UK Storm Gathering Sea Kayak Symposiums

UKSG6: Organiser's Report

2011-11-14T12:25:00.000-08:00

Following on from the traditions of coastal Scandinavian fishing communities, Storm Gatherings have become a means for like-minded people to get together and celebrate a fruitful and rewarding summer on the water with some excellent paddling in often challenging conditions and unparalleled entertainment in the evenings before the winter nights set in.

The 6th UK Storm Gathering took place on Anglesey in October, and was followed by BCU Week that included both BCU 4 and 5 star trainings and assessment courses. The weather was true to form and kicked up a fuss with southerly Force 6 winds building to Gale 8 in preparation for the weekend. Undeterred, however, 90 paddlers from across the UK and Europe including participants from Switzerland, Sicily, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark and Sweden converged on Anglesey Outdoors for an action-packed symposium.

The coaching team was also expansive in terms of nationalities and experience. Helen Wilson, Paul Kuthe and Warren Parker from the US along with Axel Schoevers from Holland joined the likes of Jeff Allen, Justine Curgenven, Steve Graham, Ollie Jay, James Stevenson and Phil Clegg in providing some excellent on the water workshops. A special mention goes to Nick Cunliffe, who tackled the tremendously difficult task of coordinating participants and coaches each morning based on some very exciting sea conditions.

Locations such as Rhosneigr, Trearddur Bay, Penmon, Bull Bay, the Menai Straits and even Llyn Padarn where used for a variety of workshops including incident management, open water rolling, rough water handling and surfing amongst. Participants were stretched and challenged, but tired smiles and laughter over a beer in the Paddler’s Return suggested that the event was living up to expectations. Paddlers were clearly thrilled that they had faced conditions that they would not normally have gone out in.

Each evening was filled with activities and entertainment too. Friday night saw Jim Krawiecki, with the help of Barry Shaw, Kate Duffus, Andy Morgan and Roger Chandler presented a series of short films and slideshows to get people in the mood as they arrived. Nick Cunliffe and Matt Giblin put on a sea kayakers pub quiz on Saturday night that combined elements of a celebrity quiz show, trivia rounds and various embarrassing party games. Sunday night had everyone gather at Rhoscolyn School to hear Jeff Allen present ‘Into The Wind’, the epic account of a record breaking circumnavigation of Ireland he completed with Harry Whelan earlier this year.

A tremendous thanks go to Kokatat, Tahne Marine and Tiderace Sea Kayaks for supporting the event in a numbers of ways including raffle prizes, demo boats and promotional services. Appreciation also goes out to Joe O’ Paddles, the Fat Paddler, Mitchell Blades and Bluewater Kayak Works for donating some wonderful prizes to the raffle also.

Well done to Jim Krawiecki and Journey Man for winning the prizes donated by Fat Paddler. To Alan Trevarton for winning the T-stick and Norsaq donated by Joe O' Paddles.To Graham Dudley for winning the MisFit Tor PFD donated by Kokatat Watersports Wear. To Mark Eldridge for winning the Freedom 500 pump donated by Bluewater Kayak Works. Finally to Sarah Wootton for winning the Atlantis paddles that was donated by Mitchell Blades. Neil Turnbull was the lucky recpeint of a Kokatat Storm Cag after his video diary of the events was judged to be the winning entry.

Overall, it was great to see everyone getting stuck in and relishing the opportunity to experience some really rough water. The UK Storm Gathering symposiums are gradually becoming the event to attend for anyone looking to paddle in some amazingly dynamic waters in the company of some superb coaches. See you all on the water again soon.

UKSG6: Blog Reports

2011-11-07T04:06:00.000-08:00

The following guest coaches and participants have shared their thoughts and perspectives on the 6th UK Storm Gathering. Have a read and maybe get inspired to come along next time :o)

Helen Wilson

Francesco Petralia

Justine Curgenven

Jim Krawiecki

Paul Kuthe

Roger Chandler

Here is a link to Steve Godfrey's photo album of his event experiences

Photos by Paul Kuthe

UKSG6 - Video Competition Entry: Neil Turnbull

2011-10-31T14:26:00.000-07:00

UKSG6 - Video Competition Entry: Ken Oliver

2011-10-24T09:33:00.000-07:00

UKSG6 - Fund Raising

2011-10-19T12:33:00.000-07:00

The organisers would like to inform you that we hope to do some fundraising at this year's Storm Gathering.

The intention is to raise money for the RNLI and Qajaq Japan's Tsumani Relief Fund.

Prizes have been donated by Kokatat, Blue Water Kayak Works, Fat Paddler, Joe O Paddles and Mitchell Blades.

Look out for ticket sellers over the weekend and the draw will occur on Monday morning.

UKSG6 - Coach Profile: Huw Jones

2011-10-17T11:44:00.000-07:00

Huw got hooked on kayaking at the age of ten, whilst growing up on Anglesey, mainly through trial and error. Later on he spent far too long working away as an aeronautical engineer and school teacher, before deciding to make a go of what he enjoys most in life. (After all it’s not a dress rehearsal!)

Huw has since led numerous group expeditions down in Patagonia and up in the arctic circle, but North Wales is his favourite area to work and play. From a paddlers perspective, it’s got a bit of everything, and he’s delighted to be back.

Huw is a kayak instructor at Plas Menai - National Watersports Centre, and is also a Sea Kayaking UK and Lendal Pro coach. Huw will have just completed a BCU Level 5 coach course when he joins the Gathering on Monday, so he already has an excuse for being tired!

