Mainly kayaking photographs taken on the Isle of Man and beyond.


Tuesday 21 September 2010

Kayaking Isle of Man - Oban Sea Kayak Race.

Ever get the feeling you've really messed up? I had that feeling when I arrived in Oban for the weekend recently only to witness the inaugural Oban Sea Kayak Race taking place. Of course, as I was half way through a job in a hospital about as far from the sea as you can get in Scotland, I didn't bring my kayak or my gear. To be honest I've never taken part in a paddling race before and I'm sure my lack of preparation would have meant that I lagged well behind, but it would have been nice just to take part.
The race circumnavigates the Island of Kerrera which is just off Oban. Much of the 20 km route is remote and exposed and I think just finishing would be an achievement in itself. A further great achievement is the over £1000 raised for the RNLI. The overall winner was John Willacy from Anglesey in an astonishing time of 1 hour 55 minutes and 41 seconds. You can read more about the race and perhaps sign up for next years at www.obanseakayakrace.org .

2 comments:

Unknown said...

Great write-up John and brilliant photos, one might even think that we had paid you to write this article....but we didn't!
The race was a total success and we are already preparing for 2011, which looks like being even bigger and better.
We look forward to meeting you next year and seeing you paddle whether for fun or against the clock.
Gus

John said...

Thanks Gus, definitely no money changed hands, John