Canoe event set to make a splash in Perth

Aug 24 2010 by Johnathon Menzies, Perthshire Advertiser Tuesday

AQUATIC enthusiasts from far and wide are being urged to enter a top canoeing event on the River Tay.

Participants can chose to tackle one of three courses – a five-mile stretch beginning in Luncarty, a nine-mile course which gets underway at Burnmouth, and a 23-mile descent from Dunkeld, all on October 23.

It is hoped hundreds of craft will take to the renowned waterway, including sea kayaks, white water kayaks and traditional Canadian canoes.

Organisers Perth and Kinross Council have said that the event, known as the ‘Tay Descent’ and part of the ongoing Perth 800 anniversary celebrations, could help swell local coffers.

A silver quaich will be presented to the winning canoeists in each category.

The ‘Tay Descent’ coincides with Paddle 2010 – Scotland’s annual canoe and kayak show, which is being held at the Fair City’s Bell’s Sports Centre on October 23 and 24.

Stuart Smith, chief executive of the Scottish Canoe Association said: “The great thing about this is that a whole variety of canoeists can take part – whether they are in it for the love of it, or to set a record time.”

PKC’s Provost John Hulbert declared: “This will be a fantastic event, and is one of the major sporting attractions of the Perth 800 programme.

“I look forward to welcoming canoeists from all over the UK, and abroad, for this unique event.

To enter visit www.canoescotland.org. The closing date is September 30.