Ask him if you are interested in guided / instructional sea kayak expeditions in Southern Chile this winter. (All equipment provided, and it‘s summer down there!).

UKSG6 - Coach Profile: James Stevenson

2011-10-10T10:39:00.000-07:00

James has been paddling since he was 13 and has been coaching, guiding and generally enjoying himself on the sea for the last 10 years. Based on Anglesey, James owns and runs Adventure Elements Sea Kayaking, a business specialising in sea kayaking courses, expeditions and guiding.

Through paddling James has had the opportunity to travel and work in Iceland, Alaska, Canada, Scotland, Israel, Sardinia, Ireland and the States. James also holds the Level 5 Sea Coach qualification.

James loves to get out on the sea and is passionate about sharing his enthusiasm, knowledge and love of this fantastic environment with others.

Please visit James's website : www.adventureelements.com/

UKSG6 - Coach Profile: Nick Cunliffe

2011-10-03T16:06:00.000-07:00

Nick Cunliffe has sea kayaked extensively on the west coasts of Ireland, Wales and Scotland – for work and play. He has led many Alpine white water trips and often paddle our superb Snowdonia rivers. Nick has also kayaked surf breaks in Wales and Ireland and ridden the powerful waves of Barbados’ Atlantic coast.

Nick also paddled multi-week sea kayak trips in Southern Chile, SE Alaska, Baja California, the Aegean Sea, Arctic Norway and Denmark. Along the way, he has gained a great deal of expedition leadership experience in a wide range of challenging environments.

As a working kayak coach, Nick has gained a lot of experience over the last 20 years, having delivered coach education courses at every level of the sport, trained coaching staff at three of the UK’s National Centres, guided a 2-month sea kayaking expedition in Southern Chile, trained UK military groups, worked with young people in outdoor education and have ten years’ experience providing 5 Star sea kayak training courses.

Most importantly, Nick motivated by the desire to help my clients achieve their goals, discover new experiences, gain increased confidence and take their paddling to the next level. Come and join nick on the water!

Please visit Nick's website : www.kayakessentials.co.uk

UKSG6 - Coach Profile: Warren Parker

2011-09-26T05:29:00.000-07:00

Warren Parker began kayaking 12 years ago, fell in love with sport so much the he began a second career. One year later becoming an instructor. Throughout the years of working with many coaches, gaining more experience and expanding his knowledge. Warren being so enthusiastic of the sport that he's always willing to share his knowledge. Don't be fooled by the rough exterior. Being around the man will always bring about laughter & good times. What makes Warren such an exceptional kayaker is that his other professional career is a paramedic which brings emergencies and rescues to a whole new level.

Some of the adventures partaken in bring him to various places along the east & western seaboards of the US as well as many places in the UK.

In 2010, Warren created the company Storm Gathering USA and held his first successful symposium in New York City.

UKSG6 - Coach Profile: Steve Graham

2011-09-19T05:42:00.000-07:00

Steve started coaching paddlesport back in 1985 at Haven Banks Outdoor Centre, on the banks of the River Exe. Twelve years working as an Outdoor Instructor with students with special needs and later with those with emotional and behavioural difficulties makes him an ideal candidate for coaching sea kayakers.

He is presently employed as Head of Outdoor Education for North Yorkshire local authority. Sea Kayaking expeditions have been arranged around good beaches to drink coffee. These have included destinations throughout the UK and Ireland, Norway, New Zealand and is in the process of planning an expedition to Greenland following in the footsteps of Gino Watkins.

UKSG6 - Coach Profile: Paul Kuthe

2011-09-12T16:21:00.000-07:00

Despite having paddled some of the most demanding rivers anywhere from a tender age, making appearances in numerous paddling films including projects that have taken me to the very brink of what can be done in a sea kayak for National Geographic, to gracing the pages of the NY Times in defense of free flowing rivers; I would still have to say that my biggest achievement has been carving out a viable living in this crazy business that allows me to spread the joys of paddling to people from all walks of life, creating positive change for both the individuals participating in the sport and the waterways we all love

This summer, the boys and I packed up our long boats expedition style and walked onto a ferry heading north. We traveled 2000 miles north into Canada to explore the Butze Tidal Rapids in its full glory during the largest tidal exchanges of the year. The Spring Equinox gave us long days and HUGE tides. “The Butze"(but-zee) is not one wave but many separate features including big whirl-pools, exploding pour-over’s, and breaking waves that form and then disappear as 30+ feet of tide water squeezes back and forth every six hours through narrow channels between the densely packed cedar covered islands laced across Fenn Passage near Prince Rupert. People have been paddling here for years, but none of the local boaters had ever seen sea kayaks surfing the amazing waves created by this special place.

Please visit Paul's blog: http://paulkuthe.blogspot.com/

UKSG6 - Coach Profile: Tony Hammock

2011-09-05T16:28:00.000-07:00

It was 1969. The Beatles were recording the Abbey Road LP, Neil Armstrong landed on the moon and Tony was learning to paddle a kayak on the Thames tideway. Fibre-glass was coming in, canvas was going out and we packed all our stuff in fertilizer bags. They leaked.

Nearly forty years, three kids and a career in manufacturing later, he says he is still learning. He’s been around a bit; Slalom, River Racing, River running, Surf and most of all, the Sea. Holidays, lightly disguised as expeditions, have been enjoyed in Alaska, Greenland, Canada and Norway.

