So, here we are, two and a bit weeks and the adventure is over. But what an adventure! First things first, we've learnt a lot. Mainly that it's very easy to be over-ambitious when planning routes and daily distances while nice and cosy in front of a fire in winter. Hindsight is always crystal clear, and our original plan of 15-18 mile days was too much, especially with only one rest day planned in halfway. However, what was achieved was still pretty amazing, considering Sara only started paddling in Febuary, and most of her on-water time has been on canals, where you don't get affected by winds, tides, swell and chop.
As her support boat skipper I watched her push herself to her absolute limit, mentally and physically. I've known Sara for 8 years now, we were housemates and University and best friends since, and I think I've experienced more swearing and tears in these past 2 weeks than in that whole period! But there was also plenty of laughter to go with it; I'm sure Sara and her mother Christina won't forget the surprised and slightly anxious look on the face of the owner of the very nice restaurant in the small Cornish village of Coverack when I asked for a Macchiato coffee..."Right, OK, I think we can do those...let me check the book..."!
A few thank yous need to be said. First of all to Christina; without her organisational (and VW-camper van driving!) skills, it would have been a near impossible project. Then to all the people who have helped us along the way, from equipment discounts, campsite discounts, free moorings, free pastys, the loaning of 2 support boats to all the smiles and good luck wishes along the way. And last but not least, to all those who donated, and helped us break our target. Thank you to you all.
So, what's next? In the short term one of us is having a few days in Spain, while the other is back to work. Enjoy yourself Sara, you deserve it! In the long term, Sara will be moving to the Isles of Scilly in mid-July as the volunteer vet nurse, and more than likely dreaming up next year's crazy adventure!
So that's all from me. Just one special thank you to go, to my best friend Sara for inviting me to be party of this whole thing, it's been a blast! And well done you :-)
Skipper Dan, out.
Monday, 14 June 2010
Tuesday, 8 June 2010
Island time
And so here we are, on the Isles of Scilly, 28 miles South West of Lands End and the mainland. Had a reasonably smooth crossing in my opinion (had rougher Dover-Calais trips!) although the bundles of rather cold and ill looking school kids huddled at the back of the boat would probably have disagreed!
The whole of arrival day treated us to nothing but rain, and was spent in foul weather sailing gear! Got the kayak all safely unpacked though, along with quick visits to the airport cafe to visit Sara's friends Nigel and Carol (who are very kindly putting us up for this week!) and the vet practice to say hello to Heike, before doing a quick interview for Radio Scilly. A lovely evening spent in the pub finished off the day quite nicely.
This morning dawned nice and bright, the forecast rain only appearing for a brief 10 minute shower. After a quick introduction to the boat we set off for the 3 mile crossing to Bryher island. Had a decent and smooth crossing, unfortunately just missing lunch time at the cafe we were aiming for! But managed to find some pasties to have on the beach along with ice creams :)
The afternoon plan was Sara kayaking round to the East side of Tresco, before leaving the kayak in the sand dunes for the evening and heading back to St Marys by boat. Tomorrow we'll be going from Tresco over to St Martins and looking around there, before doing St Martins to St Marys on Thursday.
Less miles per day gives us time to relax a little more, and Sara's body a little more time to recover! Today, the sunshine, gin clear waters and white sandy beaches definitely showed why Sara is happy to be moving here!
That's all from us for the time being, signing off and heading to the pub! Cheerio!
Skipper Dan
The whole of arrival day treated us to nothing but rain, and was spent in foul weather sailing gear! Got the kayak all safely unpacked though, along with quick visits to the airport cafe to visit Sara's friends Nigel and Carol (who are very kindly putting us up for this week!) and the vet practice to say hello to Heike, before doing a quick interview for Radio Scilly. A lovely evening spent in the pub finished off the day quite nicely.
This morning dawned nice and bright, the forecast rain only appearing for a brief 10 minute shower. After a quick introduction to the boat we set off for the 3 mile crossing to Bryher island. Had a decent and smooth crossing, unfortunately just missing lunch time at the cafe we were aiming for! But managed to find some pasties to have on the beach along with ice creams :)
The afternoon plan was Sara kayaking round to the East side of Tresco, before leaving the kayak in the sand dunes for the evening and heading back to St Marys by boat. Tomorrow we'll be going from Tresco over to St Martins and looking around there, before doing St Martins to St Marys on Thursday.
Less miles per day gives us time to relax a little more, and Sara's body a little more time to recover! Today, the sunshine, gin clear waters and white sandy beaches definitely showed why Sara is happy to be moving here!
That's all from us for the time being, signing off and heading to the pub! Cheerio!
Skipper Dan
Sunday, 6 June 2010
Week One Complete!!
We did indeed get stuck in Coverack for a day. With big swell and big winds the RIB got moved out of the bay into the harbour for safe keeping.
