Our first Water Activity Camp took place at Tatton Park Scout Activity Centre on the first week-end in June. A few of our more experienced kayakers joined in the full week-end at our campsite close to the edge of Tatton Mere. Those who managed to pitch their tents quickly enough had time for a quick paddle on Friday evening.
Everything got a lot busier on Saturday when 7 SWC Groups brought teams of 10 Scouts & Cubs for our inaugural Bell Boat Gala. With the camp contingent making up the 8th team we had over 80 Cubs, Scouts & Explorers taking part in this exciting water activity.
The morning was taken up by some energetic training sessions where participants learnt how to paddle these large boats forwards, backwards, racing starts and carry out strange commands such as “Paddle & Bang” and “Stand up, Turn round, Sit down”! A few of the braver ones even tried ‘person overboard’ procedures.
After a BBQ lunch with as many burgers & hot dogs as they could manage, the teams gathered for the Gala Races. Each team raced twice and after a controversial Final (where 3 boats collided resulting a re-start) the team from the 16th SWC emerged victorious and carried home the trophy.
A chilled paddling session in kayaks rounded off the day for the campers after the Bell Boaters had departed.
Sunday morning saw us on the water again – with a chance to learn new skills in Canadian Canoes, whilst others reverted to kayaks again. With a fresh wind blowing the mere turned quite rough, adding to the excitement.
Congratulations are due to Sam W who successfully gained his Stage 3 Paddlesport badge.
Very well done to everyone who took part and special thanks to our Camp Team who kept us all extremely well fed and looked after the ‘land side’ of things.
Any Scouts, Explorers or other Sections who’d like more opportunities on the water should get in touch with me at activities@swcscouts.org.uk.