After fifteen years of amateur coaching, Tony went professional in 2002 with Seafreedom Kayak based near Oban. He is an aspirant level five coach and hopes to qualify before he gets his bus pass. Vertically challenged, alarmingly enthusiastic and notorious for truly awful jokes, he gets his kicks from enabling people to enjoy the wild environment that he loves.

Please visit Tony's website: www.seafreedomkayak.co.uk

UKSG6 - Coach Profile: Helen Wilson

2011-08-29T08:26:00.000-07:00

Helen Wilson is a sea kayaker out of Arcata, California. She is never far from water and enjoys being underwater as much as being on the surface. Helen specializes in traditional paddling skills using traditional equipment. She competed in the Greenland National Kayaking Championship in 2008 (Qaqortoq, Greenland) and 2010 (Nuuk, Greenland), receiving five medals in four disciplines.

Helen performs rolling demonstrations, presentations and instructs at events worldwide. She has written skills articles for several publications including Sea Kayaker magazine, The Masik and Ocean Paddler magazine, in which she has an ongoing feature. In 2010 she released an instructional DVD, Simplifying the Roll with Helen Wilson. She has instructed at over 50 events and symposiums in over a dozen countries.

Please visit Helen's website: www.greenlandorbust.org

UKSG6 - Coach Profile: Jeff Allan

2011-08-22T16:26:00.000-07:00

Jeff has been teaching and guiding professionally for the last ten years, in 2003 he started his business, Sea Kayaking Cornwall which is a professional guiding and coaching business based in Falmouth which he now share shares with his business partner Simon Osborne.

In 2004 Jeff entered into the world of expedition sea kayaking and has since paddled in excess of 10,000 expedition sea miles.

Expeditions locations Jeff has been to so far include: Japan, South Georgia, Alaska, Scandinavia, Ireland and various countries in the Mediterranean.

Please visit Jeff website: www.seakayakingcornwall.com

UKSG6 - Coach Profile: Axel Schoevers

2011-08-15T02:28:00.000-07:00

Axel Schoevers is from the Netherlands where he runs a sea kayaking business Zeekajak.NL together with Nico Middelkoop. He started sea kayaking in 1994. He is a senior sea kayak instructor for the Dutch Canoe Union and an aspirant BCU level 5 sea kayak coach. He has been coaching in the Netherlands, UK, USA, Baja Mexico, Australia, Tasmania, Iceland, Denmark and Sweden. He organizes sea kayaking trips in Scotland, Baja California, Wales and Jersey. Axel is a strong advocate for Greenland rolling.

From 2004 onwards, Axel has paddled Anglesey waters more than any other place, including the Netherlands and enjoys any time there.

For his personal paddling, Axel enjoys the simple life that is possible out of a sea kayak and that gets him as far as possible away from his computer that he otherwise spends too much time with. Personal expeditions include Alaska (1999), Around the Netherlands (2003) and Faroe Islands (2004).

Please visit Axel's website: www.zeekajak.nl

UKSG6 - Coach Profile: Phil Clegg

2011-08-08T16:23:00.000-07:00

Phil has lived and worked on Anglesey for the last ten years. It's here that he developed his love for tide races and expeditioning. Phil is a skilled paddler, and his superb abilities in a boat are matched by his ability to teach other effectively.

Phil's expeditions have lead him to Greenland, Madagascar and completing a circumnavigation around Britain in 80 days. He has recently qualified as a BCU Level Five Sea Kayak Coach and is a SKUK and Lendal Pro Paddler.

UKSG6 - Coach Profile: Roger Chandler

2011-08-01T07:50:00.000-07:00

Roger choose to pursue a career in the Outdoors, back in 1989 and he has worked with various centres and projects, with the role of instructor, operations manager and technical adviser, starting Coastal Spirit a specialist sea kayaking company, June 2007.

Roger has gained various national governing body qualifications, such as the mountain instructor award (MIA), the highest UK rock climbing award and British Canoe Union (BCU) coach level 3 inland kayak, level 4 open canoe and level 5 sea kayak coach. He is also a UKCC 4 star sea trainer and assessor, holds a national diploma in youth work, a degree in development training and has over 21 years experience of working in the outdoors.

Roger has paddled and led groups in the Southern Ocean and Chilean Patagonia, the Mediterranean Sea, such as Majorca, Sardinia, Turkey and a 1000k circumnavigation of Sicily (10/2010), throughout the UK with a recent commercial 1000k paddle round Wales (using the canals inland), West Coast Canada, the Gulf Islands and above the arctic circle, to Norways Lofoten islands.

Roger believes strongly that it essential to ensure his personal skills and ability are maintained at a high standard, so on his days off, he goes paddling. He is highly dependable, passionate, cheerful and really enjoys peanut butter!

Please visit Roger's website: www.coastalspirit.com

UKSG6 - Coach Profile: Jim Krawiecki

2011-07-25T08:15:00.000-07:00

Jim started paddling in any old kayak he could muster during the school holidays. He has since paddled (and swum) many of the exciting white water rivers of England, Scotland and Wales, as well as many of those in the French Alps.

A passion for sea kayaking combined with an interest in writing and photography, brought about the first comprehensive Guidebook to the Welsh coast, for sea kayakers.

The Book is called 'Welsh Sea Kayaking' and was published in September 2006 by Pesda Press.

Since then Jim has undertaken challenging sea kayaking voyages in the Greek Islands, along the coasts of Brittany and the shores East Greenland.

