Cardiff International White Water Jan 26

Location: Cardiff International White Water
Distance: 4 laps
Duration: 2 hours
Leader: Phil

After days of icy snow back in Birmingham, arriving in Cardiff to a balmy 7°C felt like a win – even if the white water itself was still toe-curlingly cold. We met mid-morning, pulled on our dry suits, and were on the water soon after, buzzing with adrenaline.

Before launching, we had a wander around the course to check out the features, assess the power of the water, and admire some impressive paddling already underway. Phil set us up with a clear safety briefing and plan, making sure everyone was kitted out and ready to go.

We warmed up in the bottom pool, practising ferry glides and rolls to get used to the cold and the flow before heading onto the main course.

The runs were fast, splashy and full-on: charging through standing waves, snapping into eddies, and being pushed hard by the current. The course definitely kept us on alert, with a bit of capsizing along the way, but everyone powered through and made the most of the exhilarating experience. As confidence grew, so did the smiles – and a couple of paddlers squeezed in extra laps right to the end. Junior member, Rory, said it was the best fun he's ever had!

We finished tired, warm, and grinning. Cold water, big effort, great company – and an all-round brilliant session on lively grade 2/3 white water.