We set off on Friday morning for Porthleven but large chop that had not yet dispersed from the previous night put paid to kayaking about a mile out. With myself and the kayak loaded up Dan took us expertly around The Lizard and, wouldn't you believe it, as we pulled into Porthleven the winds dropped off and the sea flattened out!
After pasties and a good night sleep we set off from Porthleven on Saturday, Penzance bound. Conditions weren't ideal but weren't bad so we decided to give it a go. We made great progress to Praa Sands and then got a tad mullered by the off shore winds. After a cheeky 1 mile tow across the bay into the more sheltered Mounts Bay I paddled hard for St Michael's Mount. In strong headwinds I made it to 1 mile outside Penzance harbour. At this point the wind really picked up and made any further progress impossible. With aching muscles from a hard days paddle Dan piled myself and the kayak into the RIB for the last time and we headed into harbour. It may not have been the finish we were all hoping for, but we made it in - safe and sound.
At the end of this first week it seems like a good time to do a bit of reflection, so here goes...........
This project was ambitious from the start, and it has certainly tested limits both mentally and physically. There have been ups and downs, and I'm sure there will be more as we head into the second week, but it's all worth it. What is has done is reaffirm how lucky I am to have such wonderful people in my life. Without Mum or Dan this project could never have gone ahead. It is a team effort right down to the core. I truly have amazing friends and family. Dan, Kerri and I are a tripod that I'm sure will be found in the same nursing home when we are old and knackered comparing notes on practical jokes played on the unsuspecting staff, I will always be grateful for their love and support. Also my Mum is amazing! She gives so much and asks for so little in return. She is a fantastic parent and also a tremendous friend. This project has also given rise to new friendships, and that is always lovely!
A lesson I have learnt is that it is important to focus on the good, the bits you can do or have done, and not necessarily the bad. I am a great one for cheering on others and berating myself for not doing better. Yes, I may have finished paddling just 1 mile off the finish line but hey! I got to within 1 mile of the finish line -that means a previous 7 miles of paddling that day and I am proud of those previous 7 miles. There were those along the way who were quite rude about our efforts (the campsite owner who declared "kayaking doesn't take it out of you!" was a particular favourite) but in the main people have been fantastically friendly and helpful. 2 campsite owners gave us discounts because they felt the project was worth supporting, people like that are the ones worth remembering. Kayaking does take it out of you. In this past week I have done 46 miles powered solely by my own physical strength (and a little bit of tidal lift!), that's no mean feat!! I'm proud of myself and I am very much looking forward to seeing a chiropractor!!!!
So here we go, 2 days without paddling (but plenty of packing, re-packing and faffing!) and then it's island hopping time! Again each day is sea dependant, safety is paramount, but we hope to make it to each of the inhabited islands of Scillonia. I'll keep you as posted as I can!
Sara x
We set off on Friday morning for Porthleven but large chop that had not yet dispersed from the previous night put paid to kayaking about a mile out. With myself and the kayak loaded up Dan took us expertly around The Lizard and, wouldn't you believe it, as we pulled into Porthleven the winds dropped off and the sea flattened out!
After pasties and a good night sleep we set off from Porthleven on Saturday, Penzance bound. Conditions weren't ideal but weren't bad so we decided to give it a go. We made great progress to Praa Sands and then got a tad mullered by the off shore winds. After a cheeky 1 mile tow across the bay into the more sheltered Mounts Bay I paddled hard for St Michael's Mount. In strong headwinds I made it to 1 mile outside Penzance harbour. At this point the wind really picked up and made any further progress impossible. With aching muscles from a hard days paddle Dan piled myself and the kayak into the RIB for the last time and we headed into harbour. It may not have been the finish we were all hoping for, but we made it in - safe and sound.
At the end of this first week it seems like a good time to do a bit of reflection, so here goes...........
This project was ambitious from the start, and it has certainly tested limits both mentally and physically. There have been ups and downs, and I'm sure there will be more as we head into the second week, but it's all worth it. What is has done is reaffirm how lucky I am to have such wonderful people in my life. Without Mum or Dan this project could never have gone ahead. It is a team effort right down to the core. I truly have amazing friends and family. Dan, Kerri and I are a tripod that I'm sure will be found in the same nursing home when we are old and knackered comparing notes on practical jokes played on the unsuspecting staff, I will always be grateful for their love and support. Also my Mum is amazing! She gives so much and asks for so little in return. She is a fantastic parent and also a tremendous friend. This project has also given rise to new friendships, and that is always lovely!
A lesson I have learnt is that it is important to focus on the good, the bits you can do or have done, and not necessarily the bad. I am a great one for cheering on others and berating myself for not doing better. Yes, I may have finished paddling just 1 mile off the finish line but hey! I got to within 1 mile of the finish line -that means a previous 7 miles of paddling that day and I am proud of those previous 7 miles. There were those along the way who were quite rude about our efforts (the campsite owner who declared "kayaking doesn't take it out of you!" was a particular favourite) but in the main people have been fantastically friendly and helpful. 2 campsite owners gave us discounts because they felt the project was worth supporting, people like that are the ones worth remembering. Kayaking does take it out of you. In this past week I have done 46 miles powered solely by my own physical strength (and a little bit of tidal lift!), that's no mean feat!! I'm proud of myself and I am very much looking forward to seeing a chiropractor!!!!
