During the summer months when system has been introduced, a and one of only a few permanent long dry weather is expected the looped pulley system with poles sites anywhere in the World. The National Rivers Authority (N.R.A) in suspended off the line. During the Centre which provides training and conjunction with Welsh Water first part of this development, 100 recreational facilities for all grades Authority (Dwr Cymru) release of these gate systems have been of Canoeists and non canoeists water from Llyn Celyn so that erected, giving a wide range of who want to experience the thrills Wercsam, Chester and the towns manoeuvres on the course which and adventure of wild water. and villages of North Wales, are easy to position. Cheshire and Merseyside do not The original management structure run dry, so when the weather is hot Renovations are also being carried of the centre was set up in 1982 and dry the river is more likely to out within the centre building, under a number of bodies but the be open for activities within the improving the changing facilities day to day running was in the centre boundaries, and conversely, and toilets, also creating enough hands of the B.C.U. Last April, the when the weather is wet there is a room to incorporate a lecture room Welsh Canoeing Association took likely chance that no release will be which can hold up to 20 people. over sole responsibility for the made due to the fact that N.R.A This facility is ideal for pre/post running of the Centre and aims to and Dwr cvmru feel there is training seminars and the showing bring both site and facilities to a sufficient water in the River Dee to of training videos. standard worthy of its International meet the demand, and in this way status. nothing goes to waste. Plans for a new Centre building are also in progress and we could Water is released from Llyn Celyn During the Winter months expect work to be started on that (which can hold as much as eighty (October,Novem ber,December) the within the next 18 months so that one thousand million cubic meters water is held back, the taps are the centre will be ready to host the of water ), and flows down the switched off and the dam is next World Championships (WWRI Afon Tryweryn into Llyn Tegid allowed to fill so that it can in 1995. Plans are well under way (Bala Lake) and then on down the replenish its stock after the for improving the water, with Alan River Dee. summer. The period of time the Edge and Melvin Swallow ensuring water is held back is dependent on that when boulders and gabions Some users of the Centre still the amount of rain that falls and are placed on the river bed, that believe that water is released for also the amount used during the they enhance the river to a the sole purpose of canoeing and summer. However the N.R.A and paddler's dream, making Canolfan , and that the centre W.W are always keen to start Tryweryn worthy of its internation• management is responsible for the releasing again due to the fact they al status. volume and times of releases. can earn money through generat• Both Llyn Celyn , Llyn Tegid, and ing electricity. Afon Tryweryn, and the Dee are all IAN BEBBINGTON part of the complex Dee Regulation Many of the regular users of the Assistant Manager Scheme whereby water is extracted centre will have noted some signifi• from the river Dee at 8 major cant changes since it was opened abstraction points along its course in 1982. One the major transforma• from Bala to Chester it serves both tions is the graveyard site. Back industries and residential areas before the last World Champion• alike. This is the major influence ship, this site was inaccessible affecting the releases down the from the banks, heavily over grown Tryweryn and the reason the dam and swamp like. This section has was built. now been laid with paths and is SLALOM Magazine 23

Tryweryn • Fast and Furious

"'

RAS DEX congratulate Lynn Simpson and Shaun Pearce, British Slalom Champions 1990, who make RAS DEX their choice. New from RAS DEX deuelopments The Lycra Cagoule Seal A new feature on the Race Deck, designed to prevent water passing the cagoule waist band. Tested by top premier paddlers and voted a winner. UNRESTRICTIVE ... COMFORTABLE ... EFFICIENT check it out RAS DEX, Robert Soothill, 18 Woodside View, Halifax, West Yorkshire, HX3 6EH. Telephone: 0422 341856 or 0602 455786 24 Sl.ALOM Magazine SLALOM COURSE DESIGN Alan Edge

An Analysis of Slalom Course examine any 'trends' that may above 6 events, ie totals from all 6 Design at World Cup exist in current International events divided by 6 giving an course design practice. average figure per event. (See Events and the Pre-Worlds below for details per event) Championships During 1990 Data was used from:- NB The below data was compiled By Alan Edge - Olympic WAUSAU, SAVAGE, AUGSBERG, as objectively as possible. Coach, Great Britain BOURG St MAURICE, TACEN Wherever where there is a subjec• World Cup and TACEN Pre-Worlds. The aim of this paper is to compile tive estimate it has been taken by some of the variables involved in The figures given below are the coaches and paddlers of the course design during 1990 and to averages of all the data from the 1990 GB Slalom Team.

