Frome Canoe Club has received funding from British Canoeing to become a ‘Talent Club Partner’.
The club is one of just three countrywide selected for the 2021-2025 programme, which aims to build the clubs with more paid coaching positions and access to resources to support its athletes.
The club reports, “This is a result of the success the club has had in recent years in the sport of canoe slalom, which has seen a team of their youth members rising through the divisions and national rankings.
“Members of the club committee spotted the opportunity when British Canoeing released its new Talent Strategy for the next four years.
“Following an extensive application process including a panel interview with England’s Head of Talent and the Chair of the Slalom Committee, Frome Canoe Club is one of only three clubs in the country to secure the funding.
“This funding not only secures a grant for the next four years but will enable the club to tap into a pool of resources to support its coaches and athletes.”
British Canoeing Talent Club Partner Manager, Charlie Barwis, said, “Frome joining the Talent Club Partnership (TCP) is a really exciting step forward for both the club and British Canoeing.
“During the application and interview process, it was clear that the club has a vision for its slalom section that aligns with the aims and ambitions of the TCP.
“I’m very much looking forward to working with Frome and I’m positive that the support provided will act as the catalyst to enable the club’s vision to become a reality.”
British Canoeing is keen to encourage younger athletes at “grass roots” level to try out the sport and start competing at a local level before rising through the ranks to national races.
Canoe Slalom is an Olympic sport which, for many, can be the ultimate challenge; it is a test of speed, agility and precision on courses ranging from flat water to white water rapids.
After the difficulties of the last year, Frome Canoe Club is pleased to announce that they are now fully open for the summer season.
They are always open to new members who want to get on the water and are particularly looking for children aged between 9-11 years to come and try the sport.
After a few weeks of general kayaking and learning some skills, members can then choose from slalom, polo and fun and games.
The club say, “Feel free to come see us next to the river by the Cheese and Grain on a Tuesday at 7pm or on a Wednesday from 7pm – if you want to get on the water (all you need are comfortable clothes and shoes you don’t mind getting wet, we provide the rest). The first session is free.”
Alternatively email the club at: fromecanoeclub@ gmail.com. The club’s website is: www.frome-canoe-club.org.uk