So here we go, 2 days without paddling (but plenty of packing, re-packing and faffing!) and then it's island hopping time! Again each day is sea dependant, safety is paramount, but we hope to make it to each of the inhabited islands of Scillonia. I'll keep you as posted as I can!
Sara x
Wednesday, 2 June 2010
Ups and Downs of being at sea
We haven't had as much time to update as possible so apologies for those of you following our progress. Here is a brief run down of the past 4 days which will be expanded on at the weekend.
Day 1 launch from Saltash: A fab run down the Tamar, we did that in just 40ish minutes! We nipped into Cawsand for lunch and then headed back out rounding Rame Head and into Whitsand Bay. Unfortunately, over halfway across a nasty chop set up and exhaustion crept into the picture. 6.9 miles off Looe the guys loaded myself and Lowen (the kayak!) into the rib and we headed for our mooring. All in all about 11 miles paddled so not too bad. Mixed conditions and I really appreciated how important the guys were to this project.
From here on in we were living in a VW camper, 1979 model, very well driven by Mum! She has been a legend, arranging moorings and getting us from place to place. Again, it makes me realise how without a good team with you, projects like this just don't work. Well Done Mum!!
Day 3: Blown out! The guys took the RIB around the Dodman to Falmouth whilst Mum and I drove the kayak topped van round. The winds were just too strong, and conditions too rough for kayaking. However, we had a lovely fun chillaxing afternoon in Falmouth, soaking and steaming our aching bodies at the local pool. We unfortunately said goodbye to Jim that evening as he headed back to work. Deserter!! (Not really, his efforts were greatly appreciated, as was the banter and the view!)
Day 4: Dan and I launched from Falmouth at 1:30pm and stormed round to Coverack in just 2.5 hours!! I was averaging about 3.5 knots and the conditions were great!! The paddle boarding in from the rib to beach from our mid-bay morring was hilarious!! Video to follow!!
So here we are having dinner just tapping into the restaurant wi-fi. More updates will follow at the weekend, or sooner if we can manage it. Wish I had a camera right now though, the proprietor's face when Dan asked for a Macchiato was priceless!! (Me and my fancy London ways!! - Dan)
An expanded version of these days will follow at some point, as will pictures and video. Keeping our fingers crossed, but tomorrow doesn't look good for The Liazard. Ah well, we'll see what we can do!
Sara x
Day 1 launch from Saltash: A fab run down the Tamar, we did that in just 40ish minutes! We nipped into Cawsand for lunch and then headed back out rounding Rame Head and into Whitsand Bay. Unfortunately, over halfway across a nasty chop set up and exhaustion crept into the picture. 6.9 miles off Looe the guys loaded myself and Lowen (the kayak!) into the rib and we headed for our mooring. All in all about 11 miles paddled so not too bad. Mixed conditions and I really appreciated how important the guys were to this project.
- Definition: The Guys Dan Webb and James "Call Me Jim" (or was it Jim "Call Me James?!!) Evans who very kindly gave up paid work to potter alongside a slow moving kayak with a sometimes grumpy paddler and pull said paddler out of the water when disaster/bad conditions/exhaustion hit. HEROES!!!
From here on in we were living in a VW camper, 1979 model, very well driven by Mum! She has been a legend, arranging moorings and getting us from place to place. Again, it makes me realise how without a good team with you, projects like this just don't work. Well Done Mum!!
Day 3: Blown out! The guys took the RIB around the Dodman to Falmouth whilst Mum and I drove the kayak topped van round. The winds were just too strong, and conditions too rough for kayaking. However, we had a lovely fun chillaxing afternoon in Falmouth, soaking and steaming our aching bodies at the local pool. We unfortunately said goodbye to Jim that evening as he headed back to work. Deserter!! (Not really, his efforts were greatly appreciated, as was the banter and the view!)
Day 4: Dan and I launched from Falmouth at 1:30pm and stormed round to Coverack in just 2.5 hours!! I was averaging about 3.5 knots and the conditions were great!! The paddle boarding in from the rib to beach from our mid-bay morring was hilarious!! Video to follow!!
So here we are having dinner just tapping into the restaurant wi-fi. More updates will follow at the weekend, or sooner if we can manage it. Wish I had a camera right now though, the proprietor's face when Dan asked for a Macchiato was priceless!! (Me and my fancy London ways!! - Dan)
An expanded version of these days will follow at some point, as will pictures and video. Keeping our fingers crossed, but tomorrow doesn't look good for The Liazard. Ah well, we'll see what we can do!