Wausau Savage Augsberg Bourg Tacen Tacen Average (WCup) (Pre-Worlds) Number of gates 25 25 25 25 20 21 23.50 Number upstream 8 8 8 9 9 8 8.3 Average winning total 204 193.5 193.5 179.2 137.5 119.2 171.2 % clean runs MK1 (top 10) 55.0% 70.0% 60.0% 65.0% 55.0% 45.0% 58.3% % clean runs LK1 (top 10) 35.0% 55.0% 35.0% 25.0% 15.0% 15.0% 30.0% % clean runs C1 (top 10) 40.0% 60.0% 45.0% 50.0% 30.0% 35.0% 43.3% % clean runs C2 (top 10) 15.0% 25.0% 20.0% 10.0% 10.0% 15.0% 15.8% Number of reverse moves 2 1 1 2 1 2 1.5 Number of 'S'/merano 1 1 2 1 0 3 1.3 Double upstream/figure 8 2 1 1 1 2 3 1.7 2 gate offsets 3 4 2 4 2 1 2.7 3/4 gate offsets 0 1 1 1 0 2 0.8 Downstream in/half in eddy 3 4 3 3 0 0 2.2 Key move before Breakout 5 5 4 3 5 5 4.5 Key move after Breakout 4 2 0 5 5 2 3.0 Key (Crux) moves 4 3 3 3 3 4 3.3 Key WW moves 1 1 3 1 2 2 1.7 Open non-tech sections• 24.0% 31.0% 18.0"1o 14.0% 13.0% 15.0% 19.2% Unfair/inconsistant gates 0 0 0 0 1 1 0.3

*% of wining total

1. What do designers intend - what iv) Post-race thoughts: 3. How much choice of route and/ are their aims for the course? Did Gates 10-12 not offset or technique should a course they actually happen? Maybe this enough, too easy.· designer be giving to a paddler? type of analysis should have contri• no choice on 22-24 move. butions from all the 1990 course - River level needed to be 4. What percentage clean runs designers I Here, for example, are higher should there be in the top 10 of some of our aims for the Savage - Maybe course should start in each race:- gate 7 area? More gates class? Does it matter or should this needed on the finish rapid. be a naturally occurring variable? j i) That the course should be - more time needed to set the This point has profound implica• different in character to Wausau. course. tions for course designers ii) Fast open top half involving less than 33% of the gates. 2. Should we be worried about the 5. Do we actually need information variety in course length? Or should such as this analysis has provided? iii) Bottom half- technical but we accept that every site is Isn't one of the real strengths of flowing moves - involving different, contains its own Canoe Slalom the fact that the accurate boat positioning at character and challenge and course is ALWAYS different and speed. should be left intact? that the paddlers who do best are SLALOM Magazine 25

the ones who are most versatile c) Gates can be used closer demand but also to 1oin up' 2 or 3 and adaptable?????? .....• together to create exciting moves rapids that are rather too far apart. often giving more choice to the 6. What are the drawbacks and paddler. 7. As a body of coaches we must advantages of short and long loo k carefully at ways of achieving courses? d) Staffing and organisation are thefollowing:- easier with a more compact site. POSSIBLE ADVANTAGES a) Assuring good quality forerun• POSSIBLE DISADVANTAGES (of ners in each class. a) A short course is easier to short courses) present to spectators and to the b) Providing more time for course TV. a) Unfairness of a '5' second designers to design and set the Fewer boring sections and quicker penalty for courses under 140 secs. course. relaying of final results/times can give a more enjoyable 'stadium b) Trying to change slalom into a c) Allowing far more time to assess type' atmosphere. different type of sport to suit the the forerunners, discuss and to needs of 'outside' agencies. make necessary adjustments. b) Short courses are more likely to have continuous White water. ie c) For some countries with very el We should consider a course there are more 120 sec rapids in little whitewater much of the design team of 2 coaches (not from the world than there are 180 difficulty comes from the length. the host nation) drawn at random second ones I This can be to create a physical from a hat with a 'local expert' appointed by the host nation to provide river knowledge.

Gls.lldion1990 r.tndl s.ltdian 1990 SUMMARY

Sav•• Worlda198 One of the real strengths of our IIOUlg Warlda1111 sport is the variable nature of our course design. Its demands are the •"'wor1c111• very essence of Canoe Slalom.