More recently, and closer to home Jim has been working on another guidebook entitled 'Northern England & the Isle of Man'. This book follows a similar format to 'Welsh Sea Kayaking' and was published in June 2011.

Please visit Jim's blog: http://jimskisblog.blogspot.com/

UKSG6 - Coach Profile: Martin Ricard

2011-07-18T07:44:00.000-07:00

Martin lead the second ever circumnavigation of Ireland in 1983 and has since paddled extensively in a wide range of area's. For many years he worked in Ontario, Canada, leading dogsled and ski trips during the winter and sea kayak and extended open-boat trips in the summer months. During this time, he lead several trips down the Missinaibi River into James Bay and completed a solo circumnavigation of Prince Edward Island.

Martin is now based in Shetland, where he is the LCO and runs a variety of courses, in these most northerly of the British Isles. In 2006, with Pete Jones and Phil Clegg, he undertook an unsuported 700 mile journey down the east coast of Greenland from Scoresbysund to Ammassalik. Each summer he now guides trips in the Ammassalik region of East Greenland where he has a fleet of kayaks and equipment permanently stored. These expeditions can cater for all skill levels, ranging from youth groups to advanced trips for experienced paddlers - in 2009 one of his more experienced groups successfully reached Gino Watkins Memorial Cross.

Please visit Martin's website: www.seakayakadventures.co.uk

UKSG6 - Logos

2011-07-11T07:14:00.000-07:00

The logos have landed...

UKSG6 - Coaches Blog Roll

2011-07-04T18:01:00.000-07:00

Many of the coaches who are giving their time to the 6th UK Storm Gathering are authors of some very entertaining and informative blogs. You can follow their exploits and adventures as well as get to know their thoughts on sea kayaking and training issues by clicking on the names below.

Check these out:

Kate Duffus

Paul Kuthe

Roger Chandler

Jeff Allan

Helen Wilson

Jim Krawiecki

James Stevenson

Axel Schoevers

Why not get to know your instructors by connecting with them before the symposium!

UKSG6 - Cackle TV Special Offer

2011-06-27T16:27:00.000-07:00

If you are a fan of digital downloads, or never tried and want to give it a go, I recommend you call in at Cackle TV to see what's on offer. Justine Curgenven has begun to provide many of her superb and expertly made sea kayaking films from the award-winning This Is The Sea DVD series as digital downloads. With over 40 films available with some featuring never before seen footage, there is plenty to choose from.

Justine is an award winning adventure filmmaker and expedition sea kayaker with an established reputation for creating professional, innovative and inspirational sea kayaking movies. Some her personal accomplishments have involved a number of challenging expeditions around the globe including a crossing of the Bass Strait, circumnavigating South Island of New Zealand, Tasmania and the Queen Charlotte Islands.

I am pleased to announce that Justine is offering a special discount to anyone visiting the UK Storm Gathering Sea Kayak Symposium blog on two selected films. Buy one or both of the following digital downloads and get 20% off the already incredibly good value prices. All you need to do is enter 'UKSG' at the check-out.

This is the Sea 1 - Penrhyn Mawr

Penrhyn Mawr is North Wales’ most famous tidal race. This film is a short introduction to the race with some explanation of it’s location and how the waves form. Filming from onboard the kayak gives a sense of scale. 5 minutes . Price: UK £0.99 (UKSG6 discount - £0.79)

This is the Sea 2 - Penrhyn Mawr

More action from the inner and outer races at Penrhyn Mawr tidal race on Anglesey. Skilful paddling (and good recoveries!) from Aled Williams, Phil Clegg, Simon Osborne, Harry Whealan & others. This was originally 2 separate films on “This is the Sea 2″ but brought together into 1 film here. 8 minutes. . Price: UK £1.99 (UKSG6 discount - £1.59)

Download today and get inspired to plan your own adventure, wherever that might be :o)

www.cackletv.com/digital-downloads/

UKSG6 - BCU Week

2011-06-20T02:29:00.000-07:00

BCU Paddlesports Performance Awards are planned to run from the 25th - 30th October. These courses and optional trips will happen when workable numbers are reached. Please check the BCU website for full syllabus details and prerequisites. These are all non-residential and priced accordingly.

Options include:

3* Sea Training - Tuesday 25th October

This will be a one day course covering the 3* Sea syllabus and will cost £75

3* Sea Assessment - Wednesday 26th October

This will be a one day assessment covering the 3* Sea syllabus and will cost £75

4* Training - Tuesday 25th & Wednesday 26th October

This two day course will cover the necessary syllabus elements of leadership, safety and navigation skills required before progressing to assessment. The course will cost £150.

4* Assessment - Thursday 27th & Friday 28th October

This two day assessment will examine leadership, planning and incident management skills as well as personal performance as set out in the 4* Sea syllabus. Success at this level indicates that a candidate has the skills required to lead a group of competent paddlers in appropriate locations, up to moderate conditions. The course will cost £150.

5* Training - Tuesday 25th & Wednesday 26th October

This two day course will cover the necessary syllabus elements of leadership, safety and navigation skills required before progressing to 5* Sea assessment. There will be a night navigation element. The course will cost £175.

5* Assessment - Thursday 27th & Friday 28th October

This two day assessment will examine leadership, planning and incident management skills as well as personal performance as set out in the 5* Sea syllabus. Success at this level indicates that a candidate has the skills required to lead a group of competent paddlers in advanced conditions.

There will be a night navigation element and a written paper.

The course will cost £175.