Sara x
Tuesday, 18 May 2010
Bye Bye Bristol, for now
Tomorrow I am heading down to Cornwall after collecting 'Lowen', the official PaddleFree kayak from the Family Adventure Store. It's time to say goodbye to the big city and head for home!
First on the Cornish agenda will be plenty of hugs, both human and canine. Followed up by a 2 day sea saftey course with SeaKayakingCornwall. This is extremely important as, although we have a safety boat every step of the way, knowing how to rescue yourself and deal with tricky situations properly is literally life saving knowledge. The sea can be a dangerous and unforgiving environment and should not be underestimated. We all want to complete this challenge but rest assured we are erring on the side of caution every time!
The support for the porject is really growing now and we owe a lot of that to my mum, Christina. She has been doing a massive PR push down in Cornwall and is even negotiating a pasty sponsorship with Barnacutts Pasties!! How groovy will that be!!
Anyways, I'm off to pack (I hate packing!) and have my last session with Sam at PT-Troop headquaters. Hopefully I will escape this session ache free, but I doubt it!
Sara x
First on the Cornish agenda will be plenty of hugs, both human and canine. Followed up by a 2 day sea saftey course with SeaKayakingCornwall. This is extremely important as, although we have a safety boat every step of the way, knowing how to rescue yourself and deal with tricky situations properly is literally life saving knowledge. The sea can be a dangerous and unforgiving environment and should not be underestimated. We all want to complete this challenge but rest assured we are erring on the side of caution every time!
The support for the porject is really growing now and we owe a lot of that to my mum, Christina. She has been doing a massive PR push down in Cornwall and is even negotiating a pasty sponsorship with Barnacutts Pasties!! How groovy will that be!!
Anyways, I'm off to pack (I hate packing!) and have my last session with Sam at PT-Troop headquaters. Hopefully I will escape this session ache free, but I doubt it!
Sara x
Tuesday, 11 May 2010
Countdown!
Well, we did it! The PaddleFree team successfully completed the Bristol 10k on May 9th 2010. Dan was the first in with a time of 59:06 (what a legend!), I came in at 1h:12:20 and Kerri's time was 1h:15:47. Awesome effort all round!!
The day was quite cool, and standing in the 'holding pens' for 45 mins waiting for our start raised more than a few goosebumps! But the cool breeze was very welcome during the run as was the support of the spectators that lined the route. We had celebratory champagne and roast dinner after a well earned shower, and ended the day with an indoor Pimm's pinic (by this time the clouds were spitting at us!) and a film. All in all it was an enjoyable day! I'm not too sure I like the rumblings coming from Dan's direction though, a half marathon in September?!?! Maybe next year!
So now it's down to the paddling business. With less than 20 days to go I take delivery of the kayak this week and have finalised the equipment list. A sea safety course is next on the agenda and then.................we're off!
We're trying ahrd to get media interest and hopefully that should pick up soon. I finish work this week and so will have more time to dedicate to the project. Trying to organise PaddleFree and hold down a full time job, plus out of work commitments hasn't been easy. In fact at times it's seemed damned near impossible. Delegation is the key and now that I have stopped being a crazy control freak the project is running a lot smoother!
Hopefully some more videos to come soon and some more sea practice too.
Sara x
The day was quite cool, and standing in the 'holding pens' for 45 mins waiting for our start raised more than a few goosebumps! But the cool breeze was very welcome during the run as was the support of the spectators that lined the route. We had celebratory champagne and roast dinner after a well earned shower, and ended the day with an indoor Pimm's pinic (by this time the clouds were spitting at us!) and a film. All in all it was an enjoyable day! I'm not too sure I like the rumblings coming from Dan's direction though, a half marathon in September?!?! Maybe next year!
So now it's down to the paddling business. With less than 20 days to go I take delivery of the kayak this week and have finalised the equipment list. A sea safety course is next on the agenda and then.................we're off!
We're trying ahrd to get media interest and hopefully that should pick up soon. I finish work this week and so will have more time to dedicate to the project. Trying to organise PaddleFree and hold down a full time job, plus out of work commitments hasn't been easy. In fact at times it's seemed damned near impossible. Delegation is the key and now that I have stopped being a crazy control freak the project is running a lot smoother!
Hopefully some more videos to come soon and some more sea practice too.
Sara x
Thursday, 6 May 2010
Run, run as fast as you can................
The Bristol 10k race is just 3 sleeps away! Dan, Kerri and I have all been training (although probably not as much as we should have!) and the day is almost upon us. Kerri and I went for a practice 10k last weekend and managed it in a very respectable 1hr 10mins. Hopefully we can replicate that on Sunday. Whatever the outcome we have Champagne, Pimms and strawberries waiting for us on completion. A Pimms pinic on Bristol downs after a good physical challenge, what more could we ask for?!?!
