As we get ready for Autumn and the cooler weather ahead, we’re taking a look back over the Pop up Paddlesports weeks that Oarsome Chance were appointed to deliver on behalf of Friends of Hardway during the Summer school holidays.
This is the third year now that we have commissioned this community event providing free and fun activities to keep local youngsters busy during the long summer months. We hope everyone who took part in these free on the water sessions for young people this summer had a fabulous time and have in return developed a respect for both the Hardway community and the water.
The ‘Pop up’ event offered free kayaking taster sessions for local children in the harbour waters off Hardway Memorial Green. For two weeks in July and August, young people (9-19 years) were able to take part in hourly sessions, in groups of up to 15. Each session began with ensuring all participants were kitted out with buoyancy aids and paddles and after an onshore briefing they took to the water, with Oarsome Chance instructors on hand to teach them the basics and play some games once they were comfortable on the water.
Those new to kayaking were taught in the calm shallow water closer to shore. Those who were more confident or already had some experience were able to venture out further for games and races out in the harbour, all under the supervision of Oarsome Chance staff, on the water with them.
Poor weather in the second week did mean that sessions were cancelled on a single day, but this initiative allowed 320 young people to safely experience water based activities over the two weeks. Here is some of the feedback received from families:-
We cannot praise this enough. Thank you for the opportunity, our grandson absolutely loved this x
What a brilliant initiative!
Thank you so much for providing this opportunity. My daughter has loved it. X
Thank you once again. My children had a brilliant time kayaking this morning.
My boys loved it. Thank you
We had a great time, thank you all so much x
Photos of Friends of Hardway Pop up Paddlesports 2022 - courtesy of Oarsome Chance who were commissioned to deliver the sessions on behalf of Friends of Hardway and taken with permission of parents/guardians.
This community event was only made possible by the hard work of Friends of Hardway volunteers behind the scenes fundraising and by the kind donations and sponsorship received to run this event.
To find out how to become a member for only £5 per year and help us to continue to safeguard the environment of Hardway for present and future generations - Become a member of Friends of Hardway
Click here for more information on Oarsome Chance Charity