TIGIII Pr.Worldl Perhaps there is a need for regular TIGIII W.~ 'IO evaluation of our courses such, as lolq1990 this, so that coaches and paddlers ~1990 can maintain an accurate focus on S.1911990 the nature of the test. Boats, W1111111 1990 paddles, equipment and techniques 200 250 evolve continuously - so by defini• 0 50 100 150 tion must the course design. , Average winning Totals (all classes) in seconds My strong feeling is that we as a . group of coaches should examine GI.._,_ carefully the advantages and macli ••••• disadvantages of the shorter courses that face us in 1991 and •...•.•.... ,. 1992. What do we have to lose and gain? Can shorter courses (of ...••.•.•••.•.•.•. ,•. below 130 secs winning MK1) improve the quality of our sport T-FnW.W. without changing the nature of it?? r• • w.c:..11 I , l .... . Alan Edge ••••••••• • l This Is th• paper presented by Al•n -- 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 •t th• lntematlonal C:0.t:hes Conference in Switzetland Int year Percentage of Dean Runs In top 10 (all classes - both Runs) ED I ! I 26 SLALOM Magazine Coaching Parents

Parents can have a difficult Job What do I mean by pushing? In my remained friends in the process . at the best of tlmn; however, dictionary there are many forms the pan,nt• of a competitive which, in varying degrees, places Having pointed out a few (and athlete can have It wone. How an intolerable strain on young thankfully the numbers are small) to help con•tructlvely1 Below paddlers. In a word • pressure. points of negative approach , it are th• view• of two top must be emphasised that there are coachn. A few examples from the past many parents involved with their season's slalom circuit: son/daughter in slalom who have Flnt, the approach of our own probably got it about right and Len Smith, Coach and Parent. Large father to very small son (10 their parent/paddler style is yrs old): 'Christ ... if you hadn't got reflected in results, and sound that 50 you could have won.' family relationships The Pushers The father who left the slalom site If I had to offer advice to parents of to get it out of his system because would be slalom champions (and I he was angry at his son's 50. 'I wish somebody would carry MY would not be so presumptuous) it would probably follow these lines: boat. Can't he carry it himself? 'I'm not spending hundreds of How often over a number of years pounds on new boats if you can't 1. Encourage success - sympathise have I heard such remarks - usually do better than that.' - heard at positively when there is failure - in friendly jest -occasionally with a finish line. (There's always the next time.) hint of sarcasm. In a way such 'I've told you how to - now get in 2. Take the trouble to train yourself. remarks helped me personally to your boat and do it.' keep my feet on the ground and Why not a Slalom Trainer weekend? A number of parent in not become the subject matter of 'You'll never get into Div. 1 this topic. my own club have taken this route paddling like that . .' (to 11 yr. old in with benefits. Div. 4) Both my son and daughter are 3. I believe atheletes (paddlers) canoeists and both have tackled the 'I make him train every day. He sport in their own way, seeking should be self motivating, but sometimes takes some getting out parents can provide the support for their water borne pleasure at their - once in his boat he's OK. (12 yr. own desired levels. motivation both physical and old in November) mental How much have I 'pushed' them, I When I was your age I was . . . If your coaching talent is limited was recently asked by a well champion of •.. .' 4. wishing 'dad' who explained he sek out a good coach and ask his wanted his son to follow an On a different tack - the negative advice. established successful pattern (his pushers .. the parents who dump 5. I assume most children wish to words). Perhaps it was this that their kids at slalom sites on Friday prompted me to write this article. please their parents - so if all goes to pick them up Sunday. Indepen• wrong at a slalom, scolding, angry dence - yes. Encouragement - well, Quite categorically, I have never what do you think? reaction or even indifference can 'pushed' either of my offspring into be destructive to a considerable anything - but I have given masses The parent who sits in a caravan degree. of encouragement. (There is a vast 50m from the course and doesn't difference.) For example, I have no bother to watch their offspring 6. Success is not only achieved by doubt that my daughter, who has a perform. Negative pressure? winning. There is no magic formula vigorous and somewhat aggressive to suit everyone, but as a parent approach to all her sports could be The line between pushing you do have a better insight into very successful in slalom but she (pressure) and encouragement is a your paddler than others might doesn't rate canoe competition as narrow one - not always easy to have. her number one priority. It's her recognise and of course some choice. I respect it. paddlers react favourably to verbal Finally, I believe that most young encouragement. It's a matter of paddlers benefit from a personal My observations over a number of degree. manager (and most pa rents fit the years lead me to the conclusion bill admirably) to relieve him/her of that youngsters who are pressured An example for another sport is all tasks which, however small, into sport rarely reach the heights Sebastian and Peter Coe, son/ may have an effect on perfor• and a few who do, suffer strained, father who have developed a mance. sometimes disastrous relationships 'coaching relationship' and have with their parents. not only been successful but have The manager sees that SLALOM Magazine 27

