Have you always fancied trying canoeing or kayaking, but been unsure how to start? Aboyne Canoe Club are inviting people with sight and/or hearing loss to try their free taster sessions. If you enjoy the experience and want to continue in the sport, you could then become a member. Although based in Aboyne, the club operates over the length of the Dee and the Don and occasionally other Scottish rivers.
They say: “The club will make everyone welcome and adapt to their needs. We have experienced and qualified leaders and coaches who are PVG checked. The club has open canoes and dual kayaks – so a more experienced leader can even take someone as a passenger. The club has a wide range of ages and is 60/40 male/female with several paddlers in their seventies, so everyone should feel that they fit in.
In the winter, they have sessions in Aboyne Swimming Pool each Thursday from 18:30 – 19:30 and a second session until 20:30. There are coaches on hand and all the basic skills are taught. There is a £5 charge per session for the pool.
In the summer, the club uses a safe area of the Dee above Aboyne Bridge on Thursday evenings from 18:30 – 20:30, with coaches teaching the skills on gentle moving water.
Aboyne Canoe Club runs river trips throughout the year at all skill levels. All the river trips, equipment and coaching costs are included in the annual membership of £20 for an individual and £40 for a family. Apart from the pool there are no other costs. The club has a wide range of equipment available for members.
For more information, visit the Aboyne Canoe Club website: www.aboynecanoeclub.co.uk.
Published 25th April 2024
