ATWORTH teenager Natalie Day had to battle through hail and lightning storms on her way to completing the country’s toughest canoe race – the 125 miles Devizes to Westminster International Canoe Race – over Easter.
Natalie raced with her friend Sarah Osborn, and came in fifth in the girls’ race.
The conditions were some of the worst ever faced by canoeists in the 60-year-old race as Storm Katie battered the country.
The race was called off after 108 of the 125 miles on the third day as conditions worsened and became too bad to continue. The girls had set off on Good Friday and camped for two nights before the race was cancelled. Race organisers said that canoeists had to ‘endure incredible conditions’ before the reluctant decision was made to stop the race after day 3 due to severe weather and safety concerns.
Natalie and Sarah also raised nearly £1,000 for Shelter and Devizes Canoe Club from their efforts. 16 year-old Natalie said, “We had an amazing time; it was a brilliant experience and we are very happy with how it all turned out.
“To paddle more than 100 miles through hail and lightning storms is a big improvement for us, considering a few months ago we weren’t keen on even paddling four miles.
“We raised more money than we expected, and the support from people has been amazing – it made the whole event that much more worthwhile and special.”
An experienced racer, Natalie has competed in white water races and now does sprints in both regional and national competitions for Wiltshire Youth Canoe Club. She is a member of the talent development programme at Team Bath and has a kayak coaching qualification.
Natalie and Sarah are both serious kayakers and their weekly training includes two night paddles, two gym sessions, and a half or full day’s paddle at the weekend.
As part of their training they completed and won the Waterside Series races, and came first and second in two Thamesides national races. They intend to continue competing together in both marathon and sprint events.
The two girls are still fundraising, and you can donate online at www.givey.com/SarahNatalieDWdcc