The project is stepping up a pace now and I love it!! We have 23 days til launch day and yesterday I sorted out one of the most important aspects going.......................the kayak!!!! It may have been left to, almost, the last minute but we finally have a kayak. A beautiful Wilderness Systems Tempest 170 Pro, sorted out by the Family Adventure Store. What fantastic people they are! They have been putting up with my crazy for 5 months now and remain as resolutely helpful and cheerful as they were that first day I walked into their store. If anyone needs any helps with paddle based activities, these are the guys to see. Check out the link to them on the PaddleFree home page (www.paddlefree.co.uk). Can't wait to get my boat out on the water and start getting comfy in her (the adjustable, padded seat should help with that!).
Christina is busy sorting out our on land accommodation and it looks like we have another company willing to give us a good deal to support the project. More on that to follow later........
Dan is hard at work securing permission for our mooring sites. He assures me he knows who to talk to and what to say. We might find ourselves a tad adrift otherwise!
There is certainly still alot left to do before we launch, but it all seems well in hand. A far cry from the panic ridden days of a few weeks ago. Decent sleep, a bit of perspective and the mass of support we have been getting are making it easy for the fear to subside and the excitment to burst through.
Expect a race day update. Anyone taking bets on who comes in first?!? My money's on Kerri personally, but we'll see how the day pan's out. Our 'wave' start running at 9:30am, starting from @Bristol in the Millenium Square. If any of you are around that area on Sunday 9th, keep an eye out for the PaddleFree logo, we will all be wearing our official t-shirts.
Sara x
The project is stepping up a pace now and I love it!! We have 23 days til launch day and yesterday I sorted out one of the most important aspects going.......................the kayak!!!! It may have been left to, almost, the last minute but we finally have a kayak. A beautiful Wilderness Systems Tempest 170 Pro, sorted out by the Family Adventure Store. What fantastic people they are! They have been putting up with my crazy for 5 months now and remain as resolutely helpful and cheerful as they were that first day I walked into their store. If anyone needs any helps with paddle based activities, these are the guys to see. Check out the link to them on the PaddleFree home page (www.paddlefree.co.uk). Can't wait to get my boat out on the water and start getting comfy in her (the adjustable, padded seat should help with that!).
Christina is busy sorting out our on land accommodation and it looks like we have another company willing to give us a good deal to support the project. More on that to follow later........
Dan is hard at work securing permission for our mooring sites. He assures me he knows who to talk to and what to say. We might find ourselves a tad adrift otherwise!
There is certainly still alot left to do before we launch, but it all seems well in hand. A far cry from the panic ridden days of a few weeks ago. Decent sleep, a bit of perspective and the mass of support we have been getting are making it easy for the fear to subside and the excitment to burst through.
Expect a race day update. Anyone taking bets on who comes in first?!? My money's on Kerri personally, but we'll see how the day pan's out. Our 'wave' start running at 9:30am, starting from @Bristol in the Millenium Square. If any of you are around that area on Sunday 9th, keep an eye out for the PaddleFree logo, we will all be wearing our official t-shirts.
Sara x
Thursday, 29 April 2010
YouTube Video
FINALLY!!! The first PaddleFree video is on YouTube. Check it out at www.paddlefree.co.uk or www.youtube.com/user/PaddleFree2010
Tuesday, 27 April 2010
Why don't we ever read the instructions first?!?!
Technology; love it or hate it?
At the moment I can't decide!! However, the frustrations I am currently having in the mini-mission to create a youtube video are entirely of my own making. Here's how it's played out so far:
Video camera, check.
Record video, check.
Transfer video to computer, check.
Edit video, file type not supported.
Read instructions on how to operate video camera and video editing software.
Anyone else see the issue with this version of events.......................d'oh!
So, now downloading new software to convert files to be able to use old software and video should be on it's way soon. What a muppet!
Onto more exciting news! The Bristol 10k is just 2 weeks away!!! Dan is training hard, and Kerri and I are thinking about it alot. So far the furthest I have run is 5.6k, but I am resolving to increase that this week. Darn things like, a full time job, eating and sleeping keep getting in the way. Not to mention trying to get everything organised for the May launch. But heyho! so long as we all finish it's all groovy. I am actually considering going running in the mornings before work to get in some practice (Mum, pick yourself up off the floor! I am capable of rising before 8am. I think). Kerri is actually a pretty good runner and I think both she and dan will whoop my behind in the time stakes, but I figure it's the taking part that counts!
Also, I am hoping that the next 2 weeks will see me become the proud owner of my very first sea kayak. Yup, that's right, I don't have a kayak yet! I have had a paddle for 2 years now but nothing to use it with. The guys at the family adventure store are trying to get a Wilderness systems Tempest 165 for me to trial (the seat looks uber comfy and the reviews have been great so far). In Falmouth SeaKayakingCornwall prefer Nigel Dennis Kayak Explorers, and though they are fab boats I am very much looking forward to seeing what the Tempest has to offer. So far I have trialled a couple of Dagger boats but they weren't really suited for 5'6" short legged people. I am finding as well that I prefer the fibreglass boats, might be my imagination but they seem a bit smoother in the water.
