First meeting and paddle session

Today we got together at Emmarentia Dam for the first time; and our first coaching session with Russell Willis. We were fortunate to be joined by Cheryl and Clinton, who drove two of the Accords. The session went very well, something that can clearly be assessed by the lack of swimmers, which is a very good thing. I like to keep paddling and swimming as two separate disciplines.

Russell's focus in today's session was the reach and catch element of the stroke. Going forward the squad will aim for a session a week with Russell for the next 2-3 weeks - to reinforce good habits from the start. Russell will gradually build in other elements of technique like keeping arms high, take-out, posture, power and such. He was really impressed with everyone today - we've got a great base to build on.

Cheryl, Clinton with Lizelle v/d M., Ilze, Lisa, Coach Russell, Lizelle S., Keane, Steven, Adri

Cheryl and Clinton - special thanks to both of you. Also thanks to William for dropping off and fetching the one boat and to Heidi and Stephan for lending their Accord - plus paddles - to us for the next few weeks (and I've still got Mark and Lobby's Accord- thank you friends).