Some say freestyle is dieing, but only those who have not paid a visit to the Youth Freestyle Series. The series is growing in popularity each year and at some events attracts over 100 young freestylers. This year there are 5 events; Llangollen, The Mighty Nene, Boulters Weir, River Washburn and Nottingham White Watre Centre. Josh Wedgwood reports from the latest event at the Nene.

The sun was shining and the pumps were pumping. The scene was set for the second event of the youth freestyle series 2009 at the Nene White Water Cource. With 50 youth kayakers taking place it was busy on the course but everyone took terns and everyone had a great time in the morning practice. There was coaching on hand for everyone who wanted it as there were lots of expert volunteer coaches on hand.

After the one hour practice session the competition kicked off. The novices were in pool C; pop-outs, paddle spins and air guitars were on the menu. Everyone was getting stuck in and enjoying themselves. In pool A was the main competition which I was competing in. Everyone was paddling really well and all the big moves were being thrown such as Phonix Monkeys and Trick Woos as well as the easier cartwheels and splitwheels. Stu Parry lead the way in the Under 18s followed closely by Ben Aldred. In the U15s Brenden Orton came home 1^st again followed by Matt Rodgers and myself with only 5 points separating us. As always the girls did really well putting in some good runs.

After everyone had their go at ether throwing some moves or getting munched it was time for Matt to think up another game that involves boats as an optional extra. This time it was collecting 7 ball thrown down the 'big' drop in teams of 4. This caused great excitement and was very funny for everyone watching. The best team managed it in a speedy time of under 45 seconds.

NACC Results

Jonathon Williams Novice 8^th

Edward Wheatcroft Novice 11^th

Nicholas Worsley Novice 13^th

Josh Wedgwood U15s 3^rd

Sam Stephenson U15s 7^th

Stuart Sheath U18s 11^th

George Williams U18s 12^th

Those who did well went home with prices from Dagger, Palm, Big Dog and Square Rock. For a full list of results check out www.youthfreestyle.co.uk.