Canoeing Ireland would like to make you aware of some changes that are being made to the Blueway 10k programme for 2018.
With the recent success and simplicity of the Paddles Up programme which ran earlier in the year, Canoeing Ireland and Waterways Ireland agreed that the Blueway 10K programme and the Paddles Up programme should be similar in approach and that the finals day for the Blueway 10k should be more about clubs and members participation, than an actual competitive race.
With this idea in mind, Waterways Ireland were happy to agree with Canoeing Ireland’s proposals that we create a National Canoe and Kayak Week which would fall under the Blueway 10k banner and be supported by Waterways Ireland.
This means that the three hours a week training regime that was present during the original Blueway 10k programme is no longer necessary. The technical details of racing a kayak are no longer necessary either. This new event will be open to all types of suitable craft and abilities. This event is ideal for those who have taken or will take a 6 to 8 week beginner course as well as more experienced paddlers. The objective is to create a festival event with a fun atmosphere where clubs, providers and members from across the paddling community get together for a great day out on one of the beautiful designated Blueways.
The National Canoe & Kayak week will see two finals days, one on Lough Derg and the other in Clondra Co. Longford on what will be most likely the wonderful Camlin Loop.
The dates will be:
August 11th – TBC Soon!
August 18th – Lough Derg
 
We are hoping that all clubs and providers can get on board and support Blueway 10k National Canoe & Kayak week.
Funding will be available to those clubs and providers who meet the criteria.
For more information on this exciting new project please contact Jon development@canoe.ie