Who organises and runs the Series?

The Youth Freestyle Series is organised under the guidance of the BCU by a group of volunteers.  They are not employed by the BCU and all volunteer their time free of charge.

Who will be responsible for my Youth Freestyler during the day’s activities?

NEW FOR 2011:  Under 18 boaters need to be accompanied by a parent/guardian, as the consent form needs to signed by your parent/guardian on the day.

If you are coming to the event without you parent/guardian, we need to be notified before the event in writing (e-mail to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ) of who will act in loco parentis for you. The form can be signed on the day by the loco parentis.

Cut and paste the following into a mail - updating as required:

" I [ add parent/guardian name ] give permission for [ add loco parentis name ] to act as loco parentis for  [ name of boater ] the 2011 youth freestyle series "

Without this approval, you won't be allowed to take part in the day.  Sorry.

Do I need to be a member of the British Canoe Union?

For our insurance purposes, yes you do.  However this can be in the form of your own/family membership, your club membership (please just bring your club membership card with you).  If neither of these two options work, then you can join as a temp member for 1 day.

Do I have to wear ear plugs?

New, new regulations from the BCU, state that all boaters must ware ear plugs when taking part in an organised event.  Dr Pro Ear Plugs cost between £8 - £10 and can be purchased from any good canoe and kayaking shop.

I have never entered a competition before is that OK?

YES, in fact this event is aimed at you, the novice competitor who wants to get some experience at freestyle and would like to progress further in their white water paddling.

This year we have included a Novice category, so if you are not to sure of how it all works, or your ability level this is the one for you.  If more information please click here

What experience do I need?

You need to have had some white water experience (weir, artificial course or river) and have a fairly reliable white water roll.

Do I have to be able to cartwheel or do lots of freestyle moves to enter?

NO. The event is all about having fun on the water, as long as you make a good effort to go into/onto the wave/hole feature we don't mind what you do when you're in/on there! Obviously though, if you can do more moves you are more likely to score more points.

Which age category will I be in?

You will be put in the age category of whatever age you are on the 1st Jan 2011. If your birthday is on 1st Jan, then you will be in the next category up (e.g. if you are 16 on 1st Jan 2011 you will be in the 18 and under, and not the 15 and under).

The categories are 12 and under, 15 and under, 18 and under.

I am sponsored and/or paddle for the GB Junior Freestyle Team/squad, can I enter?

You can, and all competition is good practice so we will not stop you entering. However, the series is really aimed at the progressing white-water paddler and novice competitor.

Do I need my own kit?

YES. You may be able to demo various boats at different events but you will need your own boat and kit for the competition and paddling workshops.

Do I need to go to all of the events to take part in the Series?

NO. You can take part in as many events as you like. However, to be in the series ranking you will need to enter at least 3 events (your best 3 results will be combined to give a series ranking). Remember, the more events you enter the cheaper each one becomes.

How can we find out more about each of the different events?

Directions, facilities and local accommodation for each of the events can be found here.