Entries have been sent, arranges cases to channel their genuine discuss this issue. If we can get the transport/accommodation, gets concerns and good intentions in a parents working as part of a team paddler and equipment to start on way that supports what you're trying to achieve a common goal time (with correct numbers) Meets trying to accomplish. we can reduce the chances that paddler at finish, receives boat/ misunderstandings will result in equipment. Has food/refreshments Sometimes parents put excessive problems.Here are some topics that ready at right time. pressure on their children. All could be covered at such a parents identify with their children meeting: Arrangements for training as to some extent and want them to above. do well. But for some parents this 1. Your appreciation of their identification process goes too far interest and concern. You may consider this being soft or and the child literally becomes an pampering. Some paddlers may extension of themselves. 2. The goals of the programme. not even want/need it I personally feel that it leaves the paddler free Coaching would be so much easier 3. The specific approach you plan to concentrate on the job in hand. if everything that went on involved to use. (A description of the only me and the youngsters; positive approach and why you The National teams/paddlers at sometimes I feel that parents favour it may actually teach the World Champs have managers; forget that this programme is run parents some useful principles that boxers, footballers, ice skaters etc for the kids. They are often more of they can apply in relating to their have them. Why not canoeists? a problem than the youngsters children). themselves! I don't need nine 4. How they as parents can assist in Finally, let's ask ourselves (parents assistant coaches. that is) where do we fit in? Do we attainment of the programme's pressure - do we do too much or When this happens some begin to goals too little-where do we go from define their own self-worth in 5. Your willingness to discuss with here? terms of their child's success. They them any problems that might become 'winners' or 'losers' There's a whole new season ahead. through their children. The child arise. must succeed or their own self• Sometimes parents will disagree image is threatened. For such In the words of Seb Coe's father: with what you're doing. Perhaps parents, more is at stake than just a they won't like the fact that you game, and the child of such 'At it was obvious I had a good seem incapable of recognising the 14 parents carries a heavy burden. one. At 16 I knew I had a world latent superstar abilities of their child. Or maybe they know the beater. But above all, PATIENCE What can you so as a coach to WAS VITAL.' right way to teaching kids how to counteract this· tendency? Others return volleys. The main thing is after a fleeting view of the sport Lan Smith not to get defensive. Listen to what think that they know more about it they ·have to say even if you don't ..... and the North American than you do but thank goodness agree. You can afford at least to do 11lew. for the minority who work helpfully this while recognising that you are and constructively with you. the coach and have the final say. You may find some of the sugges• We have already discussed some tions useful. But also remember A Word about ways in which the positive that no coach can please everyone Parents approach of encouraging and and no one can ask any more of rewarding effort, rather than you than that you be the best coach outcome, helps to reduce pressure. Parents can indeed create By communicating to your you can. headaches for the coach Some of paddlers that the important thing is Parents ••. .any comments?' them seem to have a greater stake that they enjoy competing and in whats going on than the kids do. developing their skills and not that We must recognise that the they must win, you can help them 'athletic triangle' consisting of Sadly, unconstructlve parents develop a more desirable attitude who could benefit most from coach, child and parent, is inevita• toward participation. If you can get ble in youth sport programmes. th• advice above probably the parents to understand and won't recOIJllls• themselves. While you may sometimes wish reinforce this approach you can they would stay home, many Th• trlan11I• of coach, parent benefit both the player and the and paddler must worlc parents want varying degrees of parent Some coaches have found involvement in the programme. too•th•r and succe• I• it useful to have a meeting with unlilcely without It. - ED You may find it possible in some parents before the season to 28 SLALOM Magazine EVENT REPORTS

