YMCA men paddle kayaks for charity

In kayaks provided by Just Kayaking, 24 stout men in two teams, left Lifford at 9am on their way to Prehen. After 1 hour and 30 minutes they arrived at the Gribben at Bready were Gillian Simpson had some refreshments waiting for them. At this stage the much more experienced married men had opened up a 50 metre lead on the single men.

The team captains and coaches took the opportunity of the break to work on team tactics. It was also evident that some members had not been pulling their considerable weight and Coach Dunn was seen working his inspirational mind games.

From the Gribben again the married men pulled away but the single men had changed things around and now had young Mark Doherty on stroke.

As they passed Newbuildings the singles struck for home and opened up a 150 metre lead. Passing Prehen from somewhere the married men rallied cheered on by their adoring wives and as the reach Craigavon Bridge had caught up. As they turned for home it was evident that in that surge the married men had given their all and emptied the tank.

On the hard stretch up river to the Loughs Agency the singles once again showed too much “know how” by going for the cam waters of the City side.

The event was for the Neo Natal unit as the Royal Victoria Hospital, which had recently provided excellent care and support to the family of a Club member and members will be travelling shortly to Belfast to hand over a cheque.

The event was sponsored by Patrick Bradley and Company (Road Contractors) and the club are indebted to them for their support. The Club would also like to thank Just Kayaking and the Loughs Agency for their considerable support. Final to all the public who supported the crew members.