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They say, that in everybodys life there must be a challenge. In Western Australia that challenge is the Avon Descent. It's got it all - the weeks of training, the friendships, the excitement of rapids, the mental and physical torture, the incredible challenge, the capsizes, the blisters, the rainy days, the cold days, the happy days, the tea trees, and the prestige. Then when it's all over there is nothing more satisfying than telling all your work mates and friends that you competed in the most gruelling race in the world - they are usually impressed.
The Race
The Avon Descent is Western Australia's premier whitewater event. It is unlike any other event around the world as it combines three very different watercraft; canoes/kayaks, skis and power boats. The 135kms race is held over two days and includes 45kms of white water, 14kms of tea trees, many kilometres of meandering channels with the final 30kms on flat water.
The Craft
Using the right craft and becoming familiar with it is very important. Time spent in the boat is the most valuable form of exercise. Generally a plastic boat is more suitable for a beginner.
It needs to be structurally soundSuited to your skill level and abilitiesFast enough to get you to the end, but stable enough so you don't keep capsizing.
Terry 's vast amount of experience will assist you in selecting the most suitable craft for the race. Visit the store at Unit 3 / 516 Guildford Road, Bayswater to see the most comprehensive range.
On our FlatwaterTraining Courses we have several different craft suitable for the Avon Descent, available to use - Try them out and then decide which one is best suited for you.
The Training
Avon Descent Flat Water Skills and Fitness Training sessions are held on Saturday mornings although we do have them at other times. If you want to know more or don't have a boat, please give Terry a call on 9378 1333.
This year due to safety concerns and regulations we will not be conducting any Avon Valley trips.
We however will be conducting Avon Descent Assessments.
Importance of Instruction
It is essential for all paddlers to learn the correct skills and technique from the beginning. An instructor will:
- Identify incorrect technique
Advise on the necessary and important skills to work on
Help develop your skills very quickly.
Advise you on your individual training needs
It is important to allow as much time as possible to develop adequate skills remembering that your fitness will follow. The more times you kayak the rapids, the easier and more familiar they will be on race day.
Ensuring Your Safety
Safety is the prime concern of our team of highly experienced instructors. So even on flat water training sessions you will be required to wear a Personal Floatation Device (PFD). We can supply you with one if necessary, just let us know.
In the white water Terry and his instructors will lead, rescue and help you get through the rapids with a minimum of fuss. Please understand that a white water river is a fluid environment and no matter how many safety procedures are in place, capsizes and possible injuries may occur.
Most years the Avon River starts to flow at the end of May early June but more recently not until late June.
The Avon Descent is one of the greatest kayak races in the world. It takes skill, endurance and determination to complete the race. It's a must for people wanting to take on a challenge.
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