BCU Coastal Navigation and Tidal Planning* - Tuesday 25th October

This one day classroom based course has been designed by the BCU for all sea kayakers who want to develop their understanding and skills in tidal planning and navigation. It is also a pre-requisite for the BCU 4* Sea Leader Award, as well as being suitable for any coastal paddler wanting tidal planning knowledge. The course will cost £50

BCU Open Water Navigation and Tidal Planning* - Tuesday 25th October

This one day classroom based course will give participants the tools needed to plan and navigate effectively on open water journeys in advanced conditions. It will increase the knowledge and awareness of the paddler and improve their seamanship. It is a pre-requisite for the BCU 5* Sea Leader Award, as well as being suitable for any ocean paddler wanting detailed tidal planning knowledge. The course will cost £50

*Those wishing to do either the 4* or 5* training have the option of completing the corresponding navigation course on Monday 24th instead at no extra cost, if they are registered for the main event. Those not attending the 6th UK Storm Gathering but wanting the Monday option will need to pay the full course fee of £50.

There is a degree flexibility to complete some awards on different days including the 29th and 30th October. Other course that could be offered include the 3* Touring and Foundation Safety & Rescue Training.

Get in touch with Mark if you would like a booking form or have any questions or queries.

UKSG6 - Flyer

2011-06-13T06:57:00.000-07:00

Please note.....register by August 1st 2011 and enjoy the early bird rate of £100.

Get in touch with Mark if you would like a booking form.

UKSG6 - Accommodation

2011-06-06T08:47:00.000-07:00

Anglesey Outdoors has a number of accommodation options on offer for the 6th UK Storm Gathering. It has been chosen as the base for this event because the location offers us a great deal of flexibility and a number of workable options dependent on the weather.

Please note that rooms are available on a first-come, first-served basis and should be booked directly through the centre. And whilst camping is extensive, some limits exists.

Camping: £4 per person per night

Self catering bunkhouse: £12.50 per person per night - 26 spaces

Full board: (bed, breakfast, packed lunch & dinner) £34 per person - 43 spaces

There are other accommodation choices in the Holyhead area that include several good B&B's, campsites, guest houses and hotels:

Drws Gwyn - Cemaes

Ingledene B & B - Treaddur Bay

Outdoor Alternative has both rooms and camping available

Anglesey Holiday Cottages - the wide range of self catering accommodation offered by the Cottage Guide in Wales includes farm houses, town houses

Menai Holiday Cottages - holiday self-catering vacation rental cottages in Anglesey, Snowdonia and the Lleyn Peninsula

If you want a larger selection of accommodation to choose from then North Wales Tourism is very helpful and comprehensive. A list of providers in the area can be accessed here.

Please note.....register by August 1st 2011 and enjoy the early bird rate of £100.

Get in touch with Mark if you would like a booking form.

UKSG6 - Event Flyer

2011-05-30T17:59:00.000-07:00

Please note.....register by August 1st 2011 and enjoy the early bird rate of £100.

Get in touch if you would like a booking form.

UKSG6 - Guest Coaches & Contributors

2011-05-23T03:38:00.000-07:00

So far the following people have offered their services to help coach and guide at the 6th UK Storm Gathering that will held on Anglesey this October.

I would recommend spending time on the water with any of these people if you wish to expand your skills or increase your knowledge of sea kayaking.

Nick Cunliffe - Kayak Essentials

Helen Wilson - Greenland or Bust

Phil Clegg - Professional Paddlesports Ambassador

Roger Chandler - Coastal Spirit

Paul Kuthe - Professional Paddlesports Ambassador

Jeff Allen - Sea Kayaking Cornwall

Warren Parker - Professional Paddlesports Ambassador

James Stevenson - Adventure Elements

Tony Hammock - Sea Freedom Kayak

Barry Shaw - Professional Paddlesports Ambassador

Steve Graham - East Barnby Outdoor Centre

Ollie Jay - Active4Seasons

Axel Schoevers - Professional Paddlesports Ambassador

Aled Williams - Tiderace Sea Kayaks

Richard Rogers - Cardiff International White Water Ambassador

Ali Othen - Oswestry School Adventure Education

Richard McEvoy - Professional Paddlesports Ambassador

Kate Duffus - Professional Paddlesports Ambassador

......and finally, but by no means least

Jim Krawiecki - Master Raconteur and Pompetous of Wit

In the coming weeks their profiles and picture will appear here to give you an insight into the folk who will be on the water with you, and more guest coaches are expected soon.

Please note.....register by August 1st 2011 and enjoy the early bird rate of £100.

Get in touch if you would like a booking form.

6th UK Storm Gathering Sea Kayak Symposium - Update

2011-05-16T03:47:00.000-07:00

The 6th UK Storm Gathering Sea Kayak Symposium will be held on the Isle of Anglesey over the weekend beginning Saturday 22nd and running through to Monday 24th October 2011. The aim of this symposium is to bring together intermediate and advanced kayakers with similar passions and provide a practical programme with an emphasis on challenging conditions, commitment and open crossings.

The registration fee for attending includes access to all workshops, evening lectures, social events, raffle ticket, delegate pack and a symposium souvenir.

There will be a daily participant rate during the main event only if places are available.

The Symposium will be based at Anglesey Outdoors and workshops/ journeys will launch from the surrounding bays and harbours. The venue offers us a great deal of flexibility and a number of workable options dependent on the weather.

Participants will need to arrange their own accommodation. An information sheet listing options, above and beyond what Anglesey Outdoors has on offer, is available on request.

