18/08/2026
What an amazing GB Freestyle Academy camp. It was a real pleasure to paddle with everyone. Watching the group progress, both in confidence and skill; stepping up to new challenges supported by their coaches. They worked as a team, encouraging each other and celebrating the small wins together.
On behalf of Paddle UK Freestyle, thank you to the clubs who nominated these amazing young paddlers and contributed to the foundation that set them up to make the most of this opportunity. Their progress this week reflects the work you do all year round.
A huge thank you to the camp staff and volunteers. The camp was full of activity, great food, and those small moments that make a week like this special. Volunteers behind the scenes created a place where paddlers could relax, learn and enjoy themselves.
Likewise, the coaching team brought energy, care and consistency to every session. They created an environment where every paddler could push on and feel supported. The mix of coaching styles, the patience and the enthusiasm across the week made a real difference.
Lastly, I would also like to thank everyone involved, past and current, who has helped shape and support the Academy over the years. Your continued commitment is felt across every camp.
A special thanks to the volunteers who made this camp possible: Lisa Dickinson (Event Lead), Laura F**g (Camp Lead), Elizabeth Trelawney Vernon (Safeguarding and Welfare Lead), Del Read (Welfare), Sam Ward, and our fantastic catering team: Neil Hambley, Nicki Crowe, Carol Atkinson, Nick Kemp, Jayne Crow, Richard Champion.
And a massive thanks to the camp’s coaching team: Lead Coaches: Gav Barker, Harry Price, Matt Stephenson, Mike Shaw, Ottilie Robinson Shaw, Tamsyn McConchie Assistant Coaches: Em Walker, Jack Purcell, Mathew Fretwell, Neil Baars, Pete Wilson, Sol Chandan, Sophie Macken
Many thanks to the following clubs whose members attended the Academy; Addlestone Canoe Club, Albany Outdoors, Birmingham Canoe Club, Bromley Canoe Club, Edinburgh Kayak Club, Giggleswick School, HPPCC, Islington Boat Club, Langollen Canoe Club, Lee Valley Paddlesports Club, Llandysul Paddlers, Liverpool Canoe Club, Maidstone Canoe Club, Midland Canoe Club, North Avon Canoe Club, North Wales Slalom, Paddleplus, Pirates Canoe Club, Royal Canoe Club, Seren Dŵr, Seren Dŵr Cardiff, Slea Paddlers, St Ives Sea Scouts, Wyre Forest Canoe Club.
Paddle UK Freestyle - Performance Director
Dennis Newton
Photos: Del likes kayaking
