LaoisKayakScarecrow Festival: We note that one of our Kayakers Enda Whelan has been honoured with a Scarecrow likeness by Dove House and we have to say it’s a great one. Kayakers on the river should be careful not to kayak near any of the scarecrows currently displayed on the river for the festival.

Recent Activity: LKCC had a great weekend recently with sea kayaking, polo and ranking races, well done to the canoe polo team, Paul, Brian, Calvin, Conall, Michael, Mikie and Brendan who were runners-up at club championships in Longford and to Matt for claiming 2nd place in the men’s GP class Race win in Belturbet. Thanks to the film crew from IrishTV who did a feature on the club. We look forward to it airing on Sky 191 in a few weeks’ time. Congratulations to Brian Maher who passed his level 2 kayak skills assessment on July 23rd.

Safety Course: LKCC are running a River Safety & Rescue (RSR1) course this Saturday 2nd August at Castletown Weir. There are six places available. We are meeting in Castletown at 9.30am. The RSR 1 is a half day course designed for people who wish to undertake relevant training in Safety and Rescue Techniques appropriate for Grade I water. The RSR 1 aims to develop a culture of safety, awareness and proactive accident prevention in canoe sports in Ireland.

Beginner Sessions: Kayaking Beginner Sessions continue on Tuesday evening’s for Children and on Wednesday evenings for Adults at 7pm. Our qualified instructors will show you some of the techniques and disciplines of paddling. All equipment including kayaks, helmets and buoyancy aids will be provided. Anyone interested should message us on Facebook www.facebook.com/laoiskayak or send an email to info@laoiskayak.com. The cost is €5 per person. You must be able to swim 25 metres competently. If you are a junior (U16 years old), then a parent or guardian must be present for the duration of the session.

Raffle: The club are holding a raffle to raise much needed funds for club equipment. Club member Calvin O’Brien is representing Ireland on the Irish Freestyle Kayaking Team in the European Championships in Slovakia in September, the club are fundraising for a competition model boat of which Laois County Council have kindly agreed to partially fund and the club need to raise the rest of the money for same. Tickets are available at Durrow Post Office, Thomas Kenna Butchers, Durrow Credit Union, Churchview Dental Practice Portlaoise and from club members locally. Draw takes place in Bob’s Bar on Saturday 16th August at 9.30pm.