The Cedric Avery Winter Series Mini-Marathon!

✨ A Paddle Challenge Like No Other Awaits! ✨

The Sharks are thrilled to invite paddlers and clubs from across the region to this season’s Cedric Avery Winter Series Mini-Marathons! Set against the picturesque backdrop of Coppermill Lock, this series promises both experienced and enthusiastic beginners a blend of unique seasonal endurance, thrilling competition, and scenic adventure – open to all paddling crafts!

Each race in this winter series is more than just a test of speed — it’s an invigorating challenge through varying distances, strategic portages, and the shared drive to push limits. Whether paddling for fun or aiming for the ultimate series shield, paddlers will experience the exhilaration of crisp winter waters, camaraderie with fellow racers, and the excitement of new personal bests. Embrace the thrill, challenge yourself, and take part in a race series that celebrates both grit and growth!

Winter Series Race Dates:

  • November 17th, 2024
  • December 15th, 2024
  • January 19th, 2025
  • February 16th, 2025
  • March 16th, 2025 – Series Finale

Race for Fun, Fitness, and Glory!
Whether you’re paddling for fitness, fun, or the thrill of competition, these races are designed for everyone:

  • 1.5 miles (2.4km): Perfect for beginners, with no portages – a smooth introduction to racing.
  • 3.5 miles (5.6km): An intermediate route with two portages, adding an exciting challenge.
  • 6.5 miles (10.4km): Advanced paddlers face five portages for a thrilling test of endurance.

Medals & Points

🏅 Medals will be awarded at the series finale to the best paddlers based on fastest times and accumulated points throughout the series. Clubs will also compete for the coveted Cedric Avery Winter Series Mini-Marathon Shield!

Race Categories:

  • 1.5 miles (2.4km) – Lightning, SUPs, Mini-K2s, GPs
  • 3.5 miles (5.6km) – K1, K2s, C1, C2s, SUPs
  • 6.5 miles (10.4km) – K1, K2s, C1, C2s

Race Details

  • Control Opens: 10:30 AM at Coppermill Lock, including boat drop-off
  • Race Start: 11:00 AM

Entry Fees
£6 per person, per race, payable on the day.

Location & Parking
Rickmansworth Sailing Club, WD3 9YB.

Need Equipment?
No worries! We welcome paddlers of all levels – no experience needed. If you’re looking for equipment, we have GPs, Slalom boats, K1s, K2s, C1s, C2s, Mini-K2s, Lightnings, and more. Just let us know, and we’ll do our best to help you get out on the water!

Post-Race Gathering!
Warm up after each race with a hot drink or lunch at the Coy Carp pub. Swap stories, make new friends, and build lasting rivalries with fellow winter paddlers!

For more information, email Grant Underwood at canoeing@TheSharks.org.uk

This winter, paddle hard, master new skills, and celebrate the thrill of competition. Join us for the Cedric Avery Winter Series and make your mark on the water!

Published 4th November 2024