On the water clinics are likely to be based around the following themes - Performance Rolling - Seamanship & Navigation - What if...? (Incident Management) - Rescues - Moving Water - Tidal Races and Overfalls - Crash and Bash (Kayak Repair) - Forward Paddling - and led by guest coaches from within the UK and further afield.

Day trips, land based workshops and lectures will be scheduled as appropriate.

BCU Paddlesports Performance Awards, trips and further coaching opportunities are planned to run from 25th - 28th October. BCU courses and trips will run when workable numbers are reached. Costs will be published in a separate post.

The intention is to attract a number of well known brands from the sea kayaking world to exhibit at this event including Kokatat Watersports Wear and Tiderace Sea Kayaks, as well as show support for local retailers such as Summit to Sea.

A booking form is now available on request.

Please e-mail Mark should you wish to discuss matters relating to the symposium.

6th UK Storm Gathering Sea Kayak Symposium - News

2011-05-09T02:45:00.000-07:00

Here is some initial information with regards to this years UK Storm Gathering

More details to follow in due course, so please stop by again for updates

If you have any questions or queries then contact me at seakayakmark @ gmail.com

Main Event

Date: 22 - 24 October 2011

Location: Anglesey Outdoors

Workshops / Clinics (Examples): Rolling Clinics - Seamanship & Navigation - What if...? (Incident Management) - Rolling and Rescues - Moving Water - Tidal Races and Overfalls - Crash and Bash (Kayak Repair) - Forward Paddling Workshops - Lectures - Slide Shows - Day trips - Demo Boats

Guest Speakers: Helen Wilson and Jeff Allen

Guest Coaches: Helen Wilson; Aled Williams; Phil Clegg; Olly Jay; James Stevenson; Pete Jones; Warren Parker; Taino Almestica; Richard McEvoy; Nick Cunliffe; Jim Krawiecki; Paul Kuthe

Cost: £150 (3 Days). This includes access to all workshops, evening lectures, social events and a symposium souvenir. Daily rates available. Accommodation not included

BCU Week

Date: 25 - 28th October

Location: Anglesey Outdoors

Cost: Variable

Courses: BCU 3*, 4* (T & A), 5* (T & A), FSRT, VHF, Coastal Navigation, Open Water Naviagtion

5th UK Storm Gathering Sea Kayak Symposium - Reflections

2010-11-01T05:33:00.000-07:00

As previously publicised, this years UK Storm Gathering was held in Northumberland near Berwick Upon Tweed. The event was organised and hosted by Ollie Jay of Active4 Seasons with a strong yet eclectic supporting cast. The intention of the event, by way of guided trips, was to showcase the fantastic Berwickshire and North Northumberland coastline, which is classed as an area of outstanding beauty.

Despite the strong winds and at times heavy rains on Friday, Saturday dawned with a clear fresh outlook as folk began to rise from their various modes of accommodation at the Pot A Doodle Do Wigwam Village, Borewell. As participants and leaders gathered round the breakfast table it was good to see some familiar faces in attendance from both sides of the fence, past Storm Gathering attendees and guides alike. Justine Curgenven and Barry Shaw had come up the day before to explore the area, as had Aled Williams of Tiderace Sea Kayaks. Holding court at the table in his own inimitable way was Jim Krawiecki, who had been paying tribute to Bacchus the night before and was feeling very philosophical as a consequence the morning after.

The plan for Saturday was to head out to the Farne Islands which lie two to three miles off the coast midway between the fishing village of Seahouses and the magnificent Bamburgh Castle. The Farnes are home to numerous nesting sea birds as well as as large colonies of Atlantic and Grey seals. Two groups launched from Beadnell Harbour, with one travelling out via Crumstone and on to Longstone island whilst the group I was with went along the coast before crossing to Inner Farne.

On the journey out we saw numerous Eider ducks, or Cuddy ducks so named after St Cuthbert who lived on the island and imposed a law protecting all the birds but in particular the Eider. This may have been the first ever bird protection policy, created in 676 AD. The group enjoyed moderate paddling conditions for most of the outbound leg but a welcome break was nonetheless taken on Inner Farne and folk took advantage of visiting St Cuthbert's Chapel and the Victorian lighthouse.

From here the group made its way across Staple Sound where we received numerous visits from curious seals. After taking time to enjoy playing in the swell found in the various channels between Brownsman and Longstone Islands, the group landed for a brief stretching of legs under the lighthouse. A point of interest being that Longstone Lighthouse was built in 1825 and lived in until 1990 when it became automated. It was from here that Grace Darling and her father set out to rescue the survivors of a wrecked paddle-steamer, the Forfarshire, when it ran aground on a nearby islet in 1838. Longstone is now owned by the National Trust, but managed by Trinity House.

The journey home took us via the Pinnacles which looked particularly impressive as they were awash with swell and white foaming water. This was clearly an opportunity for Ollie to demonstrate his intimate knowledge of this feature by negotiating the raging seas as that roared through the passage between the Pinnacles and Staple Island. The day finished at St Aidan's Beach just outside Seahouses where everyone delighted in playing in the surf under the setting Sun.

That night saw everyone congregate at the nearby the 'Barn at Beal' centre for evening entertainment curtousy of that master raconteur and pompatus of wit Jim Krawiecki. His slide show was a mixture of pub quiz, educational tour and quite promotion of his impending guide for the North of England which will be published in 2011 by Pesda Press. The audience was also treated to samples of Lindisfarne Mead, locally made cheese and steaming bowlfuls of hot stew. However, the evening did not stop there and for some it went on long into the night as guides and participants alike engaged in jolly japery and daring do.

