At the Nene YFS Matt Chadder invited me up to HPP on the weekend of GB team training to be a BCU guinea-pig (this time for the 4* freestyle) and get some coaching with the team. I said yes, so Mum and I found ourselves driving up to HPP on a chilly (for the summer!) Saturday morning. This was my first experience of team training. In the morning we did the theory for the 4* (reminded me of why I am pleased I have done all my star awards) and in the afternoon we hit the water. I thought it was a great award and anyone who is looking to get into freestyle who can do some of the basic moves such as loops and cartwheels will really enjoy it.

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.