Give It A Go!

As part of the Leighton Buzzard Observer's Give It A Go campaign, we are regulary running taster sessions and courses between April and July/August.

Outside of this time, please make contact with us and we will discuss the options available for trial sessions and joining the club.

Please contact us to book a place on your preferred session. While this is not essential, if demand is high priority will be given to those that have pre-booked. Contact us via E-mail

You will need to bring:

• A full change of clothes and a towel
• A parent (if you are aged 15 or under)

The sessions are open to all although we regret we are not currently equipped to provide activities for wheelchair users.

FAQs

Where is the canoe club?

    Our clubhouse is located in the grounds of Cedars School. Access to the clubhouse is via a gate at the back of           Tiddenfoot Leisure Centre car park between the conifer trees and the swimming pool building. All canoeing activities take place on the Grand Union Canal which runs adjacent to the Cedars site.

Will I get wet?

    Yes. Canoeing is a water sport. You will get wet. Possibly very wet.

What if I fall in the canal?

    We will do our best to keep you upright, but accidents do happen. We will have a large number of coaches and experienced helpers on hand should you take a dip. You should make sure you shower after canoeing activities regardless of whether you capsize.

How much does it cost.

    As part of the Give It A Go campaign, the taster session is free. If you decide you want to continue, then you can join one of our beginner courses where all equipment together with expert instruction is provided for £36 for a 6 week course. If you really get hooked you can join the club for an annual fee which includes all coaching, plus use of club equipment and facilities. There are separate fees for racing once you've learned the basics and once you're ready you can buy your own equipment and store it at the club. Good quality second-hand boats can be found for as little as £100.

Isn't it cold in the winter?

    Yes, it is. In the winter months it is generally too cold and dark to paddle in the evenings. On-water activities run all year round at the weekend unless the canal is frozen. We also provide a variety of land based training during the week throughout the winter. In fact, 'winter training' is the foundation of the sport in the summer.

If you require further information

    Please feel free to ask questions over email or to chat to the coaches and other members at the Give It A Go sessions.