Sunday morning brought another cold start and after discussions the decision was made to travel up along the coast between Berwick-upon-Tweed and the Scottish town of Eyemouth. Whilst shuttles were set in the place for the end of the day, some folk took advantage of the last remaining surf at Berwick. After which symposium attendees set of on mass to enjoy a myriad of rockhopping challenges and cave exploration.

Our lunch stop was Marshall Meadows Bay which is a huge sandstone amphitheatre. Part way up one of the cliffs there is an inclined tunnel that leads to the caravan site that overlooks the area with panoramic views along the coast.

Further on up the coast, we made our way between, behind and sometimes beneath rocks all the way to Eyemouth. All too soon the gathering was over. Many were saying their goodbyes here whilst packing up kit in the descending evening cool before heading off home.

Over the weekend I took the opportunity to take the new Tiderace Extreme on the water. This a boat with a pronounced rocker and very low deck profile in comparison to the other members of the Tiderace fleet. It felt dynamic to paddle and responded well in the surf and swell. Aled set himself the design remit of a boat for big water play and the consensus was he had achieved just that.

Also on this trip, I had brought along a number of sets of Mitchell paddles supplied by Peter Baars of Summit to Sea on Anglesey. On the Saturday I used a set of Eclipse paddles with a straight shaft and on the Sunday a set of Bomboras also with a straight shaft. In this instance, both paddles where adjusted using the Varihand 'Quiklok' connector. Having used Mitchell Archipelagos for over four years now, it was good to try other blade shapes and sizes. As one might expect the construction and performance of the paddles are of a high standard, confirming for me that I prefer a large powerful blade and straight as opposed to cranked shaft.

My wish is that the events go from strength to strength, as I have the firm belief that there is a place for such a symposium at this time of year. Ollie did a great job of bringing folk together, as well as providing some interesting souvenirs and entertainment. Role on UK SG 6 which I hope will be run in Pembroke in 2011, so watch this space.

More pictures from the event can be found here.

Storm Gathering USA - Reflections

2010-10-11T07:06:00.000-07:00

On a recent visit to the United States, I had the opportunity to catch up with my good friends Warren Parker and Taino Almestica. Whilst it is always a great pleasure to see my paddling buddies from across the pond, this occasion was particularly special as the guys had been busy organising their first ever sea kayak symposium, and it meant I could join in.

Having participated in and been guest coaches for previous UK Storm Gathering events on Mull and Anglesey, Warren and Taino had gone away feeling suitably inspired to create their own unique experience for paddlers in New York City, naming it Storm Gathering USA - The Urban Paddlers Symposium. Putting together an event of this nature is never without issues, yet with time and effort they had managed to bring all the right elements together to create something worthwhile for those who signed up to take part.

The workshops and locations chosen provided a suitable blend for those 'urban paddlers' that attended, who in this instance were mainly members of the New York Kayak Club though other interested parties showed up including one keen lady from Ohio. There was a balance between classroom activities and on the water seminars. The weather played its part in providing strong winds and rain, making the Hudson very atmospheric at times and as well offering up at least one sunny day at Manhattan Beach.

So there was coastal navigation, incident management, 3* training and assessment as well as rough water handling at Breezy Point. There was plenty of interaction between coaches and participants, which all went some way to enlightening each other about the concept of urban paddling as well as demonstrating there are further horizons to explore as well. I must admit the Hudson and its environs makes for a very special paddling experience as well as creating some unique conditions for sea kayakers. Its quite something for a 3* assessment to occur under the watchful gaze of Lady Liberty.

The event was hosted by Randall Henriksen who is proprietor of the New York Kayak Company which is located at Pier 40, just off West Side Highway. I had the privilege and pleasure to be a guest coach for Randy in the summer of 2003, so it was nice to catch up with him also and see how business was going. One major development is that NYKC is now the North American dealer and Northeast distributor for Tiderace Sea Kayaks. Along with this, Randy's store holds probably the most complete collection of Kokatat products anywhere I know, and he assures me shipping overseas is not a problem.

So a big well done to Warren and Taino for getting their first Storm Gathering USA off the ground and on to the water. I look forward to future developments. In the meantime, I also want to say a big thank for involving me and for the cold beers and laughter.

More pictures can be found here :o)

5th UK Storm Gathering Sea Kayak Symposium - News

2010-07-12T12:46:00.000-07:00

- Wild Northumberland 30 & 31st October -

I am pleased to announce that the 5th UK Storm Gathering Sea Symposium will be embracing the elements in wild Northumberland this autumn. It will be based near Berwick Upon Tweed and the aim is to show off the fantastic Berwickshire and North Northumberland coastline, which is classed as an area of outstanding beauty. Guided trips will be available in these areas and out the amazing Farne Islands.

A selection of BCU qualified Level 4 and Level 5 coaches will lead each group of paddlers with an assistant to help. All paddlers need to be of at least an intermediate standard. Remember, this is a Storm Gathering after all and 3 of the last 4 have lived up the name's reputation, and there isn't a lot of shelter in Northumberland when its does blow!

Saturday’s evenings entertainment will be a short video of an extraordinary sea kayak adventure to Chile, the first showing outside of Scotland! As well as some slides and a buffet style meal. A range of accommodation is available including heated Wooden Wigwams! Local guest houses, B&B’s & Camping

The event will be hosted by Ollie Jay of Active4Seasons and all enquiries should be made through the contact page via the web-site.