The PaddleFree t-shirts and hoodies have been met with resounding success from the team. I hope to get some pictures up soon (does anyone know how to tweet a picture?!?!). And this past weekend I managed to get my two god-daughters (aged almost 3 and almost 5) to join their Aunty Sara on a sit-on-top kayak for a paddle. They loved it!! Give them a few more years and they'll be paddling free too!! It was a great day!
Well, I suppose I had better get back to this video editing larky and see what i can smush together.
Sara x
At the moment I can't decide!! However, the frustrations I am currently having in the mini-mission to create a youtube video are entirely of my own making. Here's how it's played out so far:
Video camera, check.
Record video, check.
Transfer video to computer, check.
Edit video, file type not supported.
Read instructions on how to operate video camera and video editing software.
Anyone else see the issue with this version of events.......................d'oh!
So, now downloading new software to convert files to be able to use old software and video should be on it's way soon. What a muppet!
Onto more exciting news! The Bristol 10k is just 2 weeks away!!! Dan is training hard, and Kerri and I are thinking about it alot. So far the furthest I have run is 5.6k, but I am resolving to increase that this week. Darn things like, a full time job, eating and sleeping keep getting in the way. Not to mention trying to get everything organised for the May launch. But heyho! so long as we all finish it's all groovy. I am actually considering going running in the mornings before work to get in some practice (Mum, pick yourself up off the floor! I am capable of rising before 8am. I think). Kerri is actually a pretty good runner and I think both she and dan will whoop my behind in the time stakes, but I figure it's the taking part that counts!
Also, I am hoping that the next 2 weeks will see me become the proud owner of my very first sea kayak. Yup, that's right, I don't have a kayak yet! I have had a paddle for 2 years now but nothing to use it with. The guys at the family adventure store are trying to get a Wilderness systems Tempest 165 for me to trial (the seat looks uber comfy and the reviews have been great so far). In Falmouth SeaKayakingCornwall prefer Nigel Dennis Kayak Explorers, and though they are fab boats I am very much looking forward to seeing what the Tempest has to offer. So far I have trialled a couple of Dagger boats but they weren't really suited for 5'6" short legged people. I am finding as well that I prefer the fibreglass boats, might be my imagination but they seem a bit smoother in the water.
The PaddleFree t-shirts and hoodies have been met with resounding success from the team. I hope to get some pictures up soon (does anyone know how to tweet a picture?!?!). And this past weekend I managed to get my two god-daughters (aged almost 3 and almost 5) to join their Aunty Sara on a sit-on-top kayak for a paddle. They loved it!! Give them a few more years and they'll be paddling free too!! It was a great day!
Well, I suppose I had better get back to this video editing larky and see what i can smush together.
Sara x
Friday, 16 April 2010
Perfect Conditions, Rough Times and Renewed Vigor
It's been a week of ups and downs. Two concurrent training weekends have been left half completed. One decimated by the behvioural issues of a 3 legged banshee masquerading as the worlds cutest dog and one cut short by a delightful ear infection which is now being treated by antiphyschotic drugs?!?! The gutting thing is that both of the days I missed were just just stunning kayaking conditions, darn! Definitely a downer and I seemed to be taking a hit both pysically and mentally.
However, it' starting to look up. Depsite some drowsy side-effects the drugs seem to be socking it to my ear infection and I find my spirits lifting. I have just finished reading the book "Rowing the Atlantic" by Roz Savage and it made me realise a few things:
1. You don't have to be the biggest, bravest or strongest to follow your dreams.
2. Big things start with small things, PaddleFree is nowhere near as big as rowing the Atlantic (don't worry Dan I have no intention of ever doing this!) but it's a small step towards a big difference for the 2 organisations we're supporting.
3. Being brave is being afraid and sensibly doing it anyway.
4. It's okay to be scared.
5. I really want to do this!!!
I was down hearted that PaddleFree maybe wasn't seen by others as being very challenging when Dan and I are pouring heart and soul into the project. But it doesn't matter what other people think of it. We know that it is challenging for us and if people don't care, we'll make them care! We want to get people excited about this project, so with less than 45 days til launch day (gulp!) the race is on to get the word out there!
The first round of media bumpf went out this week. I was on Radio Scilly sounding like a slightly strangled oompaloompa and we had a very positive reaction from Pirate FM in Cornwall. Also we have been invited to be Blue Champions with the Blue Project (www.theblueproject.org), how exciting!! So it's getting there. The project clothing is also due any day now so keep an eye on the gallery and blog for PaddleFree's first modelling shoot!
I end this blog on a very positive note. PaddleFree will launch at the end of next month and it will be great!
Sara x
However, it' starting to look up. Depsite some drowsy side-effects the drugs seem to be socking it to my ear infection and I find my spirits lifting. I have just finished reading the book "Rowing the Atlantic" by Roz Savage and it made me realise a few things:
1. You don't have to be the biggest, bravest or strongest to follow your dreams.
2. Big things start with small things, PaddleFree is nowhere near as big as rowing the Atlantic (don't worry Dan I have no intention of ever doing this!) but it's a small step towards a big difference for the 2 organisations we're supporting.
