June 2012 saw the fourth annual Windermere Summer Solstice Lake Race, organised by Windermere Canoe Kayak. The 2012 race was to be another exciting event held on England’s longest lake, at the heart of the beautiful Lake District National Park. The race involves paddlers of all abilities completing either the half or full length of Windermere, and is open to an array of boats from surf skis to canoes. Over the years we have seen everything from whitewater rafts and dragon boats, through to sit-on-top kayaks and handmade wooden canoes. The aim of the game is to get as many paddlers involved, enjoying England’s longest lake on the longest day of the year (or as near to as possible) – some are there just for the journey and some are there to beat the race record, held by Michael Mason, who completed the length of Windermere in 1 hour and 19 minutes at the inaugural race. This is faster than the lake speed limit – but it’s ok….he didn’t have an engine!
Since then each year has been wetter and wilder than the last; and 2012 was no exception! We set up registration in the driving rain, yet were greeted by smiling and excited faces. The weather was predicted to worsen throughout the day, and the wind was already showing us what it was made of! Half an hour before the race was due to start and everyone was ready and raring to go, already soaked before even touching the water. The dragon boat arrived and the race began at11amsharp. Not knowing how fast the front competitors would be the event staff made a swift exit to the finish line….just in case. The first racers to cross the line were brothers Ian and Alan Tordoff in a racing K2, followed shortly by Colin Cartwright on a surf ski, then Keith Longley and Peter Hart in a tandem racing sea kayak. Once off the water competitors were rewarded with a complimentary bacon butty, perfect post paddle grub. Everyone crossed the finish line, reporting that although the weather had been rough they all felt they had had an adventure and would definitely be back in 2013. Presentations at Fell Foot Park finished off the day, Ian Tordoff once again getting his name on our trophy. Who can rise to the challenge this year?
The race will take place on Saturday June 22nd 2013. We are now accepting applications for the 2013 race. To download a copy of the application form & race terms and conditions please click the link below. Alternatively if you need these in another version then please email us office@windermerecanoekayak.com
Please ensure you read all the information provided before returning your application form. Return your application forms by post or email.
By Post: Windermere Canoe Kayak, Ferry Nab Road, Bowness-on-Windermere, LA23 3JH
By Email: office@windermerecanoekayak.com
All cheques must be payable to “Grizedale Mountain Bikes Ltd”
You can also pay over the phone or pop in to the shop!
We look forward to celebrating another successful event. Good luck!
