So we had loads of rain on Friday but the rivers barely moved. Myself, Steve and Simon met up with Dave Y, Laurence, Andy, Geoff, Kee and Ricki (oh I’ve forgotten my paddle !) at the Stewponey before meeting Nigel, Rob and Mark at Dobbies making it a nice round dozen. We had only 2 options, the Dee or Tryweryn. A short wait for Ricki ( now with paddle) and it was quickly decided that the Tryweryn was the best choice, so we headed straight up to centre, paid our dues and shot up to the top car park. The intention was to “warm up” above the chipper. Unfortunately a sign stated this section was fully booked for rescue courses which were already in progress. Ricki, Dave and Laurence slipped on anyway whilst the rest of seal launched down the ramp below the chipper. It’s always great to have Mark with us to boost your confidence on the “T”. Not sure how many times he’s been there but he knows every wave, hole, eddy, boulder and line to take on the entire upper section and must have spent more time on the river than most of the raft guides ! I guess he’s tried all of the boats he’s ever owned there too, which is over 30.
It was, to say the least, a real adventure, some might say an epic running from the chipper down to Bala. It is often said that if you’re not swimming, you’re not trying. Saturday demonstrated that everyone was trying really hard !
It was far too eventful to record or remember all the incidents that occurred, so hopefully Geoff will produce some pictures and video as to what happened.
Fingers crossed for another river next week.
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