3. Being brave is being afraid and sensibly doing it anyway.
4. It's okay to be scared.
5. I really want to do this!!!
I was down hearted that PaddleFree maybe wasn't seen by others as being very challenging when Dan and I are pouring heart and soul into the project. But it doesn't matter what other people think of it. We know that it is challenging for us and if people don't care, we'll make them care! We want to get people excited about this project, so with less than 45 days til launch day (gulp!) the race is on to get the word out there!
The first round of media bumpf went out this week. I was on Radio Scilly sounding like a slightly strangled oompaloompa and we had a very positive reaction from Pirate FM in Cornwall. Also we have been invited to be Blue Champions with the Blue Project (www.theblueproject.org), how exciting!! So it's getting there. The project clothing is also due any day now so keep an eye on the gallery and blog for PaddleFree's first modelling shoot!
I end this blog on a very positive note. PaddleFree will launch at the end of next month and it will be great!
Sara x
Tuesday, 6 April 2010
Look momma, I wrotes a blog! AKA We have a boat!
Evening ladies and gents! This is indeed the long-awaited first blog from Skipper Dan. In the news this evening, we have a support boat sorted out! Thanks to Mr Chris Danican from the Downs Sailing Club in Deal, we will be using Wavedancer, as modeled here on a previous visit to the West Country:
Nope, not the big one with the cranes. Nope, not the smaller one next to it either. And no, I'm afraid it's not the nice wooden one either! But it is a very comfy RIB with more than enough room for the PaddleFree Safety Team, the PaddleFree Photography Team, the PaddleFree Film Crew (all of those are me by the way...!) and any other spectators that want to join us!
In other news the training for the run is going well. I'm upto 7.5k at the moment, and have promised Sara and Kerri a bottle of bubbly each if either of them can beat me! The race is on ;-)
That's most of it from me really. Though I think that damn clock on the website is broken, it keeps managing to lose days somewhere I'm sure! We must have more than 53 days, 11 hours, 11 minutes and 42 seconds, right?!!
Night all!
Nope, not the big one with the cranes. Nope, not the smaller one next to it either. And no, I'm afraid it's not the nice wooden one either! But it is a very comfy RIB with more than enough room for the PaddleFree Safety Team, the PaddleFree Photography Team, the PaddleFree Film Crew (all of those are me by the way...!) and any other spectators that want to join us!
In other news the training for the run is going well. I'm upto 7.5k at the moment, and have promised Sara and Kerri a bottle of bubbly each if either of them can beat me! The race is on ;-)
That's most of it from me really. Though I think that damn clock on the website is broken, it keeps managing to lose days somewhere I'm sure! We must have more than 53 days, 11 hours, 11 minutes and 42 seconds, right?!!
Night all!
Monday, 29 March 2010
61 days to go, exactly 2 months today!
Where does the time go?!?!? It's getting closer by the day, before it was weeks. I think we're almost at the point of counting hours, scary!!
It is at this time that I find myself drawing a lot of inspiration from other people's aventures. I would like to share some of those adventures with everyone supporting PaddleFree. Check these people out, they are remarkable!
Keep dreaming! Sara x
It is at this time that I find myself drawing a lot of inspiration from other people's aventures. I would like to share some of those adventures with everyone supporting PaddleFree. Check these people out, they are remarkable!
- 3 women from the Isles of Scilly (including my good friend, Carol) have just completed a cycle ride from John O'Groats to Land's End to raise money for a warming blanket at the island's hospital. They finished today!! Well Done Ladies!!!!!
- I am reading 'Sailing the Dream' by Mike Perham (www.sailmike.com), the world's youngest globe solo circumnavigator. What a guy!! This kid is going to be one of those people that sets the world alight and inspires others his whole life. Two world records before the age of 18!
- Dave Cornthwaite (www.thegreatbigpaddle.com) paddled the entire length of the Murray-Darling river in Australia, and is planning to Stand Up Paddle from the UK to Africa. All this after skateboarding across Australia for www.boardfree.com (book avaliable on the website). I met Dave whilst studying at Swansea where he was running the newspaper. He is now a professional adventurer!
Keep dreaming! Sara x
Wednesday, 17 March 2010
Training, Training and more Training
Another session done with the lovely Sam at www.pttroop.com and yet more aching to come! This kayaking malarchy is hard work, but it's going to be so worth it. That is what I hold onto when the aches really set in.
It makes me smile to think of the wonderful things we will (fingers crossed) get to experience. Hopefully we will get to see dolphins, basking sharks, seals and a whole host of sea birds. It's the right time of year for such things and long daylight hours give us maximum time on the water. Unfortunately June can bring some strong winds, so I can forsee some hard paddling to be done. That's a scary thought.
