Freestyle Canoeing

One of the disciplines identified within the OCA Development Plan is freestyle canoeing. Completely different from the kayakers’ white-water rodeo type activity of the same name, open canoe freestyle has been described as “a graceful beautiful sport characterised by fancy strokes.... based on the quiet ripple-less paddling techniques of Native Americans.” Those of you who went to the last Scottish Symposium saw a stunning demonstration of this by the current US champion.

I’ve had an interest in this for some time but have only a limited knowledge - largely from books and floundering around on the water. Despite this I’ve already discovered that learning a bit of freestyle has helped my other paddling , whether touring or whitewater, as some techniques are transferable - not least economy of effort!

It would be good to get some of us together to coach each other and generally have fun trying out these strange strokes. Preferably with good food somewhere nearby. If there is anybody with any degree of expertise in freestyle, likewise anybody at all who has even the slightest interest please get in touch with me. If we can’t find expert help in the first instance we’ll just have fun. I’ll sort out a venue and probably advertise an event or two later on in the year.

Colin