The success of 2010’s Tay Descent has helped secure grassroots canoeing cash for Perth and Kinross.
Young people will get the chance to race down the rapids and perfect their barrel rolls at the local club.
The first Tay Descent, organised as part of Perth 800, attracted more than 400 UK canoeists and highlighted the area’s “enviable” outdoor potential.
The Scottish Canoe Association (SCA) has now been given Sportsmatch funding to help bring canoeing to more participants. Cash will go to clubs to provide lessons for Perth and Kinross pupils, in partnership with the council’s outdoor education team, and free courses offered to those keen to become a coach.
The funding will also be used to buy new canoes and equipment.
SCA chief executive Stuart Smith said, “Canoeing is a fantastic pastime and sport and Perthshire is one of the best places to take it up. This funding will support coaches to attend training and gain qualifications to enable them to introduce newcomers to the sport.
“Our aim is to increase local participation in future Tay Descents and help more people take up and sustain an interest in canoeing. We want people from all areas and backgrounds to take advantage of access to the River Tay.”
Tay Descent 2010 – 23 Oct 2010 from SCA on Vimeo.
The Sportsmatch application was made possible thanks to local firm I&H Brown’s sponsorship.
Managing director Scott Brown added, “We are delighted to have supported this innovative, successful event and we congratulate the SCA on their initiative.”
The Tay Descent last October coincided with the Paddle 2010 canoe show. Residents and tourists lined the Tay at Perth to cheer participants at the Queen’s Bridge, some having raced the 23 miles from Dunkeld.
Planning the 2011 event, on October 22, is under way. Entries open in July.
The SCA is the governing body for canoeists and kayakers in Scotland. It has 3000 members and 90 affiliated clubs with a further 3000 members.