Sometimes the fear feels like it's going to swallow me whole. That's when I call Dan and we have a big old chat, a giggle and we sort it all out. Don't be fooled, there may just be one kayak but this project is a team effort. We lean on each other, motivate each other and comfort each other when doubt creeps in. The team is made up of lots of people, not all of them directly involved but important none the less. If that's one thing I have learnt through all this build up and preparation, it's that the relationships we build with others are a source of strength and should not be underestimated.
Sara x
It makes me smile to think of the wonderful things we will (fingers crossed) get to experience. Hopefully we will get to see dolphins, basking sharks, seals and a whole host of sea birds. It's the right time of year for such things and long daylight hours give us maximum time on the water. Unfortunately June can bring some strong winds, so I can forsee some hard paddling to be done. That's a scary thought.
Sometimes the fear feels like it's going to swallow me whole. That's when I call Dan and we have a big old chat, a giggle and we sort it all out. Don't be fooled, there may just be one kayak but this project is a team effort. We lean on each other, motivate each other and comfort each other when doubt creeps in. The team is made up of lots of people, not all of them directly involved but important none the less. If that's one thing I have learnt through all this build up and preparation, it's that the relationships we build with others are a source of strength and should not be underestimated.
Sara x
Friday, 12 March 2010
The Hedgehog effect
Anyone who knows me knows that needles are not my thing, so you may be amazed to find out that I was voluntarily turned into a human hedgehog on Thursday.
After pulling my back during training on Wednesday Sam (my trainer) suggested acupunture. I was adament it was not going to happen! There was lots of face pulling involved! However, the pain on Thursday was so bad I found myself at The Oriental Medicine Clinic that evening having little needles tapped into various points down my back. And............it didn't hurt and actually helped!! Amazing!! The pain is almost completely gone and I slept so well afterwards. I may well be a convert, on the understanding that I never actually have to see any of needles!!
Today I felt together enough to go for a run with Hattie after work. She did really well, and having to stop every 1km to let her catch up helps me feel less guilty about being awful at running!! Dan is doing really well with his training, so I think Kerri and I have some catching up to do.
Sara
After pulling my back during training on Wednesday Sam (my trainer) suggested acupunture. I was adament it was not going to happen! There was lots of face pulling involved! However, the pain on Thursday was so bad I found myself at The Oriental Medicine Clinic that evening having little needles tapped into various points down my back. And............it didn't hurt and actually helped!! Amazing!! The pain is almost completely gone and I slept so well afterwards. I may well be a convert, on the understanding that I never actually have to see any of needles!!
Today I felt together enough to go for a run with Hattie after work. She did really well, and having to stop every 1km to let her catch up helps me feel less guilty about being awful at running!! Dan is doing really well with his training, so I think Kerri and I have some catching up to do.
Sara
Wednesday, 10 March 2010
The Virtual Launch of PaddleFree
This is it. The first blog of PaddleFree. Tomorrow the website will go live and be open to the public, there's no going back now!
It's been a long slog to get this far, and it hasn't always been plain sailing. I had no idea what was needed to organise a project like this, and it's a lot more work than it looks. Whilst everyone else sees a polished website, donation page and team t-shirts (coming soon!), I see 6 months of planning, learning, persuading, training, panicking and numerous pub meetings. The financial commitment needed also came as a bit of a surprise. All the money donated goes straight to the organisations being supported. Whilst I have stayed within my savings budget (so far!) it's amazing how quickly little things add up! All in all it's been a massive learning curve, and it ain't over yet!!
So here's to the next phase. More water training, putting the project out there and getting a following. I can see that this phase will have many components of the last phase, especially pub meetings! As the weather improves and the evenings get longer so will the runs in preparation for the Bristol 10k. The weekends will be spent in Falmouth (www.seakaykingcornwall.com) and Trowbridge (www.familyadeventurestore.co.uk) out on the water. Hopefully the sun will shine and the winds will be fair.
Welcome to PaddleFree!
Sara x
It's been a long slog to get this far, and it hasn't always been plain sailing. I had no idea what was needed to organise a project like this, and it's a lot more work than it looks. Whilst everyone else sees a polished website, donation page and team t-shirts (coming soon!), I see 6 months of planning, learning, persuading, training, panicking and numerous pub meetings. The financial commitment needed also came as a bit of a surprise. All the money donated goes straight to the organisations being supported. Whilst I have stayed within my savings budget (so far!) it's amazing how quickly little things add up! All in all it's been a massive learning curve, and it ain't over yet!!
So here's to the next phase. More water training, putting the project out there and getting a following. I can see that this phase will have many components of the last phase, especially pub meetings! As the weather improves and the evenings get longer so will the runs in preparation for the Bristol 10k. The weekends will be spent in Falmouth (www.seakaykingcornwall.com) and Trowbridge (www.familyadeventurestore.co.uk) out on the water. Hopefully the sun will shine and the winds will be fair.
Welcome to PaddleFree!
Sara x
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