Newbie kayakers on Kilcullen waters

There were 17 new members of Kilcullen Canoe Club on the water this morning, getting their beginners water safety training, writes Brian Byrne. The cohort included two family groups, and, in a pleasing circularity, two great-grandchildren of the late Paddy Maloney were there, Colm and Moya. Paddy's interest in building canoes led to the formation of Kilcullen Canoe Club. 

Those taking part in today's training — minimum age 12 — learned the different forms of paddling, how to deal with a capsize, and other safety techniques under the guidance of instructors from Canoeing Ireland and a CI Leader. They were also given a tour of the club's facilities, which include a gym, and the event concluded with a group paddle up the river.

They came out of the day with a Level 1 Kayak Skills Award. Over the summer they'll have the opportunity to achieve Level 2, and at a later stage progress to Level 3.

The club, generally accepted as the first official canoe club in the country when it was formed in 1959, has an impressive record of past members doing well in national and international competition.

The current premises was officially opened in July 2008, having been built as part of the Market Square development undertaken by the late Pat Dunlea. It replaced a wooden clubhouse nearby which had been home to the club for decades.

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