Kingston kayakers complete Vohandu Marathon
Dave Rawding and Andy Davies have made history by becoming the first all-British crew to compete in the 100-km Vohandu Ultra Marathon in Estonia.
The marathon, regarded as the toughest in Europe, starts at Lake Tamula before entering the Vohandu River with four portages and six white water sections to negotiate and reach the final destination of Voopsu Boat Harbour.
Dave and Andy are experienced canoeists, competitors, and white water coaches. They actively lead numerous sessions at Kingston Kayak Club, based in Hull.
With white water backgrounds, the duo had to change their training routines in preparation for the event, including adapting to using wing paddles and mastering different stroke dynamics, rhythm, and body movement.
Speaking about the Vohandu Marathon, Dave Rawding said, “The Vohandu was a challenging, physically and emotionally draining experience but hugely rewarding. Andy and I are delighted to have become the first British crew to complete the Vohandu! Our supporters have helped raise thousands for Dove House Hospice.We would strongly recommend this event to others. It’s a real test, but there is a brilliant and welcoming atmosphere amongst all involved.”
The 19th running of the race saw 2,700 participants competing in over 1,300 craft, with 24 hours to complete the challenge.
Despite poor weather conditions, including below-freezing temperatures, Andy and Dave completed the marathon in 80th place, achieving their target time of under 10 hours.
Racing in their Epic 18x FSK double sea kayak, the Kingston duo placed 35th in the men’s K2 category, recording a time of 9 hrs, 59 mins, and 15 secs.
Looking back at the achievement of completing the marathon, Dave added, “The start was amazing, we have never seen so many boats in one place. We knew getting a good start was important to keep us out of trouble. That said, even the top crews had steering issues on the rapids, which did compromise our lines.
“The thousands cheering on the participants was amazing. They lined the banks at all the most interesting sections. The teams with supporters helping them at the portages had a huge advantage.
“They could replenish and refuel whilst their boat was being carried, sometimes up to 500 metres. We found these sections hard-going. There was limited space to exit or enter again, and it was so cold that you felt fatigue drain you. I think years of paddling and leading groups, particularly young people, meant we were acutely aware of how to stay warm.
“The motivation of doing it for a hospice that already this year has cared for two of our personal friends’ fathers’ last days made our efforts even more poignant. We could not have done this without the support of our colleagues at Kingston Kayak Club, Peak PS, Tailored Branding, and P&O Ferries.”
Travelling across Europe in a motorhome to Estonia also allowed the team to take in more countries and paddling activities, with Dave adding, “On the way, we also managed to attend a local canoe slalom event in Berlin and meet former Slalom World Champion Lynn Simpson and one of her sons. It has been great to compete in two entirely different disciplines in one week.”
You can find out more information about Dave and Andy’s Vohandu Challenge here: https://linktr.ee/dave_andy_vohandu, including a link to their Just Giving page, which has so far raised over £3,000 for the Dove House Hospice.
