Tim and Rupert battled through the fog today and reached the whitewater centre to catch the final run of the 6 cumec release.
First Run
Rupert expertly made it to the third drop before becoming closely attached to a blue plastic bollard……over he went and climbed out onto the island. During this initial run I rediscovered the importance of the bow rudder and spent 10 minutes coaching Rupert on flat water whilst the course prepared itself for his second run.
Second Run
“8 Cumecs……what difference does that make? “asked Rupert.
” less chance of hurting your head when upside down. ” replied Tim.
Through the first 4 drops Rupert cruised and was then confronted by a raft playing in the stopper. He heads straight at it ………there’s only going to be one winner here…..that’s right it wasn’t Rupert. Rupert is now on first name terms with the lifeguard. “See you in five.” he says.
Third Run
Rupert styles the first five drops, past the centre, paddling like a man possessed, he is catching me up and Im struggling to stay in front. He starts to slow down and goes from river right to river left just before the final turn and becomes closely attached to a second blue bollard. He scrambles out and prepares….
Final Run
Rupert gets back on the horse and attacks the course. Bow rudders, active strokes, future water…..it was all there. Expert run. Smiles and woops and a hand shake. Time for home and the sound of the seventies with jonny walker.
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