Storm Gathering USA - News

2010-06-07T06:05:00.000-07:00

Details to follow from Warren Parker, event organiser and symposium host, the New York Kayak Company

4th UK Storm Gathering Sea Kayak Symposium - News

2009-03-16T05:21:00.000-07:00

The 4th UK Storm Gathering 2009 will by Sea Kayaking Cornwall over the weekend of 19th and 20th September. This will be a great opportunity to attend a variety of courses and to explore the beautiful Cornish coastline in the company of other paddlers.

On the Saturday participants can attend a selection of practical and theoretical clinics. All of these courses will take place in the Falmouth Bay area. Later on that evening there will be entertainment laid on preceded by a BBQ/meal. On the Sunday attendees will have the opportunity to explore, with day paddles along Cornwall's amazing coastline. These trips will be weather dependant, but it is hoped will take in 'The Lizard Peninsular' 'Lands End' and if the September Swells allow, sections of the North coast will also be accommodated.

The Symposium is based at Tregedna Farm a short walk from Swanpool Beach. There is top quality bunk house accommodation or camping available. We are limiting the numbers to 25 Full board and 45 Camping. Those wishing to join in will have the opportunity on the Friday evening and Saturday morning to decide on courses they would like to attend.

More information is available here

3rd UK Storm Gathering Sea Kayak Symposium - Reflections 2

2008-10-27T12:46:00.000-07:00

3rd UK Storm Gathering Sea Kayak Symposium - Reflections 1

2008-10-20T09:28:00.000-07:00

3rd UK Storm Gathering Sea Kayak Symposium - Logo

2008-03-03T11:55:00.000-08:00

The logo has landed and it was worth the wait. The 3rd UK Storm Gathering has a unique and identifiable emblem which I think reflects both the nature of the event and the heritage of Wales where the symposium is being held. A tremendous thanks goes to Aled Williams of Tiderace Kayaks who has once again applied his superb design skills to the task.

As instigator of the 1st UK Storm Gathering I hope these events will continue over time, roving from one paddle destination to another, each with its own special theme (and logo). There is a wish also that such gatherings will encourage others to bring about their own paddling festivals, whatever the time of year, as its great fun being around like minded people sharing in the wealth of experience that comes together on such occasions.

For now though, 2008 will be on Anglesey, 2009 will be in Cornwall.........so that just begs the question, where to go in 2010?

3rd UK Storm Gathering - Flyer

2008-02-11T02:36:00.000-08:00

3rd UK Storm Gathering Sea Kayak Symposium - News

2008-02-04T07:42:00.000-08:00

Photo: Rob Lloyd

Building on the success the 1st event on Mull and the 2nd on Lewis, I'm putting the wheels in motion for the 3rd UK Storm Gathering which will be held in Wales over an extended weekend of 25 - 27th October 2008

Photo: Clark Fenton

This year's festival will be based at Anglesey Outdoors, which has been host to the Anglesey Symposium for the last 25 years, making it a logical venue choice. As a consequence workshops and journeys will be able to launch from the surrounding bays and harbours with ease

Photo: Richard Jane

The aim of this symposium is to bring together like minded paddlers of all abilities with similar passions and provide a practical programme with an emphasis on preparing people for challenging conditions, commitment and open crossings

Photo: Nick Cunliffe

Water clinics will be based around the following themes: navigation, boat handling, boat repair, leadership and incident management, paddling skills and journey planning. When demand has reach appropriate numbers BCU coach courses and star awards, as well as guided trips, are planned to run from October 28th to the 31st. There will also be a number of evening lectures and various manufacturers on hand to discuss their products

Photo: Paul Williams

Updates, downloads and general information will be available from my forum page

2nd UK Storm Gathering Sea Kayak Symposium - News

2007-02-12T04:59:00.000-08:00

October 2006 saw nearly a hundred kayakers come together for the 1st UK Storm Gathering on the Island of Mull. Organised by yours truly with the support of many great guest coaches, it provided a memorable opportunity for paddlers from all over the UK, Europe and the USA to come together and share their experiences and skills. Building on this success Stornoway Canoe Club are hosting the second event on the Isle of Lewis from 18-20 October 2007.

With its world-class sea kayaking, the Isle of Lewis is the ideal location to host the 2nd Storm Gathering. The islands have a longstanding and rich relationship with the sea and provide the chance to combine the adventures of sea kayaking with a cultural celebration. Appropriately the hub for the event will be based in Stornoway’s An Lanntair.

The Storm Gathering will run from 18 to 20 October 2007 and a total of sixty places are available for kayaking participants at a cost of £95 each. This fee includes all formal events of the gathering, including guided kayaking sessions, evening presentations and the ceilidh.

A booking form is now available and can be downloaded here

All enquiries should be directed towards Stornoway Canoe Club

Beserker by Christine Davidson

1st UK Storm Gathering Sea Kayak Symposium - Reflections

2006-10-16T07:03:00.000-07:00

12 months ago, in a moment of enthusiasm after a party with friends, I decided to put together an event which combined a number of elements around the theme of challenging paddling for sea kayakers. The 1st UK Storm Gathering was born and was to be hosted on the Ross of Mull, Scotland. Well it happened, people came and there was a storm. I'm now in the winding down phase and am still wondering what made it so good. Perhaps I'll have some answers when I've caught up on my sleep :0) In the meantime, it would appear folk enjoyed it.

Here to the next gathering..............till then 'embrace the elements'