them, (well you didn't think I'd to Dave Patrick and The P & H EAST MIDLANDS done them did you?) The well oiled Company, who again donated a engine of the East Midlands was] prize for the youngest boy and girl REGIONAL POOL working well, the entries taken, the competitor, these were awarded to SLALOM rules published and then practice Helen Platts and Benjamin Offiler. runs well under way, we took time out to decide on the prizes, Mary Crossbee with the silver polish and It is always good to see beginners duster doing a sterling Job. (that's at these events, but at the East a joke). The whole event ran well, Midlands we are lucky in that Great and I hope that everyone enjoyed Britain's best have movedl to our themselves, it is impossible to Region in order to train at H.P.P. ell by the time you are reading name all participants but some and so we were treated to what Wthis the finale of the National cannot go without a mention: Cl could well be a dress rehearsal for Pool Slalom will be imminent; a Chris Barrett aged 14 years who the finals at Crystal Palace. With polished spectacular of the best was taught to roll just before his Shaun Pearce, Dave Crossbee and this country can offer. A mixture of run by a more senior paddler, Ann the Raspin brothers all preselected the skill of Slalomist withl the Hart our new Regional Committee for the National Competition added excitement of a head to Member with a special responsibili• paddling beside our local represen• head encounter by the giants of our ty for ladies who paddled Division tatives, but in the final Ladies run sport. But behind the scenes are 5 (that will teach her to volunteer) of the night a battle between the Regional heats, thel chance for Sue Morris- Eyton who's only Racheal Fox and Lynn Simpson everyone who can paddle, and a claim to fame is that she is could not be split by the watch. few who can't, to take their place engaged to David O'Neil from the on start and experience the tingle Sports Council with a special But we must not lose sight of the of three, two, one GOI This is the responsibility for Watersports - aim of our event to choose the story of the East Midlands Heat: they are both going to learn to regional competitors for the paddles before next year. David National Final. these are C1 Bill Saturday 12th January, 1991 - O'Neil who had the sense to pick Horsman, Kl ladies Heather Corrie. Bramcote Pool, Nottingham someone as nice as Sue. The Kl Men Kevin Campbell and Leo My preparation (well ours really) family "Offiler" Michael (Vet), Hoare, and we wish them every started when I decided that training Simon aged 9, Philipl aged 7, and success. gates would be lighter and easier finally Benjamin aged just 5 who than full weight slalom poles, finished the course with only a Pearl Mulholland B.C.U, which is why we found ourselves in little help from dad who swam East Midlands Regional Publicity the local D.I.Y, shop the week alongside. I must say a big thanks Officer. before. Well like all good intentions, it started well, but the result was that Saturday lunchtime found us finishing the gates, but then what else is there to do on a Saturday! I clearly told everyone 6.00 p.m. start except helpers who could come at 5.30. I arrived at 5.30 and was amazed m to find at least two dozen paddlers already changed and on the water; yes it was going to be another hectic night--- At the best our Pool Slalom can be described as organised chaos, and that's on a good night. I remember the time we had a power cutf r but I digress, back to 1991.

With the course design available the male members of the team.got the gates up, and very nice they looked too, even if I say it myself, Joe had made a very good job of Philip Ofiler (Aged 8) at his first Pool Slalom Photo: Joe Mullholland INTERNATIONAL SLALOM CALENDAR 1991

Data Location Country Class Notes

Feb 15-16 Quimparla FRA C Jun.+ San Mar23-24 J athus FRA B Mar30-31 Grandtully GBR C '!' II Apr14 Balvaux BEL C Jun.+ San. Apr20-21 Kupa JUG C Apr 20-21 Monschau FRG C Jun.+ San Apr 27-28 Kianbarg AUT C Apr 26-28 Tacan JUG C Apr28 Eupan BEL C Jun.+ San. May 1 lsara FRA B May5 Zwickau FRA C May 12 Bovee Soca JUG C May 11-12 Zakopana POL C May 17-19 Liptovsky Mikulas TCH C Jun.+ San. May24-26 Spindlaruv Mlyn TCH C May26 Epinal FRA B May25-26 Vail Colorado USA C Champ. Series 1 Jun 1-2 Durango USA C Champ. Series 2 Jun 1-2 Zaliv TCH C Jun9 lvraa ITA C Jun 16 Marano ITA C Jun 19-23 Tacan YUG A World Champs. Jun 29-30 Mazzana ITA A World Cup 1 Jul 3-4 lsara FRA C Jun. + San.Cup Jul 7-8 Augsburg FRG A World Cup 2 Jul 11-12 RaalsHarault FRA A World Cup 3 Jul 13-14 Nottingham GBR C Jun.+ San. Jul 26-28 Alvkarlaby SWE C Jun.+ San. Jul 26-28. La Sao D'Urgal ESP A Pre-Olympics Jul 31-Aug 4 Sjoa Sal NOR A Jun. Pre-Worlds Champ. Series 3 Aug 3-4 Wausau, Wi. USA C Champ. Series 4 Aug 10-11 Carlton USA C Aug 15-18 lsara FRA C Aug 17-18 South Band USA C World Cup 4 Aug 24-25 Gull Rivar,.Ontario CAN A World Cup 5 Aug 31-Sep 1 Wausau, Wi. USA A Jun.+ San. Aug 30-Sap 1 CervanyKlastor TCH C Jun.+ San. Aug 30-Sep 1 Prague TCH C Sap 7-8 Llpno TCH C C Sap27-28 Eftallng HOL C Oct20 Gotaborg SWE C Jun.+. San. Oct26-27 Uangollan GBR Sponsors BRITISH OES~~OM

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